Crucial win for Saints at Newstead

STUNG by consecutive defeats, Heathcote captured a crucial victory at Newstead in Saturday’s fifth round of A-reserve action in the Castlemaine District Cricket Association season.

The Saints’ top-order led the way to what became a two-run victory against the Steaders.

After Heathcote captain Rhys Ashen chose to bat he teamed with Daniel Butler for a 62 run stand.

Ashen was run out by William Garsed on 34.

It was Butler and Tim Gleeson who put Heathcote in control as they teamed for a second-wicket partnership of 84.

Butler struck a six and nine fours before he was caught on 64 runs off just 88 deliveries.

Newstead took two wickets for just a run, but it was Gleeson’s top knock of 46 off 57 deliveries which ensured Heathcote would press on past the 170 mark.

Gleeson was caught with the score on 4-175.

The Saints reached 6-191 off 40 overs against a Newstead attack led by William Garsed, 3-20, and Keelan Gardner, 2-35.

Newstead was 6-77 in the chase as Ben Poulton and spinner Nick Malavisi kept the heat on.

Top innings by Chris Elderfield, 41; Faolan Gardner, 38 not out; and Ciaran Gardner, 34, put Newstead back in the game.

Stands of 37, 22 and 41 had the Saints under the pump.

A last wicket stand of 12 was ended by a run out as Poulton, 4-44, and Malavisi, 3-36, led the attack.

Heathcote has the bye this Saturday ahead of the November 23 clash at Harcourt from 1pm.