There was no outright victor and there was no outright loser but both captains agreed cricket was the winner on the day after an enthralling and outstanding RSL-Kelly Cup grand final on Saturday.
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CYMS White lifted the cup but that was only a tiny piece of the story after the match itself finished in a rare and thrilling tie.
The Cougars side, a mix of experience and youth, lifted the trophy having finished the regular season as minor premiers but there was one stage where it seemed Marty Nelson’s team was no chance of winning.
Nelson top scored with 37 in his side’s total of 5/151 while Connor Watts (26) contributed to a 68-run opening stand while Ben Williams made 22 and Zac Williams (18 not out) and Shawn Townsend (17) chipped in late on.
Rugby Red was flying in its chase with opening batsman Dale Smith (42) toughing it out while Ross Horrocks hit 46 to have his side 1/103 at one stage.
“The kids were great and they all played a part,” Nelson said of his side.
“They all fielded well but the biggest experience they can take away is that a game is never over, even when they were 1/80.”
Jerose Joseph produced a man of the match effort with his 3/21 including the wickets of Horrocks, Smith and captain Wayne Munro while he also executed a run out.
Rugby Red capitulated, with Braye Porter’s brilliant diving catch at mid off a huge moment late on, but it all came down to the final over with five runs needed and just one wicket in hand.
Nelson had to bring himself on with everyone else bowled out and Craig Rosenbaum smashed a four first ball to give his side momentum.
But next ball he smashed one to the leg side and picked out the only man in the deep, Joseph, who made no mistake and things finished all square.
After a brief moment’s confusion it was confirmed CYMS White won after only losing twice all regular season.
“The best two sides in the competition were in the final,” Nelson said.
“And that’s what it’s all about, seeing all the kids do well.”