CANVEY Island Cricket Club captain Laurence Shearcroft believes his side are more than capable of securing a top three berth this season.

A superb start to the season currently sees Canvey second in the T-Rippon Mid-Essex League Premier Division standings, with four wins from five so far.

Their latest win came against local rivals Rayleigh who have not been having the best of times in the early weeks of the season.

And Shearcroft is confident of challenging near the top with the big boys, despite it being only their second season in the top flight.

“It has been a great start and people are making the effort and training hard, which all bodes well,” said Shearcroft.

“Last year was our first at this level so it was always going to take time to adapt but we know what to expect now. It was shock to us initially following promotion but we have really worked and are reaping the rewards at the moment.

“I think we are pushing for a top three place and we are up there with the likes of Bentley and Springfield.

“We can give anyone a good game.”

Canvey were four wicket winners against Rayleigh at the weekend, bouncing back from their first defeat this season the previous weekend.

Rayleigh were bowled out for 129 at Smallgaines Park, despite being 80/3 at one stage - Jon Cook top scoring with 53.

But the ever impressive Dan Lee (3-21) and Jamie Casson (2-29) ensured the Rayleigh score was kept down.

In reply Canvey reached 130-6 with two overs to spare, Jamie Casson (47) and 16-year-old Taylor Casson (22) contributing.

Will Nolde took 2-32 for Rayleigh.

And Shearcroft praised his team’s efforts.

“We have had plenty of local derby matches against Rayleigh and have been through highs and lows,” he said.

“They put us under pressure but we came through it, although it was closer than I would have liked.

“We bowled really well and did well against their batsmen but they were just as good as us in that respect. Our batting was just slightly better than theirs on the day.

“Ross, Jamie and Taylor Casson have started the season well and Dan Lee is already into double figures for wickets this season.

“Jack Sanders has had some good knocks for us as well so the future is looking bright at this moment in time.”