Match reports from a nominated member/parent/supporter of each team will be provided on a weekly basis. The reports will be a balanced view of the match, including special performances and where possible photos of the players. Below you will find the current season and previous season's reports.
Check out our latest match reports here
Weekly match reports from each team, provided by nominated parents or supporters during the 2011/12 season can be found here. These reports will be a balanced view of the match, including special performances and where possible photos of the players.
Champion Blacks win Grand Final Thanks to Strong Team Effort 
Winners: Max Purcell, Matt Dainton, Mitch O'Donnell, Harry Wallace, Harry Purcell, Jake Veale, Max Thomas, James Suttor, Dylan Santone, Tom Leaver, Nick Taylor, Dan Clarke, (Tim Webber missing)
After electing to bat the Gordon Blacks lost an early wicket and were then pinned down by some excellent swing bowling by Lindfield. At the 16 over break, we had only managed 2 for 39 despite our best efforts to get the score moving. Lindfield continued to keep the pressure on as Harry Purcell and Tim Webber worked very hard trying to pick up the rate. Tim then fell for a well compiled 33 with the score on 71.
Lindfield basically had all the momentum for the first 23 overs but a dropped catch and the arrival of Tom Leaver was to change all that. Harry ended up retiring with a run a ball 52 while Tom finished unbeaten on 45 from 26 balls.
Tom’s innings included three 6s - the most memorable right out of Northbridge Oval onto the nearby first green - for a tap in. The last eight overs basically doubled our score and the Blacks finished with a very competitive total of 4 for 148 at the end of 32 overs.
Having chosen to play 13 it was going to be important for all 12 bowlers to perform. In a replay of the first innings, after wickets to Harry Wallace and Dylan Santone, they along with Leaver, Purcell, Clarke and Max Thomas, were miserly and kept Lindfield to 2 for 33 at the drinks break.
It was now all for Lindfield to do with their two leading run scorers at the crease. The early pressure and some sharp fielding from Matt Dainton was to see one of them run out straight after the break. With the runs starting to flow Nick Taylor then magnificently threw the stumps down from the boundary to remove the other.
Nevertheless, Lindfield had managed to add over 50 runs in six overs. They were within 60 runs with 10 overs remaining and five wickets in hand. Our bowling and fielding held firm and after James Suttor (2 for 9) removed the batsmen doing the damage for 40, some accurate off spin and wickets to Taylor (2 for 4) and O’Donnell then ensured the run chase petered out quickly.
The grand final win was like it was all season - very much a team effort and the depth of our batting, bowling and fielding ensured someone stepped up to make the crucial plays when needed.
Amazing Season as Reds Go Close 
  The boys played Mosman at Balmoral for their last game - clear blue skies and a perfect location for the last game.
It's been an amazing season for the U9 Reds and family. Bring on next season!
Everyone brought their swimmers as it was again going to be a hot one. Steve Bibb was our celebrity coach for the game. However, he was not the only celebrity. The Mosman team's coach was Stuart MacGill (former Aussie Test spin bowler and recent Sydney Sixer). This was going to be one of our tougher matches.
Lachlan Pin lines up a run out after a throw from Tom Wright
The Reds batted first. All the boys did well and defended their wicket against some quality bowling. Highlights of the innings were the big hitting from Lachie Pin, whacking a 6 and a 4 in quick succession. Charlie Cadwallader also found the boundary as did Rory Chitty and Tom Wright, who flayed one ball delightfully to the cover boundary.
And he's out! Great teamwork by the Reds in the field sees the wicket fall
The running between the wicket, backing up and sliding the bat was outstanding by all Red players. In the end, the Mosman team only took three wickets. The Reds made a credible 128 runs.
Next it was time for the Mosman team to bat. Rory Chitty opened the bowling, launching some rockets at the batsmen. This was followed by “long range” Tom Wright. His strategy was to run from the boundary to build up some pace! It looked a treat. Jarrod McCabe tormented the batsman with some nice deliveries, with everyone commenting on his style! Next was Lachie Pin. The batsman got hold of a shirt ball sending it Tom Wright's way. Tom gathered quickly and fired it back to the bowler’s end. Lachie then directed the ball to the wicket - OUT! Great team work from the Reds. By this time the score was 1 for 31.
Charlie Cadwallader was next and, after refining his accuracy, delivered a ball that crashed into middle stump. The Reds were now 2 for 45.
Charlie Toepfer and Jack Irving then followed with two tidy overs. A highlight of the game was the ball landing on Kate Cadwallader's lap, like a present from heaven. All the mothers tried to recollect what actually happened claiming they almost caught the ball! The Mosman boys started scoring more runs.
There was some more good bowling from Finn Mason, Oscar Platt, Archie Bibb, Jack Conoplia and Rowan Betts. The fielding from all players was excellent.
It then came down to the last over. We needed a wicket or we needed to restrict the scoring to a maiden last over. There was a lot of pressure and the cheering both on and off the field intensified. Unfortunately for the Reds, we didn't get that elusive wicket and instead the home team hit six runs.
Final score, Reds 3 for 128, Mosman 3 for 132.
It was a great and exciting game – a fitting way to finish the season. The Reds finished with 10 wins and only 2 losses. Well done, boys.
Thank you to our supporters and especially coaches, the "triple Ks" Kate, Kaz, Kelini and also a special thank you to our manager Dawn Chitty for her fantastic organisation.
To check out the season video click here (thank you Adrian Pin for its production).
For the photos from the last game click here (thank you to James & Sal for being the official team photographers for the season).
See you all next season.
James Toepfer
U9 Reds official correspondent
Blues in Big Showdown
Wow, what a day! The sun was finally shining and the water was crystal clear down at Primrose Park. This game was the game of a lifetime. We had to win this to be in the semi-rinals in the top four. As you know, Mosman were coming fourth and we were coming fifth! There was no room for mistakes.
