Harper Sercombe
Following back-to-back losses, Taylors Lakes was back to its winning ways on Saturday in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west
Coach Aamir Raza was delighted with his team’s performance an in form Williamstown side.
“I don’t think I’ve ever beaten Williamstown in my three years here,” he said.
“Williamstown are one of the stalwarts in the competition. They set the standard and to beat them and not just beat them but I think we beat them convincingly in the end.
“I think we’ve had good parts in our previous games, I think everything just clicked and everything went well on Saturday.”
The Lions hosted Williamstown for a one-day clash at Lionheart Reserve and were sent to the field first.
The Seagulls got off to a shaky start with the Lions making the most of their opportunities, putting Williamstown in a tricky position at 6-87.
However, a strong partnership from Williamstown’s number eight and nine, helped put up a total of 172.
George Sakkas and Raza were fantastic in their nine overs with the ball taking 5-47 and 3-22 respectively.
“I don’t think there were any demons in the pitch,” Raza said.
“I think there were a few poor shots and we bowled some good balls.
“George runs his ass off at training and he reaped the rewards and bowled really well and that’s what happens when you put the work in… and he deserved it.”
In the chase the Lions were strong, after losing a wicket early.
\Opening batsman Luke Denny was dismissed for three which caused some panic in the Lions’ sheds but the rest of the innings went to plan, losing just one more wicket, with Steffan Roberts and Nilan Fernando both finishing unbeaten on 84 and 55 respectively.
“It was quite enjoyable to watch,” Raza said.
“Both Steffan and Nilan compliment each other really well, they run well between the wickets.
“Chasing 173 and not 230 means the run rate is always under control and it’s never out of reach.
“So a couple of good overs here and there isn’t the worst thing in the world because you’re not well behind in the game.”
This week the Lions face Ivanhoe in a two-day game, but both days played on the weekend at Ivanhoe Park.
“We’re really looking forward to it, we’ve got quite a young side, so we’re up and raring to go,” Raza said.
“I think I found some rhythm yesterday with the ball, George found rhythm.
“Next week, the chance to win it over a weekend is a lot of fun.”
