Grubbers on track for premiership defence

Ocean Grove scored a resounding win over finals contenders Jan Juc to consolidate second spot on the BPCA ladder.

Chasing 287 for victory on day two, the Sharks were all out for 198.

It was a timely victory for the Grubbers as Jan Juc defeated Ocean Grove by 25 runs in Round 1.

“Our form has been improving,” captain-coach Paul Jubber said.

“We haven’t been playing brilliant cricket but we have been able to improve and manage to win games in the process.

“We feel we are building into some form.

“We are pleased we are building into some form.”

Dan Roddis (3/46) and Tom Kent (3/46) were the leading wicket takers.

Left arm quick Roddis took the vital wicket of gun shark bat Ben Grinter (10).

“Ben is such a damaging player, we felt he was the key,” Jubber said.

“Dan’s spell against Grinter was outstanding.

“Both (Dan and Tom Kent) were outstanding this game.”

Lindon Giuffrida (2/37) grabbed two wickets and Mick Thornton mopped up the tail to finish with 2/4 from three overs.

Youngster Fletcher Long claimed an extraordinary catch at point, and he won high praise from Jubber.

“The best (catch) I have seen in the BPCA,” Jubber said.

“I had the best seat in the house only metres away from him.

“The look on his face when he realised he held onto it was priceless.”