DVCA 2018-19: Heidelberg claims Money Shield grand final win over Lower Plenty

Heidelberg has secured promotion to the top flight of the DVCA after a red-hot run of form culminated with victory in the Money Shield decider.

Heidelberg celebrates its DVCA Money Shield premiership. Picture: Facebook

Heidelberg has secured promotion to the top flight of the DVCA after a red-hot run of form culminated with victory in the Money Shield decider on Saturday.

Defending 9-208, the Tigers cruised to a 76-run triumph over Lower Plenty on the back of a razor-sharp performance with the ball and in the field.

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Heidelberg won its last seven games of the season to claim the ultimate prize and make amends for its grand final defeat in 2017-18.

Captain-coach Justin Whitcher credited his young team for backing up its efforts of the previous campaign in a hotly-contested finals race.

“A lot of clubs would have gone backwards and not been able to get to that level again,” Whitcher said.

“They all improved and went to a new level. We were just more ready this year and more balanced.

“This year we had lesser lights and young blokes realise what their capabilities were.”

Heidelberg celebrates a Jack Ridewood wicket. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Whitcher declared his Tigers were the “best fielding side in the comp” after they snaffled eight catches on their way to an emphatic win.

Whitcher (3-22), Andrew Fotinopoulos (2-24), Jack Ridewood (2-27), Callum Gogerly (2-29) and Christian Kostakis (1-25) combined to roll Lower Plenty for 132 in 71 overs.

“The bowlers were outstanding and again the fielders were outstanding,” Whitcher said.

“We didn’t really make a mistake in the field.

“I couldn’t ask for any more. They just did what I asked, are really good listeners and predominantly young.”

Christian Kostakis in full flight for Heidelberg. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Brad Nihill was the hero of day one, with his patient half-century pushing the total beyond 200.

The No. 3 spent over four hours at the crease to compile 86 from 258 balls.

Nihill had posted scores of eight, 37, 25 and 10 in the lead up to finals, with Whitcher even considering shifting him from first drop.

He then made nine in the semi-final against Banyule before rewarding Whitcher’s faith on the big stage.

Lower Plenty’s Josh Henkel goes on the attack. Picture: Mark Dadswell

“Brad likes to play his shots predominantly and he’s a busy bat,” Whitcher said.

“Credit to the bloke. He’s another one who’s about 23 years old and hasn’t batted time like that ever in A grade, I don’t think.

“That’s the innings that’s won the game. It was just another growth moment. I questioned him, and in front of the group … but what more could you ask for?”

Heidelberg has already locked in one key recruit for next season as it prepares for the challenge of Barclay Shield.

“I’ll back the group that’s already there to continue to improve,” Whitcher said.

“That includes Brad, Lachie Turner, Harry Frazer, Lewis Balcombe — they’re all early 20s.

“If they improve 10 or 20 per cent, then there’s excuse why we can’t be competitive. I’ve just got to be smart about how I use them next year.”