LOCAL CRICKET WRAPS
LARA sits a game and percentage clear at the top of the GCA1 ladder after a comprehensive seven-wicket win over reigning premier East Belmont.
The Cats were largely untroubled in running down the Lions’ 165, with their top order all getting starts in the 3-166 innings before stumps were drawn.
“East Belmont is a quality side year in, year out, so it’s great to be able to do that on the back of a really good bowling performance last week that set the foundation for us this week,” top scorer Brad McMaster said.
“It was actually a tough wicket to get in on. It was a bit low and slow throughout the day.
“It would’ve been nice to have someone kick on and go on and finish the job, but to be chasing a lower total meant that a few blokes getting starts was good enough.”
While McMaster led the way with a typically patient 123-ball 49, Rob Sodomaco (37) and Andy Hughes (25) laid the foundations as the top three broke the back of the run chase.
Skipper Daniel Weigl and Brenden Miller sealed the deal with unbeaten innings of 32 and 17 respectively.
Englishman Luke Bridges was the sole multiple wickettaker for the Lions with 2-18, with all three wickets falling to slow bowlers.
“We targeted this East Belmont game as our first big challenge and passed it with flying colours,” McMaster said.
“Now it’s onto the next game against St Joseph’s where we know their batting can be quite strong, but we’ll be backing our bowlers to keep performing.”