By Tara Murray
Plenty Valley were left to rue not batting out its overs against Kew in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-south competition.
Looking to continue the momentum gained last week with back-to-back wins, the Bats started off well.
But they didn’t make the most of their good start and were bowled out for 172 with four and a half overs remaining.
Bats captain-coach Ryan Pearson said they didn’t do enough with the bat.
“We got off to a good start and were 1-90,” he said.
“We made some pretty poor choices and there was a run out. Everyone felt they went too hard at our shots.
“We didn’t bat out the overs which was disappointing.”
Rory Collins top scored with 51, while Callum Nankervis made 43 after coming in at number three.
Kew were never really in trouble in the run chase, finishing 6-175, making the runs with just over three overs remaining.
Pearson said while they had bowled okay, the damage had been done earlier in the day with the bat.
“The two spinners brought us back into the game and we got three to four quick wickets. Once the spinners finished, the medium pacers were easier to score off.”
Pearson was the pick of the bowlers taking 3-32.
PHOTO GALLERY: Plenty Valley vs Kew
The loss has the Bats sitting 2-2 just outside the top six.
With more matches than expected due to changes to the fixture because of the weather, Pearson said they could set up their season up in the next few weeks.
“Had we won we would have been second,” he said.
“Now we’re one game off second. Every game is important.
“We were expecting a lot more two-day cricket. We now have 18 points available before Christmas and every week is important as we’re playing for six points every game.
“In a four-five round period, there’s 24 points up for grabs. That’s pretty much your season.”
The Bats this week face Caulfield.
They also kick off their T20 campaign on Tuesday night against Brunswick.
Pearson said they would field a strong squad.
“It’s just good to get out there and get a hit,” he said.
“We’ve got a couple of young guys playing. We’re definitely out there to win.
“We haven’t done too well the last couple of years.”
