This week Strathalbyn faced a stronger and more experienced Redsox side in the under 14's competition. The speed of Redsox pitcher Sienna Golder presented a challenge for the younger 'Strath' batters. With a couple of strikeouts in the line-up, and a few walks, Poppy Groop scored the only run for Strathalbyn in the first dig. In the field for the Panthers, the damp morning conditions made ball control difficult, in fact it was difficult for both pitchers. In response, Redsox also got a few walks to first base, and brought in seven runs. In the second inning, Meg Keenan took the walk to first and stole around the bases. Redsox made some great defensive attempts to stop her, but a slight fumble of the throw to third allowed Meg to turn for home and safely cross the plate for the first run of the inning. She was soon followed by Jack Walters, who had Strath’s only safe hit to centrefield, and Zoe Williams who also did some good base-running. At bat, Redsox loaded up the bases and a home run hit by Henry Sexton brought them all home to add another seven runs to the total.Strathalbyn had one more chance to bat and persisted to score another three runs. Jack and Poppy both scored a second run each, and Eva Eglitis stole her way around the diamond after her walk to first base. Time and game was called without Redsox needing to bat again, with the final scoreline standing at Redsox 14 to Strathalbyn 7. It was exciting to see the young 'Strath' batters up there in the batting box, being aggressive and  having a good swing at pitches that are a lot faster than many of them had faced before.

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 3 resultsMcLaren Vale 61 defeated Clarendon 43Goolwa Black 65 defeated Strathalbyn 51Encounter Bay 60 defeated Willunga 46Port Elliot 72 defeated Goolwa White 56Yankalilla 72 defeated Victor Harbor 52Ladder (after round 3)Goolwa Black 26, McLaren Vale 24, Clarendon 23, Willunga 22, Strathalbyn 21, Port Elliot 20, Yankalilla 16, Victor Harbor 14, Encounter Bay 12, Goolwa White 2.Round 4 fixtures (home team named first)Willunga v Goolwa BlackStrathalbyn v McLaren ValeGoolwa White v YankalillaVictor Harbor v Encounter BayClarendon v Port Elliot

Macclesfield have moved into the top-four on the Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) ladder after notching their second win in a row yesterday at Woodside. The home side batted first and never got any flow going in their innings with Noah Bell (21) the only Warriors batsman to pass 20. Fresh off a five-wicket haul last week, Lachlan Barrett was on fire yesterday with career-best figures of 6/11 from his nine-over spell. Barrett now has taken 11 wickets this season in just three games. He was well supported by Connor Moore with 3/28 (9), as Woodside were dismissed in the 32nd over for just 87. The Redbacks lost six wickets in the run chase before knocking off the target in the 32nd over. Barrett (20) and Kieran O’Connell (15) were the leading run scorers for ‘Maccy’.  Langhorne Creek made it three wins from as many games after a convincing 147-run victory at home against Bremer/Callington. Langhorne Creek batted first with Tigers’ skipper Brodie O’Dea and Daniel Kropp putting on 149 runs for the first wicket before Kropp went for 58 (82 balls). It was Kropp’s second half century in a row. O’Dea continued on to make a fine 145 from 119 balls. His innings featured 19 boundaries and a six, and was his third ‘ton’ for Langhorne Creek. His side posted an imposing total of 4/271 from their 45 overs. Graydon Brand (2/52) was the multiple wicket taker for the Cobras. It was tough going early on for the visitors as the returning Troy Blackwell claimed three early wickets on his way to figures of 3/10 (9). Brand (45 off 122 balls), Jamesson Kelly (21 not out) and skipper Shannon Howie (21) battled hard as the Cobras batted out their 45 overs, finishing on 6/124. Daniel Cleggett (2/12) was the other multiple wicket taker for the table-topping Tigers.Strathalbyn had a comfortable 10-wicket victory against Nairne at Strathalbyn Oval yesterday. It was the second win of the season for the Stallions. Nairne batted first but struggled throughout their innings as they finished on 9/107. Brodie Clarke (30), Zac Llewellyn (18) and Shane Kenney (13) were the only Razorbacks batsmen to reach double figures against a relentless Stallions bowling lineup. Matty Roberts (3/15), Brayden Gaiter (3/20) and Matt Harris (2/24) led the way for the home side. Strathalbyn’s reply was an emphatic one with opening pair Luke Cousins (65 not out) and Harris (35 not out) combining to knock the target off in just the 21st over to consign Nairne to their second loss in a row.Reigning premier Lobethal made it two wins on the trot with a convincing 84-run win at Hahndorf yesterday. ‘Lobey’ batted first and their innings was set up by a fine opening stand between Ben Matthews and teenager Tanner King. The ever-reliable Matthews was first to go for 43 (61 balls), but this was to be just a minor setback as King unleashed a fine innings of 92 (77 balls). His innings included nine boundaries and three ‘maximums’. Lachlan Elsworthy chipped in with a run-a-ball 21 as the Tigers posted a total of 239 before being bowled out in the 44th over. Veteran Michael Harden was the best of the Magpies bowlers with 3/36 (9). Charlie Fielke (2/25) and Daniel Jenner (2/45) were the other multiple wicket takers for Hahndorf. The Magpies battled gamely in their run chase with Jenner continuing his good early season form to top score with 58 (82 balls). Skipper Ben Montgomerie made 30 (52 balls) as Hahndorf were dismissed for 155. Lobethal used 10 bowlers, with seven getting wickets, including Lachlan Bates (2/8), Matt Martin (2/22) and Elsworthy (2/34). Ladder - after round 3Langhorne Creek 12, Strathalbyn 8, Lobethal 8, Macclesfield 8, Woodside 4, Nairne 4, Bremer/Callington 4, Hahndorf 0. Round 4 fixtures - home team named firstHahndorf v NairneLobethal v WoodsideMacclesfield v Langhorne Creek Strathalbyn v Bremer/Callington

