Oakleigh president sings praises of Brendan McGuinness’ knock that took him past Subbies great

Oakleigh president Peter Webb thought the knock that took Brendan McGuinness above Val Holten for Oaks runs epitomises the player he is. Here’s why.

Oakleigh president Peter Webb believes the hand Brendan McGuinness played on Saturday epitomises the player he is.

In his knock of 59, McGuinness passed the great Val Holten for club runs, but it was the way in which the Subbies superstar did it that impressed Webb the most.

“He’s been an incredible player for us, it’s his 11th season and he hasn’t had a bad season in all that time, he’s just still an absolutely fantastic player,” he explained.

“Last Saturday was a perfect example, I mean, we had to bat on a wet wicket like a lot of clubs did and he just made this peerless 59.”

While McGuinness – a multiple premiership player with the Oaks – has all the shots, Webb is adamant the enchanting left-handers ability to monopolise the contest from the moment he takes guard is what sets him apart from other champion players.

“When he gets to the crease he just controls the game,” he explained.

“He knows his pace, we all joke about it a little bit that he takes a fair amount of time to get ready for each delivery … much to the chagrin of the bowlers.

“He sets the pace of the game, has terrific concentration power and has the ability to hit the ball really well.

“He’s very much, once he gets to the crease he intends to stay there a very long time, he’s been a fantastic player.”

Brendan McGuinness on the attack. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Although passing Holten was more a case of when rather than if, such are the standards McGuinness has set, Webb still sung his immense pride in the Oaks legend.

“There had been a bit of chat about it,” he said.

“He wasn’t focused on it, everyone knew he was going to get there eventually, it just so happened that it was last Saturday.

“He’s captained the club, played in multiple premiership players – I think it’s four first XI premierships now – he’s just done it all really, we are very proud of him, that’s for sure.”

Unfortunately McGuinness’ innings was to no avail for the Oaks, who now sit sixth on the North/South ladder with ladder-leaders Kew in their sights.

OAKLEIGH ALL-TIME RUN SCORERS

1. Brendan McGuinness 5397*

2. Val Holten 5371

3. Gordon Carleton 3905

4. Jarrod Travaglia 3620

5. Samuel Jones 3363

6. Michael Splatt 3093

7. Robert Anderson 3006

8. Mark Price 2689

9. William Robertson 2418

10. Andrew Splatt 2416