Success in 1's, 2's and 6's over the weekend will see SUCC contest three grandfinals. Another set of solid performances will ice the cake that has been the 2013/14 season.
In first grade, a lower order fight back from Will Sommerville and Nigel Cowell, backed up by another stellar effort from the fast bowlers Cowell, Abbot and Ley set up an emphatic victory over Randwick Petersham. Sommerville looked right at home batting at Sydney's most Eastern cricket ground, driving and lofting his way to 63 not out from the number 10 position, and in doing so more than doubling his season aggregate of runs. The pair added 78 for the final wicket, which swung the momentum in our favour. The bowlers finished the job, knocking over Randy Pete's for 77 in reply.
Second grade proved again why they will be gunning for their third straight premiership straight (and fifth in seven years). Keirath's men worked hard to amass 255, with contributions all the way down the list. Ben Joy was then let loose on the Saints batting line up, claiming 7/39 off 23.4 overs. The lanky quick now has 56 wickets at a miserly 13.57 for the season. Saints, despite a significant 10th wicket partnership, capitulated for 175 in reply.
Third grade finally met their match in Sydney Cricket Club, who chased our 197 for the loss of just three wickets. 45 from Ed Arnott was the highlight of the batting performance, while Lewis McMahon capped a fine debut season taking 1/47 to take his overall tally to an outstanding 47 wickets. A great season by Ash Cowan's young brigade, who will no doubt make their presence felt as the Uni Army next weekend.
Mike Harris has also led our 6th grade team to a grandfinal. The boys downed Gordon in their semi final, and will now take on Blacktown for the right to lift the Metropolitan Cup.
Well done to all involved. One more weekend of hard toil to make it a season to remember.
Win (preferable), lose or draw (in which case 2's win anyway) celebrations will be held at The Nag's Head Hotel Sunday evening.