Great Southern Bowls Association - Women’s Pennant Division 1Round 2 resultsYankalilla 64 defeated Encounter Bay Blue 46Port Elliot 63 defeated Willunga 60Goolwa 56 defeated Encounter Bay Gold 51Victor Harbor 61 defeated McLaren Vale 44Ladder (after round 2)Port Elliot 18, Willunga 15, Encounter Bay Blue 14, Yankalilla 12, Victor Harbor 11, Encounter Bay Gold 10, McLaren Vale 8, Goolwa 8.Round 3 fixtures (home team named first)Goolwa v Port ElliotMcLaren Vale v Encounter Bay BlueEncounter Bay Gold v Victor HarborYankalilla v Willunga

Myponga-Sellicks continued their excellent start back in ‘A’ grade ranks with a five-wicket win at home against Yankalilla during round two action in the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA). The Mudlarks sit on top of the ladder after their second win from as many games. On Saturday, Yankalilla batted first and made their way to 1/34 with Doug Jones (21) and Travis Bartlett (14) putting together a nice partnership. This was as good as it got for the Tigers as they lost their last 9/37 to be bowled out for just 71. Vinnie Nizzola (3/11), Ryan Banning (2/3), Sean Haverty (2/9) and Kobe Dooley (2/22) were the leading wicket takers for Myponga-Sellicks. The Mudlarks lost a couple of early wickets to slip to 2/4 as young opening bowler Ryan Borlace (2/14) did the damage. Ryan Haverty (24 not out) steadied the innings as the runs were knocked off in the 29th over. Aaron Smith (2/10) was the other multiple wicket taker for Yankalilla.Noarlunga won their first game of 2022/23 following a five-wicket win against reigning premier Willunga at Old Noarlunga. It was a low scoring game with 16 wickets falling for 156 runs on the day. Willunga batted first and were in early trouble at 3/14 before James Whetstone and Simon Roberts came together to add 33 runs for the fourth wicket. Roberts continued on to top score with 31, but the Demons lost their last 7/30 to be bowled out for 77 in the 38th over. Four Noarlunga bowlers took wickets with Ben Stewart-Tonkin (3/5), Travis Bronstein (3/9) and Harry Jackson (2/14) leading the way. Skipper Jason Scarff bowled a miserly opening spell of eight overs to finish with figures of 0/2 (6 maidens). The Shoes started their reply well with Jason Scarff and Travis Bronstein (17) adding 43 runs for the second wicket before three quick wickets to Roberts (3/9) had Noarlunga at 4/54. Scarff settled the chase as he finished with 37 not out with the winning runs coming up in the 36th over. McLaren Districts remained undefeated after two rounds with a 42-run win at Encounter Bay. The Crushers batted first and made 6/151 from their 40 overs. Justin Twartz (32) and Antony Natale (32) added 52 runs for the first wicket, while Mark Elphick hit a valuable 28 not out (37 balls) at the end of the innings to lift his side past 150. Kieran Garrett (2/10) was the only multiple wicket taker for the Bays. The home side were never in the hunt in the run chase with only veterans Cam Lintern (47) and Sam Hoffmann (23) passing 10 runs as the Bays were bowled out in the 37th over for 109. All five Crushers bowlers took wickets with Jett Holberton (3/21) the leading light. He was well supported by Elphick (2/18), Stephen Nairn (2/21) and Jacob Banks (2/30). Mount Compass won their first game of the season with a comfortable seven-wicket victory against Aldinga at Burgess Oval. Aldinga batted first with Wade Sutherland (35) and Ashley Pellatt (21) the leading batsmen as their side battled their way to a total of 108 before being bowled out in the 34th over. Bailey Baldock (3/16), Matthew Sparrow (2/21) and Josh Dalitz (2/25) were the leading wicket takers for ‘Compass’. The Bulls were relatively untroubled in the run chase as they knocked off the target in 31 overs. Paul Barrett (42 not out) led the way with support from Rob Martin (19 not out), James Colley (19) and Scott McAvaney (18). Pellatt was the pick of the Aldinga bowlers with 1/14 from eight overs.Goolwa joined Myponga-Sellicks and McLaren Districts as undefeated sides through two rounds after a hard-fought 11-run win against local rival Port Elliot. Goolwa batted first and battled their way to 7/126 after 40 overs. The Magpies had several contributors including Andy Evans (24), Sam Carlyle (24) and James Lawrence (21). Five Port Elliot bowlers took wickets with veteran Simon Donaldson the pick of them with 3/16 (5). Port Elliot were in early trouble at 3/13 before Colby Whitbourne hit a quickfire 28 (1 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s). Finn Hayden (21) and Tyson Somerfield (17) kept the Bloods in it, but ultimately they were bowled out in the 39th over for 115. Goolwa were led well with the ball by Josh Jones (3/12) and skipper Jayden Crees (3/15).Ladder - after round 2Myponga-Sellicks 12, Goolwa 12, McLaren Districts 12, Port Elliot 6, Mount Compass 6, Noarlunga 6, Yankalilla 6, Willunga 0, Encounter Bay 0, Aldinga 0.Round 3 fixtures (2-day games - home team named first)Encounter Bay v WillungaGoolwa v NoarlungaYankalilla v Port ElliotAldinga v McLaren DistrictsMyponga-Sellicks v Mount Compass

