It wasn’t a baptism of fire like most expected for Barnawartha-Chiltern in their return to Cricket Albury Wodonga’s District competition last weekend.
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A lack of numbers forced the club to sit out last season and drawing grand finalists Yackandandah in the opening round was a tough way to start.
However, the Miners relished the challenge and fell just nine runs short of an upset victory.
Coach Chris Hartshorn was pleased with the performance and will use it as motivation heading into round two against Mount Beauty on Saturday.
“We took a lot more positives than negatives that’s for sure,” Hartshorn said.
“We knew going into the game our bowling was going to be our strength and the guys bowled to a plan and stuck to it.
“Every single one of them was fantastic.”
Chris Anderson was particularly impressive with figures of 4-14 from his nine overs.
Only nine of those runs were scored by Yackandandah batsmen, with five wides.
“It was about time he had a go,” Hartshorn laughed.
“He played for Yack for a couple of games last year and wanted to show them what they were missing out on.”
Hartshorn admitted his side must be wary of Mount Beauty’s strike weapon, Jake Styles, who is back at the club after a stint at Belvoir.
“We want to limit what he does and attack from the other end,” he added.
Eskdale will be out to bounce back from a heavy defeat to Dederang when it hosts Kiewa.
Corowa commences its premiership defence against Baranduda.
Yackandandah takes on Bethanga, while Howlong clashes with Dederang.
Meanwhile, Barnwartha-Chiltern will welcome AFLW Best and Fairest winner and Melbourne Stars bowler Emma Kearney for a function on Saturday night.
Those interested can contact Chris Hartshorn on 0437 811 886 for tickets.
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