Premier Cricket Latest News

Call for Cricket Volunteers
Friday September 10, 2010

As many members would be aware, the MCC competes in the Premier Cricket competition and each year relies on volunteers fill important roles such as scorers and team managers.

For the coming season, which commences on October 2, volunteers are sought for the following teams:

• Scorer (Third and Fourth XI) - Required to attend all matches played on Saturdays and some Sundays, between 12pm and 6.00 pm. Our home ground is at Albert Park (opposite Junction Oval). An honorarium is available.

• Team Manager (Second, Third and Fourth XI) - Required to attend all matches played on Saturdays and some Sundays, (away games optional) between approximately 10.30am and 6.00pm. These positions involve liaison with and support to the captain and players. The Second XI play at the Albert Ground whilst the Third and Fourth XI’s play at Albert Park (opposite Junction Oval).

This is a fantastic opportunity to be involved with a team that produces the future stars of club, such as Brad Hodge and Andrew McDonald. Incumbents will be recognised through club communications and receive invitations to club and cricket events. Just as importantly, you can enjoy the fellowship that sport and belonging to a great sporting club brings.

To gain some first-hand insight into how rewarding these roles can be, and to find out more details about the available positions, please click here.

If you are interested or require further information, please email cricket secretary Steven McCooke or phone (03) 9657 8819.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Review - Delegates Presentation
July 2010

Click here to view

-----------------------------------------------------------

Cassell crowned Club Champion
Saturday May 15, 2010

Popular fast bowler Robert Cassell has capped an inspirational comeback from injury, winning the Club Champion Trophy at the MCC Cricket Presentation Dinner in the Members Dining Room.

The 27-year-old, who next week will leave for Adelaide to take up a two-year contract with South Australia, had an outstanding season with the ball, taking 47 wickets at 14.31. 

Along with retiring duo Phil Halbish and captain-coach Adam Dale, Cassell led a formidable pace trio that was instrumental in Melbourne’s first premiership in 12 years.

To round out a wonderful evening for Cassell, he was also joint winner (with Laurie Heath) of the Players’ MVP award and along with his fellow First XI teammates he received a club blazer in recognition of that outstanding triumph over St Kilda at University Oval last month.

Outstanding deeds in that First XI final were a theme of the night.  Robert Cooper, whose fighting century in the final earnt him the John Scholes Medal by Cricket Victoria, won the coveted Brian Watson Memorial Award for “an outstanding performance by an MCC cricketer”. 

Cooper’s ton must have just nudged out Dale’s 6/44 from 39 overs in that match for the Watson award, as both men were named joint Player of the Final by the club earlier in the evening.

Teenage allrounder Alex Keath was awarded the MCC XXIX Club Youth Cricketer of the Year, awarded to best young player who has produced outstanding performances and demonstrated substantial potential. First XI manager Peter O’Rourke was a very worthy winner of the Best Clubman award.

Third XI captain John Fitzgibbon and his team were also recognised for their wonderful premiership win, while special presentations were made to both Halbish and Dale in recognition of their achievements with the club.

A minute’s silence was held in honour of the late Clive Fairbairn OAM, who died on Wednesday. 

A club icon, Clive touched the lives of many at the MCC and it was fitting that such a club legend was able to see one last First XI premiership before departing.

-----------------------------------------------------------

MCC appoints Andrew Kent as captain-coach
Friday May 14, 2010

Andrew Kent has been appointed as MCC captain-coach, following Adam Dale’s decision not to continue in the role.

In addition, assistant coaches Nick Speak, Paul Jubber and David Clarke have been reappointed, with Paul to complement his junior development work in an upgraded role.

Full story

-----------------------------------------------------------

Adam Dale resigns as captain-coach
Monday April 12, 2010

The MCC advised all players and supporters that Adam Dale has tendered his resignation as coach and First XI captain. 

More details

-----------------------------------------------------------

First and Third elevens win Premiership!
Dale, Cooper star in classic final
Sunday March 28, 2010

The MCC has won its 19th Premier Cricket flag, and first since 1997/98, after defeating St Kilda by 55 runs in an absorbing First XI final at University Oval.

Captain-coach Adam Dale took 6/44 as the Saints were dismissed for 175 in pursuit of MCC's 230.  Robert Cooper won the John Scholes Medal for his superb innings of 114.

The Third XI made it a double celebration, defeating Geelong by 118 runs at Toorak Park, securing its first flag in four years.

Further details

-----------------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap - Semi Finals
Demon Season Draws on to Final; Thirds Join First XI in Last Weekend in March
Monday March 22, 2010

The First XI advanced to the final of the Kookaburra Premier Cricket competition after a hard fought draw against Carlton. We take on St Kilda as both clubs vie for their nineteenth Premier Cricket flag to take an outright lead in the all-time premiership list. The Third XI was also made to battle all the way before gaining a final berth courtesy of a win over Essendon.

Perhaps wary of Carlton’s known batting strength and fast scoring capabilities, even in a run chase, we asked them to bat first on what proved to be one of the best batting wickets seen at the Albert Ground for some time (yes, even better than usual). Things didn’t go our way, or to hand, early as the Blues were able to establish a solid base for a big score with an opening stand of 59 and went on to be 2/110 at lunch off only 28 overs. The score reached 162 before Sean Sturrock (3/68 off 24 overs) claimed three wickets in relatively quick succession, removing top-scorer Trent McCormick and the dangerous Evan Gulbis in one of his best and most important spells of the season. Rob Cassell (3/95 off 23) followed up with another two when the score was on 203 to have Carlton seven down at tea in a terrific fight back.

Unfortunately the hope of knocking the Blues over for a comfortable target disappeared as the lower order took advantage of those terrific batting conditions. Although one sensed a declaration late in the day was approaching, to our credit we claimed the ten wickets that left us 106 overs to either score the runs or keep our ten wickets intact (a draw allowing us to go through to the final due to our higher ranking). Unfortunately we lost a soldier in the first of six overs bowled before stumps (1 for 15) with Sean Sturrock holding firm as night watchman to complete a great day’s cricket from him.

The first session on Sunday couldn’t have gone much worse for us. Just as we appeared to have steadied in the lead up to lunch, opener Ben Way (45), who had endured and battled beautifully, departed after taking a while to find the chunk of wood that was removed from his bat in his LBW dismissal with the score on 5/88.

Simon Dart (pictured) (76 n.o. off 224 balls in 309 minutes) was joined by Peter Petricola (67 of 170 balls, 177 minutes). It wasn’t quite the magnitude of the Herschelle Gibbs/Steve Waugh ‘you’ve just dropped the World Cup’ moment but when Pepsi offered a chance in the first over after lunch it was almost a case of ‘game over’. It did not rattle the Demons as Darty and Pepsi partnered each other for nearly three hours in what was virtually a match saving partnership. Having said that, when Pepsi was dismissed just after the second new ball was taken, there were still 23 overs to negotiate.

Simon appeared steely minded and unlikely to be removed from the crease, such was his skill and application. Of course, he needed a partner up the other end. Ash Middlin and Phil Halbish helped eat away another hour of play but when Rob Cassell came in as second last man standing, with some comfort of still having the capable coach still to come, there was still almost 10 overs to get through. It is hard to imagine a more capable and calm approach (at least that is how it appeared from outside the fence) as Darty and Jerry safely negotiated over after over, ball after ball.

Carlton can be commended for throwing everything at us and although they would have been disappointed at not forcing the win after controlling most of the game, it was a credit to our players that willed us to a game saving draw and a place in the final.

The Third XI match, against Essendon at Windy Hill, followed a very similar pattern to their quarter final. The wicket was pretty good again, without a lot of life, although the outfield a little slower than Camberwell. The Bombers dug in against tight bowling and whilst slow going for the first session they only gave up one wicket. They got to 100 for the loss of one wicket before Aaron Boyle and Tristan Larter removed the stumbling blocks. Small partnerships were nipped in the bud before they became too dangerous but the scoreboard kept ticking over. Dan Worrall (4/48 off 18.4) skittled the tail just when the things might have been getting out of hand and with the aid of a couple of run outs the Bombers were dismissed for 225. The three overs before stumps were safely negotiated.

Laurie Heath (42) and Brendan Huf (79) looked like repeating last week’s opening efforts until Lozza fell with the total on 87. At 1/140 there was a feeling of comfort that quickly disappeared as we slumped to 6/185. Jarryd Williamson (55 n.o.) was still at the crease and took on the run scoring mantle. Aaron Boyle (9 n.o.) provided great support in a seventh wicket partnership of 41 that propelled the Third XI to the final.

The First XI final is a three-day match played to at least a  first innings result with no compulsory closure (with a reserve fourth day should a first innings result not have been achieved by then) that commences at 11.00 am on Friday at the Melbourne University Oval. Parking will not be easy (or cheap) on Friday for supporters that are attending and public transport (tram up Swanson St to Grattan St) is recommended.

The Third XI play Northcote at Toorak Park, Prahran under the same conditions as the other finals. We ended up being the higher ranked team with the top three teams being eliminated over the course of the quarter and semi finals.

Summary Scorecards:
Kookaburra Premier 1st XI – Carlton 323 (T McCormick 74, NJ Ross 56, EP Gulbis 52, A Dickinson 35, D Peter-Budge 30, S Sturrock 3/68, R Cassell 3/95 and P Halbish 2/64) drew with Melbourne 8/270 (S Dart 76*, P Petricola 67, B Way 45, N Austin 4/66, T Welsford 2/55 and A Dickinson 2/62) at Albert Ground.

Kookaburra Premier 3rd XI – Essendon 225 (S Rixon 52, J Andrews 36, T Reece 35 and D Worrall 4/48) defeated by Melbourne 6/226 (B Huf 79, J Williamson 55*, L Heath 42 and Z Hussain 2/45) at Windy Hill. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Triple H score ton treble to help Demon double into semi's
Monday March 15, 2010

Heath, Hill and Huf registered centuries in the Premier Cricket First and Third XI quarter-finals contested on the weekend to help propel their respective teams into the semi-finals. Scoring a ton in a final is a feather in any player’s cap but it would be fair to say they were not solely responsible for the team’s success on a weekend where it took a long time for the Demons to gain the upper hand at both venues.

Michael Hill (pictured) strode to the wicket with the First XI two for seven after Prahran won the toss and asked us to bat first. Where others found scoring difficult on the first morning, Hilly batted for 160 minutes in scoring 101 off 118 deliveries that included 14 fours and a decent size six that threatened a couple of touring tennis pros in the adjacent courts that happened to bring up his century.

