LEE Burns has called for his young Melksham Town players to stand up and be counted after Monday night's defeat left them fearing relegation.

The Melksham boss praised his side's commitment on Monday but warned they need to show more of the same if they are to stay clear of the end of season dogfight.

After a below par performance against Odd Down on Saturday, Burns challenged his players to show him "what they are made of", and he was encouraged by their response.

With five games remaining and just six points clear of the relegation zone, Burns believes four more points are needed to ensure their place in the Premier Division next season.

He said: "Everyone gave 100 per cent on Monday. Chris Lewis was our oldest player at just 22 but I think we matched them. Our performance on Saturday was appalling and I questioned a few of them after that.

"I worked hard to install into them that you have to scrap and fight for everything and to stand up and be counted. They did on Monday."

A stunning 70th minute 25 yard strike sealed the win for high-flying Bridgwater but Burns believes his youngsters were hard done by.

He said: "I don't think that was a fair result. Young Tom Drewitt in goal was exceptional again and we at least deserved a draw.

"Some of the teams below us have a very difficult run of games but I don't want to get dragged into it. We are playing some good stuff but sometimes it is about whether the players want it enough and that is why I was so pleased with our last performance."

Melksham have no match tomorrow but travel to Frome on Wednesday night.