By Anthony Foster, Freelance Writer
ISSA's Competitions' Officer, George Forbes (left), hands over the First Global Bank 'A' League Championship Trophy to Eltham's captain Keshan Shattock amid cheers from team-mates and school officials after completing victory yesterday in the final at Melbourne Oval. - Anthony Foster Photo
ELTHAM HIGH defeated Penwood on first innings to lift the 2005 First Global Bank 'A' League Trophy at Melbourne Oval yesterday.
The four-year old Eltham have now won two cricket trophies since their entrance in the local school cricket competition three years ago.
They shared the Under-16 title in 2003 and reached the 'A' League semi-final last season.
Scores in the two-day final were: Eltham 229 and 362 for seven; Penwood 153.
Entering yesterday's final day on 129 for seven, Penwood, despite a knock of 63 from Bendza Lewis were cut down 76 runs short of the important total.
Sandre Watson, who took six for 48, was the chief wicket-taker for Eltham.
BATTING PARADISE
In their reply, Eltham made better use of the batting paradise at Melbourne's ground as three batsmen scored a half century.
Handel Earlington, 54, and Matthew Stewart, 66, put on 109 for the first wicket to set the foundation.
Captain Keshan Shattock also came good with 87, hitting 12 fours and one six in his innings.
Shacaya Thomas also chipped in with 43 against Kemoui Fraser, three for 64 and Kedar Brown two for 21.
In their first innings, Damion Wright, 65, led the way for Eltham against Mickel Brown, who took four for 56 and Fraser four for 75.
Eltham's captain Shattock said they were confident their first innings total was enough to secure victory.
"When we made 227 we knew Penwood had no chance of getting it. I was confident in the boys that they could have done it," he said.
"It's a very great feeling for my school because it's our second year in it ('A' League). I think our principal and school will be very grateful for it."
Losing coach, Marlon Thomas said: "To be honest, we came and met a very disciplined team and it showed in our overall performance."
Meanwhile, Calabar, 213 all out in 39.3 overs, defeated St. Catherine, 189 all out, by 24 runs to advance to the final of the JIIC knockout.
Sadeki Bolt, Usain's brother, top-scored for Calabar with 56, while Rasheed Outar, 67 and Rohan Franklyn, 57, made most runs for St. Catherine.
