FC CLACTON striker Michael Runicles says the club’s team spirit is the best he has experienced.

The 26-year-old was recruited in the summer after finishing last season at Long Melford.

He has already made his mark and was in the starting line-up for Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Newmarket Town and Tuesday’s 1-1 draw against Stowmarket Town.

Now he wants to continue playing his part in a successful season for the Rush Green Bowl side.

“This is the best changing room I’ve been part of,” he said.

“I’ve been to clubs in the past and felt out of place, because of certain personalities.

“But it’s comfortable here and everyone gets on and has a laugh, although we’re all very serious about our football.

“I feel at home and haven’t felt that way before, which is probably why I’ve moved around.

“I won’t be leaving here, though, and want a settled season.

“I haven’t played too much football at this level, apart from at the end of last season with Halstead and Long Melford.

“Other than that, I’ve only played Border League and Sunday League football.

“I don’t feel out of place, though. I hope to score more goals but won’t lose confidence if that doesn’t happen, as long as the team’s winning.

“I don’t really class myself as a striker but back myself to take chances.”

Clacton have another Thurlow Nunn League premier division home game this weekend, against Wroxham.

“We’ve got something good here and, generally, we’re performing well,” added the striker, who has chipped in with three goals so far.

“In nearly every game, we’ve had spells on top and have matched teams. I think we’ll do well and am confident we won’t be down the bottom. No chance.

“Every team at this level is beatable but every team is good and has something about them.

“We’ve got the right people here and, if we keep the core of our squad together, I think we can finish mid-table, if not higher.” The Seasiders led twice but had to be content with a 2-2 draw at Newmarket.

Terry Rymer’s penalty and a Kevin Coyle goal had put them 1-0 and 2-1 ahead. However, the Jockeys scored deep in stoppage time.

Lee Clowsley netted late on as Clacton came from behind to draw 1-1 at home to Stowmarket.

Kieron Shelley’s side are back at the Bowl next Tuesday, for a Tolleshunt D’Arcy Memorial Cup tie against Little Oakley.