Loss for Goannas

The cricket match between the Gippsland Goannas over 50s and Coburg was called off on Sunday due to the consistent rain.

The Goannas’ next scheduled game is at home against East Ringwood on Sunday, November 6.

The Goannas over 70s team travelled to Pakenham to take on the West Gippsland over 70s. Last year’s captain Fred Debono has changed camps and now plays with the West Gippsland team, which is an amalgamation of Pakenham, South Gippsland, Koo Wee Rup and Iona clubs.

On a brisk but fine day at Pakenham, West Gippsland narrowly defeated Gippsland Goannas in a tight game played in very good spirit.

West Gippsland won the toss and batted, amassing a good total of 7/166 in 40 overs. West Gippsland openers Keith Houghton (31) and Jeff Phillips (17) set the pace with a bright opening partnership. Jon Martindale, Fred Debono, Russell Ferguson and Ron Lovel all made useful contributions.

For the Goannas, Bob Duljas took the bowling honours with two late wickets, while Andrew Smith, Barrie Nunn, Dick Noble and Ian Southall took one each, and there was one run out. Ian Gibson had two stumpings, and a good catch was taken by Bob Duljas.

Garry Rose was dismissed LBW early, but Ian Gibson (28) and Kevin Lanigan (40) gave the Goannas a chance before retiring. Dick Noble made a solid 21 before being out LBW, while Ian Southall, Andrew Smith, Kelvin Bond and Barrie Nunn managed to get the score to 5/161 after 40 overs.

The National Championships for the over 70s will take place in Launceston from Wednesday, November 9, with Kevin Lanigan (captain), Ian Gibson and Ian Southall all playing in the Vic 1 team. Gordon Cowling and Fred Debono are playing in the Vic 3 team, in second division.

The next round in the VCV over 70 grade is Sunday, December 4 when the Goannas travel to Glen Waverley.

The Goannas over 60s return this Sunday with an away game against Mornington Peninsula.

Practice for all Goannas teams are held at Glengarry on Wednesdays from 4.30pm.