MANAGER Andy Ballard was left fuming after seeing his side humiliated 5-1 at home to Swindon Supermarine in their Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West opener on Saturday.

Injury and illness ruled out several key players, but Ballard would accept no excuses for his side’s display.

“They’ve not only let themselves down, but also myself and the club,” he said.

“I was massively disappointed in their attitude and performance and I’ve made it quite clear that I expect a response.

“The players know they were nowhere near the standards I expect of them and I think that was the kick up the backside they needed.

“I know the characters in the dressing room and and they’ll be out to prove they’re better than that.”

In the absence of captain Luke Carnell to injury, Ballard drafted in former Wantage defender Josias Carbon as a last-minute replacement. However, the hosts’ makeshift defence was cut open by Connor Waldron, who fired home after just eight minutes.

Waldron doubled his tally on the half-hour and completed his hat-trick just before the break.

Callum Parsons and Jamie Thompson put the visitors 5-0 ahead in the second half.

Didcot, who brought on new signing Lewis Butcher late in the game, scored in the 90th minute as Ben Whitehead headed home his first goal since rejoining the club.

Didcot Town: Bedwell, Elkins, Organ, Martin, Carbon, Learoyd, Barder, Keeble (Thomas 58), Whitehead, Brooks (Butcher 86), Reid (Collins 67). Subs not used: Janes, Tatford.

Attendance: 149.

l Abingdon United drew 0-0 at home to Hayes in the extra preliminary round of the FA Cup on Saturday.