Mets begin defence of title against foes
sean.teuma@thechronice.com.au
CRICKET: MetropolitanEasts is hoping to start its Harding-Madsen Shield title defence in style against old foes Northern-Brothers Diggers.
The two Toowoomba powerhouse sides clash in the opening round at Captain Cook Reserve, with the Trojans looking to put the disappointments of last season behind them.
Mets were denied a chance to complete the HM Shield-TCI A-grade double with the finals cancelled due to COVID, but player Ross Milton said they are as motivated as ever to add more silverware to the coffers.
“The end to last season was a bit disappointing. The season was building up to an interesting conclusion, and there was a bit of an anticlimax,” Milton said.
“There wasn’t much that anyone could do about that though.
“We’ve been training for a bit and are keen to get out on the paddock. We’ve got a few players involved in the DDBBL and getting their hit in there.
“There’s a few new faces in the side which is always exciting.”
As for their opponents tomorrow, Milton is expecting a tough test straight out of the gates.
“Having Diggers straight up is a tough match-up,” he said.
“They’re looking pretty strong, and it will be a good measuring stick for where we’re at.
“They have a good line-up and have a few guys featuring in the Bush Bash as well, so they’ll be ready to go.” FIXTURES
University vs Laidley at USQ; Western Districts vs Northsiders at Captain Cook;
Northern-Brothers vs MetEasts at Captain Cook; Southern Districts vs Highfields-Railways at Middle Ridge Park. Games commence at 10.45am tomorrow. DDSWQ OUT TO
BOUNCE BACK AGAINST VALLEY
After a tough loss against strong opposition, the Downs is looking to return to the winner’s circle with a trip to Brisbane on Sunday.
The U16s Lord’s Taverners competition side will take on Valley at the Ashgrove Sports Ground after going down at home to an unbeaten Gold Coast side at Highfields last weekend.