Simon Dart (51 off 89 balls, 9 fours) scored a valuable half-century and assisted us to get to a relatively sound position of 6/223 at tea. Being 8/227 before the jam tarts were fully digested didn’t quite sit as well. Those that were concerned about setting a reasonable target may not have counted on the batting skill of our bowling attack leaders. Rob Cassell was joined by captain-coach Adam Dale (26 - runs, not his age) and the two ‘lefties’ put on an entertaining 65 for the ninth wicket. No.11 Sean Sturrock (13 n.o.) also put a high price on his wicket and the 36-run stand helped the total to a healthy 328 right on stumps. Jerry Cassell (61 off 100 balls, 10 fours) was last man out after scoring his maiden First XI half-century and easily topping his previous best First XI score (33) recorded earlier in the season.

Prahran, having been knocked over by us for 107 in the last round, produced a revamped batting line up. This seemed to have more of an effect on the fieldsmen than the bowlers as we grassed four chances from keeper to third slip in the first hour and a half. This tested the mettle of the bowlers who were now sending them down on a perfect batting wicket with clear skies above. Phil Halbish (3/58 off 18 overs) gained the initial breakthrough and quickly followed with another. Michael Hill chimed in for one to have the Two Blues back under pressure at 3/57 just before lunch. Opener Brendan McGuiness, who eventually batted through the innings for a defiant 110 n.o., was joined by skipper Neil Schlittler (64 off 80 balls) who is known for his rapid scoring. A threatening partnership of 102 was broken again by Bish.

Sean Sturrock 2/66 played his role in grabbing two handy wickets. The skipper (28 overs 14 maidens 1 wicket 33 runs) held up the other end in his usual miserly style before Cassell returned to the bowling crease out ‘did away with the middle men’ – fieldsmen- and bowled the last three Prahran batsmen to remove some of the early grief and wrap up a 90-run win.

The Third XI played Ringwood at the neutral Camberwell Sports Ground. The ground looked a picture and they could well have transplanted a section of Camberwell Road in the middle of the ground for the wicket. The Rams decided to bat first and must have also taken the decision to make the most of the extra 20 overs that the Thirds play in the finals each day. They seemed intent on laying a foundation for a big score by seeing off any life that may have been in the wicket and laboured to 1/53 from 29 overs at lunch under tight bowling from the Demons. Things didn’t speed up too much in the middle session. Aaron Boyle took his second wicket and Ringwood were 3 for 90-odd at the half way mark of the day’s play. They did move the run rate along a little better in the second half but all bowlers stuck to their guns. Boyle (3/49 off 23 overs) led the figures and Dan Worrall and Sam Brewin took two apiece whilst a couple of run outs contributed to the Rams being dismissed for 239 with one over of play remaining that we safely negotiated.

The approach by the Demon opening pair, Laurie Heath and Brendan Huf, was like chalk and cheese in comparison to their opponents. Making the most a virtual "road" the "H’s" went blow-for-blow, four-for-four, for the 169 minutes (just over 40 overs) that they batted together. It seemed they were in a race to their centuries, with one skipping ahead then the other catching up. Brendan (109 off 155 balls inc 18 fours) got their first and next over, after a little scare Lozza ( 101 off 120 balls, 17 fours and one six)) managed to time his "dink" sweep with a leading edge that helped it sail over the square leg boundary to bring up his century. It was a pleasure to see them notch up their two hundred run partnership and demonstrate how a positive approach in excellent conditions can reap its reward. We were untroubled in passing the 239-run target with eight wickets and 50 overs in hand.

Next weekend, the First XI host Carlton, who were the only team in the bottom half of the eight to win, at the Albert Ground. The Third XI, by virtue of the top two teams being defeated were elevated to second ranking going into the semi-final but have to play Essendon at Windy Hill with the First XI playing at home.

Summary scorecards - quarter finals:
Kookaburra Premier 1st XI – Melbourne 328 (MW Hill 101 R Cassell 61 S Dart 51 AC Dale 26) defeated Prahran 238 (R Cassell 3/45 P Halbish 3/58 S Sturrock 2/66) at Albert Ground. 
Kookaburra Premier 3rd XI – Ringwood 239 (AJ Boyle 3/49 D Worrall 2/31 S Brewin 2/54) defeated by Melbourne 2/240 (B Huf 109 L Heath 101 J Gillard 26*) at Camberwell Sports Ground. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Qualifying Finals this weekend
Published: Friday March 12, 2010

The MCC's First XI premiership drought of 11 years will be on the line again when the opening weekend of the Kookaburra Premier Cricket finals starting tomorrow.

The MCC took out the Kookaburra Minor Premiership and meet eighth-placed Prahran at the Albert Ground, with paceman Rob Cassell coming off season-best figures of 6-37 against the same opponents last week.

The club's Third XI will also play a qualifying final, this time against Ringwood at Camberwell Sports Ground.

Ringwood claimed the JA Seitz CV Club Championship for the second year in a row, taking the title ahead of Carlton, Geelong and MCC.

Ringwood and Geelong are the only two clubs with a side in all four grades, while 15 of the 18 Premier clubs still have teams competing in the finals.

For more information and match-by-match previews, check out http://premier.cricketvictoria.com.au.

Premier Cricket Qualifying Finals Schedule (all games start at 11am):

First XI

• Melbourne v Prahran at Albert Ground
• St Kilda v Frankston Peninsula at St Kilda
• Ringwood v Geelong at Ringwood
• Casey-South Melbourne v Carlton at Casey Fields #5

Second XI

• Carlton v Footscray Edgewater at Carlton
• Geelong v Dandenong at Geelong
• Ringwood v Northcote at Northcote
• Richmond v Fitzroy Doncaster at Richmond

Third XI

• Richmond v Geelong at Footscray Edgewater
• Northcote v Essendon at Essendon
• Fitzroy Doncaster v Melbourne Uni at Fitzroy Doncaster
• Melbourne v Ringwood at Camberwell

Fourth XI

• Frankston Peninsula v Essendon at Frankston
• Northcote v Melbourne Uni at Melbourne Uni
• St Kilda v Geelong at Hawthorn-Monash Uni
• Carlton v Ringwood at Prahran
  

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Melbourne storms to top
Monday March 8, 2010

The First XI picked up where they left off last Saturday and ran through the Prahran batting line up to dismiss them for 107 right on the scheduled lunch break. Rob Cassell swelled his haul to six and Sean Sturrock put a broom through the tail. The six points took us to the top of the ladder after the afternoon thunderstorms prevented any points being gained by previously top placed St Kilda who had the job ahead of them down at Frankston anyway. The Thirds hung on to a top-four spot after all Third XI matches of any consequence were washed out. The other two Demon matches went as expected with the Second XI wrapping up the win well before lunch and the Fourth XI unable to perform a miracle to avert the defeat they were headed for.

At Toorak Park, the wicket, not surprisingly, had a different look about it this week (you could pick it from the outfield without being guided by where the stumps and white lines were marked). However, that didn’t loosen the stranglehold that we had on the match. Captain-coach Adam Dale gained the first breakthrough and Rob Cassell followed up with two more wickets just as the Two Blues threatened to put together a face saving partnership. Sean Sturrock then came on and although he might have been a tad lucky not to have been scouring the churchyards on the other side of Orrong Rd to recover his first delivery, the wicket that came with that was followed by two more to wrap up the innings. Any hope of an outright was washed away although Prahran (0/55) had made a better start in their second effort.

In what started as a must win match for Prahran, they were one of the big winners from Melbourne’s fickle weather. The clash between ninth and tenth (Fitzroy-Doncaster and Dandenong) was washed away before a result attained and allowed Prahran to remain in the eight and play us again next week in the quarter-final at home.

The Firsts should be congratulated on gaining top spot, being unbeaten in the Premier competition from round ten onwards and in winning all four two-day matches since the Christmas break, including two wins over fellow finalists, have demonstrated they are capable of going all the way.

The Third XI found the going hard work down at Como Park once again. It was left to Prahran to declare at 9/258 and give us 67 overs to chase the target on a very slow outfield, even though the boundaries were shortish. It would be fair to say we were battling when the storms arrived and we were blessed that all other matches that could have relegated us into the bottom half of the eight were also washed out.  We play Ringwood at Camberwell Sportsground given both club First XI’s are hosting finals on their main ground.

The Seconds finished off the season with a win. Needing only a further 53 for victory with six wickets in hand, we secured the victory without further loss.  Darcy Daly (91) was dismissed in the 90’s for the second time this season but took his run tally past the 500 mark. Nick Bergin (44) was next best with the bat.

The Fourth XI simply didn’t have enough runs on the board and were easily defeated by the Two Blues who mercifully declared the season’s end at tea.

For the record, we ended up fourth in the Club Championship.

Next week’s quarter-finals are Saturday/Sunday affairs, all matches starting at 11.00am. Teams batting first have a compulsory closure at 110 overs with the lower ranked team having to win the match in order to progress (i.e. either pass the opposition score or take the 10 wickets for less than what they have scored).

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI – Melbourne 258 (P Halbish 68 S Dart 59 B Way 44 P Petricola 26) defeated Prahran 107 (R Cassell 6/37 S Sturrock 3/14) and 0/55 at Toorak Park. 
2nd XI – Prahran 160 (PJ Smith 4/58 AJ Boyle 3/25 N Bergin 2/17) defeated by Melbourne 9/262 (DP Daly 91 N Bergin 44 ED Bowen 29) at Albert Ground. 
3rd XI – Prahran 9/258 dec (D Worrall 3/55 T Larter 2/47 S Brewin 2/53) drew with Melbourne 3/57 at Como Park. 
4th XI – Melbourne 161 (D Minato 53 DJ Reid 32) defeated by Prahran 4/233 (dec) at IW Johnson Oval. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons fight for top four finish
Monday March 1, 2010

The 1st XI were sent in on a grassy Toorak Park wicket and in a hard fought day, not surprisingly resembling a final given what is at stake, find themselves in a good position where six first innings points will guarantee a top-three finish and the possibility of finishing on top of the ladder. Such is the way other 1st XI matches are panning out at the half way mark, failure to seize the win is likely to send us to the bottom half of the final eight.

The Third XI, looking good early in the day in their quest for a top-four finish, will have to play very good cricket next week to secure fourth spot. The Second XI finished their day well on top and poised for a season ending win where the 4th XI need something of a dramatic turnaround to end on a winning note.

