MALDON and Tiptree boss David Wright believes his new-look side are ready for the challenge of the Ryman League division one north.

The Jammers suffered a 3-2 defeat against National League South Chelmsford City last Thursday and a 1-1 draw against Thurlow Nunn premier division Hadleigh United on Tuesday night in their latest round of pre-season friendlies.

Wright said: “From everything I’ve seen there’s positive signs for the season ahead, I know it’s going to be really tough but I’m confident in what we’ve got.

“They’ve already come a long way as a squad and I’m seeing big progress.”

Wright further heaped praise on his side’s determination and fighting spirit.

He added: “I was really pleased with the performance in the first 30 minutes against Chelmsford but after that they came into the game and dominated for periods.

“But what really pleased me was how we wrestled the momentum back later in the game, it was pleasing to see the boys keep fighting. “We’ve got a completely new team, it’s going to take time with so many new signings but they’re starting to understand the way we want them to play and I think they’ve bought into it.”

Saturday's pre-season firendly against Enfield Town has been cancelled.