WEYMOUTH’S Ashley Wells believes if the Terras tighten up defensively next term there is no reason why the squad cannot go on to greater things.

The 23-year-old has been part of a Terras’ back line that conceded 71 league goals this season — more than any other team in the top 10.

Reflecting on the campaign, the former Portland United man insists that Weymouth’s defensive record, especially in the latter half of the season, ultimately cost them a chance to go up.

He said: “If you look at the table, we are the only team in the top 10 with a zero goal difference, we can’t concede that many goals.

“We need to be a lot tighter at the back next year. We scored goals up front and, against Burnham at home for example, you can’t expect to score three and only draw the game.

“We need to see out games and be a bit smarter. Some teams come with a plan and implement it well and if we are 1-0 up with 10 minutes left we have to just kill the game off.

“We have had a chat about our performances and we know that since Christmas we weren’t good enough.

“Having started so well, going from top to seventh was really disappointing.”

Despite the departure of defender Jamie Laird from the club this week, Wells has hinted a lot of the current squad are eager to remain where they are next season, including himself.

“We are a close-knit group and we want to stay together and get Weymouth promoted,” he added.

“We have probably enjoyed this season as much as we have any season throughout our football careers.

“A lot of players have said how happy they are and it has been their most enjoyable season. I think the majority want to stay.”

Quizzed on his own highlights this term, scoring in the 3-3 draw against Burnham in March was a moment the full-back will never forget.

“It was my first goal for Weymouth and it will stick with me,” he claimed.