The St. Bernard's 2nd XI, feeling very good about there performance against APW the week before, made the trek down to Altona North for an away semi-final. In a ground that in such a short history has provided some special moments for the club, the team felt confident that even though going in as under-dogs, a solid performance would see the team playing off for a chance at 3 premierships in a row.
On what started out as a sunny, hot and even 'reef' friendly day, captain Mick Thom had no hesitation in electing to have a hit after winning the toss. It was not long after this that the clouds both literally and figuratively started to crowd in on the teams season.
The conditions of the pitch probably weren't read as well as they could of been and a combination of balls cutting quite a long way off the deck and a disciplined opening spell of full bowling by the Altona North pair had the boys in a lot of trouble. Wickets were falling and the team managed to get to 6/35 before the falling (and lots of it!) of rain saw an early tea taken before an early close to the days play, with the aim of getting 80 overs in the next day
After all the rain Saturday night and Sunday morning, both teams and umpires were amazed to see how well the Altona Nth ground had withstood the down pour and pulled up the next day. After some deliberation and consultation, the umpires and captains agreed play would be safe, and if we started at 1.30 that no overs would be lost and the game could be played out.
However in a really disappointing next 30 minutes, the game was unfortunately hijacked by a council groundsman / curator, a loose club affiliate of Altona North and a ruling by the VTCA that has left a number of people scratching their head. Play was called off as the Altona North No.1 oval was closed and deemed 'unsafe', sadly due to the fact a game was to be played there the following week and ignoring rulings from the umpires and both captains agreeing to play. To say the team was devastated would be an understatement and despite some extremely diplomatic work from both St. Bernard's and Altona North president, and the work by the umpires and both captains to get the game started, nothing more could be done. It is extremely disappointing that this was allowed to play out this way and have a game ruined by one man not even associated with the club and to of had the VTCA left powerless to do anything.
Hands were shaken and the match declared a draw, with Altona North progressing to face APW in the grand final
The Altona North CC to their credit were extremely helpful, respectful and worked really hard to have this play out differently, and we thank them for their effort and know from playing them a number of times over the past two years that this is in no way a reflection on their club. They were as disappointed as we were with the actions of a few and were extremely humble after the match
So sadly this draws to an end the season for the 2nd XI. This is a result that will no doubt make the side and players in the side hungrier, and it has given the side a full understanding of how important it is to beat sides lower down the table in order to finish top 2 in future seasons.
The best thing about sport is there is always next year
3rd XI, North C1
SEMI FINAL v HOPPERS CROSSING
The third XI snuck into the top 4 after results went our way in round 11. Finishing 4th meant they had to play top of the Ladder Hoppers Crossing who were back down in North C1 after a year in North B1 playing against lowly ranked first XI clubs.
The day 1 warm up was performed in hot sunshine and humid conditions after Rex lost the toss and were asked to bowl. The boys walked out onto the field with rain clouds gatherting but the desire to get stuck into the Hoppers Crossing top order. That chance came 3 balls into the match with the Hoppers Crossing best batsmen being dropped for 0. Rain the haltered play 7 balls later for a total of 25 minutes. After the delay Anthony Venuto and Jake Dunell bowled a cracking spell of new ball bowling for no luck, before rain again stopped play - this time for the entire day.
The boys turned up to Hoppers on day 2 welcomed by a dry pitch and almost perfect outfield for play, and mor importantly - not a cloud in sight. Jake Dunnell got the boys off to a good start with the early break through of the Hoppers key batsmen, and then got the other opener caught at mid on. Anthony Venuto continued his good bowling from the day before and also picked up 2 wickets to help bernards pick up 4 early wickets and be right on top of the ladder leaders. Tom Isaacs came on and bowled for little success, but did claim a key wicket after a cracking catch by captain Rex Bennett. Ismet perona then provided some great death bowling and picked up 2 wickets himself. Like most of the year, it was a great team bowling effort to restrict Hoppers to 158.
As clouds gathered during the tea break, the bernards openers went out to the middle with one thing in mind - preserve wickets and get the team off to a good start. But just like the last time we played hoppers the top order failed, With Garvery (1) Carrick (11) Dunell (7) and O'Connell (2) all failing, leaving the side 4/29 and needing a miracle to avoid defeat. With Johansen, Castles and Chrystie falling in quick succession bernards were reeling at 7/43 and with rain falling, the cause was basically lost for the dogs, and play ended with us 7/64, and with that - so did the season. Back to back semi final losses for the 3rds.
The season was by no means a faliure, with many players taking great strides forward in their developement. Both Jake Dunell and Kevin O'Connell showed signes that they are developing well as top order batsmen or handy all rounders, with Jake's tight medium bowling, and Kevin bowling some sort of spin. The season also saw Ismet Perona take his bowling to a new level, claiming the North C1 bowling average, taking 22 @ 10.18. The senior experience gained by Brad Cooper and Tom Chrystie was also a positive, with both of them contributing at different time this season. Another is the positive influence captain Rex Bennett has on the young group and the learning those players have done under him this season.
