In what was more than likely his final bat in Dubbo, Wayne Dunlop scored a century for Newtown and gave the Tigers every chance of finishing their RSL-Whitney Cup season with a win.
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After 16 years in Dubbo, Dunlop is heading back to the Newcastle region in the coming months but finished on a high as he made 122 for the Tigers on Saturday.
His second century of the season helped Newtown post 271 against South Dubbo and then Tigers quicks Bailey Edmund and Dale O’Donnell struck to leave the Hornets 3/34 at stumps.
“It (scoring a century) was a nice way to finish but more importantly, hopefully we can get the win next week,” Dunlop said.
Not only was it a “nice” moment for Dunlop, it was also crucial for his side.
Opening as always, Dunlop saw Dan Holland (14), Kale Bock (0) and Steve Skinner (7) depart early.
But he found support from Mitch Russo and the pair built a vital partnership.
The pair added 164 with Russo making 62 while Dunlop went on to reach triple figures, playing some trademark booming shots in the process.
One six off Henry Railz which went over the rugby clubhouse was a particular highlight but Dunlop was focused on the partnership.
“He’s done very well,” Dunlop said of Russo.
“He’s young, has got a good temperament and is very keen.
“It’s all about building partnerships and that’s the best he’s batted all season. It was really good for us and they (Souths) were after him and he held firm.”
Will Lindsay (1/61) eventually trapped Dunlop in front, shortly after Mat Finlay (2/24) removed Russo. Hornets skipper Mitch Bower jagged four wickets late on to dismiss the Tigers with seven overs remaining.
It wasn’t a good seven overs for Souths as Corey McDean (11), Will Lindsay (14) and Mark O’Donnell (0) all fell.
Angus Norton (4 not out) and Finlay (0 not out) will resume the chase.
“If we can take these seven wickets next week and finish with a positive then there’s a lot to build on next season,” Dunlop said, his side set to finish in fourth or fifth.