MANAGER Liam McDonald believes Redditch United’s new-look defence is the best he’s had at the club.

The centre back pairing of Dan Scarr and Jim Mutton and full backs Jordan Jones and Callum Flanagan as well as goalkeeper Sam Hornby kept their first clear sheet of the season in Saturday’s impressive 1-0 win over Chesham United.

It’s a sign that the Reds are more than just team noted for their attacking prowess and have stiffened up compared to some of their more gung-ho performances last season.

McDonald said: “Last season we built the team from the front and scored a lot of goals and were involved in a host of high-scoring games.

“But I must say the with Sam Hornby in goal this is the best back five I have had at the club.

“Jim Mutton and Dan Scarr have struck up a great partnership, while Jordan Jones and Callum Flanagan have also done well.

“It’s not just them, there’s also the guys on the bench and the effort of the entire team which is making the difference.”

Saturday’s 1-0 win over a highly-fancied Chesham side was built on a strong all-round display. Ashley Sammons scored from the penalty spot 15 seconds after the kick-off following a foul on speedy winger Jamie Molyneux.

United had other chances to increase their lead and they dominated a side which boasts the likes of former Birmingham City defender Darren Purse.

“That was probably my best win as Redditch manager and what pleased me the most was that all the players stuck to the game plan,” praised McDonald.

“Last season we may have lost shape or concentration but everything came together. We’re a good side and we’re capable of beating the best at our level.”

In even more good news, United midfielder Liam Spink started, while Simeon Maye had recovered to make a promising cameo display.

Redditch, who are set to play big-spending St Neots tonight (7.45pm ko), entertain Frome on Saturday before a trip to only local rivals and crisis club, Hereford United, on Monday (both 3pm ko).

The Bulls could be liquidated on Monday, September 1, after failing to secure a CVA but are expected by Redditch officials to fulfil Monday’s fixture at Edgar Street.