The Lakers registered one of their strongest performances out in the field and bundled Kyabram out for 118 from 43 overs.
But that’s just about where the positives ended for Nolan’s charges as Kyabram rolled through Nagambie for 103 in front of a healthy crowd at Kyabram to remain entrenched in the Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield top six.
The defeat keeps Nagambie locked in eighth spot on the ladder after seven rounds.
“It was a disappointing loss considering I thought we were in front for the majority of the contest,” Nolan said.
“We just couldn’t string together any partnerships with the bat and they put us under pressure with their bowling. We still had our chances right up until the end but we just couldn’t get over the line.
“No-one seems to be able to find any form with the bat at the moment, but I’m sure that we’ll be able to turn things around.”
Despite the poor performance in the run chase, Nolan said there was still a lot to take away from the loss.
“Yeah, it was definitely our best bowling effort for the season,” he said.
“I thought all five-six of our bowlers did a fantastic job and we’ll look to take that into our next couple of games.”
It took some fiery bowling from Ky’s opening duo Angus McKenzie (1-14) and Charlie McLay (2-10), a crucial 23-run knock from Darin Ohlsen and one “screamer” of a catch from captain Kyle Mueller to ensure the hosts got the job done in the round seven contest.
Nagambie was able to regain composure through Zac Winter-Irving (35 runs) and Nolan’s brother Luke (26), however something special from Mueller brought about another swing of momentum.
Fielding at short cover, the Redbacks skipper flung himself in the air — reminiscent of his spectacular footy aerial prowess — and with one hand was able to hold on to a match-turning catch to dismiss Luke.
Kyabram, through its spinners Kaine Herbert (3-25) and Adam Nunn (2-18), continued to put Nagambie under the pump and, fittingly, it was Charlie McLay who clinched the final and match-winning wicket during the 42nd over.
“It was a real nail-biter. You don’t win too many matches in this competition with 118 on the board,” Kyabram coach Jackson McLay said.
“The pitch didn’t feel like a 120-run (pitch), so I felt like we were behind the eight-ball.
“The main message before we went out to bowl was ‘let’s bring the energy and apply the pressure’ and see what happens.
“Once we got Mark (Nolan) out and they were 3-19, we knew we had a chance.”
Nagambie returns home this weekend for a round eight contest against Old Students.
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