Andrew, our captain, fortunately won the toss and elected to bat. Our openers, Ali and Sam went out and batted tremendously well, both scoring highly to contribute to the teams tally.
Sadly, Ali stayed out there for a short time but managed a fabulous 12 runs! Our next batter, K-man absolutely smashed the ball around the ground. He was on fire! He retired on 30 runs and got one of the highest scores of our team!
On the other hand, Sam Holmes put in a great effort but sadly got run out on 15! When Andy came in, he tonked the ball everywhere! He was a man on a mission! He got the highest score, 33 not out! Andy and K-man had an amazing partnership together. Next to bat was Dougie. Unfortunately, he got out LBW and only scored two. Number six to bat was Hunter. He kept the run-rate up very high. With that, Reeve came in and helped Hunter pick up the run-rate! Hunter got a sensational score of 28 not out! Reeve got 16 not out! The other batsmen, Jordan, Oscar, Matt, Joey and Harry, were very unlucky not to bat but I know they would have been exemplary. Well, that was our batting innings. We scored a defendable total of 149 in 32 overs, only losing four wickets. We were looking good.
Our opening bowlers, Reeve and Oscar got off to a good start. Oscar got us an early wicket, which helped to take the pressure off. Our fielding was tight and we were very loud in the field. Some stand out performances were Dougie, with the only maiden and a great catch, Andy with his direct hit run-out, Joey with a great wicket and K-Man also with a good wicket.
Jordan was very tight in the field. Our keepers, Sam and Hunter did a great job keeping and didn’t let us down. Matt had a great game and his bowling was very economical. Ali also took a wicket and was very encouraging on the field. Reeve bowled very well and was unlucky not to get a wicket.
This may sound like we had the game of our lives but unfortunately this was not the case. Mosman Silver had a ripper of a game, including some very tight fielding and outstanding batting. They were a tough opposition and played a great game. They got our score in the last over and played tremendously well. They got 150 in 31 overs and deserved to win.
We are now in the Plate Semi-Finals and hope to do very well. Credit must go to our great coach, Mark, for preparing us well and always encouraging us to do our best. Thank you also to the scorers, umpires and spectators.
Harry Duczmal – U12 Blue player
Team: Oscar Burgess-Tate, Reeve Cocks, Kieran Dean, Harry Duczmal, Andrew Earlam (Captain), Matt Garrett, Hunter Graham (keeper), Sam Holmes (keeper), Jordan Hunt, Dougie Oxenham, Ali Siokos and Joey Siokos.
Blues Dominate with 14 Wickets 
Under an almost perfect Saturday morning at Bales Park, the Blues turned up determined to finish the season on a high against the North Sydney Reds and without three of our top performing players.
U9 Blues celebrate with the team song and feasted on lolly snakes kindly handed out by team coach Owen Davies
Captain for the day, Bevan Nanayakarra, elected to bat first and the team put on a modest 7 for 77 with decent contribution from all players.
Some impressive leg-sides shots for 4s by Zac Fielding, Tyler and Bevan brought applause even by the opposition.
Come the Blues Bowling innings, Alec Peterson started with a tight over finishing with a caught behind wicket.
What followed was impressive bowling and catches by Rajeev, Tyler, wicket keeper catches by Chris, Lewin and Angus, a few clean bowled efforts by Bevan and Aidan and an all round impressive fielding performance by Rohan with the Blues eventually taking 14 wickets for 73 runs.
Impressive bowling and fielding performance and one of the best for the season by the Blues team – 14 wickets worth watching!
Reds on High for Semis 
 It was a cool morning with dew on the ground when Gordon Reds captain, Marcus Possi, did the toss. Marcus to bat first. Gordon Reds’ batting started with a great partnership between Billy Flick and Ned Fryer. Ned was caught out, followed by a close run out call for Billy.
Captain Marcus Possi steaming in to bowl a rocket
Pranav Muralindhar and Henry Smith spent their partnership running like rabbits between the wickets. Pranav had a big hit that almost reached the boundary, and would have if the grass hadn’t been so wet! Running for two almost cost him since he was almost run out. Phew! Pranav continued with solid batting and retired after five overs not out with the top score of 12.
Oscar Stanton celebrates with the trophy and a well deserved drink
Henry Smith also had a great five over stint. Tom Brayshaw was unfortunate to be bowled out. Fate played a hand on keeping Oscar Stanton and Nic Tressos going after a running mix up. Marcus Possi came in after Nic retired. Marcus' bat twisting couldn't save him from a straight ball on the wicket.
Oscar also succumbed to a wicket when the ball struck his hand and went on to upset the bails. Harrison Layton hit a high ball which was caught. Jay Newman was unlucky to be out by a direct hit that came like a bullet from the outfield. In a deja vu moment seemingly minutes later Matthew Barrett was also run out by another startlingly straight hit to the wicket. This finished Gordon Reds batting efforts with a total of 86.
Gordon Reds fielding was a roller coaster of highs and lows. Early on, Tom almost caught a high ball. Following that, even confident appealing did not sway the umpire when the Ned caught the ball as wicket keeper. Oscar's valiant effort to catch a high ball was not successful but the team spirit rose with spontaneous applause.
The crowd held its breath as Tom's spectacular catch was dropped. Jay's straight bowling led to the first wicket of the day for the Reds. West Pymble’s batter stood on his stumps to give the Reds the next wicket. After some good fielding Harrison Layton captured another wicket with a great ball. This was swiftly followed by a Red bullet from the field and another wicket fell.
In a heart stopping moment, Billy's throw to Ned enabled the bails to fall, but not before the batter had crossed the line. Nic used his long run up to get the momentum that he not only took the wicket, he broke one of the bails!
A great straight ball from Henry took the next wicket. In the last over of the day a good bowl from Marcus led to a clean hit and an excellent catch from Pranav. Even down to the last ball of the day, a throw in from the out field by Pranav sealed the final wicket and brought great applause from the crowd!
