FC CLACTON defender Jake Hearn is determined to keep repaying the faith shown in him by manager Kieron Shelley.

The full-back has admitted being surprised by the game-time he has been given since stepping up from Wivenhoe Town Reserves.

He joined in the summer and was not sure how much he would feature at step five level.

However, Hearn has been a regular in the team and he was in the starting line-up again for Saturday’s 3-1 victory against Saffron Walden Town, at the Rush Green Bowl.

“I’m really enjoying it,” said the 26-year-old.

“It’s my first season at this level, having come from Wivenhoe’s reserves.

“I got myself fit in pre-season and wanted to push myself.

“It’s all about fitness for me. If I’m fit, I feel confident.

“I knew a couple of the boys over here and when the opportunity presented itself to join, I thought why not?

“I knew (assistant manager) Mike (Wallace) from before but didn’t know Kieron.

“He’s been great from day one, though, and I haven’t got any complaints at all.

“It’s been a really positive experience.

“I’m getting games, which I didn’t think I’d get, and I haven’t looked back since. I’ve enjoyed every minute.

“I thought I’d be sitting on the bench every other week and when I first came here I just thought ‘I’ll see how it goes’.

“But Kieron has decided to play me. He’s put faith in me and all I wanted was a chance at this level, which he’s given me.

“Hopefully I’ve been paying him back with the performances I’ve put in.”

Clacton secured back-to-back league wins after beating Saffron Walden on Saturday.

Jake Plane scored twice and there was also a 100th Clacton goal from Kevin Coyle.

The Seasiders, who have only lost one of their last ten league games, head to Hadleigh United on Saturday.