North Gambier vs Penola
North Sportsman’s squared off against Penola at Marist Park with the Tigers ultimately claiming the win in the opening match of the season.
With both teams eager to start their campaign on a high note, it was not going to be an easy contest.
North Sportsman’s won the toss and elected to field, giving Penola the task of setting a big total.
Jack Mullan and Lewis March commenced the proceedings for Penola and the pair gave Penola a steady start, reaching 40 without loss.
Then Mullan was bowled by Mathew Robinson on 25 quickly followed up with the wicket of March with Nick McInerney catching the Penola opener leg before wicket.
Michael Waters and Drew Clayfield put on a magnificent display combining for a 96 run partnership with Mitchell Lewis finding the breakthrough of Waters on 46.
Clayfield passed 50 but his innings was brought to a close by McInerney who also took the wicket of Eli Hunter on 22.
Penola had registered a defendable total of 190 runs for the loss of five wickets at the end of its innings.
North had its work cut out for it as it was required to score almost five runs an over to chase Penola’s score.
Alex Hutton and Brad Robinson provided a solid foundation for the North innings, combining for 49 runs before Hutton was dismissed.
Robinson continued to anchor the innings before being run out on 42 and leaving North 2/115.
Nicholas Brown joined McInerney out in the middle but did not stick around, bowled for one by March.
Nick McInerney’s all-round abilities were on display as he contributed 41 runs with the bat, along with his three wickets with the ball.
The middle order played a crucial role in the run chase, with Declan Kenny, Isaac Mulraney and skipper Mitchell Lewis adding to the team’s total.
The chase proved to be a tight contest as the match went down to the wire, North Gambier passed Penola’s total in the 38th over with five wickets down.
North Sportsman’s managed to secure the three wicket victory in an important opening match as it hopes to return to finals.
Gerard Merrett was the standout performer with the ball for Penola claiming three wickets.
Penola will be disappointed it was unable to defend a good total but will take several positives into its match against Mil Lel.
