Holt United were celebrating at the weekend after claiming their first win of the season – while neighbours Sheringham showed some welcome improvement by avoiding another heavy defeat.

The Owls took centre stage as they made the long journey to Brandon in Division One of the Anglian Combination and returned with a cracking 4-1 victory that suggested the club are moving in the right direction under the new management team of Steve Simmonds and Rob Crowley.

There was no such joy for Sheringham in the top flight – but after conceding 20 goals in losing their first four matches a 2-0 home reverse at the hands of St Andrews at least proved they are becoming competitive following a torrid start to the new campaign.

Holt, who had lost their four matches in league and cup before the weekend, quickly got on the front foot at Brandon when Matthew Hudson latched on to a fine through ball from defemder Luke Williamson and slotted home.

The hosts soon got back on level terms but the Owls restored their advantage before the interval as Matty Sanders' shot was deflected in off a defender. Holt were put under pressure early in the second period but they held firm and sealed victory with two goals from Chris Fuller, the first after another assist from Williamson and the second a fine solo effort from just outside the box.

'We were all a little bit concerned after the heavy defeat at Harleston in our previous game but there was a good attitude in training the following week, with the lads working hard and saying they were determined to put things right in the next game,' said Crowley

'That's just what happened on Saturday. We always knew they could play like that and it was good to see everything come together.

'It's just a shame we haven't got a game this weekend as we would have liked to keep the momentum going. But it certainly puts us in good heart for our next game at home to Hindringham on September 29.'

Sheringham gave St Andrews plenty to think about as they continued their search for a first win of the season but the visitors scored once in each half through Olly Dunthorne and James Smith to leave their opponents as the only top flight side without a point to their name after four matches.

It doesn't get any easier for Ben Price's side, with a trip to unbeaten league leaders Acle United on Saturday, but their young manager is determined to battle through a testing spell.

'It has been a difficult start to the season to say the least,' admitted Price. 'We have lost a number of players to other clubs and are light on numbers. That's the sort of thing that happens when you are struggling – some players want to move on and I have got no problem with that. When Sheringham were doing well there were players who left their clubs to come here.

'The good thing is that we have got an excellent youth set-up and some good players are coming through – players like Sam Ellis and Jody Norris who are only 16 but have already been given their chance in the first team. Things are gradually coming together – but it will take time. The short-term aim is to put together a team which is at least competitive at this level. Basically we have got to stick together and remain positive.'

Price remains on the look-out for potential recruits – they are invited to come along to training at Weybourne Road on Thursday evenings (7pm) – and would also welcome some extra help on the administrative side.

'There are one or two people working really hard behind the scenes but they need some help. Hopefully someone will come forward to help lighten the load.'

In Division One Aylsham suffered their first defeat of the season when they were beaten 4-2 at Norwich CEYMS, after being 2-1 ahead at the break. Martin Meek's newly promoted side, who had won all three of their games before the weekend, were beaten by goals from Thomas Amis (2) and Dale Rayner (2).

Aylsham travel to Harleston on Saturday to play the first round Mummery Cup clash which was abandoned when Travis Whitlam picked up a nasty injury.