Nulla knock off defending premiers in season opener

It was an impressive victory for the Macleay side as they dismissed the defending premiers for 134 as they attempted to chase down Nulla’s total of 169.

Nulla captain Ben Taylor credited two important partnerships and an additional attacking weapon for helping steer the side to victory.

“Two key partnerships between Dan Baker/Dan Pretty and Shane Crouch/Lloyd Black went a long way to winning us the game,” Taylor told the Argus.

“Having a second genuine spin option in Chris White, who finished with figures of 4-19, is a big plus too.”

Taylor was content with his side’s start to the season and plans to build on the performance.

“We’re happy with our start. Most pleasing was the effort from all 12 blokes there,” Taylor said.

“It was a good team effort. Our premier league debutantes will take confidence out of that game moving forward.”

However, Taylor acknowledges the Macquarie side was a weaker outfit as they were down on troops.

“Macquarie have to be commended,” Taylor said.

“They were understrength and fought hard with their backs to the wall a few times.

“We had them 4-6 at one point, a few teams would roll over there but Todd Giddy clawed them back into the game.”

Despite rainy conditions leading into the match, Taylor said the playing conditions were superb.

“It was a great cricket wicket. Curator Mark Smee did an outstanding job there,” Taylor said.

“It was good to bat on and turned in the afternoon. It was a tough, hard fought game.”

Nulla will attempt to extend their perfect start to the season when they travel to face off with the Port Macquarie Pirates this Saturday.

Rovers’ scheduled match against the Port Macquarie Pirates at South West Rocks was called off due to the conditions.

Rovers will face off with the Port City League Magpies in round three of the Premier League at South West Rocks this Saturday.

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