Returning Magpie sets the standard against Lions

North Geelong recovered from a shaky start to defeat East Belmont and remain atop the Geelong Cricket Association first grade ladder.

After being 3-11, the Magpies’ lower-order made some crucial contributions, none more so than Dom McGlinchey, who made an unbeaten 93, on-loan from Geelong premier cricket. North Geelong finishing 7-242 after 50 overs.

East Belmont made a huge start to its run chase, led by Sean O’Neill, who hit a brilliant 102. But that strong start was not enough to reel in North’s total. Tom Mathieson took 4-33 in game 100 as the Lions lost their last five wickets for 20 runs, all out for 208.

Newtown & Chilwell’s Angus Boyd delivered a thrilling knock on Saturday, belting 109 off 86 balls as his side defeated Grovedale by 110 runs, Dylan Hodge took 4-24.

Highton won its first game upon returning to the first division. The Heat made 200 and dismissed Murgheboluc for just 94, Nathan McCoach taking 4-21.

In pursuit of St Joseph’s 134, South Barwon ran into a slight hurdle at 4-43 before Harry Hauenstein (40*) and Clinton Peake (44*) put on 91 runs to guide the side home.

Lara notched up its first victory of the year, overcoming Leopold by 21 runs.