Reigning premier Lobethal notched their first win of the 2022/23 Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) season with a hard-fought two-wicket victory over Strathalbyn during round two action on Saturday at Lobethal Oval. Strathalbyn won the toss and elected to bat first and got off to a good start with Luke Cousins (38), and Matt Harris (20) putting on 65 runs for the first wicket. However, it was all downhill after that initial partnership for the Stallions as they lost 10/46 to be bowled out for 111 in the 43rd over. Five Lobethal bowlers took wickets with the unlikely destroyer in Ben Matthews snaring 4/11 from 7.4 overs. Lobethal struggled to get any momentum going in their run chase with Matt Martin (26) and Matthews (19) the only Tigers’ batsmen in the top order to reach double figures. At 8/92, Strathalbyn were favourites to take the victory, but Daniel Norsworthy (12 not out) and Dave Huxter (10 not out) had other ideas as they methodically knocked off the target through an unbroken ninth-wicket stand worth 21 runs, to see their side over the line with 14 balls to spare. Harris (2/19), Lachlan Cutting (2/19), Brayden Gaiter (2/28) and Matthew Abbott (2/31) were the wicket takers for ‘Strath’.Langhorne Creek are the only undefeated team after two rounds following their thrilling three-run win over Nairne at Nairne Oval on Saturday. Langhorne Creek batted first and their innings was set up by a 73-run fourth wicket partnership between Daniel Kropp and Jaspa Tonkin. Kropp top scored with 61 (101 balls), while Tonkin made 39 (63 balls) as the ‘Creeks’ posted 8/209 from their 45 overs. Vice-Captain Mitch Hein was the chief wicket taker for the Razorbacks with 5/38 (9). It was Hein’s seventh five-wicket haul for Nairne. Chad Harrop chipped in with 2/35 (9). Nairne were in early trouble in their run chase as they slipped to 4/68 before Luke Clayton (27) and Zac Llewellyn (20) got the innings back on track with a 41-run partnership for the fifth wicket. All looked lost however for the home side when they were reduced to 9/159, but Jack May and William Brooks (5 not out) had other ideas. They combined for an excellent 10th wicket partnership worth 47 runs until May was dismissed with an over to go for a top-scoring 52 from 58 balls (4 x 4’s, 1 x 6) to leave the Razorbacks just four runs from victory. Kropp was the hero for the Tigers with the last wicket to finish with 2/31 (6). James Dawson (3/21) and Ben Warren (2/21) were the bowlers that did the early damage for Langhorne Creek as they celebrated beating last season’s grand finalists in their first two games of the season.Macclesfield are on the board with their first win of the season with a convincing 66-run win at home against Hahndorf. The Redbacks batted first and with good contributions from Lachlan Barrett (40) and Connor Moore (40), made their way to a total of 154 before being bowled out in the 40th over. Teenager Henry Hassold (4/34) claimed career best figures and he was well supported by Harry Eades who snared 2/24 (6). The Magpies were under early pressure as they slipped to 3/19 with left-arm seamer Barrett continuing his fine game as he snared equal career-best figures of 5/17 (9). Veteran batsmen Greg Hassold (26) and Dan Jenner (25) tried to get their side back in the game but ultimately Hahndorf were bowled out in the 33rd over for 88. Jay Dawson was the other multiple wicket taker for the Redbacks with 2/1 (1.5). Woodside also won their first game of the season with a 71-run win at Bremer/Callington. The Warriors batted first and had plenty of contributors as they put up a competitive total of 9/191 from their 45 overs. Six batsmen passed 20 including Noah Bell (33), Jeremy Snoad (33) and Sam Pullen (29). Five Bremer/Callington bowlers took wickets including Daniel Lowe (2/6), Alex Durbidge (2/19), Nathan Fitzgerald (2/30) and Ryder Dolman (2/36). The Cobras' run chase never gained any significant momentum with Jai McMurtrie (22) the only batsman to pass 20. The home side lost their last 8/58 to be bowled out in the 36th over for 120. Jeremy Druwitt took 4/24 (6.5) for the Warriors and he was well supported by Harrison Reid (3/34) and Shane Druwitt (2/21). Ladder - after round 2Langhorne Creek 8, Strathalbyn 4, Nairne 4, Lobethal 4, Bremer/Callington 4, Woodside 4, Macclesfield 4, Hahndorf 0. Round 3 fixtures - home team named firstHahndorf v LobethalLanghorne Creek v Bremer/CallingtonStrathalbyn v NairneWoodside v Macclesfield

