DORCHESTER club captain Patrece Liburd is determined to get the Magpies' season back on track with victory over Thurrock on Saturday.

The 20-year-old admits the Magpies have been "poor" defensively of late but believes that three points will help turn things around following eight Blue Square South games without a win.

Defender Liburd said: "We've had too many draws really. If we could have turned some of those draws into wins then we'd be in a much better position.

"We've had injuries this season but you've got to take that in your stride, we can't make any excuses. We did start well but you have to keep the momentum going. Every game will be tough as every team can pretty much beat each other in this league.

"We just need another win to get the season rolling. Our last one was on the opening day at Braintree, we just need another three points to get us going.

"All of us defenders need to admit that we've been poor - me included. We know we are better and we've been doing a lot of defensive work with Alex Browne, John Donoghue and Shaun Brooks so there's no excuses.

"The coaches and management can only do so much, it's up to us to go out there and defend correctly."

And Liburd is keen to bounce back from last weekend's 2-1 home defeat at the hands of high-flying Hayes & Yeading United.

He added: "It wasn't the result we were after at all. It was a poor performance from all of us and we've got to hold our hands up, get back into training, and make sure we put it right.

"We don't want to be reminded of last season. We've got a much better squad this season - no disrespect to those players who played last year - with more experienced heads."

Following the trip to Thurrock, Liburd is eagerly awaiting the Magpies' FA Cup second qualifying round date with Newport County on September 27.

He said: "The FA Cup always brings a smile to face, just talking about it does. You can express yourself more without the pressures of the league.

"I can't wait for the game and we'll be prepared for it."

The club skipper, who has been wearing the armband in the absence of injured team captain Roy O'Brien, is enjoying his extra responsibility.

He added: "I'm loving every minute of it. However, as club captain it hurts when you're not getting points at your home ground, but you can't dwell on it too much, you've got to look forwards.

"Roy being out has been a big blow as I've got a good partnership with him but all the lads are good players and the gaffer should be able to pick anyone and they should be comfortable filling in."

* Dorchester Town will be hosting a night of amateur boxing at the Jewson Stadium on Saturday, October 4 where some of the South West's finest will be on show.

The entrance fee for the event, which will also see a hog roast and special drinks promotions on offer, costs £10.

Contact the club on 262451 for more details.