MARCH Town United co-manager Alan Russell has called on the club s board of directors to restructure the reserve team set-up. Russell said: The reserve team is not in good shape and it is run completely separately from the first team, which can not be al

MARCH Town United co-manager Alan Russell has called on the club's board of directors to restructure the reserve team set-up.

Russell said: "The reserve team is not in good shape and it is run completely separately from the first team, which can not be allowed to continue.

"It is a source of frustration for me that the young players coming through are not ready for first team football or not available for selection as and when we need them."

He added: "This is why we are forced into signing new players or throwing youngsters in at the deep end, which is not fair on them or the rest of the team.

"I have passed on my concerns to the board and they know how I feel about it. Whether I am here next season or not, there will have to be a new set-up at the club."

Russell remains busy in the transfer market and he looks set to sign Ely City winger Ben Green within the next few days.

He also intends to make an official approach for former March midfielder Luke Pepper, currently at rivals Wisbech Town.

Russell said: "We have put in seven days' notice on Luke and he has hinted that he is not happy with being on the bench at Wisbech.

"He is a very good player and it would be great to get him back, but it is his decision."

On the football pitch, March picked up their first league point in four games on Saturday but Russell was left frustrated with the result.

Facing fellow strugglers Long Melford, the Hares looked set for their first Ridgeons First Division win since September 9 when Paul Shafer scored midway through the second half.

But within minutes, the home side were gifted an equaliser when Paul Cousins conceded a penalty and the spot kick was converted.

The Hares created chances to win the game but they still needed a smart save from Adam Wright to hang on to the point.

Russell said: "It would have been a travesty if we had gone home with nothing but it is also disappointing that we didn't win the game.

"It is going to be a long struggle to turn our fortunes around but we will get there I am sure."

March entertain Swaffham Town tomorrow (Saturday) and the Hares will be without Paul Cousins, who is suspended, and Ian Simmonds and Stuart Seales, both of whom are unavailable.

The Hares will also be playing a friendly against Fosters at the GER on Tuesday (November 21).

Ashley Brand and 'keeper Trevor Marshall are expected to return to training next week. Lee Brooks underwent a shoulder operation last week and is recovering well.