DVCA 2020-21: North Eltham Wanderers advance to Barclay Shield decider

North Eltham Wanderers advanced to the DVCA Barclay Shield decider in thrilling circumstances as they eye a shot at history.

Jake Lambert goes on the attack for North Eltham Wanderers in Saturday’s DVCA Barclay Shield semi-final. Picture: Steve Tanner

North Eltham Wanderers moved a step closer to a historic premiership after advancing to the Diamond Valley Cricket Association decider.

The minor premier recorded a tie against Riverside in a memorable major semi-final on Saturday, progressing to the March 20 grand final as the higher-ranked side.

The Wanderers have never won a Barclay Shield flag in their 39 years in existence, but Lachlan McLeod secured his team a shot at glory with a boundary from the last ball of an engrossing contest.

Lachlan McLeod hits a boundary from the final delivery for North Eltham Wanderers. Picture: Janet Lyall

McLeod (13 not out) and Riley O’Donnell (9 not out) were at the crease for the nail-biting conclusion, the home side finishing 8-179 in response to the Siders’ 9-179.

Earlier, captain Jake Lambert (37) and star all-rounder Adam Tsapatsaris (33) laid a strong platform with a 58-run opening stand, while ex-coach Jake Young (25 from 19 balls) played an vital knock at No.6.

Jake Lambert and Adam Tsapatsaris talk tactics. Picture: Steve Tanner

“Everyone was pretty excited, it was just amazing,” Lambert said.

“Obviously being a home final, there was good crowd there from both sides. For it to come down to the last ball, the boys were pretty pumped.

“But still keeping in mind it’s super important to enjoy the moments along the way … there’s still a big job to do and in two weeks’ time we’ll certainly be raring to go.”

Lambert said the opportunity to “create history” was not lost on the Wanderers.

The club claimed three Money Shield titles – in 2008-09, 2010-11 and 2015-16 – before establishing itself in the top grade.

“I was a young Wanderer when we won our first Money Shield and to watch that and how much it meant to so many people was amazing,” Lambert said.

“For this group to have the chance to bring home the club’s first Barclay Shield is certainly something the boys are keen to do.”

Riverside celebrates a wicket on Saturday. Picture: Steve Tanner

While the Wanderers have benefited from the contributions of several players this season, Tsapatsaris has enjoyed a golden summer.

While he played an important knock, he also grabbed 2-36 from eight overs with the ball, taking his tally to 19 wickets at 18.79 apiece to go with 599 runs at 46.08.

“He’s had an incredible season and to be able to open the batting with him is just amazing,” Lambert said.

“He works harder than anyone I’ve ever seen and has been a really good (example) to our group to put in the work and reap the rewards.

“I know how much playing for your club means to him and how much he wants to cap this season off with a premiership.

“He’s been in superb nick and hopefully he can top it off with a flag in a few weeks.”

Riverside will face Banyule in the preliminary final on March 13.

The Bears, who were awarded last season’s Money Shield flag, remained alive after toppling Rosanna by five wickets in the other semi.

“Banyule have obviously had an amazing season since being promoted and Riverside are always strong and competitive,” Lambert said.

“It’ll be a good game next weekend. I’ve got no idea which way it will go, but we’ll just make sure we do what we can to be prepared.”