This year the Strathalbyn Panthers return to the Under 14 competition after an absence of many years. ‘Strath’ is joined by players from the Echunga, Pirates, and Macclesfield clubs. For most players, this is their first year stepping up to full softball rules after playing modball.  Hahndorf batted first and started in strong fashion, with good safe hits getting them through their line up. When fielding, the Hahndorf pitcher, Isabella Johns did well to get the ball in the strike zone, which saw Strathalbyn eager to hit the ball with a good safe hit by Charlie Askew (who also pitched exceptionally well), but three quick outs meant only one run, scored by newcomer Meg Keenan, was scored in response to Hahndorf's seven. The momentum swung in the other direction in the second dig, with 3 successive outs by Strathalbyn, including a double play with quick thinking after a catch on the pitching stripe by Eva Eglitis, throwing to Jack Walters at first base, and a good catch by Bailey Bradshaw at shortstop. ‘Strath’ answered with four runs from Zoe Williams, Tallera Spinks, Bailey and Poppy Groom to narrow the gap to two runs heading into the final innings. The third innings saw Hahndorf once again take control as they added another six runs with Strathalbyn only able to manage one more run through Jack Walters. The final scores were Hahndorf 13 defeated Strathalbyn 6. The players should be very proud of what they achieved in a great first hit out. It was a great game to watch by both sides and there’s lots to look forward to this season. 

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 2 resultsWillunga 62 defeated Yankalilla 55Strathalbyn 73 defeated Encounter Bay 53Port Elliot 63 defeated McLaren Vale 59Victor Harbor 77 defeated Goolwa White 53Clarendon 61 defeated Goolwa Black 59Ladder (after round 2)Clarendon 21, Strathalbyn 20, Willunga 20, Goolwa Black 15, McLaren Vale 14, Victor Harbor 14, Port Elliot 10, Yankalilla 4, Encounter Bay 2, Goolwa White 0.Round 3 fixtures (home team named first)McLaren Vale v ClarendonStrathalbyn v Goolwa BlackEncounter Bay v WillungaPort Elliot v Goolwa WhiteYankalilla v Victor Harbor

