PINES is now an outright victory behind Red Hill in second place on the MPCA Sub District ladder after copping a hiding from Rosebud on Saturday.
Batting first, the Piners struggled to 9-138 from their 40 overs. Brett Hudgson (45) and Ricky Ramsdale (18) appeared to get things back on track in the middle order and then Ricky Anstiss contributed 22 late in the innings to make the score competitive.
However, it proved to be a long way from being enough runs, Rosebud getting them four wickets down and with nine overs to spare.
Red Hill made a light job look awfully difficult against Seaford Tigers. The Tigers batted first and were bundled out for just 91 in the 38th over.
Corey Hand was again the difference between an ordinary and disgraceful Tigers' performance, top scoring with 40. Warren Junkeer was next best with 13.
Glenn Collett was superb for the Hillmen, leading from the front with 4-20 from nine overs. The Hillmen should have cruised to a win; however, it took until the 41st over, nine wickets down, to get over the line.
At one stage, Red Hill was 6-19. An unbeaten 50 from Brent Martin was enough to get the job done.
Corey Hand capped off a wonderful day of cricket with 4-27 from 10 overs.
It was a very early day for Skye in its match against Tyabb. The Yabbies were bowled out for 57 before Skye passed the total six wickets down.