The 1st XI found themself in a real battle with seventh placed Prahran. Rob Cooper was dismissed early and for the first half of the day, every time we looked to be making a recovery to wrest the advantage we would lose another wicket. Andrew Kent and Ben Way (44) put on 48 for the second wicket. Alex Keath, batting at four, shared a 35-run partnership with Way and at 2 for 84 as lunch approached, the Demons looked to have weathered the Two Blues seam attack. Unfortunately the loss of the ‘twin towers’ either side of lunch had us on the back foot again at 4/87. Simon Dart (59) (pictured) assumed control, combined with Peter Petricola (26) in a 65-run partnership before consecutive wickets had us battling at 6/152. Phil Halbish (68) stepped up and after Dart was dismissed just after we passed 200 and dominated the rest of the innings striking 8 fours and 2 sixes to see us tally a handy 258 in the circumstances.

The bowlers were licking their chops at the thought of having 15 overs at Prahran and it didn’t take long to start chewing their way into the top order with Rob Cassell nipping one out in the first over. Rob didn’t stop there and ended up with 4/14 from his eight overs and it wasn’t through the lack of trying that another wicket or two didn’t fall at the other end. Prahran finished at 4/21 at stumps and it would be hard to imagine us loosening our tight grip on the match but what is it they say about cricket…???

The Thirds made reasonable progress in the first half of the day, taking the first five wickets for under 100. They were, however, frustrated by stout resistance as the Two Blues no.3 dug in (72 n.o. in a similar number of overs) and several lower order partnerships that allowed the home side to finish the day on 8/238. Dan Worrall took a wicket in each spell to finish with 3/44 off 18 overs to be the best of the bowlers. It will take good cricket next week to capture the last two wickets and set after the final target but that is what teams that want to finish high on the ladder need to do.

The Second XI had a good day with the ball, dismissing Prahran for 160. Pat Smith (4/58 off 14 overs) and Aaron Boyle (3 for 25 off 17 overs) were the standouts. We finished on a slightly shaky 4/108 although Darcy Daly was extremely solid in bringing up an unbeaten half century to hold things together.

The Fourths found themselves on the wrong end of a fairly free scoring day. Dion Minato (53) and David Reid (32) appeared to have steered us out of early trouble when we reached 4/145. The innings came to an abrupt end at 161 and Prahran then took to us to the tune of 1/123 by stumps.

Play resumes next Saturday and I encourage all supporters to get down to Toorak Park early to support the 1st XI towards a successful finals campaign and if you are passing by Como Park, stop in as I’m sure you’ll see some exciting action.

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI – Melbourne 258 (P Halbish 68 S Dart 59 B Way 44 P Petricola 26) v Prahran 4/21 (R Cassell 4/14) at Toorak Park. 
2nd XI – Prahran 160 (PJ Smith 4/58 AJ Boyle 3/25 N Bergin 2/17) v Melbourne 4/108 (DP Daly 50*) at Albert Ground. 
3rd XI – Prahran 8/238 (D Worrall 3/44 T Larter 2/47 S Brewin 2/53) v Melbourne at Como Park. 
4th XI – Melbourne 161 (D Minato 53 DJ Reid 32) v Prahran 1/123 at IW Johnson Oval. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons ride out the ups and downs to cement finals spot
Monday February 22, 2010

The 1st XI overcame early setbacks in the pursuit of Melbourne University’s 127-run target to retain the Michael Sholly Cup (see picture) and cement a place in the finals. We moved up a rung and sit second on the ladder. However, as we’ve seen all year, it is a very tight final eight that could see us finish anywhere between first and seventh depending on how we fare against fellow finals contender Prahran in the final home and away match of the season played over the next two weekends.

Our other finals contender, the 3rd XI, was unable to force a result after losing a full day’s play last Saturday. The 2nd XI put in a dominant display against the Students whilst the 4th XI controlled their game but ultimately ran out of time and had to settle for a draw.

The 1st XI, resuming at 0/1, were in deep trouble early with the score at 3/13 after Way, Kent and Brown’s departure left the scorecard looking like a three-ringed circus. Rob Cooper and Simon Dart worked hard to swing the momentum back into the Demons favour however when Cooper (20) departed with the score on 4/40, the game was on a tightrope. Peter Petricola joined Dart and put on their serious game faces and a 54-run fifth wicket partnership. The match was far from over when Darty (50 from 78 balls) departed with a magical half-century. Ash Middlin (24 n.o. off 125 balls) played the strongman role, refusing to be budged from the crease, whilst Pepsi (54 no, 64 balls inc 7 fours) became the ringmaster and kept the scoreboard ticking over; their unbroken 61-run partnership ensuring there was no final twist to the day’s events.

The win sees the Demons go to second place with one round remaining where we take on seventh placed Prahran. Top placed St Kilda play sixth placed Frankston Peninsula which means a Demon win could give us the opportunity to finish on top up the ladder and pick up some handy prize money that is on offer for the first time to the team that finishes on top of the ladder. Conversely, a loss could see us drop to seventh and forgo the right to host a home final and all the advantages that go with it (ones we would too painfully recall from last season!).

The 3rd XI, having lost a full day’s play last week, were very keen in setting up a result game against a fellow finals contender to tie up a top four place. Those plans went awry early when we slumped to 6/41. It was time to ‘dig in’ and not simply hand a fellow finalist six points and a higher place on the ladder. The lower order did that with Tristan Larter (28) top scoring. Set 121 from 19 overs, Dan Worrall (3/13) had Uni on the back foot at 5/29 who had no alternative but to put up the shutters.

The 2nd XI, chasing 222 and out of finals contention were allowed to ‘express themselves’.  It may not have been verbalised, but you could have been forgiven for thinking the reaction was ‘let’s enjoy an extra long tea break today’. Resuming at 0/9, they stormed to victory ‘faster than an Oakleigh Plater’ and when the sandwiches and jam tarts were ready for serving, the score reading 6/266 after 62 overs and early stumps called. Jon Huddart (69 off 117 balls, 10 fours and a six), Darcy Daly (78 off 123, 10 fours) dominated early but was made to look like slow pokes by that man riding a crest of a run-scoring wave, Laurie Heath. Loz (51 off 42 balls) looked intent on not only skipping the last session, but also skipping the need for a shower hitting 11 fours in his first 45.

I shouldn’t say it but yes, the "two’s" have a mathematical chance of finals – just an outright win and the four teams immediately above them all losing will do it!

You could have been excused for thinking that the 4th XI match had more on the line that a bit of pride for the Demons, such was the ‘mental disintegration’ techniques applied during this match. Resuming at 6/156, having fought hard on day one after being asked to bat first on a ‘green-top’, the Demons continued their innings, as they were entitled to, well into the second day. David Reid (62) enjoyed his return to the team after being absent on ‘family duties’. We were finally dismissed for 235 and perhaps Uni’s fight for a finals spot added to a level of frustration they appeared to be suffering from. Having around 50 overs to bat, their demeanour wasn’t helped by the early inroads we made into their batting, and at 6/55, only one team could win. Mark Akrigg (having slipped off the surgeon’s table as a last minute call-up and deferring a much needed post season op), inspired with his 4/24 and Matt Lanigan’s offies returned 3/49. Unfortunately we couldn’t run through the last couple and settled for a draw.

The MCC Club XI rounded off their season with a win over Old Scotch No.2 at Fawkner Park. Kain Bowden top scored with 66 and Vic Hodge’s hard work paid off with 38, helping MCC to 8/165 in the allotted 40 overs. We also fired with the ball, dismissing the ‘Go Scotchies’ for 110 in the 24th over, Vic Hodge completing a fine double with here wickets.

All eyes turn to Toorak and Como Parks where the Demons are hosted by the Two-blues for the 1st and 3rd XI’s respectively on Saturday Feb 27 and March 6 so please lend all the support you can given as the whiff of finals is in the air.

Summary scorecards:
1st XI - Melbourne Uni 126 (P Halbish 5/31, AC Dale 5/32) defeated by Melbourne 5/155 (P Petricola 54*, S Dart 50) at University Main Oval. 
2nd XI - Melbourne Uni 222 (J Graham 6/45) defeated by Melbourne 6/266 (DP Daly 78, J Huddart 69, L Heath 51) at Albert Ground. 
3rd XI - Melbourne 8/121 (dec) (T Larter 28) drew with Melbourne Uni 5/56 (D Worrall 3/13) at Crawford Oval. 
4th XI – Melbourne 235 (DJ Reid 62, D Bratby 49, D Minato 42) drew with Melbourne Uni 8/152 (MP Akrigg 4/24, MJ Lanigan 3/49) at IW Johnson Oval.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Bowlers open way for top two finish
Monday February 15, 2010

Saturday’s action was highlighted by several outstanding individual bowling performances, with Adam Dale and Phil Halbish equally sharing the ten wickets in the Firsts and Justin Graham going one better in the Second XI, giving their teams the upper hand after the first day’s play. The Third XI was a victim of Thursday’s deluge whilst the Fourth XI spent an enterprising 55 overs at the crease.

Missing strike-bowler Rob Cassell (resting his left-shoulder that was jarred fielding last week but will be ready for Rd 15), senior bowlers Adam Dale and Phil Halbish (pictured) imposed themselves on the Melbourne University batting line-up. Play started at 1.00 pm and, it would be fair to say, Adam and Phil were in a less than charitable frame of mind and, when you analyse their figures, I daresay it wouldn’t have been good a day to ask them for a loan of 20c. Whatever way you look at it, their bowling figures were outstanding - Adam Dale 29.5 overs, 16 maidens, 5 for 32 and Phil Halbish 24 overs 10 maidens 5 for 31 – an amazing 63.5 overs, 26 maidens, 10 for 63 between them!

The game is set up for the batsmen to knock off the runs consolidate our place in the top four with one round remaining. Retention of the Michael Sholly Cup will also be a bi-product of a win.
 
Justin Graham, stand-in captain for the injured Eivion Bowen, led his team with the ball and although he did not better his career best of 7/57 taken in Rd 17 in 2001/02, took his tenth five-wicket haul for the Demons in capturing 6/45 off 25.1 overs (plus a catch and a run out as his sister noted!). The openers safely negotiated the five overs they faced before stumps, finishing 0/9 in pursuit of Uni’s 222.

The Fourth XI had play reduced to 55 overs and were asked to bat of a green, seaming wicket with a lush outfield to boot. David Bratby (49) and Dion Minato (42) jumped on anything loose 9or full or short) and oft took the aerial route in their 80-run partnership. A refreshed David Reid (33 n.o.), held the rest of the order together to help set up what should be a competitive total.

