By Nick Creely
There was reason to celebrate on Saturday night at Robert Booth Reserve, with Hampton Park clinching its first Dandenong District Turf 3 victory.
The Redbacks defeated Lynbrook by 21 runs, batting first and posting a competitive but potentially underpar 122.
While the Lakers were able to find regular wickets throughout the innings, with Varun Singh (4/36) in particular impressing, Redbacks skipper James Kellett (36) and Mark Penn (39) fought hard to ensure their bowlers had plenty to work with.
It took a consistent and team-orientated performance from the Redbacks to seal the win, with Sartaj Shinwari (3/11) in particular cashing in.
The Lakers eventually fell over for 101.
Doveton also impressed on the weekend, knocking over Narre North by 31 runs.
The Doves worked strongly together through the middle order to post 7/183 from their 40 overs, with Adam Read (32) and Ali Kamali (30 not out) doing the most damage.
After a tough result last week, the Narre North side improved drastically but fell just short, bowled out for 152 with four overs to spare, but would be pleased with a more prominent intent with the bat.
Troy Hancock’s 3/32 from his eight overs proved vital to the result, with the new-ball bowler proving a real threat.
Coomoora banked a huge early-season win, knocking off the highly fancied Springvale.
The Demons are a dangerous unit, but the Roos eased home with a six-wicket win, set up with a disciplined bowling display.
Nuwan Mendis once again got going after his blistering ton last week, belting 47 from 46 balls, but didn’t have as much support as his side posted 9/136.
Dean Krelle proved hard to negotiate, bowling superbly with tidy figures of 2/8 from eight overs, which included four maidens.
Roos opener Rahoul Pankhania ensured the visitors would see no wobble, crunching an unbeaten 57 not out to guide his side to the six-wicket win.
In the remaining match, Silverton (7/163) got the chocolates against Fountain Gate (145) at Max Pawsey Reserve.
