By Tara Murray
Macedon struck a massive blow in the battle for top spot in the Gisborne and District Association Jensen Shield Sub-District Firsts.
Facing St Anthonys in the battle of the top two teams, it was the Cats that came out on top.
The Cats set the win up on day one, making 9-295.
Captain Craig Pender said it was a really consistent batting performance.
“We had three guys make 50s and then there were others who got some starts.
“The last few batsmen sacrificed their wickets … they just went out there swinging.
“It was really good to do that. It was a consistent innings.”
With the runs on the board, the Cats then did the damage with the ball, restricting St Anthonys to just 164.
“Our fielding has been a key point and we have a competitive bowling attack,” Pender said. “To get them out for 164, was another great day.
“Kyle Grace, who took 4-27, has been our secret weapon [he] has been really great for us.
“There’s been a nice buzz around the club at the moment and he’s a big part of that.”
Pender also praised Patrick Doyle, who bowled his first decent spell of the season.
He finished with 2-15 off five overs.
“It’s great for us to see that, at this point of the season.”
The Cats sit on top heading into the final round, six points clear of Sunbury United and St Anthonys and with the best percentage of the three sides.
Pender said there was a really good feeling at the club at the moment.
“We’re looking good heading into finals, but anything can happen,” he said.
“It’s really pleasing for us that … the results are starting to come.
“The club is in a great space at the moment and there is a really good atmosphere.”
Photo Gallery: Macedon vs Blackwood
It was a good day for the Cats’ second side which defeated Wallan in Club grade north.
Wayne Brundell made 100 not out, in an innings he declared was in honour of his father who died a few weeks ago.
In other Jensen Shield matches, Malmsbury suffered a loss to Sunbury United.
With both sides inside the top four, United’s 183 proved too much for Malmsbury which was bowled out for 164.
Lancefield kept its finals hopes alive with victory against Blackwood.
The Tigers made 9-215 in reply to Blackwood’s 174. Blackwood finished 3-125 in its second innings. The Tigers sit three points outside the top four heading into the final round.
Rupertswood defeated Kyneton.
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