by Samuel Laffy
Ellinbank (3/81) def. Garfield-Tynong (7/73)
A stunning bowling display from Ellinbank helped them claim victory over Garfield-Tynong in their division four clash, with some unplayable new ball efforts ensuring the Titans were never in the hunt.
Jaxon Notman (who snared the scarcely believable figures of 0/1 from eight overs – including seven maidens) strangled scoring early and the likes of Samuel Grummisch (3/12 off 8) and Jaipal Singh (3/13 from 8) reaped the benefits as Garfield-Tynong's top order desperately tried to fire a shot.
However, after being reduced to 6/13, all the Titans could do was hope to extend their innings as long as possible.
Thanks to Peter Heywood's 18* and 28 to Paul Priest, they managed to bat out their allotted overs, finishing 7/73.
In reply, Jake Webb (31*) took advantage of the sub-par target, and his ability to find the boundary saw the contest finished after just 13 overs; Ellinbank finishing 3/81.
Hallora (5/163) def. Jindivick (162)
Athlone Recreation Reserve holds a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy clearing the fence, and whilst they didn't quite launch as many boundaries as some have previously, Steven Fox and Keaton Brown nonetheless ensured Hallora emerged with the points in their round three clash with Jindivick.
Pursuing a potentially challenging target of 162 – a total made possible for the Jumping Jacks thanks to an aggressive knock of 70 to Aaron Larkman – the Kangaroos began their chase unsteadily, as Dylan Pathak was confounded by a swinging delivery from Jess Sanders (1/18 from 6.5).
Brown (a run-a-ball 55) and Fox (who made an even 50* including two monstrous sixes) were able to atone however, and they ensured Hallora's chase was a successful one, despite the best efforts of Jackson Stewart (3/26).
Buln Buln (178) def. Drouin (122)
Ricky McKerrow has troubled many an XI through his wily ways with the new Kookaburra, but 2025/26 has seen him make his mark at a dynamic batter, with a third consecutive half-century helping Buln claim a 56-run win.
And, with John Perry (3/22 from 7) and Adin Short (3/36 off 6.1) in fine form with the ball for Drouin, McKerrow's efforts cannot be underplayed, as his knock rescued the Lyrebirds from an early spot of bother.
Charlie Lindau (42 from 68) ably assisted the veteran, and together they carried Buln to 178 before being dismissed in the 38th over.
Whilst Drouin may have been optimistic of launching a successful chase on the small confines of Bellbird Park's second oval, their hopes were dashed by an exceptional opening spell from Charlie Kilmartin.
The talented youngster claimed 4/10 off eight to reduce the Hawks to 5/27.
Perry (a watchful 48) did his best to rectify the situation, but he lacked necessary support and Drouin found themselves dismissed for 122 in the 35th over.
Western Park def. Trafalgar by forfeit.