Matthew Dickinson signed off his last innings on the hallowed turf of Meares Oval with a barnstorming 40 to spearhead the Old Scotch run chase of Old Xav's sub par total of 85. This famous Old Scotch victory over the arch rivals from Barkers Road by 7 wickets has also secured the Scotchies a semi finals show down next week to keep the flag dream alive.
After losing the toss, the Old Scotch bowlers tore into the powerful Old Xav's batting line up to body slam them for a scarcely believable 85 all out in near perfect conditions.
The hero with the ball was master allrounder Tim "The Hosk" Hosking who captured 6 for 17 in a masterful display of seam up bowling. All the bowlers performed their part beautifully and the Old Xavs batsmen were given no quarter.
Old Scotch lost yeoman opener Whitelaw early in their reply to give the Xavs hope of a miracle, but Dickinson playing with a clarity of purpose, put the issue beyond doubt with a quick fire 40 that killed off the match.
The result keeps alive the clubs hopes of sending Dicko off a winner in his final summer before his repatriation back to England.
In Second Division news, the world famous Celebrities lost the toss and were put in on a typically dry and cracked Brighton Grammar pitch. With evergreen veteran Mark Griffiths and special guest star Cal McDonough blazing, the score reached 1 for 77 after 15 overs, before the batting collapse kicked in and a disappointing 143 was posted in 37 overs.
In a mirror of last seasons semi final at the same ground, Old Brighton were reeling with eight wickets lost and 40 runs still required, when in a repeat of the semi final, they chased down the target without the loss of any further wickets.
Mark Griffiths carried his bat for a staunch 54 and with McDonough's excellent 36 it seemed that the Celebritries would sign off the horror 2014/15 season with a victory, but it was not to be.
The Celebrities will be back bigger and badder than ever next season as will Haydos Heroes...but for now, the 1st XI are a realistic shot at the title. Can the boys send Dicko out a winner?
Keep your eyes open for semi final details/announcements this week.
In the mean time...
SURROUND YOURSELF IN THE EXCITEMENT!
