PETER Barnes is eager for Westcliff to maintain their unbeaten start to the Division Three season when they visit Walthamstow tomorrow.

Westcliff have registered two wins and a draw in their opening three outings this term.

But Barnes is aware that Walthamstow will be tough to beat.

“We are going into each game full of confidence and have a strong squad this year,” said Barnes.

“We have made a solid start to the season but are only three games in and we are taking it game-by-game at the moment.

“Our batting has been much improved so far this season, which has been lacking the last few seasons.

“Walthamstow are always fairly strong, especially when they are playing at home, so I’m sure it will be a tough test this weekend but we are looking forward to the challenge.”

Westcliff are currently level on points with table-topping Stanford-le-Hope thanks to a successful start to the new campaign.

And Westcliff will head to Walthamstow on the back of a comfortable eight-wicket victory over Epping.

Sherwin Stanley’s five-wicket haul put Westcliff in control of the contest and Epping were skittled out for just 115 as just three batsmen broke into double figures.

As a result of the impressive bowling display, Westcliff were able to reach their target in just 23.3 overs.

Lewis Wright led the way with the bat, hitting 70 runs, while captain Barnes also made a fine contribution of 31 not out.

Fifth-placed Walthamstow are also in fine form after winning their last two outings.

Meanwhile, Leigh will be looking to bolster their own hopes of claiming promotion by getting the better of West Essex this weekend.

Leigh dropped into Division Three after suffering relegation last term.

But they have adjusted to life in a new league well and are just five points adrift of the top of the standings.

West Essex will travel to Leigh with the hosts confident following their triumph last time out.

Leigh beat Ardleigh Green & Havering-Atte-Bower by 151 runs and Jon Edwards was in particularly fine form.

The opening batsman fell just six runs short of a century and he will be eager to impress at the crease once again.

West Essex lost against Walthamstow last weekend.

Elsewhere, Stanford-le-Hope will be keen to remain at the division’s summit with a victory at Epping, who prop up the table.