VSDCA 2018-19: Brunswick confident of carrying momentum into second half of North-East group season

Wicketkeeper Karl Mayne has backed Brunswick to continue its pre-Christmas surge and confirm itself as a contender for VSDCA glory.

Karl Mayne climbs high to reel in a throw from the outfield for Brunswick. Picture: Valeriu Campan.

Wicketkeeper Karl Mayne has backed Brunswick to continue its pre-Christmas surge and confirm itself as a contender for VSDCA glory.

Considered one of the pre-season flag fancies, the Wicks were struggling at 2-3 but have since strung together three consecutive victories to climb to fourth in the North-East group.

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An impressive Round 6 win over pacesetter Bayswater sparked Brunswick’s improved run, which also included victories over Balwyn and St Bernard’s.

“We took a lot of belief out of that,” Mayne said of the away win against high-flying Bayswater.

“I think we are starting to play the type of cricket, bringing the energy and competitive level, we need.

“It’s just about trying to bring that every week.”

David McKay helped inspire Brunswick’s improved run. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Mayne lauded the performances of the club’s bowlers after they conceded an average of just 103 runs against Bayswater, Balwyn and St Bernard’s.

“The quicks and spinners as well have really started to lead from the front,” he said.

“We have still got a bit of work to do with some of the consistency with the bat.

“But we think we are in a good position to try and launch this second half of the season and hopefully be hitting our top form as we approach the business end.”

The Wicks’ seamers were lethal during their three-match winning stretch, with David McKay (10), Leigh Brennan (seven) and James Pearson (five) combining for 22 wickets.

Brunswick takes on finals contenders Box Hill, Coburg, Kew and Mt Waverley during the run home, a testing finish to the home-and-away season which will determine whether it earns a top-six finish and a tilt at a long-awaited First XI flag.

“You really do need to be performing well each week because most teams have shown they do have the capability to beat anyone on their day,” Mayne said.

The Wicks host Box Hill in a one-day fixture on Saturday.

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