Lancefield came away with a confidence boosting win, its first back in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield.
Last season’s Jensen Shield winners, the Tigers have been finding their feet at the higher level the first three weeks.
On Saturday, they were able to hold their nerve to beat Eynesbury, opening their account.
Tigers coach Alan Sinclair said getting a win on the board early was massive.
“It’s nice to get a win on the board early,” he said. “It’s a bit of a jump up.
“We’ve played Eastern Hill and East Sunbury which made finals last year, so they are the standard and the best.”
Sinclair said they were disappointed not to come away with the win against the Thunder, saying they cost themselves the chance to get the points.
He said with a young side they are still improving and will grow throughout the season.
“We’re all around the same age,” he said. “To get that first win is a bit of a relief for everyone.”
On Saturday, the Tigers and Eagles had a good battle as they both looked to get their first win of the season.
The Tigers batted first and made 8-159 from their overs.
Trent McNamara top scored with 45 in the middle of the order.
Eynesbury was bowled out for 137 in the 42nd over after its top order failed to fire.
Andrew Richardt took four wickets for the Tigers, while McNamara took three wickets.
Sinclair said while it was better than in the match against East Sunbury, one area they need to get better at this season is defending run totals.
One player who had impressed Sinclair early was Ned Budde.
“He’s 19 years of age,” he said. “The way he has improved.
“His batting has come a long way and his bowling is now improving each week.”
After some good results in previous seasons, Sinclair knows this season is a different prospect.
He said their main aim was to be competitive and hopefully get a few wins on the board.
“You always want to chase finals,” he said.
“Everyone has to play their role and we want everyone to enjoy it.”
Sinclair said they would have some players come back into their three sides in the next couple of weeks which would add depth across all three sides.
In other matches, East Sunbury was skittled for just 69 against Eastern Hill, well short of Eastern Hill’s 141.
Diggers Rest Bulla remains undefeated after beating Kilmore and Sunbury Kangaroos beat Harkness.
