CORSHAM captain Ashur Morrison is keen for his side to get off to a better start this season after going so close to winning the WEPL Premier One title last year.

The Station Road side finished third last term, 46 points behind champions Bath despite losing three of their opening four matches, with the other abandoned.

Although all-rounder Morrison is expecting Bath to once again lead way, he is all too aware that Corsham need to get off to a good start on Saturday when they make the trip to Downend.

“It got really close last season,” Morrison said. “It was disappointing, but also pleasing to finish third.

“If we can try and replicate some of our performances from last season then we will have a good year.

“I know we didn’t have the best of starts, we lost three of our first four matches.

“Had we won those games, then we would have been champions – but hindsight is a wonderful thing.

“We have started our preparations a lot earlier this year so hopefully we can make a good start at Downend.”

Corsham have seen former Worcestershire bowler Nick Harrison leave over the winter, while overseas batsman Dwaine Fielding has also departed.

Club stalwart Mike Coles has also left to join join county rivals Westbury in Premier Two Glos/Wilts.

However, Corsham have drafted in all-rounder Remano Esau, a former South African Schools Colts player, while Vibhor Yadav, a former Northamptonshire 2nd XI all-rounder, has also joined.

“Our target is to try to finish in the top four or five,” Morrison said. “Bath have recruited well by the looks of it and they will be the team to catch.

“But this is a very close league, it is not just about who can get off to a good start, but sustain the form for long periods.”

Elsewhere, Potterne start their second season in Premier One with a visit from Bristol.

Captain Neil Clark believes his team can push on from their fourth place finish last summer.

“Our home form wasn’t that great last season,” said Clark.

“We learnt last season that we are capable of holding our own in this division and anyone can beat everyone.

“It is so important to get as many points as you can. If you are going to lose, then at least try to get maximum bonus points.”