Uraidla have started the 2022/23 Hills Cricket Association (HCA) season in great fashion as they sit on top of the ladder after two rounds. Yesterday, the Demons won their second game from as many starts with a 19-run victory against Kangarilla. Uraidla skipper Michael Parker won the toss and decided to bat first with Alex Heptinstall and Pete Wilson opening the batting. The experienced pair started well with a 62-run opening stand before Heptinstall went for 41 (45 balls). Wilson was joined by teenager Jay Temme (33) in a 75-run stand for the second wicket until Wilson went for a top-scoring 56 from 97 balls (8 x 4’s). Renzo Gaetan made a quickfire 28 from 15 balls down the order to lift Uraidla to a competitive 9/199 from their 45 overs. Ryan Grimmond (3/52) and Steve Featherstone (2/23) were the multiple wicket takers for Kangarilla. ‘Kangies’ never really got going in their run chase as they slumped to 5/81, before Brodie May joined Grimmond at the crease to add 37 runs for the sixth wicket to give the visitors some hope. Grimmond departed for 26, while May went on to top score with a hard-hitting 55 from just 57 balls (7 x 4’s) as Kangarilla finished on 9/180. Temme completed a good all-round double with 2/25 (7), while Israel Symington took the bowling honours for the Demons with 4/43 (8). Daniel McDonough also chipped in with 2/21 (5).Scott Creek Ironbank (SCIB) won their first game of 2022/23 with a tight 11-run win against Mylor at Cherry Gardens Oval. Scott Creek Ironbank batted first with their innings being anchored by skipper Adam Shearwood. Shearwood top scored with 72 from 108 balls (7 x 4’s, 1 x 6) and he was well supported by Thomas Watton (31) and Andy Adams (21) as SCIB posted 6/193 from their allotted 45 overs. Five Mylor bowlers took wickets with Oliver Barnes the most economical with 1/26 (9). The Mylor response was dominated by opener Ben James who made 77 from 92 balls. James’ innings featured five boundaries and six 'maximums'. No other batsman reached 20 as the Pipers battled gamely to finish with 8/182. Adams was the pick of the SCIB bowlers with figures of 2/22.The Aldgate versus Bridgewater and Stirling versus Meadows matches were abandoned with Aldgate Oval and Stirling Oval both deemed unplayable due to recent wet weather.Mount Lofty had the bye. Ladder - after round 2Uraidla 8, Meadows 6, Mount Lofty 4, Scott Creek Ironbank 4, Stirling 4, Kangarilla 2, Bridgewater 2, Aldgate 2, Mylor 0.Round 3 fixtures - home team named firstBridgewater v Mount LoftyKangarilla v MylorMeadows v AldgateStirling v UraidlaScott Creek Ironbank has the bye

Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 1 resultsPort Elliot 4-6-46 defeated Back Valley 2-2-28Myponga Sellicks 3-4-42 defeated Goolwa 3-4-32Inman Valley 5-7-52 defeated Normanville 1-1-24Ladder (after round 1)Inman Valley 7, Port Elliot 6, Myponga Sellicks 5, Goolwa 3, Back Valley 2, Normanville 1.Round 2 Fixtures (home team named first)Normanville v Myponga SellicksGoolwa v Port ElliotBack Valley v Inman Valley

Great Southern Bowls Association - Women’s Pennant Division 1Round 1 resultsWillunga 58 defeated Victor Harbor 48Encounter Bay Blue 81 defeated Goolwa 34Port Elliot 64 defeated Yankalilla 44McLaren Vale 6 drew Encounter Bay Gold 6Ladder (after round 1)Encounter Bay Blue 12, Willunga 11, Port Elliot 10, Encounter Bay Gold 6, McLaren Vale 6, Yankalilla 2, Victor Harbor 1, Goolwa 0.Round 2 fixtures (home team named first)Encounter Bay Blue v YankalillaWillunga v Port ElliotEncounter Bay Gold v GoolwaVictor Harbor v McLaren Vale

Langhorne Creek opened their Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) campaign with a hard-fought two-wicket victory over reigning premier Lobethal during round one action on Saturday at Langhorne Creek. Lobethal batted first and their innings was dominated by Dillon King as they posted 9/160 from their 45 overs. King finished with 77 not out from 84 balls (3 x 4’s, 3 x 6’s). Skipper Mitch Weeks was the next best ‘Lobey’ batsman with 20. Ben Warren was the standout bowler for Langhorne Creek with the fine figures of 5/31 from eight overs. He was well supported by Brodie O’Dea (2/28) and Jagga Kotz (2/33). The ‘Creeks’ got off to a poor start in their run chase as they slumped to 4/44. Adam Clements (34) joined forces with Jaspa Tonkin (30) and this pair began to resurrect the innings through a crucial 57-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Brayden Frost came to the crease with the score at 5/101 and steered his side home with seven balls and two wickets in hand. Frost finished with 31 not out from 43 balls. Four Lobethal bowlers took wickets including King (3/28), Sam Graeber (2/10) and Matt Martin (2/33).Bremer/Callington got their season off to the perfect start with a convincing seven-wicket win at home against Hahndorf. The Magpies batted first and were soon under pressure at 3/33 before Henry Hassold joined forces with new recruit Dan Jenner to add 59 runs for the fourth wicket before Hassold departed for 13. Jenner continued to dominate the innings for Hahndorf as he made 74 as his side struggled to 8/117 from their 45 overs. Cobras vice-captain Nathan Fitzgerald was a standout with the ball taking 4/6 from nine overs, with his spell including an incredible six maidens. The Cobras cruised to the victory target in the 21st over with former skipper Jai McMurtrie smashing a quickfire 69. His innings included five boundaries and five ‘maximums’. He was well supported by Michael Kudra who finished with 33 not out. 2020/21 premiers Nairne also started their campaign in style with a comfortable seven-wicket victory at Woodside. The home side batted first and struggled against a restrictive Razorbacks bowling lineup as they made 8/111 from their 45 overs. Jordan Vette top scored with 25 not out, while skipper Brad Collins made 24. Five Nairne bowlers took wickets with Jack May (2/15) and Brodie Clarke (2/17) the multiple wicket takers. New Nairne skipper Robert Crook (31) and Mitch Hein put their side in a winning position with a 62-run second wicket stand. Hein went on to top score with 53 not out from 89 balls (7 x 4’s) as the winning runs were knocked off with 10 overs spare. Strathalbyn defeated Macclesfield by eight wickets to bank their first points of the season. Macclesfield batted first and were bowled out for 111. Josh Lewis-Burns was the only Redbacks batsman to pass 20 as he top scored with 32 from 33 balls (2 x 6’s). All six Stallions bowlers took wickets with Blake Beelitz (3/12), skipper Brayden Gaiter (2/8) and Todd Hillam (2/21) leading the way. New recruit Sam Teakle (15) and Luke Cousins (31) started the run chase well for Strathalbyn with a 50-run opening stand, before Mark Abbott (39 not out) joined 250-gamer Steve Schofield (8 not out) to knock off the winning runs in the 30th over. Ladder - after round 1Strathalbyn 4, Bremer/Callington 4, Nairne 4, Langhorne Creek 4, Lobethal 0, Woodside 0, Hahndorf 0, Macclesfield 0.Round 2 fixtures - home team named firstBremer/Callington v WoodsideLobethal v StrathalbynMacclesfield v HahndorfNairne v Langhorne Creek

