St Michaels are in a good position to secure their first win of the season.
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Saints managed 262 against Wagga City on Saturday courtesy of a big partnership between Tom Byrnes and Michael Mitchell.
In his first match of the season, Byrnes top scored with 90 to help his team set the Cats plenty to chase at McPherson Oval next week.
Coming in with the Saints in early trouble at 2-8, Byrnes and Mitchell took control of the innings putting on 148.
St Michaels captain-coach Ryan Forsyth was impressed with the partnership.
“We got off to a bit of a shaky start but Tom and Michael batted terrific,” Forsyth said. “They really consolidated and while the wicket was doing a bit they steadied the ship.
“It was disappointing for them that they both didn’t go onto a really big score but it was a fantastic effort.”
His 74 was a return to form for Mitchell.
The Englishman hadn’t reached double figures since impressing with an unbeaten 95 against Kooringal Colts in the opening match of the season.
James Evans (39) and Jack Mason (24 not out) also made good contributions through down the order to ensure the Saints bowling attack have plenty to defend next week.
However with the return of Jon Nicoll from the Australian Country Championships looming, Forsyth remains very wary.
“I’m thinking they would be confident but I am also very confident in ourselves,” he said.
Max Harper shone for the Cats attack, with the teenager taking 5-52.