COGGESHALL Town defender Jamie Shaw is preparing for “17 cup finals” as his side continue their quest for Thurlow Nunn League glory.

The ambitious Seedgrowers are second in the premier division table and 15 points behind leaders Felixstowe and Walton.

However, they have six games in hand on the leaders and so top spot is within their grasp, if they maintain their winning ways.

There is also the small matter of a crunch meeting between the sides at Felixstowe on March 3.

Former Stanway Rovers man Shaw is enjoying the challenge but believes it is important to keep feet on the ground.

“This is the best team I’ve ever played in,” he told the Gazette.

“There’s some unbelievable talent in the squad but we have to take it one game at a time.

“We have 17 cup finals left between now and May 5.

“Losing is unacceptable but it’s always all about the next game. That’s what we focus on.

“None of us are getting carried away and it’s important we keep our feet on the ground.

“People talk about our playing budget but that’s football for you.

“Everyone has their opinions but we just worry about ourselves and let the football do the talking.”

Coggeshall have a famous backer in the shape of pop star Olly Murs.

The Voice judge is one of the club’s main sponsors and often seen on the training pitch and in the dugout at matches.

“Olly’s a great character to have around,” added Shaw.

“He’s just one of the lads and he can play a bit too, to be fair.”

Shaw made his name on the north Essex non-league circuit scoring goals, first for West Bergholt in the Essex and Suffolk Border League and then at Stanway.

However, he now operates as a defender.

“You can’t beat the feeling of scoring goals, but, to be honest, I feel at home at the back,” said the 28-year-old.

“I think I’ve played 16 games or so at centre-back now and it’s just nice to be able to play my part in such a talented team.”