By Tara Murray
Harkness is hoping that it can go one step better in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield this season.
Harkness, which was known as St Anthonys, sits in third spot with two rounds remaining primed for a tilt at finals.
President Marc Turner said they had a pretty determined group who wants to take the premiership after missing out last season.
“It would be good if we can get there,” he said. “We are tracking along like we did last year.
“We are confident we can get there. They are pretty keen to make amends for last year.
“It’s pretty much the same side as last year and they’re focused on getting the win.”
On Saturday, Harkness had a strong all round performance against Melton South Royals.
Harkness made 9-200 from its 40 overs with Jagjiwan Singh top scoring with 69 not out after coming in at number eight.
The Royals fell well short, bowled out for 149 in the 37th over. Baljinder Singh took four wickets for Harkness.
Turner thought the score they had on the board was more than competitive.
“It was a good score, they batted well,” he said. “It always helps when you bowl and field well.”
The side sits in third spot, two games behind Lancefield and Riddell with two rounds remaining.
Harkness needs to win both its last two games and hope either of the top sides lose both their games to possibly move into the top four.
Turner said their second side was still in finals contention despite dropping its last two matches while its third side was doing well too.
Having had a tough few years where the club nearly closed, Turner said it was good to see the turnaround.
“It is good to be winning again,” he said. “It’s been a big turnaround.
“We were gone there for a while.
“Next year we’re looking to build again and maybe add another side. The numbers are positive and they want to play here.
“Hopefully we’re on to bigger and better things.”
Meanwhile, Diggers Rest Bulla is in trouble against Eastern Hill in the Johnstone Shield.
The Burras were bowled out for just 91 on Saturday with Jake Reid top scoring with 28 as just three players reached double figures. Eastern Hill ended day one at 1-20.
In the other matches, Aintree made 262 against Wallan while Eynesbury is 3-14 in reply to Kilmore’s 152. East Sunbury has the bye.
