DISTRICT
THE log jam at the top of the MPCA District ladder continues after round nine was completed on Saturday.
Main Ridge kept is finals hopes well and truly alive after recording a wonderful and commanding victory against the previously undefeated Red Hill.
Skipper Brad Rossborough was magnificent in his side’s victory, beginning the day unbeaten on 32 and still standing at the end, still unbeaten on 180.
Main Ridge made 6/303 to beat the Hillmen by almost 200 runs.
Somerville resumed at 3/17 on Saturday against Carrum, chasing 122 for victory, however, Justin Allsop and Aaron Kaddatz put a stop to any fairytale victory for the Lions.
Allsop was superb for his 91 and Kaddatz provided the much needed support late in the day to make a timely 27 and ensure his side pushed past the Lions’ score. Somerville was all out for 172.
Lachy Dobson and Jackson Fry each picked up three wickets for Carrum.
Mt Martha finished Seaford Tigers’ season and in doing so maintained its own position in the top four.
After setting the Tigers 228 for victory last week, the Reds were able to roll the home side for 177.
Corey Hand is the backbone of the Tigers and he did his bit again on Saturday with a top score of 39, while Ash Mills hit 30.
There is still a glimmer of hope for Seaford in their quest for finals after successfully defending 9/274 against Delacombe Park.
Seaford rolled the Parkers for 161, Paul Hartle back to some of his best with 4/45 and Aaron Peebles picking up 3/56. John Spencer top scored for the Parker with 54.
Baden Powell recorded a comfortable victory over Boneo.
Chasing 156 for victory, the Braves made 222 with Elia Carter top scoring with 97. Rhys Elmi also was among the runs with 64.
In the final game, Hastings was well beaten by Flinders.
The Blues were bowled out for just 63 in their chase of 194 for victory.
Matt Foy top scored for the Blues with 25, while Blake Hogan-Keogh was the pick of the Sharks’ bowlers with 4/10, giving him 16 wickets for the season.