With the last two seasons not ending the way the third XI would have like, it will be up to the core players of the side to take it to the next level next season.
4th XI, North C3
Fourth XI SEMI FINAL v GREENVALE
The game encapsulated all the frustrations of the seaon with rain wrecking our chances of being able to compete for a grand final berth. The season saw us washed on Saturday nights when fixtured for Sunday games early on and several times unable to play Saturday when teams with covers played.Then two forfeits came our way when Sunshine United pulled out of the grade. In some ways then we were prepared for the ultimate frustration shared by the club on the weekend. We bowled and after 23 terrific overs we had Greenvale tied down at 0/30 with Turner, Korka, Cook and O'Connell all bowling well. Turner leadi the attack as he has done all year with 5 overs 0/2 after already playing a semi in the morning. Then the tsunami turned on the home of cricket and the season was over as it started in round 1 when we were also against Greenvale and not a ball was bowled! A very young eleven that again reached the finals up against much older elevens is the story of our season but overall
frustration is what we will remember of 2009/10. Thanks to all who helped both on and off the field and for the confidence the club showed in us.
ROUND 9
1st XI, Senior Divison
1st XI Report
It was a great round for the 1st XI against Spotswood with an outright win to put us in the four with two games to play. After some issues with wicket preparation on day one the game got underway on a wicket that look to offer some assistance to the bowlers and after winning the toss the snowdogs sent Spotswood in. To the surprise of all players the wicket played extremely well and with some great bowling from McMahon (3/34), Snell (3/24) and Chris Davis (2/32) we dealt Spotswood a major blow in the finals race dismissing them for 106 in 39 overs. With the job half completed we needed to bat well and ensure first innings points at the end of day one. Chris Spinella (75) and Duncan Snell (134) lead the way with a magnificent batting performance completing the first day win by piling on the runs to have the snowdogs in a great position after day 1 on 0/130. With an outright victory in sight they continued the great form and put on 172 for the first wicket. Snell was magnificent smashing 10 4’s and 5 6’s and Spinella belting 11 4’s in his innings. This allowed the middle order to hit out a bit and pile on the agony for Spotswood and allow us to declare our innings after 20 overs at 7/247 with a lead of 141. With Spotswood on the ropes the snowdogs were ruthless and lead by Osborne (4/39) McMahon (3/33) and Snell (2/14) completed a fantastic innings and 39 outright win. Our next match is against Altona North at the Home of Cricket in a must win game to stay in the four.
Senior 2nds
A fresh look second XI St. Bernards side returned to the winners list this week with a comprehensive win over fellow finals contender Spotswood. It was a huge show of depth for the club with both Kev and Travis coming up from the 3rds after big runs all year, new recruit Nick James making his debut for the club and the returning Andy Wilgose not only filling numbers due to injuries and unavailability, but added strength and enthusiasm to the side.
After being sent into bat day one, St Bernards made their highest score for the year of 254. New opening pair Hellard and Carrick made 55+ between them, but only moderate contributions from the middle and late-middle order had the side in a touch of bother with 7/130 at tea. However in his best innings for the club James Davey made 77* in a composed and mature knock. Accused in the past of not batting for that "long innings", James may have turned the corner this game. Ably supported however in his innings was the knock of Anthony 'Dennis' Venuto. Dennis made 24 - we all agreed his highest score for the club by about 23 runs - and showed what he shows us every night at training...he actually CAN bat! All jokes aside, Dennis and James showed what can be done if you have the courage to spend time in the middle, a lesson that needs to be learnt by a few blokes if the side wishes to push for finals
Week two started off oddly with Kev pulling out with a finger injury be attained at training Thursday night in the company of Garvs, G-Tram and G-Love (details still remain sketchy). Ivan Jurcic, who was missing week one due to his brothers engagement was a welcome '12th man' to the side. All the guys appreciated Ivan's effort and input and he is owed a few beers this week. On an absolute road, in warm conditions, again the bowling and fielding effort could not be faltered. No catches we dropped, no cheap runs were let through and no opportunities missed as Spotswood were bowled out for 161. Highlights were TK's sharp opening spell and the again workman like effort of our big-hearted-gold-chain-warrior Michael 'Binners' Di Natale. Hard to single out anyone though as all 11 bowlers and fielders put in such a mammoth effort
Huge test this week against Altona North, a side we know well and have a brief but interesting history with in the seconds. If good enough over the next four Saturday's, the side will play finals
3rd XI, North C1
After the pitch debacle last week the thirds are becoming one day specialists having only play two 2 day games thus far. In a stark contrast to the painted grass last week, we were presented with what was arguably the best pitch seen on oval two this season. That said, after winning the toss and batting the Snowdogs quickly slipped into trouble finding themselves at 4/14 after 7.
