Hillgrove’s 23-run loss to City in round five was their first defeat for the season but will aim to jump back in the winner’s circle when they make the trip to Guyra this Saturday.
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The reigning premiers hadn’t missed a beat all season until they were outclassed by City.
Captain Matt Schaefer said his side missed a couple of opportunities in their last game which contributed to the loss.
“You have to take your chances in the top grade, we didn't and City did so congratulations to them, I thought they went well,” he said.
“Not only did they bat well – they batted out their overs – they also bowled to a good plan and took early wickets.
“It is a bit of a different landscape to have City on top of the table and Easts and Hillgrove a couple behind but it is good for the comp.”
Hillgrove have used 20 players in four matches and more changes are expected against Guyra.
Matt Baillie has left for the season, Josh Croft will return and will open while Mitch Moore is also available to play his first game of the year.
Schaefer hopes to have his opening pacemen back in Max Laurie and Sean Skinner.
“I will say it is a bit unprecedented for a side such as ourselves to use so many players,” he said.
“Going through 20 just shows we do have a bit of depth there and we are probably lucky to be so high up on the table considering we have used so many different players.
“I have got my fingers crossed that Max and Sean and back this weekend.
“They will find out [Friday] afternoon if they finish harvest.
“Mitch Moore is going to have a run for us this week just to fill a hole with Will Archer still being away.
“Mitch will be around all year and he might get a couple of games here and there, just to fill in when we get short.”
While Hillgrove sit comfortably in second on the table Guyra find themselves at the bottom, yet to secure a win.
The newcomers to first grade this season haven’t found their feet but are on their way with their 92 against Easts in their last match their highest this season.
Captain Charlie Keen said they will aim to climb even higher against the current champions on their own turf.
“We are slowly improving with the bat each week,” he said.
“Hopefully our top order will fire this weekend and we can get off to a good start.”