AN all-Warrnambool final at Portland Under 13 Country Week finished with Gold shining the brightest.
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Warrnambool Gold defeated Warrnambool Blue by 10 runs in a thrilling 25-over finale at Henty Park yesterday.
The Jayaweera Bandara-coached Gold side made 8-119 batting first, highlighted by Bailey Jenkinson making 23.
Dominic Bandara (17) and Connor Hinkley (17) also contributed with the bat while Tom Jackson (1-10) and Alex Jennings (1-12) were the best with the ball.
Blue was steady in its run chase and had victory within reach, requiring 11 off the last over.
But tailender Charlie Blacker was run out off the first ball while attempting a second run to end the thrilling match.
Blue finished all out for 109. Cody Brogden led the runs with 18 while Tom Jackson made 14 and Jackson Couch posted 10.
Dominic Bandara took 2-6 to be the only multiple wicket taker. Liam Couch (1-8), Jay Brooks (1-7) and Nick Robertson (1-15) were also handy.
Gold coach Bandara said the result was reward for the young side, which had battled scorching weather throughout the week.
“We had a team plan all week and we stuck to that, especially with the bowling. We bowled one side of the wicket and fuller,” he said.
Bandara said he was confident his players would return to club cricket more confident in themselves: “there are good teams coming here”.
Blue coach Ashley Jennings was also proud of his side. The grand final defeat was its only loss of the week.
“It’s been a terrific week but that’s the way it goes. It’s been very good for Warrnambool cricket, really,” he said.
The result brings to an end a near-flawless summer for Warrnambool and District Cricket Association’s junior sides.
Warrnambool Blue defeated Warrnambool Gold in the final at Warrnambool Under 17 Country Week final last Friday.
Warrnambool Gold took out Horsham Under 15 Country Week on the same day, defeating a strong South West side.
afawkes@fairfaxmedia.com.au