It didn’t feel like West Pymble Gold won the match - there were so many high points for the Gordon Reds! But we’ll now go into the finals with added vigour to strike victory in our next game.
Player of the week went to Oscar Stanton for an outstanding game.
Marcus Possi – Captain
Green Machine Big Grinners  
  The after match celebrations saw smiles on their faces as wide as that of the proverbial Cheshire cat after the Greens sealed only their second win of the season. In was achieved in a dramatic finish and with heroes aplenty on the day.
All smiles for the Greens after a wonderful last round win on Saturday
Again in his pre-match talk, coach Josh asked the team to stay focussed and have a belief in themselves that would give them the win they so clearly deserved.
Ollie Clarke bowed tightly and hit a classy 46 runs not out
The game started positively when we won the toss at Tunks Park. We let them bat and trusted that our form bowlers would quickly cut into the Lane Cove bowling line up. James Dow and Nick Moore opened the attack. With heat-seeking accuracy, Nick drilled into the Lane Cove openers, picking up two wickets in his first over and then going on to a stunning four wickets for four runs in three overs performance. Just the start we’d hoped for.
Laser precision saw Nick Moore pick up 4 wickets for only 4 runs in his stunning bowling spell
Patchy fielding threatened to derail our attack but there were a few glimpses of light such as Raymond Su’s great catch just centimetres off the grass. Raymond and Aston Brown each took two wickets and Ollie Clarke and Daniel Hall again bowled very tightly but the Lane Cove total had blown out to 173 in the 32nd over when we finally claimed their last wicket. From a dream start, we had now given ourselves a big challenge to get our win.
More encouragement from Josh and then we set about our batting task. We lost our first opener quickly and then Nick Moore was run out on 11 runs. The next batter fell for none and then star batsman, Raymond Su, succumbed to a catch on just 11. When Raymond does not go on to a good total someone else has to ‘stand-up’ or there is a huge hole in our scoresheet.
Another quick LBW and things were not looking great. Then, out of the ranks came “Mr Consistency”, Ollie Clarke, and “Handyman”, James Dow. Both clocked up their 30 runs and retired. Our tailenders only managed to add another 20 runs including a very solid 14 run knock from Max O’Loughlin. This then brought Ollie and James back to the crease to complete their “unfinished business”. On his way to a very fine 46 not out, Ollie notched up a six and seven 4s. James stood up even taller and went on to an undefeated 62 runs, including three 6s and nine 4s. If a job needs doing in the field, or, with the bat, just call “Handyman”!
With all the drama of a great match, the result came down to the last over. We were tracking at a run a ball rate for the last few overs and needed 4 runs off the last over to clinch victory. With a cool head and an “angry” bat, James chose the ball to hit and sealed the win with a huge 6.
Our memories can just recall our only other win back in Round Six and there were times when team morale was very low but the smiles bloomed again on Saturday when we got another win in a dramatic finish and on the back of some wonderful performances.
Well done the Greens! Well done coach! And, thanks mums and dads for sticking with us!
Brian Hall
U12 Green – Manager
Reds Courageous in Fight Back 
 The Gordon Reds and Lindfield faced off for a second week in a row in the final round of the regular season.
Last Saturday it was a comfortable win for Gordon. So the question was: could the Reds do it again – or could Lindfield lift?
James Miller was at his personal best while Lachlan Irving was this week's good sport
Batting first, the Reds got off to a wobbly start to be 3 for 15 at one stage. But opener Tom Hampson steadied the ship with a wonderful 34 retired not out. Tom Brown also did well chipping in with 18. In the middle order, James Miller upped his run rate this week for a good 12 while Nat Calman was terrific at the end for a solid 18.
The Reds set Lindfield 126 to win. The early overs from Hampson and Miller were accurate but the breakthrough they wanted didn’t come. For Lindfield, Saskia Horley was in fine touch as the rep player displayed a good technique to keep the runs going.
The 12 Reds never gave up and came close to victory
Just before the drinks break Lindfield were in a strong position at 0 for 77. But then Tom Brown stuck taking two wickets in one over. The Red express was now on the move!
After the break, Angus Chitty hit the top of the stumps to remove a batsman and Finn Mclay took a wicket Lindfield had now lost 4 for 2!
Then the game ebbed in favour of Lindfield as their batsmen put on runs to reach 118.
Needing just eight runs to win, suddenly the Lindfield wickets starting tumbling again. Angus Chitty took two more, Tom Brown his third and James Miller a wicket as Lindfield again lost 4 for 2.
Those eight wickets had fallen for a total of four runs!
It was now a simple equation. The Reds needed two wickets to win and Lindfield six runs.
Unfortunately, the Reds couldn’t claim the final two wickets and Lindfield got home for a deserved victory.
The Reds showed great character as they fought back to almost snatch victory.
Lachlan Irving won the Good Sportsmanship Award for his leadership on the field. James Miller picked up the personal best award for his excellent running between the wickets and aggressive batting.
The boys should feel proud of their fielding, catching and walking in with the bowler. Along with their sportsmanship, they are off the highest standard – as they have been all season.
But the key messages from this game are to not bowl short and to never give up. Anything is possible in cricket.
Next week the Reds play a semi. Keep an eye out for the opponent and venue. It’s been a great season so far and the boys are keen to finish in style.
Go the mighty Reds.
Excited Greens Keen for More 
  This week Gordon Greens were defeated by St Ives Ponting at Thompson Reserve.
Man of the match was Luc Jefriess.
Man of the Match Luc Jefriess on the ball in the field
A great batting partnership between Damon Crowley and Liam Dow saw the run rate increase.
The boys enjoyed their first season of cricket and were disappointment this was their last game.
We all look forward to the next season!
James Francis fires down a thunderbolt
Damon Crowley crashes a ball to the boundary
Game of Two Teams for Reds 
It was a beautiful cloudless day and the last round of the season before the finals. Playing a North Sydney team down on players but not on confidence. Billy Flick volunteered to play for North Sydney and Gordon were swapping players on and off to assist North Sydney fielding.
