SATURDAY'S 20-10 reverse to third-placed Penryn has left Maidenhead Rugby Club pointless and hovering near the foot of the table.
However, despite a third straight defeat (Cinderford, Clifton, Penryn), coach Simon Edwards claimed he was encouraged by his team’s progress.
He said: “It still wasn’t good enough, but it was much better than the week before. I think we’ve turned a corner.”
Unfortunately, just round that corner are tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) visitors to Braywick, Cheltenham, who currently lie fourth in the league, level on points with Clifton and Penryn, and just two point adrift of leaders Cinderford.
Edwards said: “It’s been a cracking start hasn’t it!
“And of course it had to be Cheltenham next.
“What can you do. We’ve had a nightmare of a start in terms of who we’ve played. And we’ve had a nightmare in terms of injuries. But it’s no good getting down over it.
“We know Cheltenham will have us down as a banker, and that’s fine with us.
“I believe we’re good enough to be in the top half of the table and if we get one win we’ll get a run of wins. And I think that win will come on Saturday against Cheltenham.”
One key factor in the game is likely to be the quality of support the players receive from the fans, which in recent weeks has been mixed.
Maids’ knockers have claimed the players lack the toughness or nastiness required at this level.
But Edwards disagreed, adding: “We’re aware of what’s not right. We’re not being clinical enough, but I believe we’re getting there.
“We’ve got a young side who are still gelling together.
“What we need now is not criticism, we need support. I’m hoping for a big crowd on Saturday, and I want them to get behind the team.”
Kick-off is at 3pm.