BRANTHAM Athletic joint-manager Matt Carmichael believes his in-form players are “ticking lots of boxes” at the moment.

The Imps have won their last seven Thurlow Nunn League fixtures - only losing twice all term - and their overall record is nine victories from 14 matches.

They are fourth in the premier division table after Saturday’s 5-2 defeat of Godmanchester Rovers, at the Leisure Centre.

Carmichael believes there is still more to come from his buoyant players but has praised them for their character and consistency.

“Confidence is the key and while the better players will always believe in themselves, it’s good to see others - perhaps those who have stepped up a level - sharing that same belief,” he said.

“Michael Murray is a prime example of that, having joined us in the summer from Harwich and Parkeston.

“I always knew what he was capable of but he’s worked hard, trained hard and become a very valuable member of our squad.

“He’s probably been our most consistent player in the last month, along with Will Crisell.

“We’re ticking lots of boxes and the attitude and work-rate of the players has been fantastic.

“Fitness-wise we’re up there with the best in the league and the boys have shown so much character, winning games we might previously have drawn or even lost.

“The best example of that was when we were 2-1 down against Walsham-le-Willows and won 3-2.

“We’ve been very consistent and players are producing eight and nine out of ten performances every week.

“However, there’s always room for improvement and there’s more to come from us.”

Adam Bloss scored twice in last week’s victory and he was joined on the scoresheet by joint-boss Michael Brothers, Craig Hughes and Ben Newson.

Brantham will be looking to make it eight straight wins when they go to Saffron Walden Town tomorrow.

“Saffron Walden are a good side but because of the run we’re on, we fully believe we can go there and win,” added Carmichael.

“We’ve got real balance within the side and while we’re scoring goals and winning games, we’ve only lost two all season. That shows we’re hard to beat.

“We’ve worked hard on our defensive shape in training and the players have really bought into it.

“I don’t think you ever have a definitive starting line-up because things are evolving all the time and we’re still trying to work out our best personnel, formation and system.”

Brantham are hot on the heels of the division’s leading teams and Carmichael believes they can stay in touch with the likes of leaders Felixstowe and Walton, Coggeshall Town and Newmarket Town.

“We want to be challenging for promotion and for me, there’s no point being involved if you’re not striving to improve yourself or reach the next level,” said Carmichael.

“At the moment, we’re living with the top teams and while we’ll add to the squad if we feel we need to, I fully belief this squad can stay in contention.

“A top-three spot has to be the aim and if we can do that, we’ll be in with a shout of going up.

“We’re ambitious and want to do well as managers, but we also want the players to do well and be the best they can be because they’re a good bunch of lads.”

Brantham will be without Murray and Jack Sibbons tomorrow (personal reasons).

Ben Newson is suspended.