Grand final victory is just as sweet the second time around for Rivergum in North Metro cricket’s Jika Shield.
After winning its first shield last season, Rivergum entered the weekend match as hot favourites after only one loss for the season.
Rivergum coach Gary Bell said almost everything went to plan, as they bowled out North Brunswick/Rosebank for 126.
“To have the day we had after losing the toss was great,” Bell said.
“Ninety per cent of finals are won by the team that bats first and we were up against it, especially against a quality unit like North Brunswick/Rosebank, who bat out their overs and put the pressure on.”
Daniel Bramich took 5-15 to claim man-of-the-match honours.
Rivergum faced five overs at the end of day one, finishing the day at 0-17.
“When there were about seven overs left the umpire asked if we wanted to get them out and have a bat and I said: ‘Absolutely’,” Bell said.
“In previous years I’d have been hesitant, but we have so much belief in ourselves.”
But day two didn’t start well when Rivergum lost three quick wickets, including Bell himself for seven, to be 3-33.
“There was a bit of mix up with a run-out and a couple of loose shots but we knew we could bat to 11,” he said.
“They only had 126 to defend so they threw everything at us.
“We knew one partnership of 50-60 would get the job done and in the end it was one of close to 100.”
Rivergum made the winning runs with the loss of only three wickets, thanks to Steve Kirby (50no) and Matthew Perri (47no).
Bell said the win was just as good as last season’s, as everyone was out to beat them this season. “I’m just as happy as last year,” he said.
Nine members of the side played in both flags.
“Steve Kirby came across from Donath and has batted well for us and Kasey May has just turned 21 and is always the first to training.
“He bats in a terrible position at number eight and doesn’t get a lot of chances, so I’m thrilled for him,” Bell said.
