2 November 2025
A delayed start due to rain greeted us as we took on Lake Macquarie in Swansea.
Manly won the toss and elected to bat first. Manly began positively with Eddy Goldsworthy and Nick Bartlam looking solid at the crease, but the wet grass and disciplined bowling attack made scoring difficult from the outset.
Wickets fell at regular intervals, with consistent bowling and sharp fielding from the opposition making it tough for Manly to build momentum. Asher Rehman showed great patience and resilience in the middle, keeping the innings together, before Issac D’Souza injected some much-needed spark late in the piece with some swashbuckling stroke play. Their efforts ensured Manly faced out the full 40 overs and pushed the total into triple figures.
As the players returned to the field after the break, the sun finally broke through — and with it came far better batting conditions. Manly’s bowlers worked hard and showed real heart, led by Angus Brandt and Isaac D’Souza who bowled tightly and accurately without reward. Alex Paixao and Nash Roarty followed keeping the pressure going and batters locked down with tight bowling spells, slowing the run rate down with a few maidan overs. Alex claiming the sole wicket of the innings, thanks to a sharp catch from Finn Sorbara in the field.
Behind the stumps, Eddie Goldsworthy kept spirits high and worked tirelessly with the gloves. The team’s energy in the field never faded — the boys chased everything with commitment and maintained positive body language throughout. Chances were limited, but Manly fought to the end and made the opposition earn every run, ensuring the chase was far from a stroll.
Despite the result, there were clear signs of growth and improvement. The boys continue to develop week on week, playing with effort, enthusiasm, and a great attitude — all the hallmarks of a team heading in the right direction.
