Defeating the defending champions is always satisfying.
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But it was especially satisfying for RSL Colts on Saturday, given some of their performances this time last year in the Whitney Cup.
They restricted Dubbo Rugby to just 7/175 at Victory Park No 1 Oval, and then managed to reach 178 with a bit over five overs – and four wickets – remaining.
“Last year we probably would have lost that game,” batsman Brad Cox said.
“We had a very slow start last year and it cost us in the end … we just missed out on the semis … So it was great to win a tight one.”
Cox himself top-scored to save the Colts’ innings after their top order collapsed in quick succession.
Tim Howarth (25) and Ben Day (41) put on a handy 48-run partnership before Howarth fell to Jacob Hill (2/34) but Day was able to combine with Marty Jeffrey (22) to add another 42.
But when Jeffrey, Day and Tom Atlee (1) all fell in the space of four overs things looked precarious.
Cox (52 not out) was able to steady the ship, combining with Chris Morton (12) for 45, Wes Giddings (17) and lastly Jason Ryan (3 not out) to reel in Rugby’s total.
Cox gave a shout out to youngsters Rhys Beachamp (2/18), Mitch Ashford (1/25) and Tom Atlee for “stepping up and playing a major part in the game”.
Ashford in particular saw off Hill (50), who looked set to make a big total, while Beauchamp never let Campbell Rose (8) or Nathan Munro (0) get settled.
“It’s really pleasing because we’re, the core group is getting older and we’re all getting slower so at some stage these young guys are going to be the ones taking over from us when we retire,” Cox said.
“[Seeing them] taking ownership of the side and the direction they want to take it in is the best thing because soon they’ll be the older players.”
