ACCRINGTON Stanley defender Matty Pearson is determined to see the Reds secure a first shutout of the season after they let a lead slip at Carlisle on Saturday.

Billy Kee had fired John Coleman’s side in front in the second half at Brunton Park but Nicky Adams levelled for the hosts to secure a share of the spoils.

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It was the 11th league goal conceded by Stanley this season and they are yet to keep a clean sheet in their six games, despite shutting out League One Bradford and Premier League Burnley in the EFL Cup.

Pearson, who was a star man for the Reds at Carlisle, now wants to see the clean sheets follow in the league, starting with a trip to Notts County this weekend, and he admits that the players are aware of the areas they need to improve as they seek to move up the table from their current position of 21st.

“While a point is a good result at Carlisle we need a clean sheet now,” he said. “We haven’t had one in the league yet – while we have had two in 90 minutes in the EFL Cup - but we really want one in the league.

“It is very early days in the season, we know what we need to do to improve – we need to keep the ball better and use it better. We know how we want to play and I am sure we will get there.”

Carlisle are unbeaten in League Two so far this season so Pearson believes taking a point from Brunton Park was a good result, while he also praised debutant Zak Vyner, who signed on-loan from Bristol City until January.

“It was a real battle, a few of the lads have some bangs but it is a good point for us,” said the 23-year-old.

“They were on top in the first half but I think we defended really well and Zak (Vyner) did well on his debut.”

Pearson added that Coleman had laid into his side at half-time.

Stanley were on the back foot for the first 45 minutes and the Reds chief wanted to see his side take control of the game.

“The gaffer wasn’t happy at half-time – he was happy with a goalless scoreline but wanted us to attack more, to pass the ball better, keep possession and not turn over the ball so easily,” said Pearson.

“The second half was a much better performance and it was a great goal by Billy.”