WORCESTER City manager Carl Heeley praised the character of his players despite them slumping to a seventh straight defeat.

Monday night’s reverse against Gainsborough Trinity was the second time in three days that City had lost 3-0 at home following last Saturday’s defeat to Boston United.

But Heeley felt the performance against Trinity was a major improvement and was keen to focus on the positive elements.

He said: “Losing 3-0 is disappointing but all I asked of the boys was to give us a response and go and work hard. They never stopped working from the first to the last minute.

“I got a response, they went and had a right go. I didn’t think we were at it on Saturday.

“I made five changes, not as a reflection on Saturday, I just think when you’re in a difficult period you’ve got to get fresh minds as well so to bring in players who weren’t involved at the weekend was a good decision.

“It worked to a certain degree but there was a huge improvement.

“I think there were lots of positives and they’ve shown a bit of character.

“I’m disappointed with the goals we’ve conceded because ultimately that’s the difference but that’s the harsh realities when you play the better sides.

“I felt we had the better share of possession but we conceded sloppy goals and that’s cost us.”

Striker Ethan Moore, signed last week from Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division Cheltenham Saracens, made his home debut and came close to scoring on a number of occasions.

“I thought he was tremendous, worked hard and looked a threat all evening,” Heeley said.

“He probably had four or five efforts on target and their keeper pulled off a top save to stop his header.

“If he keeps performing like that he’ll score goals at this level.”