By Tricia Mifsud
THE top order batting strength of Romsey’s McIntyre Cup team outdid Wallan at the weekend, as the Magpies once again struggled to tally a convincing run total.
Wallan won the toss and elected to bat, hoping to set the home side a target to chase, but the Magpies were all out in the final over for 130 runs.
Last week’s top run scorer for the Magpies, Kieran Atkin, opened alongside youngster Bailey Fowler.
The pair wasn’t able to give their side the kick-start it needed, Atkin making 22 and Fowler three.
Spencer Whittingham entered the crease at number four, and batted his way to a half century, providing a glimpse of hope for the Magpies.
Romsey’s Taylor Stevenson took the important wicket for his side, later taking another two in Ryan Bonner and Chris Vecchie.
Stevenson’s efforts were supported by teammate Jake East, who took the final three wickets for the innings.
Whittingham’s efforts were left to stand alone, with the remainder of Wallan’s batting order all being dismissed for less than 10 runs; including Jarrod Jones and Tyler Dixon departing for ducks.
Stevenson entered the crease at number one for Romsey and continued his impressive performance, leading the run chase and hitting an unbeaten 66.
Romsey only needed the support of an additional two batsmen, with Sean Day and William Collins stepping up and scoring 40 and 21 not out respectively.
Jones was the only Magpie who was able to take a wicket, his ball landing in the hands of Whittingham to dismiss Day.
By the 31st over, Romsey had completed its job for the day, winning by nine wickets, pushing the side one rung up the ladder to fourth, while Wallan fell to fifth with four wins in the bank.
This weekend, Wallan will face Diggers Rest Bulla in round 12 of the McIntyre Cup on another away trip, but will be hopeful to finally find a win against the bottom side.
