Melton is through to the Sub District cricket semi-finals after a hard-fought win against Altona at the weekend.
The Lions were dismissed for 198 just before stumps on the first day at MacPherson Park on Saturday, the tally’s respectability largely due to a brilliant 120 by opener Mick Allen.
It was his second century against Altona this year.
When play resumed on Sunday, Altona took the slow and steady approach, moving to 0-28 from 20 overs.
The run rate began picking up with star batsman Aaron Maynard at the crease. At 1-71 at tea, Altona looking a chance to reach its target.
But the loss of a couple of wickets severely hampered the run chase as Melton began to get on top.
The Lions eventually dismissed Altona for 168 to seal the win.
Other VSDCA finals
Everything went to plan for top sides Roxburgh Park Broadmeadows and Plenty Valley, which each got through their finals matches.
First-placed Roxburgh Park Broadmeadows was given a strong test before beating sixth-placed Ivanhoe.
Batting first, the Falcons were bowled out for 194, with Simpson Obed top-scoring with his season-best 62.
In reply, Ivanhoe gave the target a real shake before being bowled out 32 runs short for 162.
Plenty Valley recovered from a tough start with the bat to smash Yarraville.
After slipping to 3-33, the Bats went on to make 207, thanks to a handy 54 from number nine Benjamin Dennett.
In reply, Yarraville was all out for 45 to bring an end to its season.
The weekend’s results give Altona a lifeline, as the A’s remain in finals as the highest- placed first-round loser.
This week’s semi-finals will pit Roxburgh Park Broadmeadows against Altona and Plenty Valley against Melton.
