Last year’s grand-finalists were no match for last year’s cellar-dwellers, as the Pirates opened the batting and spanked the Buffaloes bowling attack all over Bowning Oval, reaching a total of 193.

Nick Pollack led the way for his side, scoring 85 not out. He received useful support from Alex Waters (27 not out) and Ant Broers (20). Bowning’s Andrew Swaffield and Leigh French both took two wickets.

In its run chase, Bowning managed 157. The innings was a respectable one, with Swaffield and French again firing, getting 28 and 36 respectively. But it was never going to be enough and Bowning slumped to its fourth loss in five games.

The Pirates’ wicket-keeper, Brad Wylie, has seen firsthand the turn around in his club and he said it’s pretty simple what’s changed.

“I think it’s just that we are a fair bit more dedicated than last year,” he said.

“Last year we just entered a team because we could but this year we are working and training harder, that’s the difference this season.”

In the other Triggs Shield match at Victoria Park the Golf Club were too good for the Soldiers Club.

The Piranhas won the toss, batted and put 123 runs on the board. On a slow outfield, Phil Sparnon batted particularly well scoring 33 in what proved a pivotal knock.

In response the Soldiers Club could only manage 88, with Ben Mudaliar scoring 53 in a defiant display. Cal Kemp was the pick of the bowlers taking 4/10.

Sweeney Cup

Bookham has continued its domination of the Sweeney Cup, easily accounting for Murrumbateman 2 at home. Bookham suffered just one loss this season and are looking good in the second tier competition.

Playing at home, Bookham opened the batting and was able to put 183 on the board for the loss of eight wickets. It was too tall a task for Murrumbateman 2 which only managed 70 in its chase.

In the other game Gundaroo was far too good for the Golf Club Taipans, chasing their total of 80, in just 12 overs. The Gunners have been inconsistent this year but, at the top of their game and with a full complement of players, they seem almost unbeatable.