Tara Murray
Sunbury United still has work to do but is heading in the right direction in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.
The Bees are one of two undefeated sides after the first seven rounds and continue to show the depth within their squad.
Captain-coach Upul Fernaro said they were focused on taking it one week and a time and building through the season.
On Saturday, the Bees faced Rupertswood in day one of their two day clash.
The Bees won the toss and elected to bat, bowled out for 239 in the 71st over.
Fernardo said the performance wasn’t quite what they were looking for.
“We look for 300 with our batting line up,” he said.
“We wanted 300 on the board, so it’s a bit below par. It was on the smaller ground and it normally has a quick outfield, but not as quick as it used to be.
“We’re still positive with a really good bowling attack who backs up the batters.”
Liam Sherlock top scored with 65 at the top of the order, while Fernando made 37 and four other players scored in the 20s.
For Rupo, Aidan Jones and Andrew Pizaro took three wickets each.
The Bees got off to the perfect start with the ball, taking 2-4 off three overs. Rajitha Mendis took both wickets.
Fernando said the start with the ball had been good, but they know Rupo can pile on the runs after making 300 the previous round.
“We’ll go in really positive,” he said. “We’ll back our processes in next Saturday and hopefully make it four in a row.
“We take it one week at a time and we’ll work on our weaknesses.
“There’s some good unity and everyone is very confident in their roles and worrying about the fundamentals.”
Sitting top, Fernando said they were keen to ensure they were in the top two come Christmas time.
He said they have to just keep on executing their game plan.
In other matches, there were plenty of runs on offer as players enjoyed warm conditions for the first time this season.
Gisborne, the undefeated team, made 9-273 against Wallan.
Matthew Barake top scored 52 not out as seven batters reached at least 20.
Romsey skipper Ben Way was at his best as he guided Romsey to 287 against Diggers Rest Bulla.
Way made 124 off 203 balls hitting 10 fours and two sixes.
Romsey was bowled out with three balls remaining. Indika Massalage took four wickets for the Burras.
Woodend made 234 against Bacchus Marsh, bowled out in the 67th over. Marcus Stewart top scored with 76 at the top of the order.
Ryan Brown took five wickets for the Bulls. The Bulls will resume at 0-11.
Sunbury Kangaroos are hoping to get their first win of the season against East Sunbury.
The Kangaroos put on 226 on day one with Mace Green top scoring with 61.
