BROMSGROVE Rovers FC manager Rod Brown has called on supporters and players to work together to lift the curse that has blighted the club's season.

Brown, who took over the hot seat at the Victoria Ground in January, believes that Rovers have suffered one of the strangest seasons of the last few years.

It has also been one of the most disappointing, after Saturday's 0-0 draw at home to Bracknell all but ended Rovers' hopes of making the play-offs in the Southern League Division One West this season.

He said: "I think the fans will admit it's been a very strange season.

"There have been lots of highs and lows but no consistency at all.

"I know I've had some bad luck since I came here and I think it's been happening all season, too."

Rovers have been hampered by a lack of goals and errors at the back all season.

Brown acknowledges those areas need improving but thinks luck may have also been a part of Rovers' current problems, particularly in the last two home games against Leighton and Bracknell

He said: "The best team didn't get enough points out of those two home games.

"Neil Davis had enough chances to win both games for us and he missed them all.

"That's really strange. He's a quality player who has scored goals at higher levels and played for Aston Villa. But all of a sudden he's struggling up front."

The Rovers boss also faces an injury crisis for the home game against Thame United on Saturday, March 11 (3pm kick off).

Davis (flu), Steve Hillman and injured Luke Reynolds are all doubts for the match.

Brown has also called on the fans to get behind the team, instead of jumping on the players' backs when things go wrong.

He said: "The players' are all under pressure at home to win games but the fans aren't helping at the moment.

"They jump on a players' back as soon something goes wrong. Players are struggling for confidence at the moment and it doesn't help if the home support is so critical. There is a real negative atmosphere there.

"I understand the fans have every right to criticise. They know this is a massive club and are frustrated at their league position.

"But they have to understand they are where they are at the moment and give the lads some support.

"Some supporters have also singled out John Snape for criticism. He'd be the first to admit he's not played well but he's passionate and gives everything.

"I don't think anybody realises the problems this club has. I don't know if it's down to the chairman or it's something else, but we all have to work together to make sure this club is where it deserves to be."

The re-arranged game at Thame United has been set for Tuesday, April 4.

Rovers' official club website (www.bromsgroveroversfc.co.uk) is suffering from technical problems and is unavailable. Fans eager to comment on the club's current situation can go to www.bromsgroverovers.forumup.co.uk.

By Peter McKinney