BASIN Bears veteran Danny Rundle scored an unbeaten century on Sunday to lead his side to a key victory over Belgrave in the FTGDCA's Norm Reeves Shield.
Following round three matches the previous day, all sides replayed their round pne fixtures which were washed out earlier in the month.
Rundle (107 not out) and Ronnie Heskes (59) took their side to 4-227 passing the Magpies 6-225. Bears captain Luke Bowyer said the pair put on a 120-run partnership to give their side a much-needed six points.
Bowyer paid tribute to his side's resilience to bounce back from a couple of tough weeks to start the season. "Especially after losing in first match, it was a big effort from the guys to get up and make sure we don't fall too far behind on the ladder," he said. "That win, especially early in the season is important. Belgrave usually get off to a good start so a win now makes a difference."
Belgrave was not without its contributors with Scott Vozzo (79 not out), Johnathon Levell (51) and Doug Oaten (59) among the runs.
Ferntree Gully's batting form returned as they accounted for the Knoxfield Knights at Wally Tew Oval. Ryan Handley (56 not out) led the way for the Blues with the bat, but it was their bowlers that restricted the Knights to 9-108, Muhammad Farrukh and Josh Henry picking up three wickets.
The Devenish brothers made sure The Sharks were victorious over Footballers. David made 49 in support of Cam Bourke's 55, while Steven took 4-30.
Upwey remain the only unbeaten side after they defeated newly promoted Knox Gardens. Sam Taylor (55 not out) and Matt Mulchay (35) were the Tigers' best bats.
In Decoite Shield Lysterfield and South Belgrave both remain undefeated.
The Beavers perennial performer Kyle Snyman tore the heart out of the Saints batting line up snaring 6-6 after Tyden Latty and Nick Whitty rescued the Beavers from 5-62.
Norm Reeves Shield - played Sunday
Johnson Park 8-174 (Bourke 55, D Devenish 49) def Ferntree Gully Footballers 128 (S Devenish 4-30).
Ferntree Gully 2-114 (. Handley 56no) def Knoxfield 9-108 (J Hillyer 31; M Farrukh 3-5, J Henry 3-33).
Upwey- Tecoma 7-144 (S Taylor 55no, M Mulcahy 35; A Wild 3-34, S Small 3-26) def Knox Gardens 141 (J Butcher 30, S Waters 3-26, B Wood 3-28).
The Basin 4-227 (R Heskes 59, D Rundle 107no) def Belgrave 6-225 (J Levell 51, D Oaten 59, S Vozzo 79no).