DAVID Williams took five wickets for just 23 runs as Hadleigh & Thundersley saw off Harlow by five wickets at John Burrows Park.

The victory was Hadleigh’s second in succession as they moved up to fourth in the Division One standings.

And 32-year-old Williams was thrilled to have come out on top.

“Making sure we got the win mattered the most and it’s given us a bit of momentum now,” said Williams.

“It’s taken us up to fourth in the table and the confidence in the team is good at the moment.

“We have a very good bowling unit and I’m sure the young guys we have coming into the team will soon start to score runs.”

Hadleigh were hit by a number of departures before the season got underway.

Echo:

Andy Baker bowling for Wickford in their clash with Hadleigh (see below) - all pictures by Jon Wagstaff

But Williams is certain those remaining at the club are still capable of enjoying a successful season.

“I don’t think we really miss anyone who has left, except maybe Tom (Phillippe) who got the chance to play in the Premier League which you can’t begrudge him for,” said Williams.

“We have a younger team now but we’re all really looking forward to the games coming up.”

Hadleigh put Harlow into bat after winning the toss and bowled the visitors out for just 82.

Williams led the way 5-23 while Kellon Carmichael took 3-35 and Richard Revell 2-6.

In reply, Hadleigh reached the target for the loss of five wickets with Carmichael leading the scoring with 28 runs.

Southend & EMT were also celebrating after winning at Wickford by six wickets.

Echo:

Dean Etchells added 24 for Wickford

Wickford, who have still yet to win this season, batted first after winning the toss and were bowled out for 159.

Darren Robinson top-scored with 43 while opening batsman Tinotenda Mawoyo made 38 but Wickford could not deal with spinner John Horne, who took six wickets for just 19 runs.

Seasiders skipper Joe Robbins claimed 2-51 before his side made it home for the loss of four wickets.

Opening batsman Numan Khan impressed with 58 not out while Sam Rowe made 42 to see sixth-placed Southend home.

But another defeat for Wickford kept them second from bottom in the standings.