DVCA 2018-19: Montmorency claims first Barclay Shield victory in more than a year against North Eltham Wanderers

Montmorency is preparing for a last-round salvage mission after clinching in first victory in more than a year against North Eltham Wanderers on Saturday.

Thomas Taylor celebrates a wicket during Montmorency’s breakthrough win over North Eltham Wanderers. Picture: Hamish Blair

Montmorency is preparing for a last-round salvage mission after clinching in first victory in more than a year against North Eltham Wanderers on Saturday.

The Magpies prevailed by 19 runs at Montmorency Park, dismissing the Wanderers for 251 after they declared at 6-270 early on day two of the DVCA Barclay Shield fixture.

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Ruwinda Shaman was the matchwinner for Montmorency, adding 37 runs to his overnight total in five overs to finish with 147 not out.

“He’s probably one of the best players the club would have ever had,” captain Jack Taylor said.

“He’s a brilliant bat and he batted so patiently on the first day and hit the bad ball.

“On the weekend we had five overs to bat and he smashed them. He got an extra 37 runs in five overs, so he was unbelievable.”

Nishantha Weerakkody claimed two clutch wickets for Montmorency. Picture: Hamish Blair

Peter Mann clips a ball through the leg side for North Eltham. Picture: Hamish Blair

North Eltham Wanderers produced a determined chase, rallying from 5-123 as Travis Baker (48), skipper Jake Lambert (20) and No.10 batsman Tom Beers (37) willed their side within striking distance.

Opening bowler Nishantha Weerakkody returned to the attack in the final overs of the Wanderers’ innings, removing Lambert and Beers to cap a breakthrough triumph.

“There was a bit of relief, but we wanted to enjoy it,” Taylor said.

“You always want to enjoy a win. I think it’s been over a year since we'd had a win, so it was pretty good.”

The Magpies last tasted victory on February 3 last year when they overcame Old Paradians.

The result has lifted Montmorency to within three points of North Eltham Wanderers (ninth) heading into their Round 11 clash with finals aspirant Rosanna.

“Next week is like a grand final for us,” Taylor said.

“If we win and manage to stay up it will be like winning the grand final for us.

“It’s massive. We’ve got everything to play for.”

Flag favourite Diamond Creek (155) defeated Lower Eltham (133) by 22 runs, Rosanna (6-163) reeled in Epping’s 6-162, Macleod (7-139) downed Riverside (9-136) and Bundoora (8-199) accounted for Plenty (136).

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