A middle order collapse has cost Macedon dearly for a second time this season in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association B-grade competition.
Looking for its second win of the season, Macedon looked good early on day two against Gisborne.
Needing 237 for victory, Macedon was in control at 0-99 with openers Oliver Clough and Pat Trotta looking comfortable.
From there it started to go downhill with the lost of frequent wickets. Macedon was soon 4-131, before a partnership between Brendan McGeady and Daniel Trotta settled the side.
But it was short-lived, with Macedon all out for 216. Clough top-scored with 47, while Pat Trotta scored 46. Jason McDonald took four wickets for the Dragons.
Macedon skipper Nick Dodd said the side had blown a good chance to get a win, which will be crucial come the end of the season.
It’s the second time Macedon has had a middle order collapse, following one in game one against Wallan.
“We got off to a good start and then stopped,” Dodd said.
“Gisborne’s bowlers played well, to their credit. It’s twice it [a collapse] has happened now and it’s something we need to address.
“The bowling has been good, but our batting needs addressing.”
Dodd said the biggest thing costing them had been shot selection.
He said they were hopeful that Brendon Scott and Chris Axton would return to the side for the next game. Both will add more strength to the batting line-up.
“Chris is a top order batsman, but might shuffle down the order as we’re content with one through to four.
Dodd, in his first season as skipper, said the club was hopeful it would be in the mix come finals.
Macedon sits fifth after the first three rounds. It now faces Bacchus Marsh, which is coming off a strong first win against East Sunbury.
Dodd said he expects Bacchus Marsh to be one of those teams fighting for a finals spot.
Bacchus Marsh’s 303 proved no match for East Sunbury. The Thunder could only make 160 in reply.
Eynesbury easily accounted for Kyneton and St Anthonys did the same thing against Ashfield.
Wallan’s push for an outright win against Riddell fell just short, but it did take first innings points.
