HADLEIGH & Thundersley’s fine form continued with a comprehensive nine-wicket win at bottom-of-the-table Ardleigh Green.

Second-placed Hadleigh lost just one wicket while chasing down the required total in a rain-affected encounter.

And their bowler Dave Williams was thrilled to see the side secure a fourth successive win.

“It was a really pleasing win and showed the strength in depth we have,” said Williams.

“Lowesy (Tim Lowes) and Nigel (Holmes) bowled well, picking up seven wickets between them, and perhaps they haven’t bowled as much as they should’ve this season.

“Paul Tibbenham and Ollie Smith batted well and with rain around it was important to get ahead of the required run rate.

“Once we did that it was just about getting the 20 overs in that would constitute a match.

“It’s a big game next week against Colchester now but it’s one we’re all looking forward to.”

Hadleigh opted to bowl after winning the toss and skittled the hosts out for 156. Tim Lowes was the pick of the bowlers, taking four wickets for 28 runs while Nigel Holmes took 3-18.

In reply, Hadleigh’s required total was reduced because of rain but they reached 147-1 to come out on top with opener Paul Tibbenham scoring 51 and Oliver Smith. The victory kept Hadleigh just two points behind leaders Colchester & East Essex.

Wickford were also celebrating after beating third-placed Buckhurst Hill by 64 runs.

Wickford batted first after winning the toss and scored 271 before being bowled out in the last over of the innings.

Liam Rouse top-scored with 63 while Dean Etchells hit 53.

Etchells then also impressed with the ball, taking 4-27 as Buckhurst Hill were bowled out for 207.

The victory moved Wickford up to fifth in the table, ahead of Southend & EMT who slipped to eighth after being beaten by Harlow at Southchurch Park.

Southend made just 112 in their innings, with Matt Wagstaff the top scorer with 26.

However, Southend were bowled out in the 30th overs of their innings and Harlow moved past the total for the loss of four wickets.

Southend skipper Joe Robbins and Michael Gridley both took two wickets each but were unable to get their side back in to the game.