MISTLEY Cricket Club captain Graeme Butcher admitted it was a relief to see his side post their first win of the season.

The Swans notched their maiden Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship victory after winning by 24 runs at Ipswich on Saturday.

It came on the back of three first division defeats and a cancelled fixture.

However, while admitting it was a less-than-ideal start, Butcher says he was not panicking and always knew his players would click into gear sooner rather than later.

"It was fantastic to get our first win," said the 31-year-old.

"It felt a long time coming and certainly made for a more enjoyable Sunday.

"There was no sense of panic at the start we'd made but, of course, there was a sense of relief to get the first win of the season, particularly for myself in my first year as captain.

"I was especially keen to get a victory under our belt.

"My reflections on the season so far would be that we've been competitive in each game but fallen short in critical moments.

"There have been positives each week which we can take forward, although it has obviously been disappointing not to take our chances, especially at home to Coggeshall.

"In that game, I thought we were in the driving seat during our run-chase before a terrible collapse gifted Coggeshall victory.

"The pleasing thing about Saturday, though, was that it was a real team effort, with positive contributions from everyone in the side - whether it be with the bat, ball or in the field."

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Mistley finished on 219 for nine in their 50 overs.

Khalipha Cele, the club's new overseas player, top-scored with 59 and there was also a half-century for James Scott.

Ipswich were then restricted to 195 for eight, largely thanks to three wickets for Bruce Leeke and two for Jimmy Goff.

"We chose to bat first so it was important we put a competitive score on the board which was largely thanks to 50s from Kalipha and Scott, who has become a really reliable run-maker for us," added Butcher, who inherited the captaincy from Dan Goff.

"With the ball, Jimmy has come in this season, originally at the last minute due to a late injury, and been a revelation, taking wickets in each game and bowling with great control.

"Bruce also came back at a pivotal time to take three important wickets which saw us home to what ended up being a comfortable victory but one that was in the balance for quite some time."

Mistley will hope to build on their opening victory when they welcome Lakenheath to New Road tomorrow (1pm start).

"Having achieved our first win, I believe we can get on a roll, hopefully starting this week at home to Lakenheath," added Butcher.