Manager Brett Whaley couldn’t hide his disappointment . . . despite seeing March Town stretch their Thurlow Nunn League First Division North unbeaten run into double-figures.

The Hares threw away two leads as they were held to a 3-3 draw by Ipswich Wanderers at the GER last Saturday – an outcome which meant a 10th league match without defeat and a rise to fourth place in the standings, but one that didn’t please their boss.

March eased into a two-goal advantage as Jack Rawson struck direct from a corner and Craig Gillies produced a classy chip during the first half.

Their lead was wiped out in the second period as Wanderers went on the attack, but the Hares thought they had earned maximum points when Rob Conyard scored with 10 minutes to go.

However, there was a late twist as the visitors responded to equalise and share the spoils - much to the dismay of Whaley.

He said: “We got ourselves ahead without playing great, but Wanderers really gambled in the second half and they deserve credit for getting themselves back level.

“We weathered the storm and managed to get ourselves back in front, but the fact we couldn’t manage the game and close out the win from there is frustrating.

“It’s not a case of inexperience as we have plenty of players who have played a lot of football in non-league, but it can certainly be classed as naïve.

“It was particularly annoying that the late equaliser came from a breakaway which we shouldn’t have allowed to happen at that stage of the game.

“We have to ensure we have the correct mindset and learn to be smarter in important situations.

“While we were disappointed not to pick up all three points last Saturday, we’re very proud of the progress we have made in going unbeaten in 10 league games.

“But to get to the next stage of challenging the sides above us, we need to learn to win tight and scrappy games.”

March face a derby trip to Downham Town tomorrow, 3pm, and Whaley is looking for revenge for a recent cup exit at the hands of the Norfolk side.

Downham were the last team to beat the Hares when triumphing 3-1 at the GER in a First Division KO Cup tie a month ago.

March have completed he capture of Wisbech St Mary man Drew Barker.

The full-back, who can also operate in a more advanced position, has become the second player to move between the two Fenland clubs after striker Jack Friend made the same switch last month.