Goolwa got their season off to the perfect start with a comfortable six-wicket win against reigning premier Willunga during round one action in the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) at Willunga on Saturday. In a rematch of last season’s grand final, Goolwa bowled first and dismissed the reigning premiers for just 88 in the 40th over. Luke Harding was the only Willunga batsman to reach double figures as he top scored with 29. Extras (28) was the second highest total of the innings. Five Magpies bowlers took wickets including Shaun Burger (3/12), Thomas Carter (2/11), Jayden Crees (2/14) and Andy Evans (2/23). Left-arm spinner James Lawrence bowled a miserly spell to finish with 1/6 from his eight overs. Goolwa were relatively untroubled in the run chase as they knocked off the target in the 25th over for the loss of four wickets. Evans (30 not out) and Lawrence (21) were the leading batsmen to complete good personal all-round doubles. Simon Roberts was the chief wicket taker for the Demons with 3/13 (8). Port Elliot defeated Encounter Bay by nine wickets at home to start their 2022/23 campaign in style. Encounter Bay batted first and struggled their way to 9/86 from their 40 overs. Bradley Lintern (27 not out) and skipper Blake Bailey (13) were the only batsmen to reach double figures. Port Elliot shared the wickets around with Riley Paull (3/10) and Harrison Grenfell (2/10) the multiple wicket takers. The home side wasted no time in their run chase as the returning Colby Whitbourne smacked a quickfire 70 from just 61 balls (5 x 4’s, 5 x 6’s). Hayden Gordge (14 not out) played a good support role as the winning runs came up in the 21st over. Kieran Garrett (1/24) was the sole wicket taker for the Bays.After finishing on the bottom of the ladder last season, McLaren Districts got their season off to an excellent start with a tight 12-run win against Noarlunga at McLaren Vale. McLaren Districts batted first on a slow outfield and posted a competitive 8/127 from their 40 overs. Justin Twartz (33), Daniel Bruce (28) and Jim Ryan (22) all made handy contributions for the Crushers. Teenager Travis Bronstein (3/15) and debutant Dale Parrish (2/31) were the multiple wicket takers for the Shoes. Noarlunga struggled during the run chase as they were restricted to 9/115 from their 40 overs. Parrish (25 not out), David Scarff (23) and Jason Scarff (21) led the way with the bat against a disciplined Crushers bowling attack. Left-arm spinner Jacob Banks bowled an excellent spell to finish with 3/12 (8), while Ryan completed a good all-round game with 2/20 from his eight-over spell.Myponga-Sellicks made a triumphant return to ‘A’ grade ranks with a comprehensive 161-run win against Aldinga. Myponga-Sellicks batted first and were soon in trouble at 4/19, with Aldinga opening bowler Brenton Averats doing most of the damage with a spell of 3/9 from his eight overs. Cam Turner (26) joined Ryan Haverty and this pair steadied the ship with a 40-run stand for the fifth wicket before Turner was dismissed. This brought Ben Hutchinson to the crease and the game completely changed complexion. Hutchinson made 107 not out, his maiden century, while Haverty finished on 61 not out. The pair added 157 runs for the sixth wicket as the Mudlarks finished on 5/216 from their 40 overs. Aldinga were never in the run chase as they were soon in trouble at 3/1 before eventually being bowled out for just 55 in 21 overs. Wade Sutherland top scored with 25 (5 x 4’s), while six Aldinga batsmen failed to score. Hutchinson completed his man-of-the-match performance with 4/18 (8) and he was well supported by veteran Dave Wenham (3/1) and James Paterson (2/7).Yankalilla also made a triumphant return to ‘A’ grade ranks with an eight-wicket win at home against Mount Compass. ‘Compass’ batted first but their innings was interrupted by rain, leading to the game being reduced to 35 overs per side. Teenager Riley Endersby (31), on his ‘A’ grade debut, top scored with support from Matthew East (24) and Josh Dalitz (21 not out) as the Bulls reached 7/114. Doug Jones was the standout bowler for Yankalilla with 3/6 (5). Aaron Smith (2/23) and Scott Wilson (2/32) were the other multiple wicket takers for the Tigers. Martin Sumner (21) and Travis Bartlett (10) got ‘Yank’ off to a good start with a 37-run opening stand, before Jones (38 not out) and Luke Bartlett (35 not out) added 81 runs for the third wicket to see the home side to the victory target in the 26th over. Endersby completed a good all-round double for Mount Compass with figures of 2/15 (6). Ladder - after round 1Port Elliot 6, Myponga-Sellicks 6, Yankalilla 6, Goolwa 6, McLaren Districts 6, Noarlunga 0, Willunga 0, Mount Compass 0, Aldinga 0, Encounter Bay 0.Round 2 fixtures - home team named firstGoolwa v Port ElliotNoarlunga v WillungaMyponga-Sellicks v YankalillaEncounter Bay v McLaren DistrictsMount Compass v Aldinga

