Lions just scrape home

By David Nagel
SATURDAY’s West Gippsland Cricket Association clash between Pakenham and Tooradin was one of the most keenly fought in recent times with the game going down to the wire.
Pakenham chased down Tooradin’s imposing total of 7/203cc in the last of its allotted 40 overs after a see-sawing tussle throughout the afternoon. The win gave the Lions a crucial buffer in the race for finals action.
Pakenham’s Ben Maroney (84) and Tooradin’s Callum O’Hare (80) were the stand-out performers on the day.
Pakenham captain Mick Torney proved sportsmanship is alive and well after the game when he paid a visit to the deflated Seagulls change rooms.
After years of playing senior cricket and playing in big games Torney spoke briefly to the Tooradin players about the spirit and quality of their encounter.
“Fellas, I know you’re disappointed but I just want to say that game was played in great spirit and was one of the best games I’ve been a part of,” Torney said before inviting the players back to the clubrooms.
Back in his own changerooms Torney was happy with the win but full of praise for both sides.
“An awesome win, we needed to get one back on Tooradin, they beat us at their home ground,” he said.
“I thought if we could keep them to under 220 we’d be a real shake and that’s how it panned out.
“I thought our spinners would be the key but Cal (Callum O’Hare) batted beautifully, it was just a super game played in good spirits.
“It really sets us up now, it puts us a game clear, it was a big game for us.”
Tooradin skipper Aaron Avery was understandably gutted at the result.
“It was great game, it ebbed and flowed, they had us then we had them but to get so close but so far away, it puts us back in the pack now,” Avery said. “They got off to a flyer with Benny (Ben Maroney) but I was real impressed the way we fought back, we slowed the run-rate and took some wickets, it’s just the way it goes.”