March Town boss Mel Mattless was left oozing pride after his side shut out table-topping Coggeshall last Saturday.

The Hares picked up a hugely pleasing point in a goalless Thurlow Nunn League First Division draw at the GER.

It came complete with just a third clean sheet of the season – all of which have arrived since Mattless’ appointment in October. The latest one led to high praise for goalkeeper David Beeny and a defence featuring Jamie Muffett, Aaron Wykes, Max Mattless and Joel Mattless.

“It was an excellent performance and I’m really proud of the players,” said Mattless.

“Everyone worked hard for the cause for 90 minutes and gave 120 per-cent. We could even have nicked the win near the end.

“The clean sheet is particularly satisfying. My back four and goalkeeper were awesome, and gave us a really solid foundation.

“Coggeshall are a really good side, but we restricted them to a couple of shots on target in the first half.

“I think they turned up expecting to give us a thumping, but we weren’t going to let that happen.”

And Mattless immediately called for another good showing from his players this Saturday, when third-placed Diss Town visit the GER (3pm).

Mattless will have to make at least one change to his side as influential midfielder Jack Brand has work commitments which mean he won’t arrive at the game until late in the first half. He’ll still be named as a substitute.

“We need the same again because we have another tough game,” added Mattless.

“I used to play there many years ago so it’s a game I’m looking forward to.

“We were well beaten there earlier in the season so we’ll look to improve on that.”

Alfa Jalo made his March debut against Coggeshall. The wideman has arrived from Wisbech St Mary.