HILL TOP almost claimed the upset of the season against Tully Park on Saturday, as the defending champions passed their score nine down with only nine balls remaining.
Batting first on an under-prepared pitch and a slow outfield at Kenmore, Hill Top were bowled out for 146.
Kookaburras captain Simon Reid led the way with 52, while his fellow opener Jack Whitfield [20] and lower order batsmen Matt Conquest [17] also made handy contributions with the bat.
Some tight bowling and impressive fielding kept Hill Top in the game, as Tully limped past their score late in the match.
Hill Top opening bowler Jimmy Debs set the scene with 3-21 off his nine overs while Andrew Rae and Harry Reicher picked up two wickets each.
Reid said there were some sensational catches, including one in slips by Matt Doust.
“Our fielding was really good all game and I am happy with how we went,” Reid said.
“To get that close to knocking off Tully was a really good effort and we are all definitely looking forward to next week at Chater [Oval].”
Hill Top are confident they can get their first win of the season when they play Tigers this Saturday.