By Tara Murray
Macedon dug deep to win the closest of games against Malmsbury in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield Sub Districts Firsts competition.
The Cats had to give everything they had against Malmsbury to cement their spot in the top two and all 11 batsmen were needed.
Malmsbury elected to bat and made 9-141 from its 40 overs.
Brendon Scott and Darcy Doyle took two wickets each.
Cats captain Craig Pender said he thought it was a score they were more than capable of chasing down but the run chase became a lot harder than expected.
“We didn’t think it would be that difficult,” he said. “Malmsbury bowled really well and we lost 3-23 and then were 5-75.”
The Cats youngsters and tail stood up when they were needed and hit the winning runs nine wickets down.
The Cats added only one more run, before being bowled out for 143.
Pender said they were ecstatic with the younger players.
“Harry Brundell had not picked up a bat for three years and he top scored with 31,” Pender said. “He won the game for us. He was just hoping not to go out first ball.
“He can play and was a good junior and wanted to come back and play again.
“Jordie Watkins, Patrick and Darcy Doyle are all under 19 and they all contributed in the win.”
Pender also gave praise to number 11 Mitch Graham, who managed to survive long enough to get the win.
The Cats sit second, with all teams still able to make finals, making every win important.
Pender said they had enjoyed the season.
“We as a club had to make a difficult decision at the start of the season to drop down a grade,” he said. “We lost a number of players due to work and injuries and are playing quite a number of young players.
“We are competitive every week now and it’s a real bonus for the club that the junior players are coming through.
“It was a good decision on the club’s behalf and hopefully we can stay competitive.”
The Cats are only percentage behind Sunbury United, which is the form team of the competition, after winning five straight games.
United defeated Rupertswood on Saturday. Rupo made 8-185, before United made 3-188.
St Anthonys is also equal on points with the top two sides. The Saints defeated Blackwood in another high-scoring match.
A Luke Malone century helped Lancefield to the win against Kyneton.
Kyneton made 9-182 and the Tigers made 3-184 in reply. Malone made 103 not out.
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