Neal Ardley says he is hurting after Notts County's Boxing Day defeat to Macclesfield Town.
A Scott Wilson goal either side of Kane Hemmings’ strike saw the visitors pick up three points and send the Magpies to the bottom of Sky Bet League Two.
After seeing his side equalise, Ardley was confident of completing a turnaround and was disappointed to squander the chance of a victory.
“I’m hurting because once we got back to 1-1 I thought only one team was going to go on and win the game,” said the boss.
“Our Achilles heel has shown once again. We missed our chances and they took the one they created.
“We have a challenge on our hands. I thought the likelihood was that we’d be in this position come January so from then onwards we need to make sure we finish the season strongly.”
The gaffer wants his players to show they have the required mentality to stave off the threat of relegation.
“I’m looking for reactions from the boys and for them to be angry,” said Ardley.
“We could do with more character in the squad. I’m up for this challenge and anyone else who is can stay here and fight.
“We’ll find out over the coming weeks if they are. We’ll need to clear space if any players aren’t up for it.”