The Armidale School’s First XI faced a tough opponent in the semi-final of the Douglas Shield cricket knockout at TAS yesterday (4 March), going down to a classy outfit from Rouse Hill Anglican College which included two boys who play in Sydney’s second grade competition.
Winning the toss and electing to bat, TAS got off to a solid start, with Will Waterson (41) and Tom Stier putting in a strong partnership. This was followed by another solid partnership from Will Archer (32) and Jack Bennett and further down the order, Nick Day and Ben Moffatt (30) kept the run rate ticking over, adding 44 to the score.
In the 49th over and with the run rate in need of a lift, Mitchell Foster took to the crease when TAS was 7/175 and hit two consecutive sixes, with Max Alcorn (18 not out) boosting the score to 7/197 at lunch.
The Rouse Hill boys took to the pitch with their target firmly in sight, setting up an impressive opening partnership between captain and Parramatta second grade player Tim Ward and Alex Gordon. The pair clocked up an impressive 82 before Gordon was caught by Dominic Pilon, giving a boost to the hosts. Joined by his brother Matt at the crease, Tim Ward continued his assault, and Rouse Hill were 1/103 after 24 overs.
Matt Ward (3) was caught and bowled Brendan Power, but crucial wickets eluded TAS and Rouse Hill continued to bat confidently, the Rouse Hill captain attaining his century in the 33rd over at 2/159 and was 127 not out when Rouse Hill won the game at 3/198 in the 41st over.
Rouse Hill Anglican College will play in the final at Sydney University’s Number 1 oval later this month.
TAS Captain Jack Bennett and Rouse Hill Anglican College Captain Tim Ward see who has won the toss while umpires Alan Hollebrandse and Tim Wittig look on.
