By JO HARRISON
HILLGROVE Colts first grade cricket side opened their season strongly on Saturday with a comprehensive victory over Easts by 163 runs.
A strong batting performance from Hillgrove – which scored 294 runs in its innings – made the run chase difficult for Easts who had to take too many risks to score at the run rate required. Batsman for Hillgrove Michael Dawson set the tone for the massive score reaching his century and finishing on 103.
Hillgrove captain Brad King was pleased with his side’s performance so early in the season.
“A few guys scored runs and Michael Dawson was outstanding,” Brad said.
“Josh Croft and Tom Armitage were also excellent for us and to reach 294 runs in 44 overs with only five wickets down was pretty handy.”
Preparation for the season hasn’t been particularly intense for Hillgrove, which has only had a couple of net sessions prior to the season. However star batsman Michael Dawson lives and breathes cricket all year round and was well prepared for the start of his season.
“Our preparation has been pretty typical and nothing out of the ordinary so it was great for us to reach such a high score in our first game out,” Brad said.
“The wicket was really good and the field was very quick however both bowling teams suffered a few first game issues with their bowling, it wasn’t the best from both sides.”
In the other game played on the weekend Armidale City defeated Ex Services by 32 runs. Armidale City scored 8/206 with Ex Services chasing finishing 6/174.
Next weekend Hillgrove plays Armidale City at Lambert Park and ExServices plays Guyra at the Armidale Sportsground. Easts have the bye.
