Lions season comes to an end

Dilan Chandima (Jacob Pattison)316219_07

Darley’s season came to a disappointing end in the Ballarat Cricket Association knocked out in the semi finals on Sunday

The Lions struggled to contain Harli Givvens and Rory Low, as both scored their first centuries for East Ballarat.

The pairs batting pushed their side’s total to 326 with East Ballarat bowled out with two balls remaining.

The Lions batting power was needed to be on full show if they were to chase down the runs.

But a below par batting performance meant they didn’t get anywhere close to getting the runs.

The Lions were soon in trouble at 3-47 and that quickly became 5-63. The wickets continued to fall and at 7-73 the Lions needed a miracle if they were to chase down the runs.

There was no miracle as the side was bowled out for 113 in just the 50th over.

Shaun McAndrew, who came in at number eight, top scored with 27.

The loss ended the Lions hopes of a fourth straight grand final appearance. East Ballarat will face Wendouree in the grand final.

The loss also ended the coaching reign of Brian Wheelahan.

Wheelahan announced heading into the final round that he had decided to step away after four seasons in charge.