PORT Stephens Pythons returned to the winners list in the Newcastle District Cricket Gilmore Cup Masters Twenty20 series with an emphatic seven wicket triumph over Belmont Whips at King Park.

In a dominant team performance, the Pythons outfit outclassed their rivals to chalk up their first win of the season in the Masters format.

Competing in their first-ever Masters series, the Port Stephens X1 wasted no time in overhauling the Whips’ modest tally of 95 with Jarryd Johnson and run machine Jarrod Moxey achieving the target off only 14 overs.

Number three Johnson clouted an unbeaten 46 off 41 balls to set up the second round victory – sharing a second wicket stand of 52 with opener Brock Hawley (28) before combining with club legend Moxey (18 not out) in an unbroken union of 30 for the fourth wicket.

Earlier Port Stephens bowlers Josh Moxey (2-2), Darren Thomson (2-4) and Jason Eveleigh (2-17) shared the spoils to help rout Belmont who batted first after winning the toss.

Craig Slavek top scored for the Whips with a stylish 42 that included five boundaries.

Pythons’ Director of Cricket Josh Moxey told News Of The Area that the club would again be a force in the Newcastle Suburban Cricket competition this summer.

“After a narrow loss to Stockton & Northern Districts in the opening Masters round it was good to see the boys bounce back with a strong team effort,” quipped Moxey, who blasted an unbeaten 95 for the reigning Division One premiers in a resounding victory over Warners Bay last Saturday at Feighan Oval.

“We are shaping up well in all grades but know there is a lot of cricket to be played in the tough Suburban divisions” he said.

In the 40 overs top grade fixture the Pythons posted an impressive 7-233 with Moxey’s classic knock off 98 balls including ten boundaries and a six.

He was ably assisted by Leigh Williams (48), who cracked two sixes and six boundaries and brother Jarrod Moxey (34).

Port Stephens quicks Hawley (3-18 off eight overs), Lleyton Eveleigh (3-26 off eight) and Tyran Eveleigh (2-6) were the chief destroyers after rolling the home side for 83.

After three wins from as many rounds the Pythons share the Division One competition lead with Wests Journeymen on nine points.

By Chris KARAS