By Tara Murray
Macedon has made itself at home in the Johnstone Shield in the Gisborne District Cricket Association.
After winning the Jensen Shield last season and earning promotion, the Cats have started the season with two wins from their first four matches.
Cats captain Daniel Trotta said the competition this year didn’t feel too different from last year.
“When we have a full team together, we can compete with anyone,” he said.
“It’s not too different from last season. Our side has changed a little bit though.
“We’ve had a few players unavailable, but the same thing happened last year.
“Hopefully we’ll come back and hit some form at the back end of the season.”
Trotta, who has captained the side on and off the past few years, has taken over the captaincy with Craig Pender out with a severe back injury.
Chris Axton is also out, meaning the Cats have a bit younger side this season.
Trotta said it was good to see what the next generation can do.
“We’ve been unlucky with injury,” he said. “Craig will be out of action for while. Chris is another one, who is one of our better players.
“This week we had a few out with work and races. It’s given us the chance to play some kids.
“Zac Waddington was good on the weekend with the bat and ball. Sam Brown took five wickets in the twos.
“It’s good to see the future of the club.”
Trotta said the likes of Ollie Clough and the Doyle brothers could be among those to step up and take the load off some of the older players this season.
On Saturday, an undermanned Macedon lost to Wallan.
Wallan made 9-192 from its overs.
The Cats finished 9-103 with just two players scoring double figures.
“We were pretty confident that we could get the runs, it’s a quick outfield,” Trotta said.
“[But] We lost a few early wickets, including myself for not many, left too much for the kids.”
Patrick Doyle top scored with 36.
