Bundoora was left to rue the win that got away against Research Eltham Collegians in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association’s Barclay Shield on Saturday.
The Bulls looked in control when Collegians lost their eighth wicket still needing 40 runs for victory.
But the ninth wicket partnership got Collegians to within 10 runs, with nine runs required off the final over – they hit 10 runs off the last six balls.
Collegians finished on 9-262 after chasing the Bulls’ 260.
Bulls captain Shupinder Taggar said it was a match his side should have won.
“It was actually a really good game of cricket – unfortunately we didn’t get the win,” he said. “When they are eight wickets down with 40 still to get, you’re in a good position. We sort of relaxed and let it slip.
“The ninth wicket partnership did the damage. We lost concentration.
“Even needing nine off the last over we should have won. They had mishits, and with short boundaries, luck went their way.”
Taggar and Stuart Adams were the best of the bowlers for the Bulls with three wickets each.
The loss leaves the Bulls in a pack of four teams from sixth to ninth and equal on points. Each of those sides has a win, two losses and a draw.
Taggar said the atmosphere around the club seemed a lot most positive than it had been in recent years.
“It’s not ideal sitting where we are, but we’ll work hard to make our way back up the ladder,” he said. “I think we’re stronger in our batting this year … we’ve had six guys make at least 40 in a game in three rounds.
“There’s a good mix of players in the side. We’re enjoying our cricket more this season.”
Helping the Bulls maintain an upbeat mood was the appearance of former Australian cricketer Clint McKay in their T20 side.
Taggar said if McKay’s schedule allowed, he would play in other T20 matches.
“He has been around the world playing cricket,” he said. “He was really good giving the kids insights and answering all their questions. We enjoyed having him around.”
In other Barclay Shield results, Epping made 170 in reply to Macleod’s 7-251. Opener Alex Licovski top scored for Epping with 47.
Old Paradians/St Francis avoided an outright defeat against Riverside. Chasing 9-197, the Wolves were bowled out for 100.
Sent back in, they finished their second innings at 6-40.
In the Money Shield, Lalor Stars had a win, while Plenty Power, Mernda, Bundoora United and Whittlesea suffered losses.
