James Collins admits it has been difficult for West Ham United to keep up their early-season form over the past few months.
The Hammers surprisingly found themselves sitting in the top four at the turn of the year but have gradually dropped down the standings to find themselves ninth with eight fixtures remaining.
Centre-back Collins says it has been tough to keep up appearances since that brilliant beginning but is hopeful the east London outfit can still produce a top-half finish.
"When you're in the dizzy heights of fourth spot at around Christmas, you have to try and maintain that - and we haven't been able to," said Collins.
"There are reasons why - players who joined us and who were top draw at the start have found the pace of the Premier League tougher going.
"We've only lost to Everton and Crystal Palace below us up to now though so that's how good our season has been.
"We've still got a good way to go and we play more of the teams below us than above us and hopefully we can pick up a good few points."