The Crawford Oval wicket table was still under water come Saturday morning from Thursday’s rain. Both sides will be keen to chase the points next Saturday, to be played under ‘ordinary’ conditions, as we would like to retain our top four position and Uni are striving to get one.
             
Summary scorecards:

1st XI - Melbourne Uni 126 (P Halbish 5/31 AC Dale 5/32) v Melbourne 0/1 at University Main Oval.
2nd XI - Melbourne Uni 222 (J Graham 6/45) v Melbourne 0/9 at Albert Ground. 
3rd XI - Melbourne Uni v Melbourne at Crawford Oval – no play due to state of the wicket.
4th XI - Melbourne 6/152 (D Bratby 49 D Minato 42 DJ Reid 33*) v Melbourne Uni at IW Johnson Oval.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons in a thriller and rise to third
Tuesday February 9, 2010

Hopefully most of you caught up with the First XI’s thrilling win against the Ringwood Rams on Saturday. For those that haven’t there is an excellent report on Cricket Victoria’s website to please click here for the story. There are some excellent pics that also tell the story of the day.

Unfortunately there wasn’t much to celebrate in the other three XI’s. The Second XI were frustrated in their quest for a much needed win. Having Ringwood 7/117, Mr S Nichols (down from the First XI on week one) came to the crease after the Pennant Committee acceded to the State selectors wish that kindly allowed Steven Gilmour to have a much needed hit in the First XI (bad luck Happy!) and made 36. Still, at 9/197 it seemed a matter of time to chalk up the 6 points however that is exactly what we run out of after a defiant 102-run tenth wicket partnership. It soured a promising day and probably ruined any realistic chance of making the final eight.

The Third XI, with first innings points in the bag declared overnight. We bowled the Rams over for 136 again but only had 9 overs left to bat and whilst we had a good ‘crack’ at the outright we were 49 short. The positive is we climbed a spot to Third and well poised for the finals.

The Fourths also went down, fighting hard to get themselves back in the game but were beaten by 4 wickets.(Johnsy from the Thirds chipped in for a handy 61!)

There are two home and away rounds and whilst there is only 12 points separating first and tenth, we now control our own destiny in trying to gain a top four spot and hosting a home final. See ladders.

This weekend’s matches are against Melbourne University, the First XI playing at the University Oval and playing for the Michael Sholly Cup.

Summary scorecards:
1st XI - Melbourne 164 (P Petricola 45, DP Daly 26, M Gale 3/25, I Holland, 2/8, S Nicholls 2/31, B Way 55*, R Cooper 43) defeated Ringwood 158 (MR King 41, DA King 40, R Cassell 5/34, AC Dale 2/40) at the Albert Ground.
2nd XI - Ringwood 9/299 (MJ McDonald 104*, D Rawson 43*, N Walsh 40, N Quinn 4/51) drew Melbourne 8/351 (dec) (T Jackson 85, J Huddart 71, M Begbie 65, J Graham 62, D Coghlan 2/42) at Russell Lucas Oval.
3rd XI - Melbourne 4/96 (dec) (J Williamson 29, J Gillard 46*, M Newman 2/24) defeated Ringwood 93 (DJ Ruffle 31, D Worrall 5/11, T Larter 2/16, AJ Boyle 2/29 and 136, SC Mays 41*, S Brewin 3/26, A Swart 2/18, D Worrall 2/28) at IW Johnson Oval.
4th XI - Ringwood 7/234 (L Johns 61, E Jones 42, JR Gilbee 31, M McCudden 3/62, S Oakley 2/27) defeated Melbourne 211 (G Wild 94, D Bratby 29, C O'Brien 4/47, JD Want 2/33, JR Gilbee 2/44) at Jubilee Park.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons skip to fifth but out of one-day race.  
Wednesday January 27, 2010

The First XI secured their first two-day match points on Saturday but exited the one-day competition finals on Sunday. The Third XI maintained their crushing form of late however the Second and Fourth XI’s were both disappointed in going down to the Northcote Dragons.

The First XI victory was well set up on the first day, having dismissed Northcote for 154 and being 2/107 at stumps. Rob Cassell, Adam dale, Michael Hill and Sean Sturrock each took two wickets.  Rob Cooper, unbeaten on 58 overnight, went on with the job to score his second career First XI century within four rounds scoring 119 off 185 balls inc 10 fours and 3 sixes. We declared with a 106-run first innings lead but had to settle for six first innings points. The win took us from seventh to fifth on the ladder and only four points from top. In a reflection of how tight things are in the race for the final eight, Prahran leapt from eighth to second by virtue of a 10-point outright win.

The Thirds took the tenth Northcote wicket for their overnight tally of 199 then sat back and watched Laurie Heath continue his slashing form. Lozza cracked 135 (23 fours) in 40 overs and after getting to ‘Richie Benaud’ (2/222 – was that deliberate Smacka??) in 45 overs, the boys called it a day and sit in fourth place.

The Second XI had posted 288 on the first day largely on the back of Darcy Daly’s third Demon century. The second day outcome looked promising when he Dragons slipped to 4/76 however a 175-run fifth wicket partnership took it close enough to the target for the visitors to stagger over the line. The loss leaves us 12 points adrift of eighth place and we’ll need some exceptional performances over the last three rounds to press for finals.

The Fourths wrapped up the Northcote innings early on the second day but were never able to fully control the run chase on a good wicket accompanied by a slow and spongy outfield.

On Sunday, the First XI looked to continue their remarkable run in one-day matches and after dismissing St Kilda for 192, we looked a strong chance to advance to our second final in a row. Adam Dale (4/24) was brilliant again and knocked over early wickets whilst Rob Cassell (4/42), having accounted for the dangerous Rummans earlier, took three wickets in four balls to abruptly close the Saints innings. Chasing runs is never taken for granted but at 2/112 at the half way mark you’d be forgiven for thinking a Demon win was well on the way. The Saints worked their way back in the game and we were never able to regain the momentum as we wilted under tight St Kilda bowling.

In our quest for two-day glory, we host Ringwood at the Albert Ground over the next two Saturdays. Apart from it being the final First XI home game of the home-and-away season, the two teams will fight it for the Fairbairn Lloyd Trophy, a new trophy that has been struck in honour of the contributions that Clive Fairbairn and Bob Lloyd have made to the two clubs.

Summary Scorecards - Round 12 v Northcote:
1st XI – Northcote 154 (MW Hill 2/11 AC Dale 2/22 R Cassell 2/39 S Sturrock 2/51) and 4/155 defeated by Melbourne 8/260 (dec) (R Cooper 119 MW Hill 52 J Graham 37*) at Bill Lawry Oval.
2nd XI – Melbourne 288 (DP Daly 101 T Jackson 44 ED Bowen 42 N Bergin 35) defeated by Northcote 7/289 (AJ Boyle 4/41 D Scheetz 2/73) at Albert Ground.
3rd XI – Northcote 199 (S Brewin 3/50 AJ Boyle 2/17 J Fitzgibbon 2/21 T Larter 2/35) defeated by Melbourne 2/222 (L Heath 135 B Huf 42 J Gillard 31*) at Binnak Park.
4th XI – Northcote 197 (M McCudden 2/16 WN Ryan 2/41 M Hill 2/45) defeated Melbourne 150 (PI Jubber 37 G Wild 28) at IW Johnson Oval.

Summary Scorecard - Kookaburra Premier 1st XI one-day competition semi-final:
St Kilda 192 (AC Dale 4/24 R Cassell 4/42 P Halbish 2/25) defeated Melbourne 174 (MW Hill 46 B Way 39) at Albert Ground. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Home Team Prevails
Monday January 11, 2009

Given that the First XI played at the MCG I’m not sure if you can put it down to the home ground advantage however all four ‘home’ teams recorded convincing victories as the Demons met the Geelong Cats in a one-day round as Premier cricket recommenced from the Christmas break. The other common factor was that all victors batted first and set sizable targets that proved to be well beyond the chasing team’s capability on the day.

The club was able to host its first Premier Cricket match at the MCG since 2002, gaining special approval to do so and obviating the need to play the ‘country round’ as other Premier clubs ‘headed bush’. It was the only weekend that the PCG was available for club cricket the 2009/10 season.

The First XI match was played in first-class conditions, which is stating the bleeding obvious given it was on the MCG, but if I am allowed to say so in my unqualified position, the outfield has rarely been in better condition (it almost looks greener than green)  and the wicket had a real one-day international ‘look’ about it. Skipper Adam Dale (pictured) had no hesitation in batting first and although the Demons never dominated the Cats bowling for extended periods, compiling 252 was more than handy. Michael Hill (78 off 86, seven 4’s and two 6’s) came in at number three and was his usual positive self and controlled most of the first half of the innings before being disappointingly run out. Matthew Brown (62 off 57, four 4’s) was controlled through the middle and stepped up the scoring rate beautifully at the end, combining with Ash Middlin (36) to put on 81 for the sixth wicket.

The Demons were ‘toey’ going into the field, knowing the Cats have a renowned free-scoring batting line up, no one more so than former three-time Demon club champion Liam Buchanan. The much anticipated battle didn’t last long when Ben Way took a terrific catch off a ‘Leo’ flyer down to third man. Adam Dale knocked over opposition shipper Damian Shanahan in his first over and when he followed up by bowling star Cat, Clinton Peake, the game was near over as the Cats fell to 3/24. Tom Elliot (62) kept on the attack for the Cats but the loss of early wickets took its toll in the chase. The only slight ‘downer’ for the Demons was being unable to keep the Geelong tail at bay and the score to 200 or less to gain a bonus point.

We stay in seventh position, still only five points from top, in a very tight ladder fight where there is only 12 points separating the top eleven teams.

The Third XI enjoyed a day playing at ‘the Albert’. Laurie Heath (53 off 38 balls, 12 fours) sizzled at the start, Will Ryan (53) enjoyed his opening role, Nick Bergin top-scored with 66 (nine 4’s) and Tristan Larter chimed in with 41 to help the Demons post an imposing 272. Will Ryan (3/33) completed a good double and with five other bowlers claiming a wicket on top of two early run-outs, a bonus point was gained and the Thirds have climbed to fifth on the ladder.

