General News
15 March, 2023
Cats progress- 'Doughy' pitch sees game called-off
A ‘DOUGHY’ Jetty Flat pitch resulted in last Saturday’s WDCA division one qualifying final being called off with only three overs played.
A ‘DOUGHY’ Jetty Flat pitch resulted in last Saturday’s WDCA division one qualifying final being called off with only three overs played.
After a one hour delayed start, West Warrnambool won the toss and sent Mortlake in to bat.
With just 3.4 overs bowled, the Cats were sitting at a lowly 3/7 when lengthy discussions were held surrounding the suitability of the pitch.
Mortlake senior coach Todd Lamont said both sides, and umpires, agreed the pitch fell “well below standard” – with the win going to the higher-placed Cats.
“After just three overs it was clear the pitch certainly wasn’t up to scratch,” Lamont said.
“It was very doughy, and to be honest I didn’t think it would play as badly as it did.
“We always try to avoid calling off a game but it was clear to both teams it (the pitch) just wasn’t up to it and a sensible decision was made. Fortunately we finished the season higher up the ladder so will progress to this weekend’s semi-final.”
Mortlake will take on Nestles at Walter Oval this Saturday, with the game scheduled to start at 12.30pm.
“Nestles is a strong outfit and they beat us during the home and away season but finals is always a different ball game,” Lamont said.
“We’ll work on fine tuning a few things at training this week and get our game plan together. Nestles don’t have too many weaknesses so it’ll certainly be a tough one.”
Mortlake’s division four side put on a strong performance in its semi-final match last weekend to defeat Port Fairy by 42 runs.
The Cats finished on 10/154 while restricting Port Fairy to 10/112.
Cats opener Patrick Drake added a handy 51 runs and was well supported by team-mates Luke Robertson with 16 and Jason Harris 15.
Best of the bowlers were Will Ruddle 2/1 off three balls, Shane Bond 2/25 off seven, Liam Schuuring 2/22 off eight and Drake 2/14 off eight.
The team will take on Nestles in this Saturday’s division four grand final.
The game will be held at Purnim’s Peter McDonald Oval, starting at 12.30pm.
