MALDON and Tiptree boss Kevin Horlock wants his side to develop a winning habit ahead of a vital weekend of league action.

The Jammers host Soham Town Rangers at Park Drive on Saturday and follow that up with a trip to play Haringey Borough on Bank Holiday Monday (kick-off 7.45pm).

Maldon have made a solid start to the season, having beaten Brightlingsea Regent 2-1 on the opening-day of the Ryman North season and making FA Cup progress at the expense of divisional rivals Ware, thanks to a 2-0 triumph last weekend.

A 2-0 defeat at the hands of Norwich United last week blotted the copybook but Horlock says he was pleased to see a positive response from his players to that setback, in their preliminary round tie.

Horlock said: "It's important that we get into the habit of winning games, no matter which competition it's in.

"After the defeat at Norwich United, it was an opportunity for us to put that right and that's what we did at Ware.

"We could have possibly scored a few more goals (against Ware) and I thought we did a really professional job.

"The reaction of the players after the Norwich defeat was really good and they showed good character.

"We didn't play very well on the day against Norwich and sometimes you have to hold your hands up.

"The most important thing is to learn from it and I think you learn more from defeat.

"It was important for us to make progress - the FA Cup is the best cup competition that we will play in.

"It's crucial for us to progress as far as we can.

"You never know, you might end up playing a big team and pitting your wits against a bigger club."

Former Colchester United youngster Tyler Brampton could feature against Soham this weekend, after returning to the club.

Brampton, who became a fans' favourite last season after playing 29 times for the Jammers on loan from the U's, has arrived from Ryman Premier outfit Billericay Town.

Horlock added: "I think Tyler's a great addition to our squad.

"We know a bit about him from when he was at the club last time on loan and he's a great lad and a very good player."

Brampton's arrival will add to Horlock's options and he has welcomed the wide number of selection options he currently has at his disposal.

He added: "What we want is competition for places.

"Curtis Haynes-Brown will be back from his injury in a couple of weeks and that will add to the competition."

A Maldon side featuring a number of fringe and younger players ** *** against Stanway Rovers in the Tolleshunt D'Arcy Cup, on Tuesday night.