The Battle of Chiswick – Easts Piranhas U12 Div 1 Grand Final Victory
20-Apr-2021 With the rivalry established over the season between the Easts Piranhas (2nd) and Concord Briars White (1st), the grand final was set to be a close one. What a game it was, with Easts overcoming injuries and a strong opposition to prevail by 6 runs!
The coaching panel then had to scramble to put out a full fielding team with the original ten reduced to seven fit players. Fred Robertson (unwell and initially just attending as a spectator) gritted his teeth and put the wicket-keeping gloves on. Also, 7 year old James Cowan was called up as a substitute fielder (for the unwell Willem Bongardt) and played with his older brother Charlie. Edward Copping with his broken arm also briefly fielded for an ailing Remy McKay.
It was a good start with the ball, Charlie steamed in for his signature intimidating opening overs, partnered by Hugo who claimed 2 wickets in 2 balls, leaving Concord 2/2 off 2 overs. Sid and Forbes Blackstone kept the bowling tight with Concord 2/39 after 15 overs. Concord surged in the middle overs and needed 38 off the last 7 overs. The result could have gone either way! From that point, our captain Rehaan superbly managed the field placements into the close. Conor bowled a wicket maiden with Fred gloving a beauty, Hugo held a ripper catch in the deep off Rehaan and the screws were tightening. It came down to the last over with Concord needing 13 to win. Charlie removed a batsman with a magnificent ‘Starc’ like yorker, then closed out the victory with Concord 6 runs short!
The lads showed great self-belief, played positive cricket, supported and covered for their injured team mates, adapted to new batting and bowling line-ups and demonstrated composure and maturity beyond their years. A memorable win and a great way to cap off an outstanding season of cricket, friendship and development.
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