REDDITCH United boss Darren Byfield has warned his players they're in danger of being dragged into a relegation scrap unless they work harder.

Ten-man Reds fell to their third successive defeat with a 2-1 loss at relegation-threatened Cirencester last Saturday.

They went behind after just 10 seconds when Dan Demkiv unleashed a fierce 25-yard drive after Khaellem Bailey-Nicholls misplaced pass.

Jordan Cullinane-Liburd saw red for a shove five minutes into the second half before Alan Griffin doubled the home side's advantage.

Dior Angus did give the travelling support something to shout about 12 minutes from time but it proved too little, too late.

United now sit 12 points ahead of third-from-bottom side Hayes and Yeading with five games remaining this term but have played a game more.

Byfield says his players need to realise they're not out of the woods just yet.

He said: "We didn't deserve anything from the game with Cirencester. I was really disappointed with the boys because I can accept being beaten but not in that manner.

"All I'm asking of them at the moment is to put a shift in and work hard for 90 minutes.

"I think a few of them are trying to see out the season and all they did was let themselves down.

"I will be expecting a reaction this week because we're not safe yet. I think one win will do it but we need to get that sooner rather than later and I've let them know that."

United will now take on St Ives at home this Saturday (3pm kick-off).

"The good thing for us is that we have four home games at the end of the season now. Our big problems come when we're away, when you really need the character to win games," added the boss.

"As the manager I have to take responsibility for poor performances and I'll do that again. I'm the one who brings these players in.

"We need to be in it together though. I'm up all hours studying the teams we are playing but there comes a time when I need the players to work harder."