Hartlepool defender Peter Hartley has revealed he did not sleep properly for a week after the recent 5-0 defeat at Preston.
Manager Neale Cooper said he feared for his job after a team display he described as "embarrassing", but Hartley insists Pools are back on track after a 2-2 home draw with Shrewsbury on Saturday thanks to Andy Monkhouse's 90th-minute equaliser.
"It was unacceptable for the manager's high standards, the club's high standards and our high standards," said Hartley in his blog on the club's official website. "We just folded and looked mentally weak and I know that we aren't.
"I didn't get much sleep on Tuesday after the game and I didn't really sleep well for the rest of the week if I'm honest.
"Nights like that aren't what I'm playing football for. I'm playing here to the best I can and to give Pools fans days and nights to remember.
"I will remember that night though. I have to and I will use it as motivation to make sure it doesn't happen again."
