NMCA 2018-19: Reigning premier Rivergum motivated to achieve more success

There comes a point in the evolution of most champion teams when motivation starts to wane. Rivergum coach Gary Bell has no such concerns about his side this summer.

It has been high fives all round for Rivergum for much of the NMCA season. Picture:Andy Brownbill.

There comes a point in the evolution of most champion teams when motivation starts to wane.

After years at the top, even the greatest clubs can be undone when the lure of success is no longer as enticing as in previous years.

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But coach Gary Bell has no such concerns about reigning Jika Shield premier Rivergum as it prepares for a tilt at its fifth premiership in six seasons.

The Kookas made a stuttering start to their title defence, suffering losses to Rosebank and Bundoora Park.

The expected response came in Round 3 against Keon Park and the Kookas have since won eight of their past nine matches.

“There’s still a lot of motivation,” Bell said.

“A few weeks back (Round 8) when we played Bundoora Park they had beaten us earlier in the year, so we were motivated there.

“When we play Rosebank we are always motivated, they are one of the strongest clubs going around, not just in our comp.

“There’s always challenges and you can’t rest on your laurels.”

Matt Perri is enjoying a golden summer with bat and ball. Picture: Hamish Blair

All-rounder Matt Perri has been the standout player in the North Metro Cricket Association this summer, amassing 543 runs and taking 18 wickets.

But in an ominous sign for the club’s flag rivals, Matthew Kiely (224 runs) is the only other Rivergum batsman in the top 20 run-scorers of 2018-19.

Rivergum could be on a collision course with longtime adversary Rosebank come finals, although Bell noted fellow top-four sides Holy Trinity and Bundoora Park were dangerous opposition.

“Bundoora Park … they are young and confident (with a) carefree attitude,” Bell said.

“They haven’t got the experience of playing against Rosebank, us, or Holy Trinity over the years. It’s new to them, so there’s not as much fear factor.

“Holy Trinity are a club that has been building for a few years now.”

Kiely (104 not out) and Alex Jesensek (62) returned to form on Saturday to guide the Kookas to 7-298 against Preston YCW District.

Bundoora Park conceded 9-272 against Preston Baseballers, Holy Trinity (5-231) set the platform for an outright win against Keon Park (61) and Rosebank (1-58) took the initiative against Heidelberg West (182).

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