THE Euroa Veterans, playing on their home ground at The Friendlies Oval, secured their third victory in four seasons with a dominant performance against the highly rated and experienced Wodonga outfit on Sunday. On a sultry and overcast day, deputy captain Dave Gleeson led the team as Euroa was sent into bat. With possibly their strongest batting lineup in years, the home side got off to a solid start. Gart Abley, Dave Gleeson, Phil Thompson, and Ian Metcalfe all contributed, setting a strong foundation. Pete Malore carried his bat for 22, while Phil Brown added a valuable 26 to keep the scoreboard ticking. Veteran Rick O Bree, usually an opener, decided to drop down the order and punished the Wodonga bowlers with a quickfire 20. Meanwhile, new recruit Kevin Storer impressed with a well-made 13, showing signs of being the next rising star - sorry Gary. Euroa finished with a competitive total of 194 runs, giving their bowlers plenty to defend. Wodonga, needing 194 to win, faced immediate pressure as Rick O Bree struck twice in two overs, while Roger McKernan chipped in with two wickets and two crucial catches, helping to dismiss key Wodonga batters. Billy Obrien then came into the attack, taking a wicket, followed by Phil Thornton, who claimed two more scalps. Wodonga batting order crumbled, and they were eventually bowled out for 156, handing Euroa a convincing 38-run victory. Next up, the Euroa Veterans face All-Vic County at Rochester next Sunday, heading into the match full of confidence after this impressive win. Training is at The Friendlies Oval.
