Melton is slowly building with confidence as the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west.
After a tough 2024-25 season, the Lions have already taken major steps forward in the first couple of weeks this season.
First up, was a win against Werribee.
On Saturday, they were overshadowed by Taylors Lakes but will back themselves this Saturday on day two.
Lions coach Damien Costigan said it was massive to get a win in round one.
“To beat a Werribee side that we have struggled against the last five to six years is pretty massive,” he said.
“There’s a lot of confidence out of that. It’s been a really good pre-season and doing a lot of right things.
“We’ve added depth which is helpful.”
The Lions side has changed a lot since last season with a number of new inclusions.
Several of their recruits have had to start the season in the second XI with the fight for spots up for grabs.
“It’s a different squad,” he said. “We have more depth and more experience and it will help the junior guys coming through.
“The competition for spots is huge and it’s driving the training standards. Most nights we have 40 to 50 players on the training track.
“It’s good for the coaching panel.”
On Saturday, Melton won the toss and decided to bat against Taylors Lakes.
The Lions were bowled out for 155 in the 55th over.
Simon Blanks top scored with 61 at the top of the order, while Joshua Luca was the only other batter to reach 20, finishing with 34.
Costigan said it was tough conditions and they fought hard to get the runs on the board.
Taylors Lakes got through the end of the day unscathed and will resume at 0-31.
Costigan said they felt they were still in the game and could put the pressure back onto Taylors Lakes.
He said their other sides were in good positions heading into day two of their games.
“The hard wicket sides are winning games, it’s a good feeling around the club.”
Meanwhile, the Lions women’s side had a loss to Greenvale Kangaroos Black in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket Competition shield (1).
With just one division this season, Melton is facing a number of sides for the first time.
On Sunday, the Lions made 4-114 from their overs with captain Amy Hibbert top scoring with 40.
The Kangaroos got the runs with three overs remaining, finishing 2-118.
Athriya Ravi was the wicket taker.
