MANAGER Paul Crosbie believes his team are more united than ever - but it is the Hares boss himself who will be missing on Boxing Day.

March Town United will seek their third consecutive win at Downham Town on Wednesday without their boss, who will be in Devon celebrating Christmas.

“I’m disappointed and I feel a bit guilty about not being there,” said Crosbie. “But Christmas is for families!

“We will have Bob (Warby), Mark (Forrest) and James (Bradshaw) in charge. They took care of Lakenheath when I was away in October so I’ve got every confidence we will continue our good form.”

The Hares toasted back-to-back Thurlow Nunn First Division wins on Saturday after claiming a 3-1 victory at Great Yarmouth Town.

Second-half goals from Ash Brand, Danny Emmington and Max Mattless settled the tie as March’s makeshift defence, which included striker Robbie Masters, came within five minutes of a clean sheet.

“For 40 minutes in the second half we were absolutely tremendous,” said Crosbie. “We hammered them.

“I’ve made no secret of the fact that I believe playing with three at the back gives you a lot more flexibility.

“It’s high risk and after losing 6-1 to Swaffham we had a bit of a heart to heart as people in the squad were beginning to doubt whether it would work. Since then we haven’t looked back.

“We can’t get cocky and arrogant though because we have to take points from these Christmas games. If we don’t have the right attitude we will beat ourselves.”

Crosbie admitted he was delighted with the togetherness of his squad.

“When Ash scored the first goal on Saturday all 10 outfield players celebrated together,” he said. “I think that was the first time I’ve seen us do that.

“People have noticed that everyone is together now. I think the dynamic in the changing room is right and I don’t think they will take their foot off the pedal over Christmas.

“We want to have a good 2013 and we’re looking forward to the future.”