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It might seem harsh to say that the miss cost the Reds a win but it did as a dreary match ended goalless. Worse than that Crawley Town’s performance only declined as the game progressed.

Leyton Orient actually put the ball in the home net in fine style but a goal was ruled out for a foul in the build up. Then after half an hour the visitors were reduced to ten men as Hector Kypriano was sent off for an over fierce challenge on Jake Hessenthaler. Four further bookings emphasised the difference between the sides.

Action from Crawley Town v Leyton Orient. Picture by UK Sports Images Ltd

The O’s wanted to win while the Reds looked as though they took three points for granted.

Rarely have the lads been so short of attacking intent or so inept when they actually got close to the visitors’ goal. That Orient keeper Lawrence Vigouroux did not have a single shot to save was ample evidence of Crawley’s lethargy.

John Yems tried another tack early in the second half with a double substitution that changed the shape.

Oddly the players replaced, Sam Matthews and Tom Dallison, were the only ones whose individual performances had not disappointed up till then. Archie Davies nearly made the difference with his surging runs that unfortunately were not backed up by quality crosses.

Joe McNerney also came on and went for goal with three headers in five minutes but could not find the accuracy to back up his enthusiasm.

Apart from the dire performance that shows the bubble created by the win against Leeds United has well and truly burst I have the feeling that the Reds have missed the boat in the January transfer window. There remains a pressing need for a midfield general, an inventive playmaker.

The current choices lack any flair.

The bubble created by the win against Leeds United has well and truly burst - Crawley Town opinion