Facing up to last seasons Division 3 champions Harlow started their campaign, under new captain Ben Yeats, seeking to end over a decade of frustration at that level by matching the visitors achievement this season.

The hosts were packed with young local players who have come through the Colts section at the club but they collectively displayed a confidence and maturity that bodes well for the more competitive fixtures to come.

Batting first Hornchurch looked very well set at 110-1 before a gorgeous spell of spin from Jake Messenger began to turn the tide with 3 wickets. Young leg spinner George Jessey took a further two wickets to leave Athletic struggling towards a total of around 200.

A remarkable over that contained three wicket taking deliveries from fellow youngster Jack Fuller ensured the visitors were denied reaching that psychological milestone. Bowling superb Yorkers Fuller concluded the Hornchurch innings as they closed on 190 all out.

The Harlow innings was measured and confident as all the top order made runs led by skipper Yeats (67) and Zabi Hakimi (50). Alfie Jessey (22) also added a fine run a ball knock before Max Baulcomb (25 not out) and Gul Hassan (12 not out) saw Harlow to a 6 wicket win with over 5 overs to spare.

Things couldn’t have gone much better but the entire side know there will be tougher and more competitive tests to come starting next weekend at Valentines Park as they face Ilford 2’s in the Essex League Trophy.