NSW YC Moore Shield
3 November 2024, Mike Pawley Oval
This past Sunday commenced round four of the rep cricket season with Manly facing off against Penrith in the U14 Moore Shield. The cool morning quickly turned hot and humid as this game marked our first of the season with temperatures creeping towards 30 degrees.
Manly won the toss and elected to bat, the familiar field of Mike Pawleys showcased a promising wicket and a quick outfield.
As Penrith’s opening bowlers showcased some serious speed and consistency, and with the pitch’s unpredictability from the overnight rain 3 wickets fell during the opening spell. Toby Smith hit a timely 27, but as the overs progressed the heat must have gotten the better off us , as by drinks we were 6-69. A calm Jacob Watts (26no) helped increase the run-rate and steady our batting innings however with a lack of wickets in hand and continuous consistent bowling from Penrith we were all out for 107 after 38 overs.
Coming into the seconds innings Manly were hunting for a showstopping win. Unfortunately, our bowling wasn’t on par and Penrith’s batting attack stayed steadily over the required run rate. Although a couple quick wickets fell to the bowling of Stuart Turner, Raffa Mcfadden and Jai Timosevkii, Penrith’s attitude and well-rounded performance ultimately led them to chase down our runs just before the 30th over. Even though we lost it was a good lesson, we will come back stronger and better than ever.
Oliver Pavely