Enter M Castles (62) and S Johanson (35). The pair weren’t daunted by the task ahead and came out firing to resurrect the innings. The boundaries were plentiful and the running between the wickets (despite a somewhat seedy Castles) was exemplary. The Fossil continued the momentum chiming in with a lazy 45 not out and the Snowdogs walked into tea with a reasonable 170 on the board.
To the surprise of those taking the field the opposition sent out a couple of sacrificial lambs to open their innings. Jake (the snake) Dunnell quickly snapped up 2 bowling some impressive line & length while a delicious direct hit from young P.O’C had East Keilor right under pressure. Isaacs and Cooper contributed with one a piece but it was the Albanian workhorse (aka. I Perona) who cleaned up with another 3 wickets and now leads the wickets taken for the grade. The visitors made it to 9/111 off their 36 and at 6:45pm we called it a day. A good win for the team and another step closer towards the finals.
4th XI, North C3
ROUND 5
1st XI, Senior Divison
1st XI Report
After a washed out first day it was down to another one-day game in our round 5 clash against the leagues yard stick Yarraville Club. After finally winning the toss St. Bernard's chose to bat on a very up and slow wicket that would have plenty of assistance for the bowlers later in the day. On an overcast afternoon the lads got off to an ok start until inform batsman Spinella (1) was bowled. It was unusual territory for the snowdogs as Spinella has been a shining light in season 09/10. Snell & Jurcic started to get the ball rolling after the loss of Spinella until Jurcic skied one to mid on attempting to kick along the run rate. McIntyre was next until he was run-out for no score and it left the snowdogs reeling at 3/32. Osborne joined Snell and in a hard slog put on 44 for the 4th wicket until Snell in the search for quick runs was caught for 26. Osborne (38 no) was going well and along with the Bekker, Kassis and a great cameo from Mills put on a competitive score of 6/121 after 40 overs. It was going to be a tough ask for Yarraville and we needed to hold them from getting off to a flyer. McMahon got an early breakthrough which gave the snowdogs hope but their batsman were hitting 4’s at will to put the clubbers in a good position. Osborne was brought on early to stop the run flow and was bowling well to have three wickets in quick time. It was all in vain though as Yarraville Club passed the snowdogs score 6 down and with 6 overs to spare. Osborne finished with 7/47 off 16 overs and McMahon 1/27 off 7. It was a chance to beat a team who have not lost in over 12 months but we will hopefully get another crack later in the year. We look forward to the clash this week against Old Essendon Grammar.
2nd XI, Senior 2nds
2nd XI Match Report
A week after the seconds had the honor of celebrating Jason's 200th game for club, the side was again given the pleasure of celebrating a club ledgend, champion and President Anthony Jordan's 200th game for this great club. Unfortunatly for Jordo and to the dissapointment of the boys, the result wasn't the one they were after.
On a deck that was SO good out a Yarraville that the 2nd XI side weren't 100% sure what they were looking at, Bernards won the toss and had a bat. After a slow but steady start, the side, things were looking good until Jason fell for 45. In an all too familiar trend this year, wickets fell constantly throughout the day as the middle order failed to put any real partnerships together. A fine show of class by Greg Garth (55) who is showing signs of the skills we all know he has and a fighting effort again by the bottom 3 (Davis the stand out with 17) gave the side something to bowl at the following week (179) when rain ceased play on day one
On a beautiful day with perfect batting conditions, the task was always going to be a hard one for the boys defending a total that was probably 30 runs short. History will show that assessment to be extremely correct. In saying that, a clear shift in attitude occoured Saturday. There was a feeling that after last years dominant performace that the side was 'coasting' a little bit, expecting things to happen. However the fire, passion and commitment were back as the boys work harder than they have all year in an effort to win this game. Individual performances aside - and there were some great ones - the club and side can be proud oh how hard the boys tried for eachother
A good kick up the bum for the batting line up, a sad result for a club superstar, but an awakening that this side is still capable of great things when applying itself and realising the challenge that the 2nds are playing a much higher level of cricket. WILL bounce back against Essendon Grammar this week...
3rd XI, North C1
3rds had a bye
4th XI, North C3
The 4th II grabbed at the opportunity to play on the weekend after weeks of bad weather and no opposition. For some it would be there only their 2nd game of the season after months and months of training.
The dogs batted first and amassed a very pleasing 4/175 with the top 6 getting amongst the runs. We were led well from a 51 run first wicket stand between sinners (14) and T.Chrystie (27). Nick Serrano (28) and Brad Cooper (61*) put on 70 runs before Ramsey (24) came in with a demolition style innings to ensure the snow dogs had plenty to defend.
