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Gary Brabin

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Brabin expects tighter defence

Cambridge United manager Gary Brabin has warned his charges they need to tighten up at the back if they are to challenge for the Blue Square Premier title.

The mentor watched his side concede two late goals in a 3-2 pre-season friendly defeat against Blue Square North newcomers Kings Lynn and was not impressed.

He told Cambridge Evening News: "I am not going to shy away from the result, I don't like getting beat at anything.

"The last couple of goals were individual errors which, come the start of the season, we can't afford.

"In training people can make mistakes and not get punished for it. Okay, we're not playing for points, but this is the next best thing."

However, Brabin was happy with the attitude and commitment from some of his youngsters.

"We all make mistakes, but a lot of the young lads have shown me potential," he added.

"I thought there were a lot of positives. The lads looked fit, they looked sharp and got sharper and quicker as the game went on.

"A lot of the lads tried hard and all gave me 100 per cent. I just thought we were a little bit naive at the end with a few of the younger lads out in the second half.

"I keep harping on about attitude, but all I want is for the players to give me 100 per cent with a smile on their faces.

"I think if they work hard, I will try to make things enjoyable. But, now and again, things don't go your way - like the last 15 minutes on Saturday - and you see a bit of character, so I certainly learned a bit about the players."