Gilgandra outclassed in Brewery Shield semi-final
07 February 2022, 2:24 AM
The Gilgandra 1st XI's dreams for the Brewery Shield this year unfortunately came to an end earlier this month, however are walking away from their performance this season with pride. Image courtesy of Matt Zell.By Matt Zell
The Gilgandra Bendigo Bank 1st XI have been eliminated from the Brewery Shield after a 5 wicket loss to Narromine on Sunday.
Winning the toss & electing to bat, Captain Ash Hazelton & Mark Stewart got the team off to an encouraging start by putting on 31 for the 1st wicket before Stewart was adjudged LBW for 13.
Nick Willoughby joined the skipper & they also enjoyed a handsome partnership of 35 before Hazelton was caught behind for 30.
Unfortunately Willoughby followed next over to start the wobbles for Gilgandra, leaving us 3/66 @ drinks.
We then lost a steady stream of wickets before USC Marthaguy teenagers James Glasson & Jack Irving combined for a 17 run stand for the 9th wicket followed by a 12 run final wicket stand between Glasson & Jon Kilby to see us reach 134 all out.
James Glasson showed maturity beyond his years to remain unbeaten on 29, his patience & ball striking were a pleasure to witness.
Gilgandra set about defending our modest total & wicket Jon Kilby on song early signs were positive.
He dismissed Cameron Collins in the 3rd over for 2 & the pressure was all on the home team.
A 38 run 2nd wicket stand had Gilgandra on the back foot but with 3 quick wickets we were right back in the contest with Narromine going to drinks @ 4/58.
Unfortunately a couple of dropped catches after the drinks break cost the visitors dearly with Mitch Russo making Gilgandra pay, blasting 47 before holing out looking to ice the game.
That was to be our last wicket as the home side passed our total 5 wickets down off 30 overs.
The representative team has come a long way this season after many years in the wilderness, I would like to thank everyone who contributed throughout the year & I hope this is a stepping stone to getting back to the glory days of Brewery Shield that were once enjoyed by Gilgandra.
I would like to particularly thank our Captain, Ash Hazelton who has lead from the front all season & to Noel Willoughby for offering to score.
I would also like to thank our partners Bendigo Bank & the Gilgandra Services Club. Good luck for the rest of the season with your clubs & I look forward to rep cricket again next season.
