Country strike back at Barooga

The under-19 match saw a dominant batting display from Country, led by Barwon Rocket Scott Dixon, who scored 77 from just 52 deliveries.

Dixon was well supported by Sam Kerber (62) and Robbie Salerni (59), with Metro coach Jarred Loughman impressed by how the Country batsmen went about their innings.

“Dixon was obviously a stand out,” Loughman said.

“He played excellent cricket shots and took the game away from us.

“They were very measured in how the set up the innings, which allowed them to take 50 off the powerplay.”

Michael Denier was again the pick of the Metro bowlers, capturing 3-38.

In reply, the dangerous Ben Ashkenazi provided early wickets for Country, and impressive spells by all-rounders Sam Kerber (2-36) and Dom McGlinchey (2-11) put Metro behind the eight ball.

 Country met some late resistance from Jack Taylor (35) before dismissing Metro for 202.

In the under-17s,Country made the most of its opportunities to take their first win of the series.

Country were placed under enormous pressure early, slumping to 5-90, thanks largely to  sensational spells by Matt Bullen and Jospeh Blake, who finished with 5-27 and 3-22 respectively.

Strong partnerships between Matt Short (37), Pat McKenna (32), Jack Baker (49) and Luke Ford (21) ensured a Country fight back and amass a competitive total of 190.

The ability of the Country batsmen to work the singles and work through difficult times was a highlight for Metro coach Paul Montgomery.

“Partnerships were the difference between the two teams, Country’s middle order were really tough to get out, where as we struggled to get a solid partnership together,” Montgomery said.

Backing up his performance with the bat, Ford took regular wickets in an outstanding all-round display.

 Ford (3-23) was well supported by Zac Merrett (2-27), Tom Smith (2-36) and Jake Wood (2-45).

For Metro it was a case of missed opportunities; regularly giving up wickets to be dismissed for 160 in the 42nd over.

 Sam Harper offering the only significant resistance with a hard fought 49.

The Country v Metro series will culminate today with a final Twenty20 to cap off a week of high quality cricket in the Victorian Bushrangers Pathway.

 At three wins apiece, it’s set to be a competitive affair with all sides desperate to finish with a win.

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