Easy victory for Eagles

Ellinbank 3/69 def Catani 8/62 (cc)

A rare failure with the bat from Catani has seen Ellinbank run out convincing winners in their clash at Lardner.

With only one double figure score it was all the visitors could do to survive their 35 overs. Jack Logan was the chief wicket taker finishing with 3/17 off six overs. Phillip Conley conceded just one run per over to claim 2/5. In reply, Adam Campbell (21) and Jaxon Notman (17 n.o.) did the bulk of the work as the Eagles wrapped things up in the 27th over.

Neerim District 10/160 def by Western Park 7/175 (cc)

Western Park has held off a fast-finishing Neerim District to take the points in a nail-biting contest. Choosing to bat first, Western Park were in trouble early before a 74-run third wicket partnership steadied the ship.

Jimmy Burke led the scoring with a watchful 58 while Tyler Payroli boosted the run rate, plundering six 4’s and three 6’s on his way to 52 retired n.o. off about 15 deliveries. Adam Johnson lent support throughout with a solid 29. Carter Davis was the pick of the bowlers with 2/13 off seven overs.

In reply, Brett Bransgrove got the Stags off to a good start, picking off the loose ball with five fours to finish with 34. Jo Sheehan (24) lent good support as the home side chipped away at the deficit. Warren Darcy (26) boosted the scoring late in the innings along with Sam Fusinato (27) who helped get his side close to victory. Payroli (3/32) was the pick of the bowlers, claiming important scalps at the death.

14-year-old Jake Van Den Berghe (left) made his first triple figure score as he joined forces with 70 year old Bob Rogers (75) for a 172 run partnership that saw youth and experience combine to help the Titans claim victory.