By Tara Murray
Darley has claimed the Central Highlands Cricket Willow T20 division 1 title.
Facing cross-town rival Bacchus Marsh in the final on Monday, it was the Lions who claimed the trophy along with the bragging rights.
Facing each other for the first time in more than 15 years, it was the Bulls that won the toss and sent the Lions in.
The Lions got off to a strong start, with West Indian import Danza Hyatt continuing his good form.
Hyatt, who played T20 cricket internationally for the West Indies, scored 74 off 61 balls at the top of the order, in an innings which included seven fours and three sixes.
He found some good support from number three Richard Moore (42) as the two put on nearly 100 for the second wicket partnership.
The Lions lost late wickets as they looked for quick runs, finishing 4-159.
Bradley Croxford was the best of the bowlers for the Bulls, taking three wickets.
The Bulls started well in their chase, with Peter Lalor and James Lidgett putting on 48 for the first wicket partnership.
At 2-96 the Bulls looked set for a strong end to the innings, but started to lose frequent wickets as they tried to keep up with the run rate.
The Bulls were eventually bowled out for 141 on the final ball of the innings.
Peter Lalor top scored with 59 at the top of the order, with the next highest score 17.
Moore continued his good game, taking 4-26 off his four overs.
It was the first time the Lions had made the Cricket Willow grand final.
The win means the Lions will represent the Highlands region in the Cricket Victoria Regional Big Bash T20 state finals.
Meanwhile in the division 2 final, St Anthonys fell short against Colts Phelans.
Sent in, the Saints made 6-117 from their overs.
Colts Phelans had little trouble making the runs, with three overs and seven wickets in hand.
They finished 3-118.
