Downing wants his defence to tighten up after recent poor run

Boss Keith Downing has called on Cheltenham's defenders to tighten up after leaking 14 goals in five games.

The Robins slumped to the bottom of the League One table after losing 2-1 at home to Huddersfield on Saturday.

Downing told BBC Radio Gloucestershire: "we've done pretty well for three or four years, but now it's a problem."

"We're going to have to deal with it and whatever face goes into that back four has got to contribute and make sure that we get clean sheets."

Cheltenham have had injury problems at centre half in recent weeks with Shane Duff missing because of an Achilles problem.

Fellow defender Michael Townsend is finding his way back to form after a long spell out last season and Gavin Caines made only his first start of the season against the terriers.

"The concern at the moment is that second half that we don't come out quick enough or we concede too many goals and that's one thing we've got to go and sort out," Downing added.

The main bright spot for Cheltenham was a goal for Lloyd Owusu on his debut for the club, having joined on the final day of the transfer window from Yeovil.

"He's going to be a player that I think will get stronger and fitter and is a big asset for us," said Downing.

"I think he's a presence up there, I think Barry Hayles plays around him, they're two experienced guys."

"With Paul Connor to return I think that the front part of my team is getting a little bit stronger now, so positive signs ahead."