BRAINTREE captain Will Jackson has called on his team to remain unbeaten in their last seven games.

Copford now have the advantage in the Marshall Hatchick Two Counties division two title race, following their victory against Braintree last Saturday.

However, Jackson said: “We’re still very much in the title race.

“We’re now relying on Copford to slip up, in order to win the league, but anyone can beat anyone in this division.

“The impetus must remain with us to ensure we finish the season unbeaten from now.

“And if we win our remaining seven games we’ll be promoted – that’s our main priority.”

The skipper was speaking after last weekend’s disappointing defeat in their crucial game against Copdford.

Barry Stephens was Braintree’s stand-out performer, taking four wickets for 80 runs.

Rory Ainsley scored 62 which was more than double any of his Braintree team-mates.

Despite their efforts, Jackson’s team were all out for 193 and unable to surpass the 215 marker set by Copford.

“Last week was a big game to lose but thankfully both Haverhill and Easton also lost, meaning we remain in second position,” added Jackson.

“I’m confident we’ll bounce back.

“The teams around us have to play each other, so that also gives us a good chance to distance ourselves from the chasing pack.”

The captain is also honest about his own shortcomings on the field, but has also challenged the batters to improve in time for their next outing.

“This week we travel to Lakenheath with a largely unchanged side,” he said.

“Our main area to improve is our batting and, on a personal level, I’m having a disastrous season with three consecutive ducks.

“But I hope now we’re entering in the business end of the season I’ll find some form and put some match-winning knocks together.”