FRINTON Cricket Club captain Mike Comber has urged his table-topping players to keep "pushing and progressing" - but warned that rival sides will be determined to knock them off their perch.

The Ashlyns Road team have emerged as early East Anglian Premier League leaders after winning their opening three matches - most recently Saturday's 50-run success against Burwell and Exning.

Now Comber is hoping his team continue their purple patch and make it four in a row in this weekend's home clash against Copdock and Old Ipswichian.

"Copdock have made a good start, too, so it's a big game," said the former Essex man.

"Then we've got a crunch match against Sudbury the following Saturday.

"They've won the league two years in a row and are the side to beat.

"But we're the team sitting top at the moment and it's our job to keep pushing and progressing, by churning results out.

"People will be watching on and waiting for us to slip up, so we have to make sure that doesn't happen.

"So far the signs are encouraging and I'm pleased with the way we've started our season.

"We're playing well and there's a really positive, happy atmosphere among the players, both in matches and training.

"It's even noticeable when we're travelling to games together.

"Everyone gets on so well and, as captain, I couldn't wish for a better vibe around the club.

"That spirit will be a key ingredient and it's also pleasing that the new players have settled in so quickly.

"It's like they've always been here."

After losing the toss and being put into bat against Burwell, Frinton made 225 for five from their 43 overs.

Blaine Bannister was their star man, with 79 not out, and he was backed up by Michael Griggs (45) and Ashley Watson (41).

In reply, Burwell were all out for 147, with both all-rounder Bannister and Dulanjala Mendis taking four wickets for 30 runs.

"Despite losing the toss, our batsmen dug in and grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck," said Comber.

"People are taking their opportunities and Blaine deserves special mention for the part he played in Saturday's win.

"It was a really mature innings - a stellar performance - and he knuckled down in difficult conditions.

"He's a batting all-rounder of good pedigree, when you look at his impressive stats from last year's Surrey League.

"But the exciting thing is that I still think there's more to come from him."

Meanwhile, Frinton visit Chelmsford in the next round of the National Cup on Sunday.

They will be minus the services of unavailable duo Ollie Bocking and Jaik Mickleburgh.

"It's a shame to have guys missing but it gives others the opportunity to come into the side, express themselves and give me a selection headache," added Comber.

"I have some pretty brutal decisions to make but have to go with my strongest side and it's a nice position to be in."