More than just finals on the line for Highton

HIGHTON senior coach Andrew Murden says the top-grade club has plenty to play for in the final two rounds of the Geelong Cricket Association (GCA) season.

The fourth-placed Heat are trying to make the first-grade two-day finals as well as avoid relegation as part of the club championship, which incorporates four grades.

Sitting on 38.8 points, Highton is on the heels of third-placed Grovedale (40.8) and a nose ahead of St Peters on 38.7.

“Every week has been massive for us, there are no easy games,” Murden said. The Heat just pulled off an impressive win against Grovedale, reeling in the 203 target before eventually being all out for 231 at McDonald Reserve.

It was the second time they defeated the division one juggernaut this season after achieving one-day success in November.

Opener Zac Wills top-scored with 54 and shared an 81-run partnership with first drop Greg Willows.

They followed the lead of consistent leg-spinner Fionn Neeson, who starred with 5-55 from 15 overs on day one.

Murden said Wills was among the young batting brigade that had matured, helping the team rise up the ladder after three wins last summer.

“I think we’ve got seven guys that are over 200 runs for the year and probably four guys over 300,” he said.

“If you look at the ladder, I think we have scored more runs than anyone.”

The coach said Wills was among about five club players who played cricket in England recently.

Highton faces seventh-ranked East Belmont on Saturday at Winter Reserve.

In other round 13 matches, St Peters welcomes Grovedale at Herne Hill, St Jospeh’s hosts Newtown while Chillwell and South Barwon has North Geelong at home.

BY BRIAN ALLEN