Andrew Nash, no hat, receiving his player of the week from captain Thomas Brayshaw, white hat, and vice captain, Marcus Possi, maroon cap
North Sydney won the toss and Gordon were sent in to bat. The pressure was on - it was going to be a ripper!
Gordon's Pranav Muralidhar bowling for North Sydney against Gordon's Ned Fryar (not in photo) and Oliver Riddle, the non-striker
The game started with Pranav and Oscar opening the batting. Oscar survived an early caught behind chance and Pranav showed excellent defence blocking some fast bowling. Oscar tried a cut shot but was caught by Andrew.
Tom came to the crease with the team under early pressure. Pranav and Tom set about to build a partnership but undone by Tom getting run out from a deadeye throw from Ned. With Jay now in, Pranav and Jay started to score quickly before Jay fell to a caught behind. Pranav retired after some great batting.
Harrison survived a catch on his first ball and Henry started getting runs faster than you could count. After Harrison departed, Mangesh and Henry started to build a match-winning partnership showing great running between the wickets.
Mangesh finally fell to an outstanding caught and bowled and Henry was out next ball. Andrew retired with a great score and Marcus was desperately unlucky to get out to a fantastic piece of fielding by Billy. Ned hit a boundary and piled on the runs in the last couple of overs to take Gordon to 74.
Henry, Ned, Mangesh, and Harrison tied the North Sydney batsmen down early and Harrison made an early breakthrough. Oliver was very busy behind the wicket. Andrew made an impact on the game taking a wicket with his first ball of the day.
Gordon were busy in the field and took some great catches. Oscar combined with Henry who took a rib-shaking catch. Pranav took a great catch off Andrews’ bowling. Tom almost pulled off a screamer of a catch but saved a certain boundary.
Billy was run out shortly after a great return from Henry. Matthew was bowling at great pace making the North Sydney batsmen very nervous.
Thanks to Billy for filling in for North Sydney.
Man of the match went to Andrew for his awesome bowling and great work in the field.
After the game everyone celebrated Andrew and Tom’s birthdays with cupcakes.
Star Turn for Whites
The Gordon U9 Whites arrived on game day primed and ready to perform against the Mosman Greens.
Little did they know the Mosman side was coached by former Australian Test player, and recent Big Bash Sydney Sixer, Stuart MacGill.
Undaunted, the Whites took to the field and contained the Mosman team with some accurate bowling and enthusiastic fielding.
At the end of the Mosman innings there was a feeling of confidence among the Gordon team.
Not surprisingly, bowling proved to be the Mosman team’s forte, pinning down the Gordon batsmen and, in the end, running away with the match.
Stuart MacGill was generous in his praise for the Gordon team and stayed around long enough at the end of the match to accommodate the many requests for autographs from the Gordon players.
Tim Cameron
Gordon White manager
Match reports from a nominated member/parent/supporter of each team will be provided on a weekly basis. The reports will be a balanced view of the match, including special performances and where possible photos of the players. This section contains all of the reports submitted prior to the 2011/12 season.
 U11 Reds vs St Ives Warne
19 February 2011
Hassell Park, St Ives
Another fine effort with the bat by James Mulder wasn't enough to help an under strength Gordon Reds to victory on Saturday.
Charlie Crawshaw was rewarded for his display of good sportsmanship and honesty
Captain Charlie Bibb won the toss and elected to bat in the early morning heat. The Reds were without Brae Mason and Angus Chitty for this game.
Openers Mulder and Bibb again got the Reds off to a flying start. The pair mixed aggressive hitting with quick singles and after 10 overs the run rate was at 5 an over.
With the openers retired, Tom Hampson continued to push the scoring along as did Charlie Crawshaw. Finn Mclay chipped in with a solid 9 not out.
But the innings suddenly stalled as the batsmen failed to score quickly and make the most of the good start. Tellingly, the Reds scored just 14 runs from their last 10 overs ' a statistic that would end up costing them the match.
Defending 104, the Reds struck early when Mclay took a very good catch from the bowling of Hampson.
It should have been the start of a march to victory but instead the Reds switched off in the field and started to bowl far too short and wide, which allowed the batsmen to get on top.
 Further wayward bowling cost the Reds dearly with the exception of the aggressive efforts of Crawshaw ,who took 1 for 5 from his three overs, Mulder and the leg spin of Bibb. Hampson fielded very well with a direct hit run out.
Charlie Bibb wins the man of the match awards
The boys know they can play much better than this and they will be fired up to redeem themselves at next Saturday's match.
Bibb picked up Player of the Match for his efforts with bat and ball while Crawshaw displayed fine sportsmanship when he informed the umpire he had snicked a ball when originally given not out.
Next Saturday is the final game of the season with the Reds looking to end on a high with a win over the Roseville Rickys.
The final practice is on Friday at Artarmon where line and length bowling will be the order of the day!
Good luck on Saturday boys.
Steve Bibb
The under strength Reds were in good spirits after the match
 U11 Reds vs Lane Cove Marsh
12 February 2011
Pottery Green, Lane Cove
Opening bowler Tom Hampson took four wickets as he helped set up victory for the U11 Reds on Saturday. An impressive Hampson claimed a wicket in his first over before a run out saw Lane Cove Marsh reeling at 2 for 0 after two overs.
Mulder and Bibb perform with the willow
James Mulder was then thrown the ball and he also struck in his first over to have the home team in trouble at 3 for 12. But a determined Lane Cove team fought back and were on 47 when James Miller picked up his first wicket hitting the stumps with a perfectly pitched delivery.
Hampson came back into the attack and showed his teammates how to do it by bowling straight and at the stumps. At one stage, Hampson was on a hat-trick but the third delivery was well kept out by the batsmen.
Wickets then fell at regular intervals but the Reds couldn't bowl out Lane Cove who finished on 9 for 80 after 30 overs. Hampson finished with the impressive figures of 4 for 6 from his four overs while Tim Perry picked up 2 for 5.
