The hosts accounted for Macleay Valley to the tune of six wickets in a match, which doubled as the first round of the SCG Country Cup.

Macleay Valley could only post a moderate total, and Hastings reached the target in the 23rd over.

“It was a terrific win,” skipper Craig Grant said.

“And, the fielding by the entire team was a standout.

“Paceman Ken Bennett produced an outstanding bowling spell.

“He was unplayable sometimes, and finished with 2-21 off 10 overs.

“Special mention goes to opening batsman Jason Blythe too.

“He smashed the ball to all parts of the ground, hitting 81 off 55 balls.

“On behalf of the HRDCA, I’d like to thank Darren from the Hill Street Store for supplying food platters for both teams and umpires.

“It was well received by everyone.”

Macleay Valley won the toss and opted to bat.

Within a short time, the side slumped to 4-56 following the dismissals of Stephen Crotty (0), Michael Judd (7), Craig Rogan (32) and Ben Paix (5).

Some middle and late-order resistance, especially from Daniel Powick (46), Kyle Masters (29) and Marty Nichols (20 not out), enabled them to reach 185.

Apart from Bennett, Wayne Dunn, Jason Herdegen, Shane Williams and Matt Rankin also bowled strongly.

Dunn claimed 2-21, Herdegen 2-26, Williams 2-31 and Rankin 2-23, including the valuable scalp of Powick.

Hastings was never in trouble following the 82-run opening stand between Blythe (81) and Jamie Hall (27).

And, although the side lost Hall and Shayne Redden (0) in quick succession, Rob McColl (27), Rankin (21 not out) and Jason Dodd (13 not out) guided the side to victory.

Judd was the pick of the Macleay Valley bowlers, snaring 2-35.

SCG Country Cup

Macleay

S Crotty c Dodd b Dunn 0

C Rogan c McColl b Herdegen 32

M Judd c Kew b Herdegen 7

B Paix C Redden b Bennett 5

D Powick b Rankin 46

M Smith c Redden b Williams 10