The bowlers backed up the batsmen led by A.Turner (3/11 off 7) in one of his best spells in his short senior career backed up by G.Cook (2/14). Phill Conlon arrived late with 3/7 off 4 as the snowdogs bowled out Doutta for 71.
The dogs had the chance to bat again with Cookie taking the opportunity to get out in he middle and hit 30.
Round 4
1st XI, Senior Divison
The snowdogs were back on home soil for the second time this season and were eagerly awaiting the next challenge from Youldon Parkville. After losing the toss we were sent into field and we got off to a great start with Gerard McMahon (2/20) taking two early wickets to have Youldon-Parkville on the back foot. The bowlers toiled away on a bowler friendly wicket that was always going to take spin late in the day. Luke Davis (1/24) and Tristan Kassis (1/21) both took a wicket each to continue the good session with YP failing to get going. On the stroke of tea Andy Wilgose was brought into the attack with immediate success. He took two quick wickets to leave YP reeling at 6/87 at tea. A small partnership after tea by YP brought them back into the game but it was Wilgose who did all the damage. He took snowdog best figures of 5/16 off 11 overs. It was a great spell and honours were with the snowdogs bowling YP all out for 152.
With 9 overs remaining in the day the run chase began poorly with Jurcic, nightwatchman McMahon & Bekker dismissed before the end of days play. This left the home side at 3/23 and with a lot of work to do on Day 2. The wicket on Day 2 was similar so quick runs were in order with Duncan Snell (21) and Mick Thom (9) getting us off to a great start before Thom was bowled. This brought McIntyre to the crease and he continued his good form.
As the wicket deteriorated and the ball lost its hardness it was hard to make quick runs. Snell played all over one just as he and McIntyre were about to get going. This brought Osborne to the crease and he and McIntyre were going along well before McIntyre (25) edged one to slip but it was still advantage snowdogs. Osborne was going well before he was judged LBW for 31 which was part of a disappointing batting effort losing 5/12 to lose 1st innings points.
With plenty of time still left and a crumbling wicket the dogs were full of positives to give it a good crack in the 2nd innings. We got early wickets with McMahon (2/12) getting us off to a great start. Then it was the spinners turn with Wilgose continuing on from his 1st innings taking 3/31 and Osborne 4/19 taking advantage of the spin friendly wicket. In a remarkable effort the snowdogs dismissed YP for 66. In a great all round effort in the field it was highlighted by Evert Bekkers close in work taking two fantastic catches to inspire the boys. With an outside chance of a win we required 92 runs of 9 overs. The chase got off to a great start with Bekker and Snell both scoring freely before Snell was run out. Kassis joined Bekker and were going along well before the heavens opened up and left the snowdogs at 1/42 after 6.3 overs. It would have come down to the wire but in the end it was just out of our reach. A disappointing loss for the 1st XI but we must be ready for our biggest test this season against Yarraville Club at home.
2nd XI, Senior 2nds
2nds Match Report - Round 4 v Youlden Parkville
The Snowdogs 2nd XI got their season back on track with a huge outright win against Youlden Parkville that has seen us rocket to 2nd on the ladder. We dominated the game in all areas and deservedly wrapped up the maximum points by 5.15pm on Day 2.
With Jason Bourke being only the 5th Snowdogs to play 200 senior games of cricket with the club in this match, all were keen to redeem the narrow losses of the past two games and record a much needed win.
The batsmen did their bit, racking up a massive score of 368 all out in 76 overs, on a good pitch and fast outfield on a hot day, one of the biggest scores ever made by any XI at St Bernard's. The 200 gamer Jason Bourke opened up with 44, and was well assisted in the top order by John Hellard with 45.
Greg Garth batted superbly for 83, smashing the YP bowlers all over the ground ith 16 boundaries and looked to have a ton at his mercy before surprisingly getting out. Jack Gay picked up where Garthy left off and showed why he was promoted to No.8 in the order with a hard hitting 77, also with 16 boundaries. This young man is really going places as a cricketer at our club. Anthony Jordan played the support role in partnerships with both these two and worked the ball around to score a compact 50.
The Day 1 domination continued with us having YP reeling at 3 / 11 off 4 overs.
Day 2 started as Day 1 ended, 2 wickets falling in the 1st over to have YP at 5 / 12. However wickets then became hard to come by as the bolwers toiled away against batsmen that put a higher price on their wickets. Eventually the breakthough came and the tail fell cheaply to see YP dismissed for only 97. Jack Gay finished with 3 / 20 and Captain Chris Davis took 4 / 17.
There was no hesitation in asking YP to bat again as we searched for the outright points and with 51 overs left we were confident. Michael Di Natale after an unlucky 1st innings excelled in the 2nd dig and took 3 early wickets to put YP right on the back foot. He finished with 3 / 27 and could have had more. Chisel Davis had his swing working well in the favourable bowling conditions and finished with deserved figures of 3 / 12 off 3 overs as we tore through the YP order once again. Garthy also chimed in with 2 / 29 as we took out YP for the second time, dismissing them for 140 but still with plenty of overs to spare.
