EAST Warrnambool-YCW has found its rhythm after a slow start to the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association season.
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Broncos skipper Mark Murphy said an increased focus on individual tasks, combined with a stronger sense of team work, had put the 2014-15 grand finalist’s summer back on track.
The Broncos dropped their first two Twenty20 matches before back-to-back wins against two of the competition’s title favourites, Woodford and Nestles.
“It was not the start we wanted but it was always going to be pretty hard coming off high expectations from last year,” Murphy said.
We knocked off the two undefeated teams in consecutive weeks which was pleasing
- Mark Murphy
“I think we were a bit unsettled at the start and to get the last couple of wins has been important, especially against Woodford and Nestles.
“We knocked off the two undefeated teams in consecutive weeks which was pleasing.”
Murphy said the Broncos’ fielding was a focus again this season.
The second-year mentor said being sharp in the field could be the difference between playing finals and missing out.
“Any team which strives to be successful should strive to be a good fielding side,” he said.
“That was one thing when I came to the club last year that I was big on.
“If a player fails with the bat or ball, they can step up in the field.
“Tom Moloney is one of the better fielders in the league and saves us a lot of runs.”
Murphy said East Warrnambool-YCW was thrilled to have bowler Daniel Oakley back at the club this year to help complement reliable veteran Jason Alberts.
Oakley has taken four wickets in his two matches – the wins over the Eels and Factory – and is batting at number three.
Murphy is hopeful the pair can have an impact against Nirranda in their Merri conference clash on Saturday.
“They (the Knights) are always very competitive with a lot of young lads and then the experience of Corey Couch and Jason Mungean,” he said.
“We will have to bring our A game. But if we all stick to our roles, we should be able to beat anyone on the day.”
In other Merri conference games, winless Dennington meets Woodford and Russells Creek hosts the in-form Nestles.
Wesley-CBC plays Brierly-Christ Church, West Warrnambool welcomes Port Fairy and Merrivale tackles Allansford in the Hopkins conference.
