Over recent years, Plenty Valley has had opportunities to take outright victories in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association but not been able to convert them.
On Sunday, the side again had the chance to take all 10 points against Preston in the north-west division after skittling its opponents in the first innings.
But, as in the past when they fell short, it was the same story … missing by a solitary wicket.
The Bats led by 127 on first innings after bowling Preston out for 70. Captain-coach Michael Sheedy said his team had enough chances to get all 10 wickets in the second innings.
“We thought our 197 was enough and the wicket was playing the same as last week when we had to work really hard to get those runs,” Sheedy said.
“Once we’d got them out for 70, we were confident we could get the rest of the wickets for an outright.
“We really should have got the [second innings] wickets; we created enough chances to do it. There was even a missed chance in the final over.”
Preston finished at 9-102.
The bowlers shared the wickets around in the second innings, with Ayres, Michael Croxford and Dennett taking multiples.
“Three weeks out from the finals, it’s what you are hoping to get from your bowlers, to get the job done,” Sheedy said. “Dennett and Croxford did just that.”
The win puts the Bats back on top of the ladder after leader Roxburgh Park-Broadmeadows lost to Kew.
The Falcons struggled in their chase of 156 with Jacob Austin and Mitch Streiff the only chasers to make it past 20.
Both made 25 as the Falcons fell for 115.
The Bats are now two points ahead of the Falcons and six points clear of Melton Lions.
For Sheedy and the Bats, the Falcons’ loss means top spot is theirs for the taking.
“We are back on top of the table, which is where we want to be,” Sheedy said.
“Our ladder position is in our own hands and, if we can win our last two games, we’re a massive chance to finish in top spot.”
