GCA men’s cricket finals week one (semi-finals)

HIGHTON survived their first pressure-cooker test of making the Geelong Cricket Association first XI finals and will now look to survive a knockout semi-final.

The Heat came from fifth going into the final day of the home-and-away rounds to edge out St Peter’s for the remaining top four spot.

Coach Andrew Murden said his troops worked hard, were patient and showed character as they chased down St Joseph’s 230.

Highton were not only playing for a finals spot but also fighting to avoid relegation as part of the club championship.

“We think we may be okay, we’re not too sure, it’s all a bit grey,” Murden said.

Highton will venture to Burdoo Recreation Reserve to face Grovedale in their third versus fourth semi-final.

It will be played across tomorrow (Saturday, March 15) and this Sunday, March 16, with the winner to take on the loser of Newtown & Chilwell versus North Geelong in the preliminary final.

Murden said it was again about getting the mindset right under pressure.

“We’ve played Grovedale a couple of times this year and beaten them both times but it doesn’t really mean anything come a final.

“They’re a pretty strong team and it’s going to be on their home ground as well.

“We’re still going in as the underdogs, that’s for sure.”