Eastern Hill came out on top against Pyalong in round six of the A Grade matches in the Seymour District Cricket Association, SDCA.
Playing in Seymour, the game was moved from main ground at King’s Park to a synthetic wicket prior to play.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, the Eagles had their opener dismissed for one run.
However, the next partnership of 47 runs steadied the scoreboard before Eastern Hill’s run rate slowed again as another batter went out to have the home side 3/69.
But the Eagles were on the up and solid partnerships enabled them to get to 8/225 at the end of the 45 overs.
Eastern Hill’s Ollie Bryant top scored with 52 – including seven fours – while Brayden Speechley, with 46 runs, was also a solid contributor.
Matthew Pratt was the strongest bowler for Pyalong with 3/42 while Jason Ryan had 2/39.
Pyalong struggled to mount a strong run chase with only three players reaching double digits.
Pratt top-scored for Pyalong with 20, including the side’s only six for the day, followed by Daniel Sowden with 19 and opening batsman Sean Walsh with 18.
Pyalong coach Matthew Wilkins said it was a disappointing result.
“A couple of important players were out this week and we came across a pretty good side. They’re definitely one of the finalists at this stage of the season,” he said.
“Matt Pratt was our best bowler but Eastern Hill just batted well and were patient. They were just a bit too good for us on the day.
“When we batted, we were quite disappointing. With only three players in double figures … it was a very disappointing performance but hopefully next week we can fire back and get on the winner’s list.”
Avenel’s game against Seymour was washed out, while Yea Tigers 8/157 defeated Alexandra 9/153.
Seymour will welcome Yea to Chittick Park on Saturday, Pyalong will make the trek to Alexandra while Tallarook will return from its bye to play Eastern Hill in a top-of-the-table clash in Seymour.
