THE only way is up in the A Division season ahead as far as Hatherleigh skipper Mark Lake is concerned.

Hatherleigh finished sixth out of ten last season, but were only 19 points off the bottom two.

Lake says his relatively youthful side has been tested under pressure for the last two season, both of which have concentrated on getting away from the wrong end of the table.

The season opens this Saturday when newly promoted Chudleigh are the visitors. Lake wants to set out Hatherleigh’s stall early.

“I feel the first month is key for us in what we do for the rest of the season,” said Lake.

“We've had enough time in the A now to gain experience and it's time to kick on.

“I will be looking to push on again from last season and bring some consistency to our performances in a positive way.

“We have some really promising youngsters coming through and I hope they perform for us this season.”

New Zealander Carl Schwarz has returned home after two years with the club, but recommended Matty Thomas as he his replacement. Thomas bats high and bowls spin.

“From what I've seen he looks very promising,” said Lake.