MERTON cricketers finally played a game of cricket after a bye and two washouts. Merton hosted Ovens Valley United on a slow, lush MCG outfield. The visitors won the toss and batted, making 80 all out in the 27th over, with G. Zach (17) and L. McManus (16) the top scorers. Merton's bowlers all did the job for their captain, led by Henry Berriman (3/24), father Rohan (2/8), Harry Craddock (2/11), and Luke Benton (2/14) as the wicket-takers. The home side was good in the field, led by James Benton with two catches. Merton made short work of the 81-run target with a fired-up Ross Mackinnon smashing an unbeaten 52 off 56 balls, including three huge sixes. Fellow opener Daryl King turned the strike over with 12 not out, helping his side to a comfortable victory in the 16th over. Merton hosts Beechworth Wanderers in the final game next Saturday before the Christmas break.
