Clacton aiming for a strong finish

6:49am Friday 4th July 2008

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Clacton's cricketers approach the halfway point in their season full of confidence for a strong finish.

The Seasiders have enjoyed a decent start and sit fourth in the East Anglian Premier League, behind Swardeston, Cambridge Granta and Vauxhall Mallards.

Tomorrow, they entertain basement boys Fakenham and team boss Gary Kirk has been reflecting on a successful time so far in 2008.

"The return fixture against Fakenham marks the halfway point of the season," he told the Gazette.

"If I were to sum it up so far I'd have to say how impressed I've been with the way the first team and majority of the membership have gelled together, which has brought benefits to the club as a whole.

"The first team are a strong unit, determined to progress as individuals and as a team.

"The great strides the club have made has been noted by everyone we've played and it's so refreshing to have our opposition talking about us and the players in a positive light, as opposed to previous years.

"We've made a conscious effort to get our own house in order." Clacton have had to cope without some key players this season, most notably big-hitting former Sri Lankan Test star Indika de Saram, who left for Mallards.

New additions have arrived, like South Arican Craig Williams and Australian Andrew Turner, and they still want to attract new players - not to mention sponsors - to Vista Road.

Kirk also believes the future looks bright with so many budding young players progressing through the ranks.

"Our youth section is doing fantastically well, with all teams winning games and enjoying themselves," he added.

l Clacton have a summer coaching school starting in late July for three weeks and anyone interested should contact Neil Cavender on 01255 433542.