A brilliant 94 not out from Shane Jones and a five-wicket haul from Ricky Suvada have booked Deer Park a spot in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association west B1 grand final.
The Lions proved far too good for Barkly Street Uniting, winning by 85 runs at the weekend.
Deer Park president Steve Krstevski said it was a huge victory for the club.
“The mood around here is just full of excitement,” he said.
“Our fourths got into a grand final as well, so the club is really excited with everyone’s performance.”
Batting first, Deer Park smashed 8-194 from its 80 overs, Jones leading the way in the middle order.
Coming in with the match in the balance and the score at 4-40, the Lions’ assistant coach smashed the Barkly Street Uniting bowlers to all parts of Maribyrnong Reserve.
He was well supported by Deer Park captain Glenn Sullivan, who made 27, while Matthew Woodhouse made a handy 16.
“Shane really played a top knock,” Krstevski said.
“His 94 not out was outstanding and everyone really chipped in around him. After the first day and making 194, we were confident … we knew that with our bowling attack our guys could do the job.”
After missing out with the bat, Suvada ensured he would still have an impact on the match when he took the new ball the following afternoon. So it proved, Suvada claiming 5-36 to help set up the win.
Also in the wickets was Sullivan, taking 2-15 as Barkly Street Uniting slumped to a meagre 109. The versatile Jones took 1-26 from his eight overs.
“Ricky was very fired up,” Krstevski said. “He’s a club champion and always gives his heart and soul.
“To get five wickets in a semi-final is an awesome performance. Glenn was really good as well, getting two of their key batsmen.”
Deer Park will take on Kingsville Baptists after the latter defeated top-of-the-table West Newport.
The Lions last played Kingsville in round eight, winning by 55 runs.
“I think it will be a really good grand final,” Krstevski said. “They’re going to come into the game full of confidence, but we’re really looking forward to it.”
Liam Twomey
