VSDCA: Spotswood trio of signings out to impress

Spotswood will have three fresh faces in its side this season as it aims for a first VSDCA finals appearance but they’ll be without a star bowler.

The goal of a maiden Victorian Sub District Cricket Association finals appearance looks a realistic goal for Spotswood.

After finishing sixth in the South-West group last season, Spotty has bolstered its squad with three significant inclusions ahead of the new season.

Former Melbourne University duo Antony Keely and Jarrod Martignago have arrived at Donald McLean Reserve in the off-season.

Keely is a former coach of the Premier Club while Martignago is a wicketkeeper-batsman.

Joining them will be Taylor Tatterson, a former captain and coach of Stratford in the Sale-Maffra Cricket Association.

He also has Premier Cricket experience in Carlton’s lower grades.

Spotswood coach Dan Schuppan was impressed with what the trio had brought to the table.

“They’re experience is going to be outstanding for us,” he said.

“Antony was looking to come back to the club and we couldn’t knock back his experience. All those guys should play in our first game.

“The competition for spots is really good for the club, it’s only going to make us stronger as a group.”

While Spotty has been bolstered by the three new arrivals, they’ll be without star bowler Jarryd Vernon for the entire season.

He’s set to miss due to personal reasons.

Vernon took 22 wickets at an average of 16.59 last season in 14 matches.

Jackson Wadden of Spotswood.Picture: George Sal

Schuppan (20 wickets), Matt Sazenis (18 wickets) and Jackson Wadden (14) were Spotswood’s other leading wicket takers.

“It’s a blow to lose him but it’s an opportunity for others to step up,” Schuppan said.

“I think our line-up will be pretty batting heavy.”

After a stunning Subbies debut campaign in 2021-22, Spotty will be pushing to play finals cricket.

The East-West group is set to be intriguing with Endeavour Hills and Werribee among the premiership contenders.

“Our number one objective last season was to earn respect from the rest of the competition,” Schuppan said.

“We were able to develop our own (juniors) and knock off some really good sides.

“The group got a lot of belief from last season.”