MARK HAWKES endured a frustrating return to Scraley Road as his Chelmsford City side drew 0-0 with Heybridge Swifts.
The Clarets were unable to break down a stubborn Swifts defence, with goalkeeper Danny Sambridge putting in a man-of-the-match performance for the hosts.
Hawkes said: "It was a good work out.
"In the first half-hour Heybridge had good tempo to the game as well. Second half, they were well organised but I think that we were the main goal threat.
"They counter-attacked us two or three times and our goalkeeper had to make a good save at the end. On another day we could have scored three or four goals.
"Danny was another good signing by myself there. He made two point-blank saves, but I have no qualms. Results are irrelevant, it's all about fitness and that's what we got today.
"We had six hard sessions when they didn't see a ball and now they have played nine games.
"It has been tough but the last game is on Friday against Ipswich, which is one to enjoy and learn from."
The Clarets handed a trial to Nic Freund, son of Tottenham Hotspur coach Steffen.
When asked whether Freund would be an addition to his squad, Hawkes added: "It is hard to say at the moment. He is coming again Friday and then we will just have to see from there. But the one thing I can say is that he is an impressive young lad."
The Clarets boss paid homage to his former side, with Scraley Road providing a perfect pitch to play on.
He said: "It's nice to be back. I can walk home tonight. It is one of the best pitches we will play on, even in our league.
"Rob Bowyer does it all by himself, between going to work full-time and having a young family so he does a great job.
"It is all credit to him and a credit to the club."
