Haisman Shield | Gallery | Team performance has Waaia upset Mooroopna

By Daniel Webb

Nov 27, 2022

Getting set: Waaia’s Brayden Carey takes a look around the field. Photos: Rechelle Zammit Photo by Rechelle Zammit

The reigning Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield premier suffered its first loss of the season on Saturday with Waaia upsetting Mooroopna.

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Coming off a round two bye the Bombers’ bowling attack sent the Cats packing, with the away day victory a memorable one to start the year.

Sent in to bat first the visitors were far from dominant at the crease, however, strong contributions from Jordan Cleeland (38) and Mitch Cleeland (37) had them post a respectable total of 161.

When handed the ball it was Aaron Shelton who delivered early, picking up 3-23, while Harvey Walker cleaned up the tail end with some impressive work.

Speaking after the win Waaia captain Mitch Cleeland said it was nice to beat a team many regard as the competition’s benchmark.

“It’s certainly exciting and we’re quite happy, but at the same time putting it into perspective there’s still a long way to go I guess,” Cleeland said.

“We’re not relying on one or two guys, we’ve got everyone contributing which is a good thing to have.

“We know that if someone misses out one week there will be hopefully someone else there to pick up the slack a little bit and make sure that we’ve got 11 even contributors throughout the season.”

Team talk: Waaia’s Mitch Cleeland and Brayden Carey have a chat. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Cleeland outlined that this was shaping up to be one of his side’s strengths this season, with the Bombers proud of their ability to rely on everyone, not just individuals.

He said it was good to get an early win on the board, with the result helping to set the Bombers’ season up.

“It’s the way we planned the season and the way we hoped the season would start and it’s nice when a plan comes to fruition in that sense,” he said.

“Hopefully we can push on and we’ve got the platform for our season set, so hopefully we can make the most of it going forward.”

THE GAME

Mooroopna 141 (Jac Smith-Williams 61, Harvey Walker 4-16, Aaron Shelton 3-23) lt Waaia 161 (Jordan Cleeland 38, Mitch Cleeland 37, Henry Barrow 3-30)

STAR PLAYER

Aaron Shelton (Waaia): Taking the first three wickets for Waaia, Shelton’s performance helped kick start the Bombers’ bowling exploits. Ending the match with 3-23 off seven overs, Shelton’s role in the game was an important one.