ECA: Old Carey win Dunstan Shield after beating East Doncaster

Old Carey has climbed to the top of the Eastern Cricket Association rankings after taking out the Dunstan Shield. Here’s how the club became a force.

Inspirational acts can do wonders for a team in a grand final, just ask Old Carey.

A “brilliant” catch by Dan Clarke and an “excellent” stumping by Joshua Devine were the catalyst for Old Carey’s Eastern Cricket Association Dunstan Shield grand final win over East Doncaster by four wickets.

Former Premier Cricket batter Peter Dickson made 65 runs from 102 balls to help guide East Doncaster to 7-156 from its 40 overs.

Sam Moraty led the way for Old Carey with 2-11 from his four overs.

But in response it was captain Callum Still, who was named player of the match, who led the way with 55 runs from 65 balls to lead his side to victory inside 38 overs.

Old Carey celebrated its second premiership in three seasons. Photo: Chris Mirabella.

He shared a vital 54-run partnership with Harry Larkey, 37 not out from 61 balls, to help steady the ship for Old Carey after it had slipped to 3-59.

“We didn’t get rattled with the bat despite being in some early trouble,” Still said.

“The catch by Dan and the stumping by Josh really got us going in the field and helped us to wrestle momentum into our favour.

“Sometimes it takes those acts which really inspire the team to get going.”

Callum Still was named the man of the match. Photo: Chris Mirabella.

On its way to the premiership, Old Carey won seven straight games with its last loss coming on January 29 against Marcellin OC.

Two seasons ago, the club was celebrating its promotion to the ECA’s top tier after taking out the Wright Shield.

“Keeping it simple and everyone playing their roles helped us to get to this point,” Still said.

“We couldn’t be more thankful to the coaches, committee and supporters who came out and supported us on the day.”

Old Carey also took out the C Turf competition following a 44-run win over East Doncaster.

Mazenod was too good in the Mair Shield for Old Carey.