Another week, another twist in the tale of the Sub-District cricket’s north-west division.
With two weeks until finals, the make-up of the top six is anyone’s guess with each week throwing up surprise results.
Roxburgh Park Broadmeadows, Plenty Valley and Melton Lions have all been on top of the ladder at some point since Christmas, such is the closeness of the competition.
After being knocked off the top by Kew the previous weekend, Roxburgh Park bounced back this week with 8-259 against Werribee, another team in the finals mix.
Falcons captain-coach Mitch Johnstone said it was a good toss to win and bat first. “It was a relatively good wicket with favourable conditions for the batsmen,” he said.
“We fell 20-30 short of what we wanted, with the innings tailing off towards the end.”
The innings hero was Mitch Streiff, who made his maiden First XI century, 114 not out.
The Falcons may find themselves back on top at the end of this game.
Plenty Valley, now top of the ladder, has already conceded first innings points to Melton after batting first and being bowled out for 61, with five players making ducks.
When Melton replied, Sean Ayres took 6-10, including 5-0 at one stage, as the Lions declared at stumps at 9-78.
“We have to make sure we get a good result in our game,” Johnstone said.
“With Melton taking the six points, they and Plenty Valley are on 51 points and we’re on 49.
“It’ll be interesting to see how Plenty Valley approaches the game and whether they risk losing outright in trying to get the win themselves.
“We’re absolutely looking at getting a top-two spot. If you can get a home final and second chance it gives you some security.”
The Falcons face Sunshine in a one-day game in the last match of the regular season.
“From teams from 11th it is very competitive,” Johnstone said. “If you don’t come out and play you will be found out.”
