UPDATE: Sunbury Roar has clinched a dramatic victory against Williamstown CYMS in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association’s Steve McNamara Shield this Saturday, coming back from a challenging position. After struggling with the bat on day one, the Roar turned the game around, bowling out CYMS for 159 runs in a nail-biting finish.
The match resumed with the CYMS at 4-89, needing just 73 runs to secure victory. However, the duo of Jason and Jack McGann delivered an incredible performance, taking the final six wickets and achieving a combined total of nine wickets for the team. Coach Leo Italiano expressed his joy, stating, “It was awesome. I’m so happy for the boys.”
On day one, Sunbury’s batting had faltered, managing only 161 runs. Vice-captain Jack Narraway provided a glimmer of hope with an impressive 55 not out, giving his team a chance to fight back. The real stars emerged on Saturday, as Jack McGann took 4-21 off 18 overs, while his father, Jason McGann, contributed with 5-46. Narraway also shone behind the stumps, taking six catches.
“It was unbelievable by Jack McGann,” Italiano remarked. “He’s only 20 and never believed he was a first XI cricketer. Hopefully, the switch has flicked now.” The tension mounted as CYMS approached their target with only one wicket remaining. “When we took that last wicket, I let out a roar and everyone looked at me. They then realized that we had won,” Italiano recalled.
This victory serves as a significant morale boost for the Roar, especially after a disappointing previous match where they collapsed from 0-58 to all out for 118 runs. Sunbury’s second XI faced a washout against CYMS at Clarke Oval, with rain interrupting play as they stood at 4-160.
Looking ahead, Sunbury will face Newport-Digman this Saturday in a one-day match. Newport-Digman recently tied with Tullamarine and will be eager to secure a win against the Roar. With this thrilling triumph, Sunbury aims to build on their momentum in the upcoming matches and establish themselves as strong contenders in the league.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses.
