Tara Murray
The hard work is only just beginning for Sydenham-Hillside in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1.
While the Storm sit on top and have lost just one match for the season, it hasn’t been without its challenges.
Coach Geoff Pretty said that while they were happy with how the season had played out so far, there’s still a lot of things to play out.
“The one part of the season that counts is finals,” he said. “Winning enough games to make finals doesn’t guarantee you anything.
“We’re always confident with this group, but we’re under no illusions that there is some stiff competition.
“It’s a very good competition, but the ladder doesn’t reflect that. We haven’t had it all our own way.”
The Storm has a challenge ahead of it against PEGS in its current match.
PEGS made 7-285 from its overs with Carlos Maynard starring with 124 not out.
Pretty said it was a mixed day for the side.
“It was a good start and then they batted really well,” he said.
“He [Maynard] didn’t give a chance, credit to the batting side. We were a little sloppy at times.
“We had a long day in the field and we had to absorb the pressure. Credit to them.”
Stefon King was the pick of the bowlers taking four wickets.
Pretty said they were looking forward to the challenge of being tested.
“You need to be tested at times to get better,” he said. “It can’t be all smooth sailing, you don’t find out things that you need to work on.
“You learn more from a loss than a win and you learn more from being challenged than not being challenged.
“We’re still confident of getting the runs.”
Overall things are going well for the Storm, with five of their six sides set to play finals.
They had the same amount of teams play finals last year.
“Hopefully we can add a couple more premierships, last year only our first XI side won.
“This year we’re in better shape, but we can’t be complacent,
“There’s still a lot of hard work to be done and hopefully that starts with chasing down this good score this weekend.”
In division 3, Caroline Springs will need early wickets on day two against Grand United.
Still in a hunt for a finals spot, the Falcons were bowled out for 123.
Roshan Laksiri top scored with 43.
The Gorillas were 2-61 at the end of day one. Gavin McCallum had both wickets.
In division 5, Melton Centrals had a solid day with the bat against Sanctuary Lakes.
Hashan Chamara was the star for Centrals making 100 as his side was bowled out for 266.
The Sharks will resume at 0-6 having faced five overs.
Melton South Royals made 230 against ladder leaders East Coburg.
Sameera Vithana top scored with 67.
Burnside Springs restricted Donnybrook to 182. Burnside Springs will resume at 1-4.
