By MATT NICHOLLS
STEPHEN Butler is hoping momentum from Saturday’s preliminary final win against Easts can be carried into the first-grade grand final against Hillgrove.
The City skipper said not having the guaranteed grand final berth might have worked in his side’s favour.
“We were really nervous before the game on Saturday, but I think we are much more relaxed now,” he said.
“Getting that game under our belt and really winning our way into the grand final was good for confidence.”
City, which was formerly known as Churches, is still chasing its maiden Armidale District Cricket Association first-grade premiership.
Last year it fell agonisingly short against Hillgrove, losing by one run in the decider.
Butler said he felt the side had more balance.
“When we play well we don’t have too many weaknesses,” he said.
“We aren’t relying on one or two guys to make the runs or one or two blokes to take the wickets.”
Butler said the key to beating Hillgrove was taking early wickets.
“Their batting strength is at the top of the order,” he said.
“If we let guys like (Michael) Dawson and (Matt) Schaefer get going, they can really hurt you.”
Hillgrove skipper Brad King agreed, although he said it was time his middle order stood up.
“They have really let us down all year,” he said.
“I can put myself in that group as well.
“They know they are under pressure to perform, but in saying that, there is no reason why one or two couldn’t come out and score a 50.”
King said the Colts had every reason to be confident of a strong performance.
“We haven’t had a consistent side in all year, but we hit form at the right time and we have some big game players,” he said.
“It’ll be a tough game, but we are confident we’ll win if we play at our best.”
Saturday’s grand final starts at 12.45pm at the New England Mutual Sportsground.