Josh Healey starred for Mount Lofty on the opening day of the 2022/23 Hills Cricket Association (HCA) season with a blistering century in his team's 216-run against Mylor at Uraidla on Saturday. Healey, who scored 665 runs last season, smashed 169 from just 118 balls as the Redcaps put up 7/279 from their 45 overs. Healey’s assault included 16 boundaries and a whopping 11 sixes! Zef Wood (21) added 71 for the first wicket with Healey, before skipper Jordan Neis-Beer (51) put on 168 runs for the second wicket with his vice-captain as ‘A’ grade newcomers Mylor were put to the sword. The Pipers struggled in the run chase before being bowled out for just 63 in the 32nd over. All seven Redcaps bowlers claimed wickets with Matt Pistola (2/8), Adam Carthew (2/10) and Dave Bennett (2/16) the multiple wicket takers.Uraidla got their campaign off to a good start with a tight 19-run win against Scott Creek Ironbank (SCIB) at Cherry Gardens Oval. The Demons batted first but were in early trouble at 2/19 with both wickets going to left-arm seamer Daniel Key. Teenager Jay Temme was joined by veteran Simon Parker and this pair ‘righted the ship’ with a 71-run third wicket partnership before Temme went for 23. Parker continued on to a fine 93 not out from 114 balls (5 x 4’s, 4 x 6’s) as Uraidla posted a competitive total of 8/202 from their 45 overs. Key took three further wickets to finish with the excellent figures of 5/19 (8), while Andy Adams chipped in with 2/29 (9). SCIB put up a good fight in their run chase with Aaron Thompson (34), Adams (28) and Dustin Head (25) making starts, but no batsman went on to the big score required as the home side were bowled out in the 44th over for 183. Renzo Gaetan (3/36), Israel Symington (2/24) and Mitch Makings (2/24) were the leading wicket takers for Uraidla.Meadows started their 2022/23 season in good fashion with a nine-wicket win at home against Bridgewater. ‘Bridgy’ batted first with the ‘old firm’ of Luke Hoyle and Justin Summerill adding 88 for the first wicket before Hoyle went for 54 (52 balls). Liam Suttcliffe (22) joined Summerill as the Raiders reached 2/160, before a collapse saw them finish at 9/183 from their 45 overs. Summerill top scored with 65 (105 balls). Meadows skipper Rohan Reid took 3/21 (8) and he was well supported by Will Bevan-Giles (2/34) and Marko Kovac (1/18). Luke Tonkin and Reid opened the batting for the Bulldogs and took the game away from the visitors with an opening stand worth 171 runs before Tonkin went for 76 (114 balls). Reid continued on for a fine 97 not out from 108 balls, with his innings including seven boundaries and five sixes. Meadows knocked off the runs in the 38th over to take the points in round one. The match between Kangarilla and Stirling at Kangarilla Oval was abandoned due to a wet pitch and outfield.Aldgate had the bye. Ladder - after round 1Meadows 4, Mount Lofty 4 Uraidla 4, Kangarilla 2, Stirling 2, Scott Creek Ironbank 0, Mylor 0, Bridgewater 0, Aldgate 0.Round 2 fixtures - home team named firstAldgate v BridgewaterScott Creek Ironbank v MylorStirling v MeadowsUraidla v KangarillaMount Lofty has the bye

