HADLEIGH & Thundersley suffered their first defeat of the Premier League season after losing by 20 runs against Belhus.

The setback saw Hadleigh fall down to third in the standings.

But skipper Adam Dobson was keen to remain upbeat and insisted he was proud of his side’s display.

“It was a tough loss yesterday but credit to Belhus who played really well,” said Dobson.

“They got off to a good start but I felt we bowled and fielded well to pull them back.

“We were a little unlucky at the start of our innings with a bad decision and Sam Handley chopping on off a bad ball.

“But I was proud of the team and how we stayed calm to take the game deep and give us a chance to win.”

Belhus made 193/7 in their innings with Haider Ali Syed Zaidi taking 4/36 before Hadleigh were dismissed for 173 in reply with Adam Soilleux top scoring with 60.

But Dobson felt Hadleigh could not have done much more in their pursuit of victory.

“I don’t feel we did a lot wrong,” said Dobson.

“I think Belhus just bowled well as we looked to up the rate and fair play to them for closing the game out well.

“We’ve still started the season well and we have another chance to get back to winning ways next week.”