Cobram claims division two MVCA glory

Captain Dom Anastasio - who missed the decider through injury - was proud of the way his troops fought out the victory.

“I tore my thigh a few weeks ago against Jerilderie, so Bernie Kelly stepped in as captain in my place,” Anastasio said.

“It was definitely a great win, Jerilderie are a quality side who are even across the board with bat and ball.

“We were able to get the start we wanted with the bat and were able to push on from there.

“It was still really tight when we were bowling, Jerilderie needed about a run a ball the whole way through, but Mick Goodson bowled a really great last over and got us over the line.”

The Tigers posted 4-148 from their 35 overs, with Kelly (29), Daniel Cleary (53 retired not out) and Ronald Kalz (25) leading the way.

The Demons managed 8-141 in reply, falling seven runs short of parity despite the efforts of Luke Keating (51 retired not out), Ben Browning (25) and Jordan Anthony (22).

That the grand final went the distance was a pleasing factor for Anastasio, with the quality on show clear for all to see.

“It's probably one of the best years I've played of cricket,” he said.

“The average age of our side is about 42 compared to some much younger teams out there, but it was a great group of blokes to play with.

“It was a great win and one of the best grand finals, it went all the way to the end of the 70 overs.”

Kelly (2-26) was the only multiple wicket-taker for the day, while Anastasio was keen to make a few special mentions after the triumph.

“We owe a huge thank you to Strathmerton Cricket Club, especially Mick and Danny Cleary,” he said.

“We went to them at the start of the season and asked if we would play our home games there because we've only got one ground, and they were happy to help.

“Dylan Hyde was the unlucky bloke in the grand final who missed out, but he put his hand up to miss out (which shows how much of a team player he is).”