LEE Bullock revealed the Hartlepool United dressing room at 5pm on Saturday was no place for the feint-hearted.

A full and frank inquest into Pool's second-half display took place at Saltergate.

And Bullock, impressive in a forward line role in the 3-1 defeat, believes unity is the key to moving up the League One table.

Saturday's defeat left Pool out of the relegation places only on goal difference, stark contrast to what was expected this season after the success of the last five campaigns.

"Everyone is disappointed. We went in at half-time in front and should have been able to keep them out in the second half,'' said Bullock.

"There are no excuses and some harsh words were said. We want to climb the league, the supporters do as much as we do, and we are going to work damn hard to make sure we do.

"The goals we conceded were good strikes into the corner but there were three or four occasions as a team when we could have done something about it and tried to stop them better.

"We have been working so hard on the training ground and things have been a lot better in the last few weeks.

"Fingers have been pointed, but we will leave that in the dressing room.

"Collectively as a team we have to take more responsibility, rather than blame the individual.''

Bullock, back in the starting line-up after three games out, added: "We went in front through a good, well-worked goal and I was pleased to play my part in it.

"Then the game changed. Their fans were starting to turn on them a bit, but we couldn't make the most of it.''

He added: "Everyone is frustrated. The supporters are frustrated and they are massive to us, very important. We know we are letting them down and they are totally entitled to voice their opinions.

"At the end of the line, it's up to us as a team to get them smiling again.

"There is a lot more to come from us. We all know that and we've got injuries, but we have a big squad and everyone will get a chance.

"There's no problem with the spirit here - that's not an issue. On the training ground, at the club, on the bus, is all the same, there's plenty of stick and jokes flying about like you would expect. Everyone is pulling in the same direction.''

* Winger Thomas Butler will miss tomorrow's game. He is suspended after picking up his fifth booking of the season on Saturday.

* The club's disabled supporters association has seats remaining (£20) on their coach for Saturday's trip to Bristol. To book ring 07815 192754.

Read more about Hartlepool here.