Melton’s hopes of back-to-back premierships are over after the Lions were knocked out in the first round of Women’s Premier Cricket seconds one-day competition finals.
The Lions, which finished the season in fourth spot, were always in for a challenge against first-placed Carlton Brunswick.
Carlton-Brunswick hit 6-251 off its 45 overs, with the opening partnership of Alex Rogers (83) and skipper Ashley Angus (51) doing the damage early.
Briony Polkinghorne and Laura Shaw were the pick of the bowlers for the Lions with two wickets each.
The Lions lost the wicket of Jessica Surace early, but then looked in control with Shaw and skipper Stephanie Theodore at the crease. The two put on nearly a 100-run partnership, but once both fell the Lions struggled to refocus. Janelle Hayhurst, on 24, was the only other batter who made any inroads.
The Lions finished 9-227, which was 25 runs short of a win. Shaw top-scored with 74 and Theodore made 60.
Next season the club will field a side in the Melbourne All Abilities Cricket Association. The team is for players aged 15 and above and will start in October. A come and try day will be held on March 26 between 9.30 and 11am. Details: 0408 356 850 or kevinvernon007@me.com
