Captain Riyaad Henry got things under way for the visitors after his side won the toss ahead of the Twenty20 fixture, making an impressive half-century (57 from 45, with eight fours and a six), before later losing his wicket to the Saints’ Jeremy Packer on 2-96.
The Saints’ bowling was impressive enough, with Rory Bartlett claiming two wickets for 23 off four overs, while Brady Bartlett, Packer, and Connor Thornton each claimed one wicket.
Things turned bleak for the visitors early as a catch off the delivery of the Saints’ Rory Bartlett sent Murphy Stephens out for a duck at 1-9, until Zach Dunn presented himself at the batting crease.
Dunn went on to make 43 from 46 not out, making a sizeable difference to his side’s chances in the end.
Barooga finished its twenty overs with their hosts chasing 5-145.
Despite a solid effort from Connor Thornton (21 from 20 balls) and Brady Bartlett (39 from 44, not out), Berrigan couldn’t close the margin in time.
The final score saw Barooga (5-145) prevail over the Saints (7-113) by 32 runs.
Barooga vice-captain Brendan Lewis spoke highly of Henry’s performance.
“[Twenty20 cricket] really suits his game style, and that shows. He looked really good,” Lewis said.
He said it was good to see Dunn move the ball off the centre square and get some runs on the board.
“Berrigan probably would be disappointed with the way they bowled (the Saints sent down 31 extras, including 22 wides), but that’s the difference with Twenty20 cricket. The rules change,” he said.
With a clash with top-placed Nathalia booked for this weekend, Lewis emphasised the importance of the basics.
“We’re in the mindset that we just worry about ourselves at the moment. We’re still ticking the basics, and if we continue to do that, then results against the top sides will come,” he said.
“Nathalia’s got a really good batting line-up. I think in the last three times we played Nathalia, Luke Quinn averaged nearly 100. He’s one we’ve got to get out early. Brenton Campbell, if he plays his best, he’s as good as anyone in the comp.
“Scotty Morrison, if he’s spinning the web, then he’s very tricky to put away.
“We’re hoping Cam Nye fully commits for the rest of the season, he’s had shoulder issues. He’s a big in for us, he’s got that little bit more experience, and bowls nicely on the off-spin.
“If we do everything right, then we’ve got a chance.”
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