By Tara Murray
Melton Centrals had a weekend to remember with the bat.
Centrals dominated in two Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 Russell Pollock Shield matches.
On day one of a two-day match against Aberfeldie Park, Centrals made a massive 4-399 from their overs.
Centrals captain-coach Adam Hulett was a happy man.
“Saying that the No.7 didn’t get a bat in an 80-over game and we only lost four wickets for 399 – I wouldn’t have believed that,” he said.
“It’s a credit to the top order for looking after the wickets then scoring runs.”
Waduwidanalage Rangika and Connor Poulton both scored centuries, with Steven Robertson scoring 87.
Hulett said while they had the runs on the board, they weren’t focusing on anything other than getting a first innings win against the top side.
Photo Gallery: Melton Centrals vs Melton South
A win will move Centrals to the top of the table.
“Aberfeldie is a quality batting side and fingers crossed we get the job done,” Hulett said. “The top five is really close … we’re not getting complacent.”
Centrals’ good form with the bat continued on Sunday in a one-dayer against Melton South Royals.
Centrals made 8-236 at nearly a run a ball. Hulett said they put the pressure on right from the start.
“Waduwidanalage Rangika made 128 yesterday and 74 today,” he said.
“Steve Robertston made 50-60-odd after making 87 the day before. The runs were again coming at the top of the order, giving the middle and lower order the chance to just go for it.”
Rangika continued his good weekend by taking 4-25 as Centrals bowled the Royals out for 152. The win keeps Centrals in second spot with a game and half remaining.
“Wins at this stage of the season help set the side up for the business end,” Hulett said. “As a team, we’re playing really well.”
It was a tough weekend for the Royals with no play taking place in their two-day match against Jacana on Saturday. The game will be a one-dayer next week.
In division 4, Caroline Springs made 181 against Moonee Valley on day one of their two-day match. The Falcons got off to the perfect start with the ball, having Moonee Valley 2-3 at stumps.
On Sunday, the Falcons defeated Grand United. After making 9-152, the Falcons bowled Grand United out for 82.
Sydenham-Hillside didn’t get on the pitch on Saturday against Grand United because of rain.
On Sunday, the Storm lost to Maribyrnong Park St Marys.
Maribyrnong made 6-133 in reply to the Storm’s 132.
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