JAMES Coutts believes there is no need for “panic” after Dorchester Town slumped to their biggest loss of the season.

The Magpies suffered a 5-0 battering at struggling Lewes on Saturday and, after recording their biggest ever Blue Square South win only two weeks ago, have now gone 286 minutes without a goal.

But midfielder Coutts is taking a retrospective stance in the wake of Dorchester’s third straight defeat.

He said: “The aim when I first arrived at the club was to achieve safety and then look towards next season.

“We achieved safety a couple of weeks ago and there have been players such as Harry Nodwell who have been patient and Ashley Vickers thought they deserved their chance.

“We did not play well at all, myself included, but we don’t want there to be a massive panic, just like when we go on a big run we don’t want people to get ahead of themselves.

“We made such a big effort between Christmas and securing safety that perhaps a touch of mental and physical fatigue set in. Having said that, we need to be professional enough to make sure the defeat to Lewes never happens again.

“If someone had told us that we would be safe with four games to go then we would have taken it.”

Coutts and his Dorchester colleagues have the chance to gain immediate redemption when they host Maidenhead United in Saturday’s season finale (3pm).

With the current campaign drawing to a close, the 23-year-old cannot wait for the next one to arrive.

He added: “I’ve never looked forward to another season starting as much as the next one.

“All the boys are looking forward to it and it will be a massive season for us. Pre-season will be hard but I think we will be one of the fittest, if not the fittest team in the division next year.”

* Tickets are still available for an evening with World Cup winner Nobby Stiles.

The Manchester United legend, who also lifted the European Cup, will visit Dorchester Town’s Prince’s Marquee on Friday night to help celebrate St George’s Day (7pm).

Tickets cost £15 each and include a basket meal. Nobby’s comedian son John will also be present.

Contact 01305 262451 or 07538 096742 for more information.

* Dorchester Town will be holding an end of season party in the Prince’s Marquee straight after Saturday’s home clash with Maidenhead United.

Entry is free to all supporters with a disco, buffet and several presentations taking place.