HOPPERS Crossing and Keilor strived for an outright result in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division, but were thwarted by time and dwindling overs.
The Cats tried to force the issue with the bat late on day two, but when they were in danger of a reversal of the result, they abandoned the plan and remained content with a first-innings win.
Cats president Steve McNamara said early-season victories were crucial in the long run.
“We’re thrilled to get a win first up. It gets the ball rolling early. It’s always good to have wins in the bank early.”
The Cats were set a mediocre 66 to take a first-innings lead and did it with ease.
Then the hosts failed to ram home their advantage at Hogans Road Oval, making just 121 for a lead of 56.
Keilor had their tails up, going in search of quick runs and scoring at three an over to make 147 off 47 overs on a pitch that had its demons.
When the Cats lost 5-20 in the middle order, the attack was put on the backburner and they finished on 7-75. — Lance Jenkinson