The Second and Fourth XI’s travelled down to Geelong and. fielding first in both games, the Cats scored exactly the same totals as the Demon First and Third XI’s did respectively (I’ll leave it to the real stats gurus, or anyone who is remotely intrigued, to tell me if this has ever happened before). Unfortunately the resultant run chases went the same way, the Demons falling well short in both chases. Justin Graham was one of the better Second XI performers in taking 3/41 and making 32, Nick Quinn took 2/32 from his 10 whilst Darcy Daly (41) top scored. At the Fourths, Xavier Frawley (2/27 off 6) did best with the ball and Andrew Foulds (53) was the only Demon half-centurion down at ‘Catland’.

The First XI, by virtue of being unbeaten in the seven one-day matches, hosts a semi-final of the One-day Final Series on Sunday January 24, being the only Demon team to advance to the final four.

Two-day matches resume next Saturday where we take on the Northcote Dragons (First XI at the Bill Lawry Oval, Westgarth St, Northcote).

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI – Melbourne 6/252 (cc) (MW Hill 78 MJ Brown 62* A Middlin 36 S Dart 28) defeated Geelong 9/203 (S Dart 3/34 AC Dale 2/32 R Cassell 2/33 S Sturrock 2/43) at MCG.
2nd XI – Geelong 9/252 (cc) (P Petricola 3/62 J Graham 3/41 N Quinn 2/32) defeated Melbourne 170 (DP Daly 41 J Graham 32 J Huddart 27) at Geelong.
3rd XI – Melbourne 7/270 (cc) (N Bergin 66 L Heath 53 WN Ryan 53 T Larter 41 J Williamson 25*) defeated Geelong 190 (WN Ryan 3/33) at the Albert Ground. 
4th XI – Geelong 4/270 (cc) (XJ Frawley 2/27) defeated Melbourne 146 (A Foulds 53) at Kardinia Park No.2.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Christmas Cheer with Demon Day
Monday December 21, 2009

There is no better way for a club to go into the Christmas break than put ‘four out of four’ wins on the board in the last round before the New Year (and it doesn’t harm the atmosphere of a good old fashion Saturday night Christmas barbie!). The 2009 calendar year was completed with a round of one-day matches and the First XI continued their unbeaten run in this form of the game. The Second, Third and Fourth XI’s all had convincing wins, containing plenty of highlights, as our playing list returned to near full strength.

The First XI looked headed for a comfortable win after dismissing the Roos for 158 off the final ball of their 50-over allotment. Rob Cassell (2/13 off 8 overs) did the early damage whilst Michael Hill (3/33 off 10 claimed the figures. Adam Dame (1/15 off 10) and Rob Copper chimed in for a couple. Despite losing a couple of early wickets, Andrew Kent (43) and Rob Cooper (64) seemed to have things under control. At 3/122 we collapsed to 7/136 however Simon Dart (37*) manoeuvred the Demons over the line.

Dean Scheetz ripped through North’s Second XI top order, taking 4/24 in his opening 10 over spell. Replacing him at the northern end, Justin Graham took three wickets and the Roos were bowled out for 124. There was no nervous chase as Peter Petricola (37) combined with Matt Brown (65 n.o.) to sail past the target in the 21st over.

The Third XI’s handy total was set up by a bright opening stand of 105 by David Bratby (55) and Brendan Huf (45) and with a number of handy contributions, toted up 8/220. The Roos made their way to 2/62 before (and I can’t be so boring to call them spin twins’ so you come up with something original) ‘wristies’ Sam Brewin (5/30), who leads with his left, and Tristan Larter (3/42), who leads with his right, ensured the Demons added a bonus point to the win.

The Fourth XI, playing on one of the better Johnson Ovals wickets seen for a while, did let the Roos get away a little more than they would have liked and had a fair target of 203 to chase down in their allotted 45 overs. However, the more North scored would have only increased the pleasure that Laurie Heath (pictured) had at the crease. Opening up with Jarryd Williamson (42), Lozza piled on 145 n.o. that included 21 fours and three sixes and remarkably, if the Second XI sailed passed their target, Loz was steering a veritable space shuttle as victory was achieved in 29 overs.

The full ladders can be viewed here however as we go into the break, the First XI is eighth (unusually slipping place after a win as other teams secured a bonus point) but only five points from the top of the ladder in a very tight competition. The Firsts also head the one-day ladder and are assured of hosting a semi-final even though there is one round of this competition to go. The Seconds much needed victory puts it back within striking distance of the eight, the Thirds moved up to sixth place whilst the Fourth’s season would have been ‘gone’ without their win. None of the lower grades can make the one-day semi-finals.

Premier Cricket resumes on January 9, the final one-day match of the home and away season where we take on the Geelong Cats. The First XI play at the MCG, the Third XI at the Albert whilst the Second and Fourth XI’s head down Geelong Rd (quite ironic really, with the First XI playing their ‘Country Round’ at the G!)

If I don’t catch up with you, the scribe wishes you all a safe and happy festive season, and hope you’ll see fit to forgive my humour attempts and the odd barb (some more subtle than others!)

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI - North Melbourne 158 (MW Hill 3/33 R Cooper 2/10 R Cassell 2/13) defeated by Melbourne 7/159 (R Cooper 64 A Kent 43 S Dart 37*) at JJ Holland Park. 
2nd XI - North Melbourne 124 (D Scheetz 4-24 J Graham 3-21) defeated by Melbourne 2/125 (P Petricola 34 M Brown 65*) at Albert Ground. 
3rd XI – Melbourne 8/220 (cc) (Bratby 55 B Huf 45 N Bergin 34 J Gillard 25) defeated North Melbourne 154 (S Brewin 5/30 T Larter 3/42) at Arden Street. 
4th XI – North Melbourne 7/203 (cc) (MP Akrigg 3/35 M Hill 2/44) defeated by Melbourne 2/207 (L Heath 145* J Williamson 42) at IW Johnson Oval. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Youngsters Shine
Wednesday December 16, 2009

A number of the club’s youngsters made valuable contributions as the Second, Third and Fourth XI’s all had convincing wins. A couple of handy knocks from a 15-yo and a 16-yo helped the Third XI convert their strong first day position into outright points, albeit taking until the final ball of the day’s play to do so. Peter Petricola (2nd XI) and Max Tomkinson (4th XI) were the club’s centurions whilst Sam Brewin’s five wickets on debut in the Second XI took them within sight of an outright victory before the time clock beat them. The First XI had 344 on the board and although gaining a second wicket early on the second day, they were unable to remove two Swans at either end of the experience scale and were beaten by five wickets.

The excitement of the day took place at the Johnson Oval that started with the Third XI declaring on their overnight score of 1/171 with a lead of 56. At 3/9, then 5/18, it appeared the Swans would roll over meekly however that was not the case as the lower half stretched the innings to 77 overs. Will Ryan’s left-arm orthodox (a virtual veteran at 17) claimed 4/26 and a couple of ‘surprise’ wickets from century maker Brendan Huf left the Demons 91 to get in 10 overs. After two overs we were 1/1, then lost a second wicket to be 2/13 after three and needing 78 off seven. Seb Gotch (at the grand age of 16) ‘patted back’ his first five deliveries but among his next 10, hit six fours two sixes before holing out for 37 of 16 balls.

The loss of 4/11 left an unlikely target of 33 off the last 14 balls. This is where15-yo Jason Pongracic (37 n.o. off 18) took over. Batting with Gerry Wild they combined to score 15 off the second last over before Jason took strike for the last over scoring dot, 6, dot, 2, 4 and hit a four off the last ball to collect the 10 points.

The Fourth XI took the Swans tenth wicket early on day two to set up a 170-run chase. Max Tomkinson (138 off 156 balls inc 22 fours) combined with Jaryd Williamson (81 off 112 balls, 10 fours, one six) and sensationally put on 213 in their opening stand. It was a particularly brilliant effort from just turned 16-yo Max who was batting for the club for the first time in Premier Cricket.

The Second XI were also impressive in dominating their run chase with Peter Petricola (pictured right) (123 n.o.) building on last week’s start and with Travis Jackson (52 n.o.), built a lead of 99 before the declaration. Dean Scheetz grabbed two early wickets before Casey-SM steadied a little. Sam Brewin (5/53), elevated to the Second XI after Pat Smith went up to the Firsts to replace Rob Cassell, put the Swans in a spin with his left-arm wrist spinners. However Casey-SM edged past our lead by 34 late in the day and although Nick Quinn’s ‘offies’ helped dismiss them a second time, we didn’t have any overs left to bat.

The First XI had the bitter-sweet news of Rob Cassell’s selection in the Bushrangers one-day team. It would be fair to say it was far more sweet than bitter for the club as we were all thrilled to hear of Rob’s selection (unless you’ve been living under a rock the last few days you should have read/heard about it). The down side was, as Rob is carefully managing his workload, he was unable to tear into the Swans batting line up. Young Swan Jake Best not only passed 50 for the first time at Premier 1st XI level, he made the most of a great Albert  Ground batting strip (funny how you find those there on a regular basis over the last 100 years!). Sean Sturrock (3/106) looked like he might have got the Demons back into the game before Damien Wright (former Tasmanian and current Bushranger who can be handy with the bat) peeled off an unbeaten century.

This Saturday is the last day’s play for 2009, a one-dayer against North Melbourne (First XI at JJ Holland Park). In the New Year, we return with the ‘country round’ played at the MCG on January 9 in the last one-day match of the season. Whilst slipping to seventh on the ‘proper’ ladder, we head the one-day ladder and a win in either of the last two one-day matchers will seal a semi-final berth in the one-day competition. Click Ladders to see where all the teams are placed.

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI - Melbourne 6/344 (dec) (R Cooper 140 B Way 45 A Middlin 37* P Halbish 33* MJ Brown 32 MW Hill 27) defeated by Casey-South Melbourne 5/345 (J Best 125 D Wright 104* S Sturrock 3/106) at the Albert.
2nd XI - Casey-South Melbourne 132 (ED Bowen 2/2 N Quinn 2/20 PJ Smith 2/37) and 133 (S Brewin 5/53 D Scheetz 2/11 N Quinn 2/17)  defeated by Melbourne 1/231 (dec) (P Petricola 123* T Jackson 52* J Huddart 39) at Casey Fields 4.
3rd XI – Casey-South Melbourne 115 (T Larter 2/1 WN Ryan 2/6 A Swart 2/13 AJ Boyle 2/36) and 145 (WN Ryan 4/29 B Huf 2/6 J Fitzgibbon 2/24) defeated outright by Melbourne 1/171 (dec) (B Huf 104* WN Ryan 30) and 6/93 (S Gotch 37 J Pongracic 37*) at IW Johnson Oval.
4th XI - Casey-South Melbourne 169 (D Minato 2/25 MJ Lanigan 2/41) defeated by Melbourne 2/270 (M Tomkinson 138 J Williamson 81 D Minato 28*) at Casey Fields 5. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons Poised
Tuesday December 8, 2009

Melbourne had a good opening day to their two-day round nine clash against Casey-South Melbourne whose First XI were coming off a confidence boosting win against reigning premiers Ringwood. Rob Cooper was the First XI’s star with the bat, knocking up his maiden century at that level. The Second XI are well on the way to claiming first innings points needing 62 runs with 10 wickets still standing. The Third XI have already secured first innings points, highlighted by a Brendan Huf ton whilst the Fourth XI were made to toil away for 88 overs to have the Swans 9/164.

