THE only way is up for Hook and Newnham Basics in the Southern League Division One, after they suffered their second defeat of the campaign, losing by nine wickets at Sarisbury Athletic.

Hook captain Matt Love won the toss and elected to bat and they lost both openers Ben Thane (17) and Sam Bruin (3) with the score on 32.

The visitor’s then added 24 runs, before Jordan Hobday (14) and Nick Willcock were out in consecutive balls.

Wickets continued to tumble, with Love (56) the only player to get to grips with the home attack, as Hook found themselves on 123-9.

However, final pair Glen Williams (24) and Anik Devicha (28 not out) enjoyed a last wicket stand worth 58, to take Hook’s to an all out total of 181.

To stand any chance of victory the visitor’s needed quick wickets, but this failed to happen.

Sarisbury openers Ryan Covey (49) and Basil Akram (100 not out) were not parted until the score had reached 114.

Akram went on to complete his ton, from 97 balls and hit 14 fours and four sixes, while Harry Hovey chipped in with an unbeaten 22, as Sarisbury reached their target on the first ball of the 31st over.

Hook will hope their first home game of the season against Portsmouth, will see them break their winless start to the campaign.