MARCH Town United chairman Phil White has challenged his troops to target an even longer unbeaten run, after he tasted the first defeat in his reign as reserves manager on Saturday.

The Hares’ second string were beaten 1-0 by St Ives Town Rangers at the GER, in what was their first defeat in eight games.

A first-half goal was enough to see off White’s men, whose frustration began to show after the interval when Gary White was dismissed for his second yellow card.

“We should have beaten them,” said White. “We had enough chances to win it. They came and stopped us playing - they kicked us off the park really.

“We played good football at times. We knew what they would do and they did it, they shut us down. We will learn from that.

“The players that I have got are good enough to go on an even better unbeaten run. That will be our target - we will do eight games next time.”

The reserves are still top of their BIS League Division 1B, after an inspired and free-scoring campaign.

“It’s brilliant at the moment,” said White. “The club is really upbeat and we are moving forward. The reserves are now pushing for first team places and that’s what we need. It could be a great season for both teams.”

The reserves travel to Cottenham United Reserves tomorrow as they look to return to winning ways. In the evening, the Hares will also be holding a race night at The Cock, in March, to help raise funds for the club. First race is at 7:30pm.