By Charlene Gatt
TAYLORS Lakes snared a narrow victory over Buckley Park over the weekend to secure a spot in the North West Cricket Association George Luscombe Shield grand final against Gladstone Park.
The result, however, was in doubt as Taylors Lakes, which finished on top of the ladder, posted an easily obtainable target in its first innings on Saturday.
Buckley Park put up a strong defence on day one of the semi-final with bowler Darren Hayes bowling a spectacular 7/60 off 17 overs, and Clint Ray (2/12) and Michael Hayes (1/11) also contributing with the leather.
Taylors Lakes batsman Robert Morgan (52) defied the trio’s expertise to post an impressive half-century, while Simon Arnold (21) attempted to follow suit before the side was dismissed on 136.
Buckley Park seemed poised to take its place in the grand final before opening batsman Paul Mills was caught one run shy of a half-century, leading the team to be 6/50 at stumps.
But Taylors Lakes had some surprises in store on day two, and a magical stint with the ball from captain/coach Paul Thomas (6/41 off 30 overs) successfully managed to rein in the opposition’s finals chances.
In a heartbreaking finish, Buckley Park ended season 2006-07 on 125.
Champion bowler Paul Thomas is confident Taylors Lakes will win this year’s premiership.
“We think we’ll go very well,” he said.
“We finished on top, and we’ve beaten Gladstone Park twice this year.”
But the minor premier may have a battle on its hands after Gladstone Park stormed into the grand final with a record 160-run victory over Pascoe Vale Central.
Gladstone Park blew the match apart on day one at Tullamarine Reserve, smashing a club record innings of 505, which included two centuries.
Spectacular performances from Heath Shephard (147) and captain/coach John Markham (127) formed the backbone of the awe-inspiring total, while Wes Telford (58) and Paul Camilleri (49) also made strong contributions.
Despite a pummelling on the opening day, Pascoe Vale put up a good fight in its chase on day two, but in the end was bowled out for 345 in one of the most entertaining clashes this season.
Ashley Fackler was instrumental on the bowling front, notching up 4/36 off eight overs, while brothers Danny and Paul Viani netted two wickets each to ensure Gladstone Park’s progression.
Markham was overjoyed with his side’s win but acknowledged that Gladstone Park would enter the grand final as underdog. Nevertheless he still believes the club has what it takes to win.
“Every game’s winnable,” said Markham. “(Taylors Lakes) have beaten us twice during the year in the home and away season, but we know that on any given day we’re good enough to win.”
The grand final will be played across four days over the next two weekends.