A highlight was Jason Bourke being given a bowl in his milestone game and he took the final wicket to win the game with a high lob full toss that dipped sufficiently to land right on top of the final YP batsman's stumps - Hardly a classic way to take a wicket, but a humorous way to end the day!
Fielding was top notch all day with some sharp catches taken and it was an all round commanding performance. The 2s are back in town!
3rd XI, North C1
4th XI, North C3
ROUND 3
Senior 1st XI Report
Round 3 seen the snowdogs make the trek to McKinnon Reserve to take on yet another tough opponent in McKinnon. After losing the toss the snowdogs were sent in on what looked like a deck with something in it for the bowlers. As has been the case this season our opening pair of Jurcic (33) & Spinella put on a 91 run partnership for the first wicket. It was all set up again for another big score as Spinella was in great form. Unfortunately for him he was dismissed for 99 after playing a terrific innings where he belted the McKinnon attack all around the park. He was all set for a big hundred when he hit one straight to mid-wicket and was caught. The damage had already been done and it was a great stepping stone for the team. Snell (65) continued on with his great early season form producing another classy innings before he was caught and left the snow dogs in a fantastic position 4/226. A big score was on the cards but with some solid spin bowling and a slowing deck the snowdogs grinded away. In the search for quick runs we lost quick wickets but with a solid score on 9/255 after 80 overs it was a great days play.
Day two started with McKinnon getting off to a flyer and the snowdogs were clicked into action with Luke Davis (5/51) leading the way with a magnificent 21 over spell to be the dominant bowler on the day. His solo performance was the catalyst to another great effort by the snowdogs to win their third game in a row. He was ably supported by Osborne (3/46) & Snell (1/21) who bowled extremely well. With the game well in hand we had the opportunity to bat a further 24 overs with Evert Bekker (68) leading the way with the bat hitting 12 fours and a six in a great sign of things to come. We finished the day on 2/133 in the 2nd innings and a very good points scoring game. We are back at the Home of Cricket next week to take on Youldon-Parkville.
Senior 2nd XI Report
In an extremely disappointing day for the Snowdogs 2nd XI but a successful day for the club, the boys were not able to chase down the total set for them and deny the club but save our President from some winners-piss.
At the first crack for the boys at 80 over cricket for the season, the bowlers led the way with superb first and second effort spells to restrict the currently unbeaten McKinnon to all out for 179 off 78 overs. All bowlers toiled well with stand out efforts from John Gary Hellard taking 3/12 off 12, Anthony Dennis Venuto taking 1/18 off 12 and outstanding effort from Andrew Drowley taking 2/44 off 21 overs. It was an very pleasing effort in the heat and capped off by finishing the day at 0/8.
On a beautiful day at the home of cricket Saturday the Snowdogs got off to a terrible start losing Bourke and Hellard within the first 6 overs to leave the lads at 2/14. A couple of the teams up-and-coming players James Davey (30) and the hard-hitting Tim Raffle (51) showed the class they have promised to deliver by putting on what should have been a match winning partnership. Unfortunately the wheels feel off from there as for the 2nd week in a row the middle order collapsed under some tight bowling and perceived pressure to leave the job up to the tail. An enormously big effort was put in by Kevin OConnell (9), Jack Gay (16no) and Lenny Pascoe (1) tried gallantly to steer the boys home but the damage had been done and the side went down by four agonising runs.
A huge lesson needs to be learnt by the side. The boys need to realise we have stepped up a level and that the value on their wickets should be the highest it has been in a long time at this cricket club. The side remains strong in the belief that we are a finals cricket side, and a commitment was made after the game to ensure the lads start to show everyone else at the club we are the force we believe we are.
NORTH C1, 3rd XI Report
The 3rd XI broke their duck on Saturday convincingly winning their one day game away at Royal Park / Brunswick.
In a very polished bowling and fielding performance after losing the toss on a hot day, the Snowdogs managed to restrict Royal Park / Brunswick to only 95 off their 36 overs. Tom Isaacs was the pick of the bowlers, with a very tight line and some fiery pace to end up with 3 / 16 off 11 overs. He was assisted by Jake Dunell (2 / 17 off 10) who also bowled extremely well, giving up no easy runs and making it very difficult for the RPB batsmen to score. Brad Cooper also did the job chiming in with 1 wicket, as did Rex Bennett and Izy Perona.
Fielding was magnificent and some super catches were taken, especially one by Tom Isaacs, a huge sky ball from RPB's captain and best batsman that had to be taken and was very well held.
In reply the Snowdogs were in trouble early at 2 / 7, before Travis Carrick (26) and Jake Dunell (32) steadied the ship, batting sensibly in a productive 54 run partnership. However both batsmen were dismissed with some work to do, and losing a couple of more quick wickets meant we were looking shaky at 6 / 70.
