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.
Reds Outstanding Sports 
 North Sydney didn't have enough players - they only had five to start - so Gordon provided them with fielders and bowlers.
Billy Flick even played the full game for them. That is, he batted through their innings.
Andrew Nash, no hat, receiving his player of the week from captain Thomas Brayshaw, white hat, and vice captain, Marcus Possi, maroon cap
This was a great effort by our guys who effectively had to field for the whole game - 60 overs - although we managed to sub them on and off.
Our boys took catches, wickets and run outs for North Sydney, and celebrated with them as a team while commiserating with our own Gordon players.
Gordon's Pranav Muralidhar bowling for North Sydney against Gordon's Ned Fryar (not in photo) and Oliver Riddle, the non-striker
In the end Gordon plus North Sydney beat Gordon although the official result was already a forfeit to us.
The boys from both teams worked hard together to get the game on and it was played in great spirits.
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
Reds Pull One Out of the Blue
After losing the toss and being sent into bat by Mosman Blue on a green wicket, the U16/17 Reds were really struggling at 6 for 38, with opener Daniel Annakin retiring after the first couple of balls, so effectively 7 for 38.
An 8th wicket stand of 46 between Matt Forti and Ryan Ludowyke brought some respectability to the score of 103.The 9th wicket fell at 103 but Daniel returned to the crease (thanks to Mother style Teresa nursing) to put on a 10th wicket stand and a semi respectable total of 132.
Mosman got off to a slowish start but were 3 for 103 in the 24th over, which meant they only needed another 30 runs to win with eight overs remaining.
Then it started to get exciting!
In the 25th over Mosman lost their fourth wicket. In the 27th over things were looking grim and defeat was staring us in the face at 4-115 as Mosman crept towards the total.
In the 28th over, the fifth wicket went at 120 and the boys picked up and thought - just maybe.
For the 30th over the ball was thrown to Ryan Ludowyke for a chance to make the break through but Mosman were resilient and at the end of 30th over were 5 for 130.
Two overs to go and three runs to win.
Will Calov stepped up for one last chance of a break through. His second ball was hit to Frank Denyer and a spectacular catch meant it was 6 for 130. Then the fourth ball was plumb LBW – now 7 for 130. The fifth ball clean bowled for 8 for 130. Over finished with a dot ball. A 3 wicket maiden!!
We couldn’t, could we?
The ball was thrown back to Ryan for the 32nd over. First ball a single to the batsman who was watching all the drama from the non-striker’s end. The new batsman edges the next ball to the keeper – 9 for 131.
It was now one run to tie, two to win.
At this stage there was a lot of excitement from both the boys on the ground and from the crowd on the sideline. I don’t think the batman saw the next ball - clean bowled. Five wickets for one run!
A mixture of elation and surprise that they were able to pull this one off crossed the ground.
That was one out of the Blue.
Inspired Blues in Narrow Win 
After missing the previous week's training and game with the rain the boys were very rusty when they went out to bat and lost the most wickets in many matches – the U9 Blues finishing up at 9 for 91.
The U9 Blues celebrate another wicket in an amazing comeback
After the magic water at half time a different set of kids must have walked out as they put Mosman under a lot of pressure with some very accurate bowling and thrilling run outs.
The parents were feeling the pressure on the sidelines counting down the wickets to the last over which determined the outcome of the game.
The Blues restricted the opposition to 7 for 68 with the Blues coming home with a strong finish to win by an average of 0.40.
A great result to the Blues.
Pep Talk Inspires Greens 
   We were up against the competition leaders, who have just one loss on their card for the season, and the result should have been a formality. However, coach Josh sat our team down before the game and explained the challenge ahead. He said we could either be “defeated” before we stepped onto the field or we could play for each other and play as well as we can … and see what happens.
The signs looked good as we warmed up. There was a buzz in the team. We won the toss and opted to bat. ‘Mr. Consistency’, Ollie Clarke, 16 runs, and Nick Moore, 4 runs, were first up and they weathered a fiery opening spell. While their run rate was modest, the pair got us off to a solid start. Our next four batters went cheaply but then Bradley Pascoe, eight runs, and James Dow, 18 runs, picked up the pace and we felt were back getting back into the game.
Things then got better still when ‘Batman’, Raymond Su, brought his A-game onto the field. From the get-go he played with authority and maturity. Raymond is not a player of many words, but when his bat ‘talks’ people listen. There were ‘oohs’ and ‘wows’ from the opposition all the way through his powerhouse undefeated 73 run stand. This helped very significantly in building our total to 154 by the end of our innings. Watching how Raymond controlled and directed the play as he built his total was almost as impressive as seeing the scorebook sizzle.
