Sport
18 October, 2023
Season opener win for new-look Lions
THE merging of the Noorat and Terang cricket clubs – and a move into the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association – has resulted in an early win for the Lions.
THE merging of the Noorat and Terang cricket clubs – and a move into the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association – has resulted in an early win for the Lions.
The recently merged Noorat Terang Lions went in to round one of the Warrnambool Association’s division two competition last weekend confident of their ability and hopeful of clenching an early victory.
In front of a home crowd at Noorat, the Lions held on for a five-run victory over Nirranda, finishing 9-144 to 139.
Opener Ned Roberts hit a solid 38 off 57 balls and was well supported by Jordie McKenzie with 24 and lower order batsman Luke Kenna who contributed 13.
Best of the bowlers for the Lions were Isaac Kenna 5-16 off eight overs, Tim Keane 3-25 from nine and Sam Munro 2-26 off five.
Team co-captain coach Liam Geary said his side was “absolutely thrilled” to get the win first up and was looking forward to the challenge of playing “the unknown.”
“Moving into a new league, with a new team, is always a challenge but it’s one we’re ready for and really looking forward to,” Geary said.
“I’m extremely proud of how we played on the weekend and to get a round one win under our hats, we’re just stoked.”
Geary praised the efforts of young opening batsman Ned Roberts who, he said, got the side “off to a flying start” and also Isaac Kenna who was brought on with the ball at a time when wickets were needed.
“Isaac really held us up well and made a huge difference,” Geary said.
“He bowled exceptionally and was rewarded with five wickets. The win was a great all-round effort and it’s really sent a great vibe around the club.”
Geary believes the recent merge between the two (Terang and Noorat) is not only paying dividends on the field, but also off it – with both communities rallying behind the Lions.
“We’re pumped for the season and for what can be achieved on and off the ground,” he said.
“We had a fantastic crowd there at Noorat on Saturday and looking at the draw we have a good number of home games.
“Warrnambool District League really push turf cricket so as soon as ours is ready at Terang – which hopefully isn’t far away – we’ll be playing there.”
The Lions’ division two team will take on Merrivale this Saturday.
Weather depending, the match (at this stage) will be held at Noorat.