But Brad Cooper (26) and Sinclair Johansen (21no) did the job that was required and put their heads down to ensure that we passed the target without further loss. Brad in particular savaged the RPB spinner who had taken 3 wickets and looked dangerous, but he bowled a few loose balls that Brad put away to ease the pressure. Sinclair provided strong support and was deservedly not out at the end.
Some good runs in junk time meant we ended up on 7 / 130 off our overs and it was a very pleased captain and coach Rex after the match, happy that we had our first win. Hopefully the 3rds can continue the trend as the team will strengthen next round.
NORTH C3, 4th XI Report
4th XI
The 4's were greeted with great weather and a very young team to take on 2nd place Royal Park Brunswick.
Having lost the toss, we were forced to field first. Some extrememely tight bowling meant that we could restrict Royal Park to a very gettable 7/130. i could not fault the bowlers and the endeavour of the feilders in the hot weather. The Hefters took 5 between them (Duncan 3 (and in his first seniors game) Sean with 2). Glenn Cook was his usual self picking up 2.
Lots of confidence behind us with the bat, we set out to chase down the runs needed. Very pleasing to see lots of partnerships throughout the innings and lots of the boys getting amongst the runs (Davey 36, Allison 35, Conlon 25, Turner 24, S.Hefter 20, Christie 20). We passed Royal Park in the 23rd over and went on to make 9/180.
A very good win and the 4's are now 2 from 2 and sit 2nd, 1 point off 1st.
ROUND 2
Senior 1st XI Report
1st XI v Royal Park Brunswick
After our great start to the season it was always going to be a testing game
against Royal Park Brunswick at Ransford Oval. On yet another magic Spring
afternoon the first surprise of the day was at the toss when Royal park elected
to field on a low flat wicket batting deck. Once again our openers got us off
to a great start with Spinella (32) in fine form once again along with Jurcic
(19) who put on 45 for the opening stand. Duncan Snell (58) played a superb
knock and along with McIntyre (30) put on 77 for the third wicket.
Once again the middle order did
their job with Bekker (24) and Kassis (23) ensuring we would post a great
total. After loosing some quick wickets in search for more runs late in the
innings, the snowdogs finished on 7/203 on a great wicket. The run chase was
always going to be tough but we still needed to get early wickets to stamp out
any chance RPB had.
McMahon (1/24) and Bekker (0/17) did
just that stifling the top order with some great bowling. Snell (2/20) capped
off a great game with the important wicket of Adam Contessa who had been in
good form. He was caught in slip by Gary McIntyre who produced a pearler to
have RPB on the back foot. It was never in doubt from their on with Osborne
(5/27) cleaning up the tail to cap off another great snowdogs victory. It was a
great team effort by all the lads and we now sit on top of the Senior Division
ladder but still a long way to go. We look forward to the next challenge taking
on McKinnon at McKinnon in hopefully a two-day match.
Senior 2nd XI Report
2nd
XI vs Royal Park Brunswick
The seconds received a bit of a reality check on Saturday, crashing back down
to earth after their round one victory. Last year's Senior Central
Seconds premiers Royal Park Brunswick came down to the second oval at the
Snake-Pit in what was going to be a test for both sides to see where the form
was at early in the season.
Bernards won the toss and elected to bat on a dry and under-prepared pitch,
which was disappointing for the boys first game at home in this new
division. On a pitch that gave plenty of assistance to the RPB bowlers,
James Davey (11), Jason Bourke (22) and John Hellard (33) worked extremely hard
for their runs and got the team to 78/2. Unfortunately a horrible session
after drinks saw the team lose 20/7. The innings was given respectibility
by a fantastic effort from Mick Dinatale (14no) and Jack Gay (21no), but the
total of 137/9cc wasn't great and the middle order really needs to step up in
the coming weeks
The bowling effort started of well, with Jack Gay (11/1 off 6) continuing to
improve and reap the benifits of his relentless hard work at training.
Mick Dinatale bowled well in his first spell and finished with 55/3 off 14,
most of those runs coming in junk time. Chris Davis and Kevin O'Connell
bowled well with out luck, but again the session after drinks proved to be the
sides downfall. RBP we well behind but dropped catches, easy singles and
far too many 4-balls aloud RPB not only back into the game but gave them the
chance to take it away from the Snowdogs and they ran out comfortable winners,
being bowled out in the last over for 168.
John Hellard came on late in the game and showed some solid all-round qualities
with 25/4 off 7, and i'm sure the president will see me removed from the club
if i didn't mention his 2/5 off the last over of the day!!!
