Stimson’s aiming to shore up Boro defence

The transfer deadline today (Thursday) will see at least one addition and one departure from Stevenage Boro. Boro boss Mark Stimson said: There s a likelihood there will be at least one in, one out. Jon Nurse is already on a month s loan at Woking in a

The transfer deadline today (Thursday) will see at least one addition and one departure from Stevenage Boro.

Boro boss Mark Stimson said: "There's a likelihood there will be at least one in, one out."

Jon Nurse is already on a month's loan at Woking in a bid to recapture his sharpness following his summer operation.

First team squad members were being given an opportunity to impress in last night's reserve game with their counterparts from Oxford United.

Stimson continued: "It was an opportunity for those not in the team to show me what they can do. Instead of asking why they are not in the team, they could show me exactly why they should be in the side."

Just two points from their opening five games have raised alarm bells among the Broadhall Way faithful.

A point against struggling Forest Green Rovers - new striking sensation Steve Morison grabbing an injury-time equaliser after Boro let slip a two-goal lead - did little to ease any worries.

Boro have conceded 13 goals in these five games and Stimson knows this is not acceptable.

"I'm not used to conceding so many goals and it's something I don't like.

"When you are asked questions as defenders, you have to deal with them.

"To score three at home and not win again is very frustrating and disappointing.

"Nine teams out of 10 we will play 4-4-2 and the whole team has to look at themselves.

"The defence is not getting enough protection and you defend together, attack together.

"You have to work harder and hope individuals learn. I've been saying that for the last couple of weeks.

"I haven't been able to field a settled side because of the performances of the players in earlier games.

"Monday was the first time Santos (Gaia) and Jason (Goodliffe) have played together since pre-season. Santos was probably the best of the back four against Forest Green."

At least Boro look a potent attacking force with new boy Morison making a dramatic impact.

Five goals over the weekend made it six in three games since his arrival from Bishop's Stortford.

"We knew we had a problem up front early on. Steve loves scoring goals and it means everything to him. He was unlucky not to get five on Monday.

"I'm very happy with one end, now we have to got to sort out the other."

Boro travel to another struggling side, Tamworth, this Saturday for a 1pm kick-off.