By ROY WARD
ENDEAVOUR Hills’ season was on the line on Saturday and the Eagles batted accordingly against Mt Waverley at Mount Waverley Reserve.
The Eagles made the most of winning the toss by posting 7-284, powered by a maiden century from Justin Merlino (117).
The team total was one of the Eagles’ best this Victorian Sub District Cricket Association season.
Eagles captain-coach Matt Hutchinson said his side had lifted after losing three straight matches.
“Our season was probably on the line this match. If we can win we will be back amongst it,” he said. “You don’t play cricket to lose and we will keep playing until the season is done.”
Hutchinson praised his young batsman for anchoring the innings and was also happy with the number of partnerships his side built.
“It was Justin’s maiden century and it was a fantastic knock. He barely gave a chance and let us get in position to have runs at the end of the day and wickets in hand.”
The Eagles did suffer two run-outs late in the day but Hutchinson remains confident 284 will be big enough for his side to defend on the second day.
“I think we have the bowlers to defend that score and bowl them out next week.” Mt Waverley captain Dhugal Bedingfield said he still believed his side could make the runs given similar conditions.
“We would have definitely batted today, it was a flat track with a fast outfield which gave value for your shots. I think it was a 300-par wicket, so if we have wickets in hand at tea on the second day we’ll have a good chance at chasing it down.”
The match continues at Mt Waverley Reserve at 1pm this Saturday.
