By Tara Murray
The job is only just beginning for Woodend in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.
Woodend sealed the minor premiership on Saturday with a final round win, to give itself a home final in the first week of finals.
Coach Josh Eastley, who returned to the club this season, said they had exceeded their early season expectations.
“We’re very happy to be in that position and the business time starts now,” he said. “We had eyes on making the top four, which is something we had not done for a few years.
“We wanted to play finals cricket. We’ve certainly above expectations.
“Once we realised what we got, we knew we were capable of being in the top two and having a home final.
“It’s the only advantage you get for finishing on top.”
Eastley said getting a home final was important as the weather could come into play, as it did on Sunday.
On Saturday, Woodend got the job done against Broadford.
Eastley said that Broadford was a good side that was showing they would be a side to watch in seasons to come.
Broadford made 259 on day one of the match.
“Broadford batted well,” Eastley said. “Everything went to plan to get the job done.
“We knew we would have to bat the overs out and pretty much everyone got a start.”
Hayden Ingleton top scored with 54 for Woodend.
Eastley said things were really good around the club as they head into finals.
“We had our thirds win the premiership last week and we won the one-day final,” he said. “We’ve had a bit of success and hopefully the seconds get on the park and get into the grand final [they lost on Sunday].
“If not, it’s been a wonderful year. It’s been pretty successful and the vibe around the club is really good.”
Woodend will face Sunbury United in the semi finals with a grand final spot on the line.
Eastley said they are a quality side.
“We have to bring our A game,” he said. “We’re happy it’s a home final as we play our ground well.
“Hopefully we can get through to the grand final.”
Sunbury United sealed its finals spot with a win against the Sunbury Kangaroos.
Chasing 231, the Bees made 8-332 from their 50 overs.
Skipper Damien Edwards top scored with 82 at the top of the order. Mace Green took three wickets for the Kangaroos.
Romsey and Gisborne both tuned up for finals with big wins.
Having made 290, Romsey was able to bowl Macedon out for 9-228. Daniel Trotta top scored with 46 for the Cats, while three players took two wickets each for Romsey.
Gisborne ended Rupertswood’s small finals hopes.
With 9-409 on the board, the Dragons bowled Rupertswood out for 139.
The Dragons were 7-119 in their second innings.
