Fakenham maintained their winning start on their return to the Norfolk Alliance Premier Division as they picked up maximum points at Stow.

Skipper Ben Harvey hit 95 in a commanding total of 257 for five for the visitors before South African Rudi Hillermann took four for 25 to complete a 110-run victory, despite Tom High’s 57 for Stow.

Harvey said the side was looking forward to playing their first home Alliance match of the season at Highfield Lawn, writes John Cushion. On Saturday, Diss are the visitors.

New players Hillerman and James Moy have yet to experience the league support which has become a club hallmark. “They are looking forward to sampling the support we get for our home games. I’m hoping a big crowd turns up,” said Harvey.

Of the Stow game, on a personal note he said: “It’s always disappointing to miss out on three figures, but if you had told me before the game I would score 95, I would have taken that.”

He was again delighted to have shared a big opening partnership, 120, with Keegan Monahan-Fairlee (46). “Keegs is in really good form,” said Harvey.

Of importance was Phil Gray’s innings of 37. “He came in at a vital time when it was important not to lose another wicket quickly. He played cautiously but punished the loose ball.”

Hillerman mopped up the last four wickets as Stow began the last six overs with six wickets down. “He had worked hard in the nets to get a better length. He has worked very hard at building up his game,” said his skipper.

Fakenham A drew their home Alliance Division Two game with Garboldisham as both sides scored 236.

Luke Findlay made 105no including ten fours and one six, which brought up his century.

Brian Whitwood made 30 and Will Dunger 35 for Fakenham, who also saw a fine bowling display from Lloyd Marshall (four for 38). Danny Cash (68) and Chris Wright (60) were Garboldisham’s star performers.

On Saturday, Fakenham A visit Hethersett & Tas Valley.