 Of the other bowlers:
- Brae Mason also kept a very good line and length for the tidy figures of 0 for 2 from three overs
- Mulder finished with 1 for 7
- Angus Chitty 0 for 5 from three tight overs
- Ned Vandermark returned 0 for 4.
In the field, Miller took two very good catches and Crawshaw one catch.
Reds watch on as the boys perform with the bat
However, the Reds bowling was far too loose in general. The team gave away 37 unnecessary runs in wides and no balls and must work hard during the week to bring that number right down.
Set 81 to win, Mulder and Charlie Bibb opened the batting and their partnership set up the run chase. The pair ran beautifully between the wickets with Mulder clobbering the bowling and Bibb providing excellent support.
Mulder retired having whacked six 4s on his way to a quick-fire 28. Bibb and Chitty kept the runs ticking over before Bibb skied a ball and was very well caught. Chitty put his head down for a solid innings of seven (retired) as the rest of the batsmen set about easing the Reds over the line in the 18th over.
Hampson picked up the Player of the Match for his four wickets. Miller was rewarded for his effort in the field with the Good Sportsmanship Award from the umpires. Well done boys on a good performance against a spirited Lane Cove side.
However, the bowling will need to improve next week when the Reds face St Ives Warne. Get out there and practice, practice, practice bowling straight at the stumps!
Good luck.
Steve Bibb
 U11 Reds vs Lane Cove Katich
5 February 2011
Allan Small Field, East Killara
The U11 Reds ran into an inferno and a very good Lane Cove team on Saturday before the game was abandoned due to extreme heat.
Reds discuss tactics - in the shade!
With the mercury well into the mid 30s at 8.15am, the Reds won the toss and elected to bowl against top of the table Lane Cove Katich. The Reds were down a man and took to the field with 10 players.
At first it was slow going as the bowlers and fielders kept a lid on the batsmen. After 10 overs, there were 53 runs on the board. But then the soaring heat ' and some good batting ' took their toll. Catches were put down while misfields and no balls cost the Reds dearly. In the end, a lack of concentration in the field due to the heat exhaustion saw the Lane Cove side score 207.
For the Reds, Brae Mason was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 13 from his four overs while Tom Hampson chipped in with 1 for 13 from his three. There were two run outs from Charlie Bibb and Tim Perry.
 Facing a large total, the Reds opened the batting with James Mulder and Sam Duckworth. Mulder got the team off to a flyer smashing a stunning 28 including five 4s and a 6. At the other end, a defiant Duckworth put on a superb display of technically correct batting with a perfectly straight bat.
Angus Chitty padded up ready to go!
After nine overs, the Reds were ahead of the run rate and on track to haul in the huge total.
When Mulder was forced to retire, Hampson came in and kept the runs ticking over on his way to a measured 12 before getting out.
Next in was Angus Chitty who stylishly went about his shots and produced a quality sweep on his way to 16 not out.
At 3 for 80 and with Chitty and Bibb at the crease, the Reds were only just behind the required run rate. However, the heat had become unbearable and the temperature had hit 38.4 degrees in the shade. The game was stopped.
We will never know if the Reds could have reeled in the total but the boys were well placed to go close.
Mulder picked up the Player of the Match and has now passed 200 runs for the season. Well done, James.
Practice is on again this Friday where fielding drills could be the order of the day.
Next Saturday the Reds take on Lane Cover Marsh at Pottery Green in Lane Cove.
Good luck boys and keep enjoying the game!
Steve Bibb
 U11 Reds vs U11 Green
Round 12 - 29 January 2011
Darnley Oval, East Gordon
Reds Home in Tense Match
The U11 Reds turned in a fighting batting performance to claim a narrow last wicket victory over a fellow Gordon team on Saturday.
Reds relax in the shade
Leading run scorer James Mulder ' who rattled up 39 not out ' whacked a mighty six to win a tense game with just three balls left in the match. But it was an excellent all round batting performance that got the team home over a good Gordon Green side.
Earlier, captain Felix Walsh won the toss and sent the Greens into bat on the reliably poor Darnley Oval. Opening bowlers Brae Mason and Walsh shared the new ball with Walsh striking early to remove one of the Green openers. The dismissal brought the Greens top run scorer, Raymond Su, to the crease. Mulder and Ned Vandermark picked up two wickets each with Charlie Crawshaw and Angus Chitty claiming a wicket apiece with tight and accurate bowling. Some quick fielding saw Tim Perry and Harrison Layton run out two batsmen.
However, the Reds bowling overall showed signs of rust after the long school holiday break with far too many no balls and wides helping the Greens to a healthy total of 152 at the end of 30 overs. Su finished on 32 and Oliver Clarke on 25.
Chasing 153 to win, the Reds got off to an unfortunate start by losing opener Chitty to a run out. But that dismissal brought Mulder to the crease and the runs quickly started to flow. With the score on 22 after just three overs, Perry popped up a simple catch to short mid off and he was out. Mason was next in and he quickly set about the bowling with a splendid pull shot for four to open his account. Mulder raced to 25 not out and was forced to retire. But his absence sparked a mini batting collapse with the Reds losing 3 for 16.
 The ship was steadied when Charlie Bibb and Sam Duckworth came together for a match defining partnership of 48 runs. The middle order hitters settled the nerves and then set about piling on the runs. Duckworth was eventually dismissed for a heart-stopping 15 while Bibb crunched two 4s on his way to an impressive 16.
Felix and James make a formidable pair
Two more wickets fell before Mulder returned to join Vandermark at the crease for the critical ' and very tense - last wicket stance. Vandermark showed true grit as held up one end before Mulder before produced his six to win the match.
It was a great batting effort by all the boys with notable contribitions from:
Mulder 39 not out.
Bibb 16.
Duckworth 15.
Mason 14.
Vandermark 6.
