Melton’s Anthony Gale turned back the clock as he guided his team to an opening round win in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west competition.
A veteran of more than 400 first XI games for the Lions, Gale batted through the whole innings to help the Lions secure victory against Malvern with just under four overs remaining.
The Lions started the day needing 223, so a strong batting performance was needed.
The Lions had no trouble getting the runs, finishing 2-226.
Lions coach Nathan Geisler said it was good to get some time at the crease for the top order.
“It was a really good win with only two wickets down,” he said.
“We had a few players unavailable as well. To get the opportunity early on to get the top four or five time in the middle is perfect.
“We had a 100-run partnership and two 60-run partnerships.”
The key to the innings was Gale, who went on to finish 111 not out from 224 balls.
Geisler said he didn’t know the last time Gale made 100, but statistics online going back to 2000 show he hasn’t made one in that time.
“Butch is meant to play in the twos this year,” Geisler said.
“We had to bring him up with guys missing.
“He was 75 at tea and I said to him he could pinch a 100 here, he didn’t think he’d get.
“He knuckled down and got one.”
All four batsmen made contributions of 21 or more, with Alan Steenholdt finishing 49 not out.
With a win to start the season, the Lions have three players who should return this week.
Nathan Taylor, Matt Stead and Jake Charge all missed the round one match.
Geisler said it was a good selection headache to have.
The Lions face Hoppers Crossing which also had a first-up win.
“They gave us a touch up last year, so we would like to get one back against them.”
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