The Saints were brave in their endeavours and despite going down to the Swans, they fought hard and played well, particularly in the field. After being kept to just 62 at the drinks break, Katunga managed to crawl their way to 6/144 at the end of the 40 overs.
The Whelan boys, Matt and Tom, opened the bowling for the Saints and got off to a great start.
Andrew Parr took the gloves off for a quick bowl and ended up with the best figures of the day with 3/22 off his six.
Brad Loats was given the ball just before the drinks break and did not disappoint, ending up with 1/8 off his five overs.
Chasing 144, Berrigan started slowly and were 3/16 early in the innings.
Simon Packer (11), Tom Isedale (12) and Brad Loats (15) kept the ball rolling and continued to keep Berrigan in the game. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough, even with Vidura Gunaratne (nine not out) doing his best to hold the team together in the dire moments.
The Saints ended up all out for 69 in the 30th over. Despite the big loss there was plenty of positives to come out of the clash with Luke Neely playing his first game of senior cricket on Saturday and Tom Isedale playing his first game for the Saints.
Club president and team captain Damian Taylor said although his team had a tough opening loss, it was taken in good spirits and they should hold their heads high.
‘‘Although we went down on the day, it was a mixed bag full with laughter and fun,’’ he said.
‘‘That’s what it is all about, and as a club we should be very proud of everyone’s efforts.
‘‘Well done to Brad who won Harry’s $50 award.’’