The match also sadly marked the last appearance by Walsh for the Reds who will now add his talent to the cricketing ranks at Knox. He will be missed ' as will his ever-helpful father, Phil, who is one of our scorers.
Finally, practice is on again this Friday but can all boys please get some extra bowling work in this week as the next game is against the very good Lane Cove Katich.
Steve Bibb
 "BETWEEN THE WICKETS"
What happens on the field gets reported!
Gordon Gold 5/145 v Lindfield Chappell 8/104
Golds on Song in T20 at Fortress Allan Small.
In training leading up to the much awaited T20 game the team focused on a couple of important points these included
- All balls can be scored from
- Backing up and calling are critical
- Challenging the fielder is fun
- When fielding every player is in the game every ball
- Good catching and throwing will change the game
So it was with much excitement that the Golds met Lindfield Chappell at Allan Small Oval scene of the Golds under 10 grand final victory and a ground where the Golds have never been beaten in 8 matches'a veritable fortress!!!
Chappell won the toss and sent us in and it was clear from the get go that the Golds meant business. Both Campbell (5ret) and Jo (21 ret) set us on the way with smart running and clever placement. Coxy (20 ret) including a massive six attacked at every opportunity, building on the great start. Jack (2) was unlucky falling trying to push the score along as were Callum (3) and Rory. Charlie W (20 ret) was a mini version of David Hookes plundering boundaries at will. Alex (17 ret) cut and drove beautifully through the offside and the Golds were on the march! Tay (11 ret) and Gen (11 ret) combined in a dashing display of shot making and running which brought roars from the large Lord's Tavererner's Day crowd. Henry (9) backed up last weeks great form and only fell pushing for a second run ' great work Henry team before self! Mitch (2) brought a huge cheer with his perfectly executed reverse sweep, before also being run out.
The aggressive selfless play of the whole team meant that both Jo and Campbell got back to the wicket for the final over and both maintained the pressure seeing us through to a massive 5/145 off our 20 overs.
The Golds took the field in their special 'baggies for a day' however the Chappell's were not intimidated and set off at a rapid rate racing to 45 off 5 overs. However the introduction of Alex (3 for 5 off 2) did the trick bowling their opener and then deceiving the next batsmen for Callum to hold a beautiful catch at mid off. This was the signal for the fired up Jack (3 for 6 off 2) to castle the next batsmen and then hold onto a brilliant caught and bowled reducing the Chappells to 4/67 at the half way mark swinging the game back in the Golds favour. Catching was once again proving the difference.
After drinks the fielding was fantastic. Both Rory and Taylor made chances out of shots that I doubt any other teams would have got to and the throwing was first class. Henry (1 for 12 off 2) struck the first blow with a wicket straight after the break, and a fabulous piece of keeping saw Gen achieve a stumping after Alex lured the batsmen down the pitch! Campbell (1 for 5 off 2) was in his pomp steaming in from the northern end, and was rewarded with a wicket. This left their strongest batsmen to return to the crease to face the ever reliable Jack. A ball full of length, was met with a lovely lofted straight drive down the ground, looking for the six needed to keep the game alive. As the crowd watched the ball sail down the ground, Alex calmly moved to his right. This was a vital moment in the game, would all of our catching practice be rewarded? As the ball began its arc back to earth Callum sensibly pulled back, leaving Alex to casually pouch an excellent outfield catch! With 3 overs remaining and over 50 runs needed the task was too great for the brave men of Lindfield and they finished at 8/104.
A great game, with the depth of the Golds on show as 6 batsmen reached double figures and no bowler bowled more than 2 overs, sharing the load right across the team. A great team effort.
Highlights:
- Excellent batting throughout the order
- Aggressive running between the wickets by all batsmen
- Batsmen playing for the team
- Fantastic catching , that is what wins games
- Enthusiastic fielding
This brings to close a wonderful first half of the season where the Golds have been successful in all of their matches. Importantly the team continues to improve, which makes it a delight to be involved.
Our first game back is Saturday January 29 so everyone should be available for that game.
Thanks to Tim and James for umpiring and Steve for scoring. After the excitement of last week it was great to see the return of the good old orange.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy Christmas/New Year, and hopefully the Australians will bounce back and claim the Ashes!
Go GOLDS!!!!!
 U11 Reds vs St Ives Ponting
11 December 2010
Darnley Oval, East Gordon
The U11 Reds got their first taste of Twenty20 magic in an exciting and excellent victory on Saturday.
Player of the Match Tim Perry with his award
Match captain Finn Mclay won the toss and put St Ives Ponting into bat on a sunny day at a poor Darnley Oval. Tom Hampson opened the bowling and struck in his second over to have the St Ives team reeling at 1 for 3.
The batsmen then fought back until James Mulder was thrown the ball. He also struck in his second over hitting the pads and trapping a batsmen 'plumb' in front. Tight fielding restricted the scoring with Hampson picking up a second wicket to finish with the impressive figures of 2 for 9 from three overs. Mulder chipped in with 1 for 6 from three tight overs.
Chasing 116 to win from 20 overs, the Reds opened the batting with Hampson and the in-form Tim Perry. Hampson fell cheaply but Perry played very straight and with great power to retire 14 not out under the special laws for the day.
A couple of quick wickets fell when leading run scorer Mulder was bowled and Sam Duckworth run out. Angus Chitty played straight but was forced to retire having used up his five overs.
With the innings in danger of stalling, in came Brae Mason and Charlie Crawshaw. They quickly combined to clobber the bowling and turn the match around. Crawshaw was particularly savage whacking two 6s and two 4s on his way to 29. Mason was also on fire hitting three 4s in his innings of 18.
The U11Reds celebrate in the shade after defeating St Ives Ponting
Both players were forced to retire ' leaving the remaining batsmen to bring home the victory.
Charlie Bibb played superbly smashing two fours ' the second an elegant on-drive ' for his eight runs. Mclay, 7 not out, and Harrison Layton saw home the Reds reaching 116 with three overs to spare.
