Chester's Progress Is Clear For McCarthy To See

At the start of last season the club couldn't keep a clean sheet and it seemed they may be destined to struggle.

But this season, things have changed and they are watertight at the back and unbeaten so far.

In their three games, Chester may have yet to win but they are hard to beat - and they'll need to be with Sutton United travelling to them on Saturday.

McCarthy was thrilled with the point and performance up at Hartlepool in midweek and he now thinks they are getting closer to their first victory.

"It's an outstanding point for anybody to come to Hartlepool and get something so we're delighted," he said.

"We're yet to be beaten, we've only conceded two goals in three games, and it was lot different to the start of the last season. I was all about sorting that out and we've done that."

The Blues boss can see more pride in players' performances compared to this time last year and he wants their no-nonsense approach to continue.

Sutton, who beat Tranmere Rovers 1-0 in their last away match a week ago, will be "very difficult" opponents, the boss acknowledged.

"People want to play for this shirt, this badge, and these supporters and it's great to see," McCarthy told the Chester Chronicle.