STEVE Butterworth believes the arrival of Bobby Mason has been crucial in Great Wakering Rovers’ upturn in form.

Since the goalkeeper’s move to Burroughs Park from Waltham Abbey, Wakering have yet to suffer a defeat.

Impressive 3-0 victories at Tilbury and Mildenhall Town have bookended a 2-2 draw with promotion-chasing Coggeshall Town.

And Butterworth believes having a safe pair of hands between the sticks has been vital during Wakering’s fine run of form.

“Bobby is very good and has been great since he joined us,” said the interim player-manager.

“He is confident and we can tell that he doesn’t expect to get beaten because he has that demeanour.

“Bobby is a great shot-stopper and he is also comfortable with the ball at his feet.

“I don’t think I have seen him shank a football in training or matches since coming in.

“He is always on the money with his catching and he has been a big asset to us.

“Before his arrival, we had been conceding goals because of silly mistakes.

“But they have ended now and we are in a good run of form at the moment which is great.”

The former Hullbridge Sports and Thurrock goalkeeper joined Wakering after a string of goalkeepers had featured between the sticks since Rovers won the Essex Senior League last term.

Coey Turipa, promising Southend United youngster Harry Seaden and Louis Hawes had been handed opportunities in the goalkeeper’s jersey.

But Mason appears to have nailed down the number one slot since his switch from Waltham Abbey, where he had struggled to break back into the starting line-up after returning from injury.

Mason’s exploits have also enabled Wakering to seal Isthmian North safety with four fixtures still to play.

Wakering ensured they will enjoy a second consecutive campaign in the division by registering an emphatic 3-0 victory at Mildenhall Town on Saturday.