Cowaramup’s reputation as the father/son/daughter club was further enhanced on the weekend when no fewer than 10 of the twelve who turned out to represent the club against Dunsborough in the C Grade could claim a familial link.
After a difficult start to the season when low numbers and apparent indifference made the continued existence of the third side appear problematical, the club has managed to turn their fortunes around thanks to some inspired recruiting and increased resolve, and kick-started a few promising careers in the process.
After finally winning a toss at the tenth time of asking, skipper Mark Barrett-Lennard at last had the option of an early bat at the Dunsborough playing fields on a warm day.
Facing a parsimonious attack with an extremely sluggish outfield, the Bulls were never able to break the shackles imposed on them from the outset, despite most of the batsmen getting a start.
A score of 2/44 at the halfway mark gave an indication of the tough going, however the side was able to pick up the scoring in the second part of the innings.
The shining light was promising junior Tully Schofield, who showed great patience and resolve in keeping out the good deliveries and dispatching the bad ones to the fence.
He topscored with 45, and a half century partnership with the free flowing veteran Darrell Bradshaw (30no) at least gave the side something to bowl at.
Defending a low score, early wickets were crucial and the opening bowling combination of Bradshaw and son sparked an early scare when they each claimed a wicket.
The diminutive Finn Barrett-Lennard did a fine job behind the stumps, saving many wide deliveries and he was rewarded with a catch off Dunsborough opener Henry.
A dropped catch at slip could have placed further pressure on the home team, however the experienced pair of Pes and Hoemberg guided the top side home.
Though the wins have been hard to come by for the C Grade this season, it’s the gaining of experience that’s most important, and the club can look forward to good things in the future with the exuberance on display.
In contrast, it was Cowaramup’s B Grade captain Aaron Holben who led the way in his team’s thumping win over the Hawks with 56 runs and 4 wickets in a fine all round display.
He was ably assisted by an unbeaten half century from Fraser Oates and a three wicket haul to Sam Berridge, relishing the opportunity to get an extended bowl.
Oscar Herbst continued his fine season with another two wickets.
This Sunday sees the club take on Vasse in the B & C Grades for the annual Brad Hallyburton cup fixture at Barnard Park.
Spectators and past players are urged to come along and enjoy the matches which will help raise funds for brain cancer research.
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Margaret River Mail
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