On a day where high scoring in Kookaburra Premier Cricket First XI matches was the order of the day, Robert Cooper (pictured right) opened up for the Demons and controlled the innings with a 140 off 236 deliveries that included 17 fours and one six. A number of other players played supporting roles and enabled a declaration at 6/344 that was rewarded with a Swans wicket in the five overs bowled.

The Second XI seemed to be in for a long day in the field when Casey-SM moved to 2/84 however a collapse ensued and we found ourselves chasing only 132. ‘Pepsi’ Petricola (34) and Jon Huddart (33) have knocked off 71 of those already.

The Thirds were on top with the ball throughout with seven bowlers used and six taking wickets to have the Swans out for 115. Brendan Huf (104 n.o. inc 14 fours) set aside any thoughts of a nervous chase as he hit three four’s in the opening over to set the scene for a cracking century and set up pursuit of outright points.

The Fourths worked away hard against a Casey SM line-up that seemed intent of seeing out the day rather than take risks to elevate the scoring rate however they have ‘runs on the board’ that will require application to chase down.

It is worth mentioning that there were incredibly high scores across all First XI matches on Saturday with three scores in excess of 400 and four over 300 in the nine matches. To read the Premier Cricket report click here.

In Twenty20 action against the Bombers on Sunday, the First XI did well to hold their opposition to 127 however it took a two off the last ball to tie things up. The Second XI won the second of their two T20 matches played for the season, comfortably responding to Essendon’s 5/119. Laurie Heath (71 off 49 balls) set the Third XI scoreboard alight and the resultant 158-run target enabled the Thirds to also get their second victory. The Fourth XI turned in a forgettable effort although Max Tomkinson’s 26 in his debut innings for the Demons was a shining light.

Summary Scorecards – Round 9 v Casey SM (after day one)
1st XI – Melbourne 6/344 (dec) (R Cooper 140 B Way 45 A Middlin 37* P Halbish 33* MJ Brown 32 MW Hill 27) v Casey-South Melbourne 1/11 at the Albert Ground.
2nd XI - Casey-South Melbourne 132 (PJ Smith 3/37 N Quinn 2/20) v Melbourne 0/71 (P Petricola 34* J Huddart 33*) at Casey Fields #4.
3rd XI – Casey-South Melbourne 115  (WN Ryan 2/6 A Swart 2/13 AJ Boyle 2/36) v Melbourne 1/171 (B Huf 104* WN Ryan 30) at IW Johnson Oval.
4th XI - Casey-South Melbourne 9/164 (D Minato 2/25 MJ Lanigan 2/41) v Melbourne at Casey Fields #5.

Summary Scorecards – Twenty20 Roundd 4 v Essendon (played Sunday)
1st XI – Essendon 5/127(cc) tied Melbourne 8/127(cc) (R Cooper 30 B Way 25) at the Albert Ground. 
2nd XI – Melbourne 5/122 (Daly 30, Jackson 27) defeated Essendon 7/119 (cc) at Windy Hill. 
3rd XI – Melbourne 4/158(cc) (L Heath 71 J Williamson 30 D Bratby 26) defeated Essendon 6/131(cc) (T Larter 3/20 S Brewin 2/19) at the Albert Ground. 
4th XI – Melbourne 67 (M Tomkinson 26) defeated by Essendon 1/70 at Windy Hill. 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons Points Chase Down the Drain
Monday November 30, 2009 

The Demons were well positioned in all grades in their Round 8 matches scheduled for Saturday/Sunday against the Panthers but couldn’t beat the weather. The First XI, who battle it out for the Warren Ayres Cup, was the only team that played on Sunday with the other three XI’s matches abandoned without a ball being bowled on day two.

Rain only affected the latter part of Saturday’s play and the Demons would have been reasonably happy about where they were placed throughout the grades. The First XI reached 4/216 when stumps were drawn 11 overs early, having recovered from a shaky 2/49. Ben Way (64) continued with his consistent form and registered his fourth half-century of the season in seven innings and has now scored 332 runs at 55.3. He was well supported by Michael Hill (44) and Simon Dart (37 no). In the short period of play at the start of day two, we lost two early wickets and after a lengthy rain delay, declared on 6/223 in the hope of dismissing Dandenong in the 54 overs remaining. Adam Dale (3/33 off 19 overs) once again led the attack and took the first three wickets however, despite two wickets from Matthew Brown late in the day, we ran out of time.

The Second XI had Dandenong 2/8 early on the first day however the visitors steadied in good batting conditions and made our bowlers work hard for their wickets. We were in a fair position to chase down a target when the Panthers were 8/239 after Saturday’s play. Unfortunately, the saturated outfield meant there was little activity at the Albert on Sunday other than to listen to Eivion Bowen’s account of his "ball of a lifetime" than "pitched middle and leg and hit the top of off stump" to dismiss Premier Cricket and Melbourne batting legend, Warren Ayres for nought. Eiv, never one to brag, admitted any resemblance to the "Warne/Gatting ball of the century" was totally appropriate!

The Third and Fourth XI’s had similar days as both threatened to run through their opposition for low scores and have the opportunity of getting points in the bag on the first day. Out at Dandenong, the home team were 8/82 before stubborn lower order partnerships took the Panthers to 8/178 at stumps. The Fourth XI had Dandenong 7/77, with the opening combination of Mark McCudden (pictured) (4/35) and Xavier Frawley (3/19) making big inroads, before they recovered to 9/157. The "big wet" prevented play in either grade on Sunday.

The MCC Club XI played Old Xavier No.2 on Saturday and bowled OX2 out in the 40th over for 195 (Pat O’Beirne 3/5) and then chased down the score in the 24th over – 2/196 (Pat Bowden 101 not out, Pat O’Beirne 57, Joel Bowden 22 not out off 9 balls).

Round 9 is a two-day game against Casey-South Melbourne played on the next two Saturday's (First and Third XI’s at home), split by a full round of Twenty20 matches played next Sunday against Essendon (First and Third XI’s at home).

Summary Scorecards
1st XI Dandenong 6/141 (AC Dale 3/33 MJ Brown 2/8) drew Melbourne 6/223(dec)  (B Way 64 MW Hill 44 S Dart 37 MJ Brown 33) at Shepley Oval.
2nd XI Melbourne drew Dandenong 8/239  N Quinn 2/52 J Graham 2/69 at the Albert Ground.
3rd XI Dandenong 8/178  (WN Ryan 2/29 AJ Boyle 2/35) drew Melbourne at Wilson Oval.
4th XI Melbourne drew Dandenong 9/157 (M McCudden 4/35 XJ Frawley 3/19) at IW Johnson Oval.

For reports on all Kookaburra Premier Cricket matches, go to the Cricket Victoria Premier Cricket website.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Thirds take points; firsts so close but...
Monday November 23, 2009

John ‘Captain-Mo’ Fitzgibbon’s Third XI was the only Demons to takes points on the second day of the round of matches against the Saints. The First XI dug deep and went ever so close to grabbing an improbable victory but was passed nine down. The Second and Fourth XI’s faced uphill battles in their run chases and although there was the odd good partnership neither really threatened in the run chase.

The Thirds resumed nine down and were dismissed for 183. They then went about defending the total as a real team unit. All six bowlers used bowled tightly and maintained the pressure, even when the Saints were 1/58 at one stage. Aaron ‘Mo-bro’ Boyle took the first wicket and followed up with two in his last spell to finish with (3/41). Patrick Walker, in his first Third XI game, impressed with 3/27 and took out the St Kilda middle order. Skipper Smacka himself managed four overs for the handy figures of 2/1. Spinners Sam Brewin and Tristan ‘Mo-bro’ Larter played their part and took a wicket apiece. Even Arno Swart (son of Trevor Mo-bro), who didn’t manage a ‘pole’, kept things tight and the Saints were bowed out for 131.

The Firsts responded tremendously to the challenge facing them at the start f the day, knowing they needed to bowl extremely well to keep the Saints under 157. It took an exceptional effort from the opposition skipper, Graeme Rummans (141) to thwart the Demons response. Our own captain/coach, Adam Dale, bowled brilliantly (4/36 off 20.2 overs). Phil Halbish (3/52 off 18.4) and Rob Cassell (2/62) were excellent in support. There wasn’t a lot of hope when the Saints moved onto 1/54 and even on taking the second wicket the Demons were greeted by state player Rob Quiney. All of a sudden, chances were being created and even though not all were taken, the Saints slumped to 7/94 (Rummans 60 n.o.).  A 48-run eighth wicket partnership took the score to 142 and in taking the ninth wicket, the Saints still needed 13 to win. Rummans, in such a controlling manner, combined with his last batting partner to take the points away from us.

The Seconds resumed at 6/86 in pursuit of 171 and could ill afford to lose the two early wickets that they did. Nick Bergin and Nick Quinn gave us a glimmer of hope putting on 39 for the ninth wicket but we still fell 31 short.

The Fourth XI only had one significant partnership of 93 for the third wicket between top scorer Dion Minato (46) and Dan Worrall (33) but never threatened the 251 run target.

Kookaburra Premier Twenty20 action continues this Wednesday night as the Demons face the Saints again at the Albert Ground. Play commences at 5.15 pm and there will be a BBQ operating and refreshments available.

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI Melbourne 157 (B Way 28 R Cassell 25) def eated by St Kilda 225 (AC Dale 4/36 P Halbish 3/52 R Cassell 2/62)  at the Albert Ground.
2nd XI St Kilda 171 (J ‘Mo’ Graham 3/37 D Scheetz 3/48 N Quinn 2/13) and 3/81(cc) defeated Melbourne 140 (N Bergin 27 T Jackson 26) at Harry Trott Oval.
3rd XI Melbourne 183 (T ‘Mo’ Larter 42 D ‘Mo’ Bratby 42 G Wild 26) defeated St Kilda 131 (PJ Walker 3/27 AJ ‘Mo’ Boyle 3/41
J ‘Mo’ Fitzgibbon 2/1)  at IW Johnson Oval.
4th XI St Kilda 251 (D Worrall 4/36 M Hill 2/13 C Sturrock 2/24) defeated Melbourne 156 (D Minato 46 D Worrall 33) at Ross Gregory.

