“LITTLE” Jer Lane are making an impression in the early stages of the Bradford League Division One campaign, but can they keep it up?

After securing the treble last season, which included the Division Two title, the Bradford based side have made the jump between the two divisions and are looking to stamp their authority on proceedings in the opening matches.

First it was East Bierley who felt the raft of Jer Lane and then it was Birstall, and on both occasions they collected the maximum 20 points victory.

Raqeeb Younis, captain of the Lane, hinted that it would be a fairytale ending if his side were to claim back-to-back title wins.

Discussing the matter, he said: “What a story that would be.

“From a small club who came out of the Halifax League -to get promoted to the Premier Division- it would be just amazing. It would be a great story to tell our grandchildren- little Jer Lane marching on to consecutive titles.

“There is a lot of great work that goes on behind closed doors too, so it would reflect the effort which has been put in over the years.”

Despite their fast start, Jer Lane’s captain believes his side must not get over excited ahead of a long season ahead.

He said: “The campaign has barely even started yet, so we are not getting complacent at all. Thankfully, we had a brilliant pre-season, both in the recruitment side of things and the preparation side of things. It’s great as well because we are all good friends and have known each other for a long time, so there is that team chemistry within the group.

“We spoke as a club at the start of the season and our goal is still to avoid relegation, and that hasn't changed based on the opening two games. The pressure is off us, so we can go out there and enjoy our cricket and so far, we are doing exactly that.”

Younis added: “It’s vitally important in cricket to have that comradery within the group. Having that can be the making of a really good side. We are underdogs this season, but we have a lot of talent and a great team spirit, so we shouldn’t be underestimated.

“We’ll keep doing what we are doing and then we can go from there.”

Jer Lane will be looking to make it three wins on the bounce this weekend, whilst also looking to maintain their spot at the summit of the Division One table as they travel to Baildon today.

The latter have got off to a mixed start, with an opening day defeat at home to Carlton being followed up by an impressive victory at Morley last time out.

Looking ahead to the fixture, Younis said: “We are always confident going into any game and Saturday will be no different. My team loves cricket and it’s what we’ve been preparing for all winter, so we don’t have any reason to go into any game without a positive mindset. Also, the pressure is off us this season.

“It should be a tough game as I know their batting lineup is very strong, but hopefully we can continue in the same manner and collect another victory.”