It was a great team effort by the boys who richly deserved their victory. It was a reward for hard work off the field.
 It's now time for a summer hiatus. The next game is 29 January where the Reds take on their colleagues, the Gordon Greens.
Charlie Bibb crunches a pull shot to the boundary
Finally, I would like to thank all the parents for their help. Each week the mums and dads turn out to support the boys in greater numbers than the other teams. However, a special thanks goes to:
- Coach Andrew Chitty
- Kitman Steve Perry
- Umpires Craig Hampson, Scott Mason and Matt Vandermark
- Scorers John Mclay, Dean Duckworth and Phil Walsh
- Motivators Martin Mulder, Bruce Crawshaw and Will Layton
And I cannot forget the all important mums and siblings who make it all so much fun.
Steve Bibb
"BETWEEN THE WICKETS"
What happens on the field gets reported!
Gordon Gold 2/110 v Gordon White 0/0
Rain Dampens Golds Return to Allan Small.
Having been invited to bat under murky skies it was always a chance that the weather would intervene. However not to be put off Henry and Mitch set off in fine style. With a mixture of lovely drives and pulls Henry (22) put together an innings of style and belligerence. Not to be out done Mitch (6 retired) provided a perfect foil looking to turn the strike over at every opportunity. This bright start meant that at 8 overs both openers had provided a great platform, although the skies were threatening!
Charlie Cox
pulled and drove his way to a brisk 30 retired in 4 overs while Gen 11 retired (6 overs) provided wonderful support . A feature of the pair was their running between the wickets which kept pressure on the field. Charlie W 22 not out in 3 overs and Alex (2) both risked their wickets in playing for the team as the rain moved in. Campbell 1 not out was at the wicket when the heavens opened. Despite the best efforts of the team to cover the pitch with a 'human shield' the rain poured in. Both teams waited some 25 mins but with no break in sight sadly the game was abandoned with the Golds in a good position at 2/110 off 16 overs.
Disappointing considering the fine start however that is cricket!
Highlights:
- Excellent opening stand by Mitch and Henry
- Bright running between the wickets by all batsmen
- Batsmen playing for the team ' great team spirit
- Offside shots becoming common place ' that is what we want, that's cricket!!!
Thanks to Tim for umpiring and Steve for scoring under unusually difficult circumstances and Ralph, who concerned with the prevalence of scurvy in the team was looking to introduce the children to the delights of the humble grapefruit! Maybe next time Ralph.
Round 11: v Lindfield Chappell @ Allan Small Oval be there by 7.50am for a 8.15am start it is a T20 game this week which should be fun after our Kookaburra Cup experience
This Week : Training - followed by BBQ at 6.00pm
Player Availability ' if anyone is unavailable for this week please let Judy know.
Go GOLDS!!!!!
"BETWEEN THE WICKETS"
What happens on the field gets reported!
Gordon Gold 9/150 v Mosman Blue all out 62
Wickets tumble as Golds run into a determined Mosman
For the first time this season the Gordon batting was made to look vulnerable against a determined Mosman outfit. After losing the toss and being sent in our start was slow as both Charlie W (7) and Taylor (11 not out) were forced to defend against some tight bowling. Both Rory (4) and Jack (4) were hitting the ball well until dismissed. Jonas (15) was in good touch working the ball into the gaps as was Mitch (10) who hit the ball cleanly on the rather slow outfield.
Still, for the first time this season we kept losing wickets, which placed huge pressure on the lower order. Henry (6) was looking great until an excellent throw found him short of his ground and when Callum (3) was dismissed things looked a little grim. Alex (9)played three lovely off drives before he too was run out, leaving Charlie C (17 not out) and Gen (13) to combine in a strong partnership to rescue our innings. 9/150 off 32 overs, a good score but full marks to Mosman who showed how good fielding and bowling can put pressure on the batsmen.
Mosman's batting was not as strong as their bowling and wickets quickly began to tumble. Callum (2/1) began the rot, and was well supported by Jonas (2/4) A stumping by Charlie Cox and a wicket when he bowled was an excellent reward for this enthusiastic player' well done! Jack (1/6) was rewarded for his persistence, while Gen snapped up two very good catches to assist Taylor to match figures of 3/7 - concluding great day out for both of our Met North representatives!!! Our overall bowling and fielding was very good and Mosman was all out for 62 in 21 overs.
Highlights:
- 5 wicket takers means everyone is bowling well
- Catching was excellent'again!
- Another run out ' always a bonus
- 11 drives on the offside ' we are starting to open up our scoring areas- great to see
Thanks to Tim and Mathilda for umpiring and Steve and Judy for scoring. We are indeed an equal opportunity employer!
Round 10: v Gordon White @ Allan Small Oval be there by 7.50am for a 8.15am start
This Week : No Training - enjoy the break
Player Availability ' if anyone is unavailable for this week please let Judy know.
Go GOLDS!!!!!
"BETWEEN THE WICKETS"
What happens on the field gets reported!
Gordon Gold 1/ 73 v Mosman Green all out 72
Golds reap rewards for excellent training attitude.
The Golds arrived at the beautiful Balmoral Oval looking forwad to the game against the very friendly Mosman Green team. It is always nice to remember that we are only playing a game of cricket and Mosman do play in a very good spirit.
Our plans to bat first were thwarted when the coin fell Mosman's way, however Charlie W was quickly into the action with a clean bowled. The next Mosman batsmen whose name I don't have then proceeded to bat with great maturity and power and quickly raced to 30 retired ' well done it was a pleasure to watch his innings.
Following his retirement Henry (who is bowling very well) took 2/13 quickly and got the Golds back into the game ' both were bowled!! At 3/40 Mosman were well positioned, however Campbell changed the game dramatically. A beautiful pick up and throw (a drill done at training during the week) resulted in a direct hit run out ' a turning point in the game.
