Ebbsfleet boss Daryl McMahon says the whole team love keeping clean sheets – not just his defenders.

The Fleet’s National League South title charge remained on track with a 1-0 win at Bath on Saturday.

McMahon highlighted how the likes of Sean Shields, Anthony Cook and Sam Deering have embraced the defensive side of the game.

“I don’t think any team can be successful without being able to defend,” said McMahon.

“They (defenders) love it but it’s an important part of any player’s game – not just the defenders but attacking players as well.

“I’ve been here for a few years now in various roles. Shields and Cook – it wasn’t their natural game before to put that extra work in defensively. They are still flair players but they do more (in their game) now.

“Sam Deering is the same. He joined about a year ago now and has improved his fitness, his workrate and knowing what his role is within the team.”

The shutout at Bath was the Fleet’s seventh clean sheet since the turn of the year – the 15th in total this season – and meant they conceded just one goal in February and just 23 in 31 league games this season.

Fleet host East Thurrock on Saturday, although midfielder Dean Rance misses out through suspension after reaching 10 bookings.

Fleet will hold a minute’s applause in memory of FA Trophy-winning captain Paul McCarthy – who died of a heart attack on February 19 – before the game.

Fans are also encouraged to wear replica shirts from McCarthy’s time at the club, particularly the 2008 FA Trophy-winning top.

Read the full story in Thursday's Gravesend Messenger.