CLYDE Fgrade’s team will contest the grand final after a strong semifinal win against KilcundaBass at the weekend.
Losing the toss and asked to bowl, Cougar opening bowlers Mick Bishop and Duane DeRozario took a wicket each and a runout by the other DeRozario brothers Ali and Brendan had the combine in early trouble at 3/36.
The Sharks looked to steady things as the Clyde bowlers applied the brakes before a runout by Simon Marshall and a wicket to Brendan DeRozario had it 5/67.
The Cougar bowlers were tight while KilcundaBass held onto its wickets to build a 41run partnership, but used up a lot of overs.
Ken Marshall chipped in with the wicket before the Shark batsmen had a belated bash as they finished their innings at 6/139.
Clyde’s early wickets and tight fielding were crucial in keeping the run rate down while resistance was provided by opener Ray Slade’s 47 not out.
Cougar openers Darren Tanner and Duane DeRozario made a cautious start before Tanner blasted his way to 53 retired that included nine fours and a six.
DeRozario went out for a patient 20, then his brothers Brendan and Ali came to the crease.
Ali wasn’t looking for singles in a quick 25 that included six fours.
When Brendan was dismissed for 29, the Cougars were home at 3/143.
UNDER 15
Playing Cardinia at its home ground Clyde batted first.
The Cougars put on a patient batting display, valuing their wickets by building partnerships.
Dylan Hadfield made 14 to get Clyde away to a good start and then Patrick Lawson (30 retired) and Joel Avard (31 retired) set up the team for a good total.
The Cougars looked to blast some late runs, but Nick Sadler was the only one to succeed with 17 as Clyde ended the first day with a competitive 5/131.
Cardinia then batted and Hadfield continued his good game with a frugal 2/5 from his six overs. Lawson also chipped in with two and then the ball was thrown around in an effort to keep the wickets falling.
Shane Wright, Avard, Mitch Kemp, Adam Ballard, Shrek Shaikh and Ben Riley got a wicket each, but the Bulls managed to pass the total with just one wicket in hand.
It was the end of an excellent season for the team.