Not the result the Bernard's boys were looking for, but a good eye-opener about
a couple of things in regards to fielding efforts, batting responsibly and
playing all 80 overs in a day. The guys have an awesome opportunity to bounce
back next week as they host McKinnon for the first game on the re-opened Home
of Cricket
NORTH C1, 3rd XI Report
After losing to Gramma last round the dogs were hungry to perform well in the semi final rematch with Altona North. With both teams sporting some new faces pleasantries were exchanged and the Fossil won the toss and elected to bat.
Sinclair and Trav (17) got the team off to a solid start before attempting a quick single which saw us lose out first wicket. It appeared that the dogs had indeed taken on what was taught the Thursday prior, but may have been a little too eager in stealing some runs from the opposition.
At 4 down the Fossil (28) combined with Connor (10) to steady the ship somewhat, but the team failed to put many more on the board and with 3 more runouts were dismissed for a somewhat disappointing 82.
Not to be disheartened the dogs regrouped in the portable change rooms, and after sharing a communal Gatorade, came out with gusto.
The lines were tight, the lengths full and Altona found themselves struggling for runs. Solid performances from all involved meant that the dogs were a chance with 10 overs to go.
Dennis just about pulled off catch of the year, sticking the mit out at short fine leg, alas it simply reflected the days outcome. Unfortunately a couple of balls were sent over the boundary and the scoreboard ticked past 83. The boys continued to work hard, Fossil and Jake chimed in with 2 a piece and big Isi even found himself on a hatrick, managing to keep Altona to 8/100 at stumps.
It was another disappointing result for the boys, but with plenty of improving to do in the batting department one would be a fool to label outlook dire.
NORTH C3, 4th XI Report
Our
frustrating start to the season with 3 weekends of washouts ended with a well
prepared team keen for some match play agianst Aberfeldie Park.
At
the home of cricket on a very substandard pitch that would've been quite
dangerous with really quick bowlers we won the toss and batted first. Our aim
was to bat the 36 overs come what may with the score and we succeeded with what
could only be described as excellent partnership batting with every batsman
contributing to reach 4/179 at the end of our overs. 150 would've been more
than par on this wicket as Aberfeldie subsequntly showed. Pat O'Connell and
Brendan Davey gave us a start. With each player putting a price on their wicket
we were catapulted into a big score due to vintage Mark Castle smashing a
tremendous 85. The openers and John Jordan all got 20 odd or better and it was
a very pleasing effort to only lose 4 wickets with Tom Christie and Michael
Ramsay being unbeaten at the close.
Anyone
who did not bat was given a bowl and all did as planned and bowled stump to
stump on a dodgy track. Alex Turner and Nick Hughes were the pick of the
bowlers but were well supported by Greg Cook, Ramsay, Tom Gleeson, Phil Conlan
and Pat O'Connell who snared his first wicket in Seniors. Tight bowling saw
Abefeldie give up the chase and just close down to save wickets and ended up 5
wickets down but way short of the total and never really challenged with the
bat.
ROUND 1
Senior 1st XI Report
St. Bernard's 5/186 Def. South Caulfield 156
On a magic Spring afternoon the Snowdogs were eagerly anticipating their first game in Senior Division for over a decade and there is no better way to do this then against quality opposition in South Caulfield. After winning the toss once there was no hesitation in batting and openers Jurcic & Spinella took advantage of the great one-day wicket to post a solid 49 run partnership for the first wicket. It was just the start we were looking for and it settled the nerves on the sidelines. Jurcic (19) was the first to go but he did the job early and this brought the returning Duncan Snell (8) to the crease. As usual he looked very solid until he was caught at point but the snowdogs were still in control. This brought our new International Evert Bekker to the crease and along with Spinella put on 75 for the third wicket. It was a great partnership and put us in a strong position. Bekker (41) was dismissed and soon after Spinella was dismissed for a fine 64 in his first innings of the year. The final overs seen Kassis (19), Wilgose (7 not out) & Osborne (10 not out) complete the 40 overs to leave us at 5/186.
In previous season our bowling has been our strength and our field exceptional and it has continued along this year. A key to our win was taking early wickets and we did exactly that with McMahon (2/25) returning from injury to lead the way with the new ball. He was supported beautifully by Bekker who kept the scoring rate to a slow crawl. This made the job easier as it would force South Caulfield to take risks in the final overs. With the strength of our change bowlers we were always in control of the game. Duncan Snell (2/40) was fantastic and with Craig Osborne (5/27) doing his bit at the other end, we cruised to a 30 run victory in our first game. Well done to all 1st XI members who performed extremely well on the weekend. We look forward to our next challenge against Royal Park-Brusnwick away in our first two day game
Seniors 2 nd XI Report
St. Bernards 7/162 and 0/61
South Caulfield 65
On a beautiful day to get the season the St. Bernards second XI side made its longest track in many season of cricket out to South Caulfield - sadly for some not to see the races - to try and continue on the winning form of last years amazing season.