We had a good enough total to defend and there was a belief that we could contain Lindfield despite their intimidating record. James Dow and Daniel Hall opened with the ball and surrendered only six runs between them in six overs and they collected a couple of wickets as well. Nick Moore was under instruction to bowl tightly and he did just that with an excellent spell. Bradley Pascoe, Hugh Woods and Ollie Clarke all put in good middle-innings spells. Aston Brown and Raymond Su each collected a wicket. Tim Stubbs-Race, Kendell Austine and Max Oloughlin bowled a couple of good overs each to round out the innings. Max also had his first go at wicket keeping for the season and was a stand-out. Liam Hunt fielded well until was struck on the shins (yes, both at once) and retired hurt.
At the drinks break we knew we were still very much in the match and just like a good Big Bash encounter, the ‘officials’ on the sidelines were constantly crunching the numbers and speculating on how the match would end. Unfortunately, the Lindfield tail was just a bit too long and their last pair made a 30 run stand that snuffed out our challenge in 30th over.
Not the result that we deserved but an effort to be proud of effort none the less.
A special tribute this week to Angus Levy who was slated to miss batting this week and then, due to some confusion over batter retirements, he never even got to bowl. While upset initially, he bounced back and had a ‘smile on his dial’ by the end of the match – well done, Angus.
Brian Hall
U12 Green – Manager
Reds Show Passion in Fightback 
Last Saturday, the U13 Reds played St Ives Ponting at Newport. We lost the toss and Ponting put us into bat on a thick, grassy paddock. What occurred during the first 11 overs was a complete batting capitulation at the greatest level - seven wickets for 18 runs. The Gordon Reds had a challenge!!
Thankfully, Jack Bucknell, 20, and Nathan James, 14 not out, steadied the ship with a cameo performance from our junior superstar, Matthew Di Ciano, saw us achieve a total of 70 runs.
Talk about a game of two halves! Gordon Reds then bowled beautifully and restricted Ponting from any easy runs and taking regular wickets along the way.
Good bowling by Charlie Wallace, 1 for 4 off 5 overs, Jonathan Koruga, 1 for 6 off 5 overs, Jake O’Donnell, 2 for 7, Nathan James, 1 for 5, and Luke Carah, 2 for 6, saw us well in the game.
In the final over, St Ives Ponting were eight wickets down needing four runs to win and achieved a win with just two balls to spare.
As coach, I was very proud how the team displayed great passion of defending such a low score and almost pulling off the win of the season.
This is our fifth game during our season that we have seen a result determined in the final over.
Well done to all the lads – they could have had an early departure for the beach but instead were determined to fight to the end!
Darren O’Donnell
U13 red coach
Home win for invincible Reds!
   Our second last game for the season and a beautiful sunny morning. We’d received some bad news that Jarrod McCabe had slammed his finger in the door and could not play. Thankfully Jarrod and his finger survived and we managed to find a replacement!
Rory Chitty lashes out with a front foot pull shot
Lindfield Hughes won the toss and decided to bat. The enthusiastic Reds charged into the field. Charlie Toepfer picked up a wicket on the first ball of the innings and we were off to a good start. Rory Chitty was again on fire after his hat trick last week, picking up two wickets in his over. His aggressive bowling might have been encouraged by knowing that the batsman’s name was Rory as well! After the first six overs the batting side were 3 for 9. The Reds were looking good.
This was until the Lindfield coach's son came to the crease. Having played for years with his older brothers he knew how to hit a ball "over the fence". Hitting two 6s and two 4s, the visitors were back in business. They were now 3 for 60 with three pairs still to bat. The Reds were going to need to do some accurate bowling and fielding.
Finn Mason with his sportsmanship award
The boys responded with some tidy bowling, restricting the runs to 16 and taking another five wickets. Wickets were taken by Rowan Betts, Ned Harrop, Jack Irving, Charlie Toepfer and Rory Chitty. Some spectacular catches by Jack Irving earned him the Personal Best award for the game. There was also some great fielding by Archie Bibb.
It was then time for the Reds to bat. Finn Mason and Tom Wright opened the batting. The running between wickets was impressive. Loud, clear calling and a sense of urgency in their running. All the team took note. Finn earning himself the Sportsman Award. After the first 12 overs the home side was 2 for 28.
The boys were defending their wicket well however the run rate would need to increase if they were to win this match. The next pairing of Lachie Pin and Oscar Platt got them back on track, with Lachie hitting a handful of 4s.
Rory Chitty and Charlie Cadwallader were the next to bat and they both were reading the bowlers well. Hitting a number of boundaries and running well between wickets. Rowan Betts and Jack Conoplia also batted well defending their wicket and hitting the winning runs.
Jack Irving was at his personal best snaring great catches
It was another win to the Reds. Final score: Gordon Reds 4 for 112 (Avg. 22), Lindfield Hughes 8 for 77 (Avg. 8).
Next week is our last game. We play Mosman at Balmoral. See you there.
Red Team Spirit Shines 
   There are many things to admire about this Gordon U12 Red team – and most were on display on Saturday.
Team spirit was again the hallmark of the U12 Red performance
After an “off” performance, the true character of these boys shone brightly as every single player contributed in one way or another to a win over Lindfield.
More impressive than the margin of victory was the manner in which the boys played. They displayed great character, skill, sportsmanship and, most importantly, team spirit.
