HADLEIGH & Thundersley continued their fine 50-over form with a six-wicket win against Ilford.

The victory was Hadleigh’s fourth in succession and skipper Adam Dobson felt the triumph showed just how much his side have improved.

“Last year Ilford beat us convincingly at our own place, so it was huge for us to show how far we’ve come since then,” said Dobson.

“It was another great result for us and a great way to end the first half of the season.”

The victory kept Hadleigh fourth in the Premier Division standings and Dobson feels his side are suited to the 50-over format of the game.

“I think there’s a few things behind the form but we do feel very comfortable playing this format of the game as we have some strong game plans that we know we can execute,” said Dobson.

“But more than anything we just have a confident squad at the moment.

“Everyone is pulling in the same direction, our batsmen are putting runs on the board and we are bowling and fielding well.”

Ilford batted first and were bowled out for 208, with Misem Ali Syed Zaidi and Oliver Smith both taking three wickets.

Hadleigh then impressed with the bat, scoring 210/4.

Ashley Bennett hit 56 while Hadleigh’s overseas player Antonio Greenidge top scored with 80 to earn praise from Dobson.

“Antonio has come over from Barbados and has looked like a very strong batsman,” he said.

“It’s been great having him in the team and I think he’s as happy as anyone that he’s got some big runs on the board and he’s already thinking about following it up next week.”

Hadleigh will be looking to make it five wins in a row when they host third-placed Hornchurch this weekend.