Off to a great start the toss was won and the Snowdogs elected to take the best of a pitch that looked fine for an October pitch, but would break up later and have a hit. Unfortunately for the side and more importantly 2nds XI vice captain Nick Serrano, the warm-up was marred by an extremely poor and patchy outfield. Simply chasing after a ball, Nick rolled his ankle quite badly to the point where he was not able to bat, and will most likely miss a few weeks of cricket. Nick has had a great pre-season and was looking to stake his claim once again as a ones player and will be missed by the 2nds. We all wish him a speedy recovery. It should be noted Nick was good enough to battle through the pain and field for the 23 overs the Snowdogs were out there. and even managed to hobble to one ball much to the amusement of the side!
BATTING HIGHLIGHTS: 7/162 and 0/61
Bourke - 32 in typical fashion and got the side off to a great start
Davey - 28 and 27no, and really worked hard for his 1st innings runs, which was a great sign of maturity
Hellard - 0 and 29no. Got a 50/50 one in the 1sy innings but great to see his class in the 2nd dig
Raffle - 25, in a new role batting four for the seconds showed the power we all know he has but the patience he needs to build an innings
Garvey - the perennial opener also in a new role made 29no, and carried the middle and late order. Garvey may have a new home at number 5
Thom - 22, hit a couple of nice shots in his return but with a lack of fitness and a 'fruitful' summer in and under his belt, threw his wicket away
Great to see the top order all getting a start, and also being able to carry the loss of Serrano, but all are well aware that 20s need to be 50s and 70s
BOWLING AND FIELDING HIGHLIGHTS: 65
Gay - 1/19 (4), got the innings off to the start that was wanted but struggled to find a length on a pitch that suited slower bowlers. Has great pace and will be a huge weapon
Dinatale - 2/14 (10), the 'gold-chained warrior' was at his best with his mixture of off-cutters, slower balls and straighter balls. Suited the conditions perfectly and continues to prove his class at this level
Davis - 7/17 (7.2), showed his class and why he is a 1st XI premiership player. Figures speak for themselves, was just way too good. Great to have a player of his class in the side
Jilla - 0/3 (1). Liam joined us from North Melbourne after a solid pre-season in a deal that will see him play with us throughout the season. While starved of opportunity due to a good batting effort and amazing bowling effort, still managed to show his class with a couple of solid catches, one absolutely amazing. The only suggestion to Liam is when you do take a catch like that - get nude, get excited, do SOMETHING brother!!! Pleasure to have this premiership player back at the club when he can
Davey - kept wicket with no notice what-so-ever after a pre-season working soley on his batting. Did an excellent job to just walk into the position without any preperation
MATCH IN A NUTSHELL
A solid, clinical win, with work that need to be done, especially by the top 6/7 to go on with starts. Fielding needs some work but bowling was top-class. Good signs with work as we move into a challenge against last years Senior Central Seconds premiers Royal-Park Brunswick
NORTH C1, 3RD XI Report
5/125 V Essendon Grammar 6/131
The Third XI kicked off their season against local rivals Essendon Grammar at St.Bernards on Sunday. The warm-up was completed in beautiful sunshine, but that did not last long as it quickly turned cold eventually raining causing a loss of 7 overs. The Snowdogs won the toss and elected to bat first. Sinclair Johansson(0) was first to fall, in his new role as an opener he fell with the score on 10. This brought Mark Castles to the crease and along with Trav Carrick got the score to 56 before Mark was bowled for 27 which included 5 fours. The run rate then slowed and with 10 overs to go Trav was dismissed for 39 with the score on 73, Kevin O'Connell(0) fell quickly after as he attempted to get the run rate going, Rex Bennet was next in and got the score to 125 with a quick fire 25 hitting 3 fours and a 6. Jake Dunnel Also batted well for 21.
Rain set in during the tea break, which caused a 30minute delay in play meaning 7 overs were lost, and to win the match St.Bernards needed to bowl Grammar out in 29 overs. This didn't start well for Bernards with conditions not suiting opening bowler Tom Isaacs as he was hit for 26 off his 3 overs. Other opening bowler Jake Dunnel bowled well without luck, going for 6 off his 4 overs. Kevin O'Connell stemmed the flow of runs with a luckless 0-24 off 7 along with Izzy Perona who was everywhere and one of the few shining lights for the dogs taking 2-27 off 8, forcing a run out, and taking another great catch.
Grammar passed the total in last over, which flattered the dogs slighty as they were never really in the game with grammar being only 6 down.
A few things that can be learnt from this game for the next one day game they play is that scoreboard pressure is paramount. We must learn to keep the scoreboard ticking over, even if by only pushing singles, and to attack when the time comes and not to be afraid to take risks especially when there are wickets in hand. On the bowling side of things we must learn to attack the stumps and to pitch the ball up early and not let batsmen get comfortable.
