The Phoenix looked capable of pushing towards 275 after import Saif Zaib ripped the home team attack apart with 77 from only 56 balls, including 11 boundaries.

But in his first provincial game of the season, Brandon Purtell nabbed 4-41 as the visitors were bowled out for 229 from 47.2 overs.

North captain Ash Borella (79) struck a third straight score over 50 in a century stand with Ben Paddle.

The opener finished with 52 as North passed the total only four wickets down.

Meanwhile, Belvoir is starting to gain momentum.

The Eagles posted 7-213, with East Albury’s Miles Hemann-Petersen becoming one of the association’s youngest players at just 13.

The wicketkeeper claimed three catches.

The Crows made 8-171.

Wodonga coach Robbie Jackson blasted 92 in 8-231 against Albury.

Kade Brown hit 81 out of 7-159.

And St Patrick’s beat Wodonga Raiders by four runs.