Junior and Pickle share their 150th

Junior and Pickle share their milestone game

Club stalwarts Mark Cini and Paul Nicol (far right) shared their 150th game milestone together when Moonee Valley's Thirds beat Avondale Heights on November 6.

They were given the honor of opening the bowling together as we set out to defend our score of 126, and didn't disappoint - they each took an early wicket as we restricted Avondale to 7/62 in reply to take the points.

They have been close friends throughout their careers at Moonee Valley.

"Pickle" Nicol hasn't played much in recent years due to his young family and living in the southern suburbs, and was camped on 149 games for more than a year as he found it impossible to slot in cricket.

But when "Junior" Cini finished last season on 147 games, Paul vowed to ensure he was available to celebrate the milestone. It was great for the whole club to have him back in harness - particularly as he was a key First Eleven player for many years.

Paul is hoping to be able to fit in a couple more games after the Christmas break - and we'll be glad to have him at any time.

Both Paul and Mark have been more than just players - they've coached juniors: Under 16s (Paul Nicol) and Under 12s (Mark Cini).

Paul is a past treasurer of our Club, while Mark had a stint as Chairman of Selectors.

Two other Moonee Valley players also reached milestones on the November 5/6 weekend - but unfortunately were not able to celebrate them with a win.

Sean O'Kane played in the Firsts against Jacana, while the mate who recruited him to Moonee Valley, Ryan "Panda" Fairclough, played in our Fifths.