This week the boys knew they had to improve their batting. They were very clearly told to concentrate on building an innings by pushing the ball into the gaps to pick up easy runs. The goal was to stay in control, push the scoring along and to bat through the entire innings. No crazy swipes! It was a challenge they relished.
Tim Perry was all action in his personal best effort
Angus Chitty and Tom Hampson opened and they looked great as they put on 64 runs before both were retired not out - Hampson on 30 and Chitty on 23.
Top scorer Tom Hampson got the innings off to a solid start
Tim Perry was promoted and built a very good innings that mixed patience with good strokes. He retired on 19 not out. Lachlan Iriving also got stuck into the bowling as put together 17 runs before being bowled.
Charlie Bibb and Tom Brown were also patient in the middle order and both mixed easy singles with boundaries. Bibb was caught at deep point for 19 and Brown retired not out on 12.
James Miller should be congratulated for his highest score of 18 and Henry Howard chipped in with 11.
It was a good all round batting effort that saw the Reds score 182 from their 32 overs.
With the heat kicking in, the Reds took to the field and again showed why they are the best fielding team in the competition. All players were terrific walking in with each delivery, throwing themselves at the ball, catching well, throwing strongly and backing up.
The Reds watch their team mates go to work in the middle
All bowlers contributed with two wickets to Calman, and a wicket each to Irving, Howard, Perry, Bibb, Chitty, and Brown. Fiery paceman Irving should be congratulated for breaking a bail with one fantastic delivery.
Brae “cool hands” Mason took two good catches – and almost pulled off a screamer. There were two run outs.
Tim “V” Perry was awarded the Personal Best trophy for his runs, wicket and his non stop effort in the field. The inspirational
Ned Vandermark picked up the Good Sportsmanship award.
All in all, a good team effort with every player doing his bit. Well done, boys.
We’d like to thank Lindfield for the game and we will see you next Saturday again!
See you all at training on Friday!
Greens Fun Day Out 
    This week the U9 Gordon Greens defeated the Roseville Rosevillians at Bales Park.
Man of the Match Nico Dowling sends down a thunderbolt
Man of the Match this week was Nico Dowling with some great bowling and batting.
We saw a much improved fielding side and some great batting from the team.
The very enthusiastic U9 Greens chase the ball
As always, the boys enjoyed their game and particularly their win!
Damon Crowley and Liam Dow celebrate a wicket
Cameron Gee and Luc Jeffriess run hard between wickets
A casual and confident Matthew Moore and James Bihari swap ends
Great Reds Impress 
  On Saturday we had a great game against Lindfield. We had great bowling and:
• Matthew Barrett's great fielding.
• Marcus Possi's great slides.
• Billy Flick's great running between the wickets.
• Pranav Muralidhar's great middle stump wicket.
• Mangesh Dashputre's great calling between the wickets with Oscar Stanton and Pranav Muralidhar.
Harrison Layton shines the ball to try to get some swing
The other team had a great fielding team and batting too. They put up a great score and performance and gained a total of 114 runs.
The game began with Mangesh taking the first wicket against Lindfield with a cracking ball - the crowd went wild.
A fantastic throw from Matthew smashed the stumps to gain Gordon’s second wicket - the crowd went wild again.
Ned Fryar drives powerfully
Pranav’s lightening fast reflexes as wicket keeper gained the third wicket for the day by stumping the runner out at the keepers end of the pitch from a ball bowled by Oliver Riddle.
Henry Smith seized the fourth wicket with a stellar catch in covers - bowled Andrew Nash. Henry also took the last wicket for Gordon, LBW with pinpoint accuracy.
Pranav Muralidhar shows strong resistance
Billy Flick's attempted stumping, off a ball from Ned Fryar, although very close, was unfortunately given a “not out”. The team also “went up as one” with an appeal for caught behind by Pranav, bowled by Ned Fryar. However, this was also given “not out”.
Harrison Layton and Oscar Stanton's great fielding efforts stopped a number of balls on their way to a four. Tom Brayshaw channeled “Carl Rackemann” in his bowling, long run-up, fast paced, nice style!
Matthew was fielding “in the zone”, poised for the ball abd ready to pounce.
When batting, Billy's lightening fast running between wickets saw him safe in the crease after a run out appeal from Lindfield.
Marcus’ great slides saw him safe in the crease on more than one occasion. Mangesh's formidable batting style and good communication on the pitch saw him stay in batting until he was retired in the final stages of the game.
Ned's cheeky slip shot carved up the oval to earn him a cracking four. Pranav’s great calling and communication on the wicket contributed to a successful batting partnership with Mangesh.
Player Of The Match was Matthew Barrett. In presenting Matthew the trophy, captain Andrew A. Nash said: “This award is being given to Matthew for his great all over effort on the field today.”
A highlight for the spectators was Ned Fryar's dad's chair - which was very comfortable (and his mum's chair too),
Thanks Gordon team mates, and if we come up against that team again, we'll hopefully beat them next time.
Andrew Nash – Match Captain
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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