FIRST-year coach Luke Styles is excited rather than disappointed with Albury’s 0-3 win-loss start to the season.
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Styles said his team had competed well at stages against Lavington, East Albury and Belvoir and weren’t far away from opening their winning account.
“It’s been encouraging,” Styles said.
“Our batting in particular has been good.
“We made 200-plus against Belvoir at the weekend and I think the only times we’ve made a score like that in recent years was against Wodonga Raiders and New City who are young, developing sides.
“We’re working hard and I’ve seen enough to think we can be really competitive this season.”
Albury looked an outside chance of rolling Belvoir after making 8-206 but its inexperienced bowling attack proved no match for Eagle batsmen John Spencer and Drew Cameron.
Its hopes were further dashed with Wagga RSL recruit Jake Hindmarsh being unable to bowl due to a slight side strain.
“We didn’t want to risk Jake,” Styles said.
“He could have given it a go, but it’s a long season.
“I don’t think it’s too bad.”
Styles, himself, was a casualty after suffering a quad injury while batting earlier in the day.
He had only faced a couple of balls when he pulled up short and required teammate Harry Weaven to be a runner for the rest of his innings.
Styles predicted a big season from opening batsman Zac Stuart after he topscored with 42.
“He’s a quality batsman,” Styles said.
“He didn’t look like being dismissed before he was unfortunately run out.
“I’m confident he’ll make big runs this year.”
Only three players – Liam Hocking, Charters Harding and Nick Sheridan – are still in Albury’s side after playing in its final home and away match last season.
Officials are hopeful former skipper Kade Brown will play in coming weeks.
Albury take on Tallangatta at Tallangatta on Saturday.
“Every game is tough, particularly Tallangatta at Tallangatta,” Styles said.
“Everyone is the same but it’s important we bat out our overs.
“Our bowling is a work in progress and I just think it’s important we concentrate for the full 50 overs.”
In other provincial matches this weekend, Belvoir host Wodonga Raiders, Wodonga do battle with East Albury, North Albury take on Lavington and St Patrick’s meet New City.