Click here to view ladders.

For those clever enough to pick up on the ‘Mo’ references, the full team can be viewed at http://au.movember.com/mospace/69736/.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Demons have work cut out
Monday November 16, 2009 

The Round seven two-day match between Melbourne and St Kilda was referred to as a meeting of the ‘power-houses’ however it appears the Demons ran into a few ‘short-circuits’ as all grades spluttered along at various stages of Saturday’s play. We are not out of the game in any grade but it will require something of a turnaround in overall performance next weekend if we are going to put points on the board.

The First XI lost its first wicket at 35 but with a St Kilda opening bowler already in the sheds, there didn’t appear to be any great concern. However, the Saints maintained a consistent line and demonstrated great patience that resulted in eight of our batsmen being dismissed for between 28 and 10 and all out for 157 in the 93rd over. The Demons gained an early break but will need several more and plenty of patience of their own to get back in the game next week.

The Second XI dominated with the ball for the most part. Dean Scheetz (3/48) and Nick Quinn (2/13) gained the early breaks then off-spinner Justin Graham (3/37) helped the Demons have them 9/133 before a stubborn last wicket partnership swelled the target to 171. Travelling okay at 1/40, we endured a terrible last hour and will resume at 6/86.

The Thirds batted first on what is proving to be a difficult (low and slow) Johnson Oval wicket. David Bratby (42) endured the early part of the innings and Tristan Larter (42), along with Aaron Boyle (24) at least dug in when Gerry Wild (26) was dismissed with the score at 6/110 to help the team bat out the day and give the bowlers a half reasonable target to bowl at.

The Fourth XI, very much undermanned through this period of general unavailablities, exams and school cricket commitments, looked to be completely at the Saints mercy when they were 1/161. In a ‘re-energised’  effort, they responded tremendously in the last hour and a half taking 6/33 in one stretch. Dan Worrall (4/36) took three wickets in an over and Cam Sturrock (2/36) showed great heart. In dismissing St Kilda for 251, they now control their destiny in the run chase.

As they say, we appear to be like the ‘boys with the barrow’, and ‘have the job ahead of us’ but all grades still have at least a fighting chance.

Kookaburra Premier Twenty20 cricket resumes this week where we play Dandenong (First XI only) at Shepley Oval on Wednesday night (commences at 5.15 pm) so for all you Demon supporters that happen to be passing by...

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI Melbourne 157 (B Way 28 Cassell 25) v St Kilda 1/27 Albert Ground.
2nd XI St Kilda 171 ( J Graham 3/37 D Scheetz 3/48 N Quinn 2/13)  v Melbourne 6/86 (T Jackson 26)  Harry Trott Oval.
3rd XI Melbourne 9/178 (T Larter 42 D Bratby 42 G Wild 26)  v St Kilda IW Johnson Oval.
4th XI St Kilda 251 (D Worrall 4/36 M Hill 2/13 C Sturrock 2/24)  v Melbourne Ross Gregory Oval.

For those that don’t know where to find full scorecards, ladders etc, make yourself familiar with the Cricket Australia ‘My Cricket’. http://mycricket.cricket.com.au/. 

Many competitions load their scorecards into this system, including Premier Cricket. For ‘first timers’, I suggest you click on the ‘Search’ button and under ‘Club, association or grade’ type in ‘Melbourne’ or ‘Victorian Premier Cricket’. When you get your search results, click on the ‘Customise’ button, then go to ‘Matches’ where drop down boxes give you options to view latest club results, ladders, etc.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Dirty Day for Demons
Monday November 9, 2009
 
I’m not sure whether we’ve ever had a name for the opposite of a ‘Demon Day’ (wins in all four grades) but whatever you want to call it, we had it! There were several excellent individual performances throughout the opening two-day round of the season however these counted for nothing when it came to putting premiership points on the board.
 
It would be remiss not to look back on one such outstanding effort on day one of round six of Kookaburra Premier Cricket action. Simon Dart, who had quirkily only faced one ball in the month of October in his return season for the Demons, scored his fifteenth Premier Cricket century, being his first for the club that he debuted for in the 1995/96 season. Simon’s 142 n.o. (off 244 balls in 297 minutes including 14 fours) was full of skill and character. He came to the crease at 3/68 and when the consistent Ben Way (58) departed the Demons looked unlikely to pass 200. However Simon held the second half of the order together and an 88-run partnership with Rob Cassell (33) helped the Demons past 300.
 
A wicket on the first ball of day two and a wicket by First XI debutant Pat Smith (replacement player for Michael Hill who was on Bushranger duty) had the Blues 3/53 and the Demon hopes high. Unfortunately centuries by outstanding club players Evan Gulbis and Nathan Pilon gave Carlton a relatively smooth passage to the six points.
 
The Second XI started the first day disastrously with two of the top three in the order run out. Skipper Eiv Bowen (50) and Rob Cooper (42) made middle order contributions but it was left to fast bowler Pat Smith, known for his hitting capability but not necessarily his durability, to put on a show in scoring 73 off 70 balls laced with five 4’s and five 6’s.
 
Unfortunately it was left to Carlton to show how good the batting conditions at the Albert were as they easily passed our 250-run target on the second day.  Left-ram quick, Kane Griffiths, elevated to make his Second XI debut replacing Pat Smith, showed good signs by taking 2/22 off his 11 overs.
 
The Third XI batting never clicked on day one with Gerard Wild’s 77 n.o. out of 199 being the stand out performance. The bowlers struggled to make inroads until the game was almost over but it was great to see Sam Brewin (5/57), with his left-arm wrist spinners, fight it out and take his first ‘five for’ the club.
 
The Fourth XI had the ‘close one’. On the opening day, despite some sloppy fielding and, at different times, looking like letting their opponents get well on top, fought it out and dismissed the Blues for 210 just on stumps. Whilst the wicket was keeping a little low, it needed someone to dig in and if they batted through the day, a win was for the taking. Unfortunately there were six scorers between 20 and 30 and when we were dismissed with eight overs in the day to bat, we were a mere 10 runs short of a win.
 
I am pleased to report that the MCC Club XI did have its first win of the season. Whilst I don’t have full details, the scribe did see the latter part of the game and in chasing Old Haileybury’s 144 in a 40-over maximum, we scorched passed them in the 23rd over only four down – more details to come!
 
Summary Scorecards
Round 6 v Carlton:
1st XI – Melbourne 306 (S Dart 142* B Way 58 R Cassell 33) defeated by Carlton 4/307 at Princes Park # 1 Oval. 
2nd XI – Melbourne - 250 (PJ Smith 73 ED Bowen 50 R Cooper 42) defeated by Carlton 6/251 (KJ Griffiths 2/22 N Bergin 2/56) at the Albert Ground. 
3rd XI – Melbourne 199 (G Wild 77* J Gillard 27) defeated by Carlton 8/264 (S Brewin 5/57 T Larter 2/51) at Princes Park #2 Oval. 
4th XI – Carlton 206 (M Hill 2/16 S Van Riet 2/19 MP Akrigg 2/41) defeated Melbourne 195 (D Minato 30 G Oakley 30 P Walker 27) at IW Johnson Oval.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Trio of Tons as First XI Make Near Perfect Start to Opening Block of One-Dayers
Monday October 27, 2009

The First XI remains undefeated after the opening block of five one-day matches. It is a near perfect start to the 2009/10 Kookaburra Premier Cricket season (having obtained bonus points in three of the five matches along the way) and continues the recent dominance that the reigning one-day competition premiers have had in this form of the game. The fine weather turned conditions into the batsmen’s favour and we produced our first three centurions of the season being Andrew Kent (1st XI), Peter Petricola (2nd XI) and Laurie Heath (3rd XI).

The Firsts hosted Frankston Peninsula at the superbly presented Albert Ground. It was the bowlers that were asked to ply their trade first and did a terrific job in holding the visitors to 8/201 off 50 overs. They never looked like running through the opposition but, at the same time, took wickets just when they were needed and there was no danger of letting the target get out of hand. Wickets were shared around the senior bowlers with Rob Cassell grabbing three wickets and Adam Dale and Phil Halbish snaring two apiece.

Andrew Kent (pictured) and Ben Way opened up in the chase and confirmed what we thought all along about it being ideal batting conditions. They combined for an opening stand of 176 in 32 overs before Ben (62 off 88 balls) departed. Andrew Kent (116 n.o. off 122 balls inc 16 fours) powered on for his 10th Premier Cricket century and would have been well pleased to convert one of the several ‘starts’ he has had this year into three figures. Victory was acquired in the 37th over and the five points gained stretched our lead at the top of the ladder over Ringwood to three.

The Second XI were also greeted with terrific batting conditions at the AH Butler Oval in Frankston. The bowlers were put to the test first and did well in limiting the ‘Heat’ to 9/202. All bowlers were steady while skipper Eiv Bowen, back from Bushranger duties in India, took the figures with 3/49 from his ten. It would be remiss not to mention the ‘team’ catch that started with Dean Scheetz, taking the ball on the full inside the boundary rope but as he felt momentum taking him over, he calmly underarmed the ball to team mate Travis Jackson who was also patrolling the boundary, to complete the catch. Nothing will ever show in the ‘stats’ Dean but well done anyway!

Chasing targets hasn’t been the 2nd XI’s strength this year so it was with great conviction that Peter ‘Pepsi’ Petricola batted through the run chase, scoring 104 n.o. (136 balls, 14 fours). The other major contributor was 16 y.o. Mathew Begbie (49) who went ever so close to scoring his first half century for the Demons before falling to a leg-side stumping.

The Third XI chased 178 and you would think if your opening batsman scored 113 n.o. you’d be celebrating a victory with him after the game. Somehow that was not the case and we were left to congratulating Laurie Heath, who hit 15 fours and two sixes, on his outstanding individual effort. I’ll leave the coaching staff to say what they think of nine batsmen not being able to reach double figures. Earlier, Aaron Boyle grabbed 3/22 in his nine overs.