After an eventful over from Alex which nearly resulted in a hot caught and bowled, nearly resulted in a spectacular catch by Gen and nearly resulted in a super stumping by Charlie C., Callum 2/1 was introduced. His accurate spinners brought immediate results when Jonas held a neat catch and Callum followed up with a clean bowled. From a position of strength Mosman had collapsed to 6/52. Jonas 1/11 inflicted more pain when he hit the stumps and Mosman were in big trouble.
With Mitch taking the gloves and doing quite a good job Charlie C 1/4 took the ball and broke through immediately with the help of Harry who took a good catch at cover. Rory whose enthusiasm for the game is fantastic then positioned himself nicely to hold a catch off Charlie W to give him his second wicket, and leave Mosman at 9/72 with 9 overs remaining. This was a danger period as the Mosman lad who had retired returned to the crease intent on building on his 30retired. We knew he was dangerous so a breakthrough was essential. The skipper threw the ball to Charlie W who steamed in from the northern end and sent down a beautifully pitched yorker which was too good for the batsmen, hitting his middle stump and giving Charlie match figures of 3/2/3/1' all out 72 and a potentially big chase was averted.
Alex who worked the ball nicely on the leg side (12 retired) and Callum batting with great patience(6 retired) faced and handled some hostile bowling in a very good opening partnership of 30 which saw them subdue Mosmans best bowlers. Gen (9) batted very well hitting two lovely drives and with Charlie C (20 retired) who hit the ball crisply to all parts, took the score to 60 in quick time. Henry (8 not out) used his time wisely playing the good ball and working the loose one for runs. He was well supported by Harry (3 not out) and together the target was reached in 16 overs.
Mosman then invited us to keep batting so all the players got to the middle and with a 'license to thrill' Mitch, Rory, Charlie W (what a six) Campbell and Jonas all had some time in the middle. A good game played in a great spirit.
Highlights:
- 6 maiden overs bowled in 24 - builds pressure
- 6 batsmen clean bowled - accuracy gets results
- Direct hit run out ' good reward for good training
- Excellent opening partnership set the platform for our innings
- Strong throws to keeper on the full - keeps the ball in order
Thanks to Tim, James and Lyndon for umpiring and Steve for his attention to the book
Round 9: v Mosman Blue @ William Cowan Oval St Ives be there by 7.50am for a 8.15am start
This Week : Training on Thursday at 5.00pm ' 6.15pm Willoughby Park
Player Availability ' if anyone is unavailable please let Judy know.
Go GOLDS!!!!!
 U11 Reds v St Ives Warne
U11 Reds fight to the end
Three wickets from U11 Red opening bowler Felix Walsh and a top score of 25 not out by James Mulder were the highlights of a nail biting game on Saturday.
Charlie Crawshaw proudly shows off his Good Sportsmanship Award
St Ives Warne batted first and it was slow going thanks to some very tight bowling from the Reds and an outfield in desperate need of a good mow.
After five overs, St Ives were 3 for 15 with Walsh dismissing both openers. It was a fine display of line and length bowling from Walsh who is back to the excellent form he showed last season. Angus Chitty ' whose bowling improves each game - claimed the other wicket to have the Reds well on top.
St Ives then fought back before some excellent team work saw Chitty, now standing in as wicketkeeper, complete a run out.
 The runs then dried up as the U11 Red bowlers and fielders turned the screws and eventually Brae Mason took the fifth wicket - clean bowling a middle order batsman.
Walsh then returned to the attack picking up his third wicket to have St Ives at 6 for 98.
Tom Hampson, Brae Mason and Player of the Match, Felix Walsh, on the boundary during Saturday's run chase
The Reds conceded just three runs from their last four overs as Mason, Walsh, Tom Hampson and James Mulder bowled tightly and the fielders pounced on every ball.
Set 104 to win, the Reds started solidly with Mulder and Charlie Crawshaw opening the batting. Both played well but found it hard to get the ball to the boundary with the long grass preventing them getting full value from their aggressive shots. A number of loose balls were also missed down the leg side.
Crawshaw retired five not out which brought the left hander Chitty to the crease who began by playing very straight and looking good off the back foot as he eased runs past the close in fielders.
Mulder retired on 25 not out ' a score that takes him to the number two spot on the batting table. Charlie Bibb was next in and he and Chitty were tied down by some very good bowling and they also missed opportunities to put the loose ball away. Bibb was bowled trying to smash the ball to the boundary.
Next in was Hampson who immediately set about lifting the scoring with some quick running and two good blows. Unfortunately, he was bowled for four looking to keep the scorers busy. Mason was next in and he also took to the bowling and struck the only boundary of the entire match. His quick fire innings ended on six and the Reds were now in need of big hits and quick runs. Finn Mclay looked good and hit one sweet pull shot for two ' a shot that would have been four had the grass been a little shorter. When Mclay fell, Sam Duckworth came in but got a good delivery while trying to push for runs.
 With plenty of wickets left, Ned Vandermark and Tim Perry took to the bowling trying to guide the Reds home. The pair needed 12 runs from the final two overs ' a run a ball. Unfortunately, they fell short of the target with the Reds finishing on 6 for 94 at the end of 30 overs.
Charlie Bibb, Tom Hampson, Player of the Match Felix Walsh, and Brae Mason all waiting to bat during Saturday's run chase
While all the boys tried very hard, the big lesson for the Reds' batsmen from this game is to make sure to punish the loose ball. Many short deliveries slipped by down the leg side begging to be hit for four.
The positive was the overall excellent attitude and enthusiasm on display by the Reds ' especially in the field. The boys put in a very special effort of which they should be proud. Felix Walsh was named Player of the Match.
The sportsmanship was again wonderful to see as the Reds continue to show every other team how to play cricket in the right spirit at all times. Charlie Crawshaw picked up the Good Sportsmanship Award.
Practice is on again this Friday as usual. Next game sees the Reds take on the Roseville Rickys at the Allan Small Oval at East Killara.
Good luck!
Steve Bibb
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