LECHLADE skipper Freddie Martin says it is imperative his troops do not fall off the pace following their strong start to the season.

Martin’s men have three wins from five matches so far this summer, with another cancelled due to bad weather.

That form sees them sit second in the table behind leaders Cheltenham, the only remaining unbeaten side in the division.

Lechlade got back to winning ways at home to Biddestone last Saturday following a first loss of the season at Gloucester City Winget seven days previously, and will look to sustain their momentum away at Goatacre this weekend.

With just nine points separating the top four teams in the table, Martin knows losing ground early in the campaign could prove costly if Lechlade are to be in the thick of a promotion battle come August.

“The side is starting to come together now. We have had a few games and although the slip-up against Gloucester wasn’t great, we have started the season pretty well and we have a lot to build on going forwards,” said Martin.

“It was important that we won last weekend and we have got to try to carry that on now and get another win under our belts.

“Hopefully we can get another win on Saturday and keep up with everyone near the top of the table and not let anyone pull away from us.

“It’s important to be in the mix once you get into the second half of the season as you don’t want to be playing catch up if you are trying to push for promotion, which we would like to.”

Seam bowler Jock Jamieson-Black, who led Lechlade’s attack with 3-27 against Biddestone, is unavailable this weekend but Martin’s men will otherwise be at full strength at Goatacre.

Martin added: “I don’t know too much about Goatacre but it’s a tough place to go as it’s a small ground and they know it so well so know how to play there.

“They will be a good side and it will be a high-scoring game and one we have to try to win.”