Randy Spence, the North Village assistant coach, is backing his team to bounce back from a humbling defeat against unbeaten Premier Division leaders PHC Zebras.

Village’s four-game winning streak came to a halt after losing 4-0 at home to Zebras at Bernard Park last weekend.

However, Spence, a former Village defender, is confident they can put their first loss of the season behind them and return to winning ways when they travel to St John’s Field to meet Dandy Town on Sunday.

“Dandy Town are a very good team and have a lot of talent, so you can’t count them out,” Spence said. “But if we come prepared, organised and ready to work we can possibly pick up the three points.”

Spence made no excuses for his team’s capitulation against Zebras.

“They came to play and we didn’t, it’s as simple as that,” he said. “We didn’t come to play in so many aspects of the game.

“Everyone gets upset over a loss but like anything else you get back up, dust yourself off and go at it again.

“We had gone four games without a loss, so we’re not going to beat ourselves up too much. We just have to pick up the pieces and move on. I would prefer to take a loss early in the season than late.”

Spence said the players’ attitude in training has been positive despite the heavy defeat.

“Our training sessions are always positive and the players are even more motivated, which is exactly what’s needed after a loss,” he said.

Spence is being touted as a potential successor to Village coach Devarr Boyles, who has opted not to stay on beyond his present deal, which expires at the end of the season.

“In terms of me taking over, it still has to go to the executive board, so nothing is confirmed,” Spence said. “But if Village want me to do the job then I will put my hand up.

“I’m North Village all the way and if need be I’m up for the challenge.”