MATT Oldring is adamant Weymouth are “moving in the right direction” and has welcomed the news that chairman George Rolls is ready to tie down Ian Hutchinson and Andy Mason on long-term deals.

The defender believes the management duo have been “instrumental” in forming the never-say-die spirit in the camp and is confident things will only get better under their stewardship.

Oldring told Echosport: “When you take into account where we were at the start of the season with players coming in from different backgrounds, the progress that has been made has been encouraging.

“There is a great bond and spirit within the camp and we are all determined to get the club out of the situation it finds itself in.

“You only have to look at our recent performances to see that. Since the two heavy defeats we had away, we have really pulled together and put in some good displays.

“We have also pulled off a couple of great comebacks like at Didcot and against Chippenham, and even in the defeat against Banbury last Saturday, we still came out and won the second half 2-1 when we could have completely crumbled having gone down to 10 men.

“There is no doubt that we are moving in the right direction and it’s great the chairman is now looking to get Ian and Andy tied down, as they have been instrumental in everything.

“They are both great for the club and the players, and they also have an affinity with the fans, so in terms of stability, it would be a great move.”

Oldring has made 17 appearances in all competitions for the Terras so far this season, including 14 starts, but just lately he has found it tough to hold down a regular starting place, with increased competition coming from the likes of Ollie Tribe, Mark Robinson and Lewis Whyton.

He added: “Whenever I play, I always try and do the best I can but that is the same with all of the lads, and all you can do is just wait for your chance and try and take it when it comes along.

“We have a small squad and every one of us is needed. Don’t get me wrong, no one wants to be in and out of the side all the time, but it is about doing a job for the team.

“Hopefully, I will get an opportunity this Saturday when we take on Evesham United at home in another big game, and if I do, I will look to make the most of it.”

The Terras are still eight points adrift of safety at the foot of the table in the Zamaretto Premier Division, and having conceded 26 times in their last seven league games, it is clear where their main problem lies.

Oldring said: “We are creating chances and scoring but we do need to tighten up a bit and keep improving as a defensive unit.

“We have given away some sloppy goals at times but it is not just about the back four, it is about the team as a whole, and we are beginning to get there.”