The Fourth XI confronted last year’s final opponents with a somewhat weakened team as a number of players had school commitments and we have run into the odd injury. This opened the door for Mick McCarthy (what is it when you get past veteran?) to turn out for the Demons in company with his son Liam. The bowling effort was quite tidy in restricting the Heat to 8/155 from their 45 overs with ’Cuddles’ McCudden bowling tightly for his 2/17 from nine. The batting effort didn’t quite match the bowling and in the face of very tight bowling we crumbled to be all out for 96 with Patrick walker (27) top scoring at no. 9.

We turn our attention to two-day cricket and play Carlton (1st XI at Princes Park no.1) over the next two weekends.

Summary Scorecards
Round 5 v Frankston Peninsula: 
1st XI - Frankston Peninsula 8/201 (cc) (R Cassell 3/34 AC Dale 2/33 P Halbish 2/34) defeated by Melbourne 1/204 (36.3 overs) (A Kent 116* B Way 62) at the Albert Ground.
2nd XI - Frankston Peninsula 9/202 (cc) (EDT Bowen 3/49) defeated by Melbourne 3/204 (Petricola 104no Jackson 34 Begbie 49) at AH Butler Oval, Frankston.
3rd XI - Frankston Peninsula 8/178 (cc) (AJ Boyle 3/22 T Larter 2/50) defeated by Melbourne 166 (L Heath 113*) at IW Johnson Oval.
4th XI - Frankston Peninsula 8/155 (cc) (M McCudden 2/17) defeated by Melbourne 96 at Jubilee Park 2, Frankston.

To view the ladders and Club Championship points, go to My Cricket 

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
First XI Double Up to go Top
Monday October 19, 2009

The weekend’s program of two-one day matches was afflicted by last week’s poor weather when the whole of Kookaburra Premier Cricket 3rd & 4th XI matches were called off by Cricket Victoria on Saturday morning and play for our 2nd XI was not possible due to the Monash University Oval being unplayable. However, the 1st XI made the most of the relatively good conditions at the Albert on Saturday to post the first of their two wins on the weekend.

Playing for the Bruce Church Perpetual Trophy, Hawthorn-Monash University (HMU) were asked to bat first and made a reasonable start adding 40 for the opening wicket. Nick Quinn (2/11 off 6.2 overs) broke through with two wickets prior to ‘pulling a hammy’ and all bowlers bowled steadily in containing the Hawks to 7/157 from their 50 overs. Although he didn’t take a wicket, Simon Dart (pictured right) (0/23 off 8.2) would have been happy with his effort in his first match in his return to the Demons, ironically against his former club.

Our innings progressed steadily with Michael Hill (80 n.o. off 86 balls, six 4’s and two 6’s) seizing control and, with Ben Way (32 n.o.), we cruised to an eight wicket victory. The win took us to the top of the Kookaburra Premier Cricket ladder.

On Sunday, the 1st XI travelled to Fitzroy-Doncaster and our bowlers were in control from the start. In a real team effort we bowled out the Lions for 139. ‘Human headline’ Rob Cassell (pictured left), having rested the previous day, once again took the figures with 3/32 off 9.4 overs. At 0/47, a comfortable victory and a bonus point (for getting the runs within 40 overs) looked a formality. Way (20) and Kent (23) departed but at 2/87 there were no real concerns. At 7/109 there were plenty!! Alex Keath (15 n.o.) on debut and Phil Halbish (26 n.o. off 18 balls) saw the Demons home and although we missed the bonus point, I sense we were glad to get the ‘four’. Nevertheless, our position at the top of the ladder was consolidated.

The 2nd, 3rd and 4th XI’s, who were no doubt looking forward to getting out there Sunday, couldn’t muster a win between them. The 2nd XI did reasonable in limiting the Lions to 8/200 with Dean Scheetz (3/33 off 10) doing best. Unfortunately there was only one partnership of significance between Peter Petricola (34) and Travis Jackson (42) for the second wicket and we were dismissed 34 runs short.

The 3rd XI battled to 141 - Tristan Larter top scoring with 30. They fought hard with the ball and took the game to the last over but were passed eight down with three balls remaining. Arno Swart, in his first season with the Demons, took 3/23 off his eight overs.

The 4th XI were a little light on personnel and worked their way to 9/146 off their 45 overs with Dion Minato (39) top scoring. They were met by a hurricane when the Lions opening bat belted 63 in an opening stand of 65 (including one extra) in under 11 overs. To the boys credit they stuck to their task and stretched the game out to the 39th over before losing by five wickets.

Next weekend, the final of the opening block of five one-day matches is played against Frankston Peninsula with the First XI playing host at the Albert Ground.

Summary Scorecards:
Round 3
1st XI - Hawthorn-Mon Uni 7/157(cc) (N Quinn 2/11 R Cooper 2/26) defeated by Melbourne 2/160 (35 overs) (MW Hill 80* B Way 32* A Kent 26) at the Albert Ground. 
2nd, 3rd & 4ths XI’s – play abandoned due to adverse weather/playing conditions

Round 4
1st XI - Fitzroy/Doncaster 139 (36.4 overs) (R Cassell 3/32 AC Dale 2/22 P Halbish 2/26) defeated by Melbourne 7/142 (41 overs) (MW Hill 33 P Halbish 26*) at Schramms Reserve #1.
2nd XI  - Fitzroy/Doncaster 8/200 (cc) (D Scheetz 3/33 Pj Smith 2/41) defeated Melbourne 166 (45.2 overs) (T Jackson 42 P Petricola 34) at the Albert Ground.
3rd XI - Melbourne 141 (43.1 overs) (T Larter 30) defeated by  Fitzroy/Doncaster 8/142 (44.3 overs) (A Swart 3/23 T Larter 2/25 S Brewin 2/31) at Schramms Reserve #2.
4th XI – Melbourne 9/146 (cc) (D Minato 39) defeated by Fitzroy/Doncaster 5/148 (38.2 overs) (M Hill 2/21 MP Akrigg 2/22) at IW Johnson Oval.

--------------------------------------------------

Premier Cricket Wrap
Jerry Hat-trick
Monday October 12, 2009

Rob ‘Jerry’ Cassell showed he is no spent force and once again produced the headline act by taking a hat-trick in the First XI. Batting first, Camberwell Magpies were travelling pretty well at 1/127 when Jerry bowled Howell for 70. He followed up with trapping Parker LBW first ball, and then completed the ‘trick’ by bowling Leoncelli. Jerry ended up with 3/37 off his 10 overs to back up his first round efforts in a great start to the season for him. Captain/coach Adam Dale (3/48) was back in the wickets and 2008/09 club champion Phil Halbish ((2/42) also snared a couple. Nevertheless, the Magpies set a challenging 245-run target.

When Michael Hill (40) was dismissed with the score at 3/75, that target seemed a long way off. Ben Way (68 off 97 balls, five 4’s and a six) and Matthew Brown (61 off 78, three 4’s and a six) held the middle of the innings together with an 89-run partnership even though the required run rate crept of to 8 an over. In his debut First XI innings, Jon Huddart, made an invaluable 38 off 30 balls to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Still, the rate eked out and the Demons needed 40 from the last four overs, coming down to 12 off the last. Matthew Brown’s occupation of the crease bore fruit when he hit a six, then after a couple of singles, hit the penultimate ball of the innings for four to go one run ahead of the Maggies and claim the points. Fantastic Brownie!

Unfortunately the First XI win was the lone victory. The Fourth XI took the game down to the last over. Batting first, the Demons were charging on the scoreboard through Lozza Heath’s opening onslaught of 76 (inc 11 fours) but when he was dismissed at 2/102 the innings stalled. Gareth Oakley (49) was the only other batsman to build an innings and Matt Lanigan (17 n.o.), in his first hit for the club since joining us at the start of last year, batted sensibly and helped us to 9/174 off the 45 overs.

 The Magpies kept pace with required rate and lost their third wicket at 100. We then took regular wickets to work our way back into the game, to the point where they were eight down needing 21, however Camberwell safely negotiated their way through.

The Thirds kept Camberwell to 8/171 with Tristan Larter (3/38 off 9) being the main wicket taker. An early collapse saw us 5/47 and although Jimmy Gillard (46) fought hard, he didn’t get the support from his fellow batsmen that he needed.

The Second XI must have been smiling when we won the toss and elected to bat first on a wicket that was flat, rock hard and essentially grassless. Despite several ‘starts’, Darcy Daly (97 off 139 balls) was the only one to convert it to a big score before gliding one to the keeper three short of what would have been a well deserved ton. Seb Gotch (43), in his first Second XI game, did well in helping Darcy adding 117 for the fifth wicket however the loss of those early wickets meant that the end of innings flurry couldn’t take off too early and we ended up on 7/224.

You’d ordinarily hope 224 would be competitive although the perfect batting conditions promised more. The Camberwell Magpies batting effort in achieving the target three down in the 44th over suggests the target was a bit light on.

Next weekend is a double-header, where one-day action continues against Hawthorn-Monash University on Saturday (First XI at home) followed by Fitzroy-Doncaster (First XI away) on Sunday.

Summary Scorecards:
1st XI - Camberwell Magpies 8/244 (cc) (R Cassell 3/37 including a hat-trick, AC Dale 3/48 and P Halbish 2/42) defeated by Melbourne 6/245 (49.5 overs) (B Way 68 MJ Brown 61* MW Hill 40 J Huddart 38) at Camberwell Sports Ground. 
 
2nd XI – Melbourne 7/224 (cc) (DP Daly 97, S Gotch 43) defeated by Camberwell Magpies 3/225 (D Scheetz 2/52) at the Albert Ground.
 
3rd XI - Camberwell Magpies 8/171 (cc) (T Larter 3/38, KJ Griffiths 2/17 and WN Ryan 2/25) defeated Melbourne 137 (J Gillard 46) at Central Reserve #1 Oval.

4th XI – Melbourne 9/174 (cc) (L Heath 76, G Oakley 49) defeated by Camberwell Magpies 8/184 (M Hill 2/21 and MP Akrigg 2/23) at IW Johnson Oval. 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Macca lauded and farewelled at cocktail party
Friday June 12, 2009

MCC allrounder Andrew McDonald was the toast of MCC cricket on Friday night at a cocktail party in the Long Room.

The evening was a chance for players, officials and partners to celebrate Andrew's Test match debut in January against South Africa and wish him well for the upcoming Test series against England. 

Such is the busy life of an international cricketer, that we haven't been able to get together as a club to celebrate Andrew's Test match debut.  

Andrew's family, including wife Keely, parents and grandparents were in attendance, along with Victorian teammate Brad Hodge and former MCC players Warren Ayres and Peter Nevill among many others.

Best of luck to "Macca" on his debut Ashes tour!