TONY Sullivan says his side cannot feel sorry for themselves after they slumped to a record 12th successive league loss.

Witton conceded three goals inside the first eight minutes of a 4-0 reverse at FC United of Manchester on Saturday, meaning the former Cammell Laird boss has now overseen seven Premier Division defeats since replacing Anthony Sheehan in the dugout.

It leaves Albion next-to-last in the standings, three points from a position of safety.

“There can be no excuses,” said Sullivan.

“I take my share of the responsibility, as should the players after what was an embarrassing first half an hour.

“It was a return to the performances [against Belper and Trafford] before I came here, something that hasn’t been repeated since I got the job.

“If they were paid by performance, every player would be penniless this week.

“I’m hurting, but I’m more upset for the supporters.

“They spent money to watch that match, and we owe them. The players will have to make a gesture to the fans by way of an apology, because that display is unacceptable.”

Matthew Wolfenden’s brace set in-form FC United on course to their biggest league win of the campaign, a lead extended by Luke Ashworth’s header.

Jerome Wright’s drive added gloss before the break, by which time Jamie Rainford had been sent off the visitors.

Despite the season not yet reaching halfway, Sullivan told the Guardian he is under pressure.

“I’m not daft – I haven’t won a league game yet,” he added.

“I wanted us to keep a clean sheet in the second half, to have a small positive to take from a really bad day.

“After that we roll up our sleeves ready to work hard.

“We wanted last week’s win in the FA Trophy to be a turning point, but I think some players thought that was job done and things would get easier.

“I’ve protected them for most of the time I’ve been here, but I can’t if they show a lack of desire.”

Witton return to action on Tuesday when Kidsgrove, bottom of Division One South, visit Wincham Park in the first round of the Doodson Sport Cup.