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 1 resultsMcLaren Vale 78 defeated Goolwa White 27Goolwa Black 64 defeated Port Elliot 42Clarendon 52 defeated Encounter Bay 40Willunga 57 defeated Victor Harbor 52Strathalbyn 65 defeated Yankalilla 55Ladder (after round 1)McLaren Vale 12, Goolwa Black 12, Clarendon 12, Strathalbyn 10, Willunga 10, Victor Harbor 2, Yankalilla 2, Encounter Bay 0, Port Elliot 0, Goolwa White 0.Round 2 fixtures (home team named first)Willunga v YankalillaStrathalbyn v Encounter BayPort Elliot v McLaren ValeGoolwa White v Victor HarborClarendon v Goolwa Black

The Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) ‘A’ grade season starts tomorrow (8/10) with a round of one-day games. The competition has seen significant change for this season with ‘A’ grade now featuring 10 teams after only being a six-team competition for the past two seasons. Four teams have come up from ‘B’ grade for the 2022/23 season. They are Yankalilla, Myponga-Sellicks, Aldinga and Mount Compass. These teams were in the top-four in ‘B’ grade ranks in 2021/22 with Yankalilla winning the premiership after defeating Myponga-Sellicks in the Grand Final. There will be 12 rounds with six two-day matches and six one-day matches with finals to begin on Saturday 4 March.Willunga has been the dominant team for the past five seasons with four premierships in that time, including the last three in a row. In a major change for the Demons, Luke Harding has stepped down as skipper. Goolwa, under first-year skipper Jayden Crees, got on a roll in the finals to make it all the way to the decider last season before being defeated by Willunga. The Magpies will be confident of at least getting back to the same position again this season. Noarlunga finished second at the end of the minor round last season but went out in straight sets so the Shoes will be desperate to go at least one step further this season. Encounter Bay are always around the mark and made it to the finals last season but went out in week one to Goolwa. Port Elliot were cruelled by injuries before season 2021/22 so expect them to bounce back and threaten for finals, while McLaren Districts are a young team looking for improvement under new skipper Luke Goodieson.The ‘B’ grade competition also starts tomorrow with the C1 and C2 grades to begin on the 15th of October. Senior Colts and Junior Colts begin on the 22nd of October.Round 1 (Home teams named first)Port Elliot v Encounter BayWillunga v GoolwaYankalilla v Mount CompassMcLaren Districts v NoarlungaAldinga v Myponga-Sellicks

The Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) ‘A’ grade season starts this Saturday (8/10) with eight teams chasing premiership glory. Lobethal won their first AEHCA ‘A’ grade premiership since coming over from the Torrens Valley Cricket Association after putting together a faultless finals campaign last season. The Tigers defeated Woodside and Langhorne Creek on their way to the decider where they knocked off powerhouse Nairne for the title. Their great season was set up by a powerful bowling lineup including Matt Martin (44 wickets), Mitch Weeks (29), and Dave Huxter (24), who combined for 97 wickets, while Weeks (393 runs) and Ben Matthews (378) are consistent run scorers at the top of the order. Nairne has been the measuring stick over the past couple of decades in the AEHCA with 11 premierships in the past 17 seasons, so it will be no surprise to see them around the mark again this season. Nairne have arguably the best bowling attack in the competition with Mitch Hein, Jarrad Tait, Matt Hein, Brodie Clarke and Chad Harrop combining for a whopping 147 wickets in 2021/22. The Razorbacks batting was inconsistent last season with 2022/23 skipper Robert Crook (421 runs) and Shane Kenney (351) the leading lights. Langhorne Creek are another side that are always around the mark and this season they’ll be led by gun batsman Brodie O’Dea. O’Dea, Daniel Kropp and Ben Warren were among the top-10 batsmen in the competition last season, while Warren, Daniel Cleggett, Troy Blackwell and Darcy Paech will lead the Tigers’ bowling stocks after combining for over 100 wickets last season. Woodside returned to the finals last season after a three-year absence and they’ll be around the mark again this season. The Warriors have plenty of depth but need more support for batsmen Brad Collins and Dave Wescombe who led the way with 419 runs and 384 runs respectively last season. Jeremy Druwitt was the standout bowler last season for the Warriors with 26 wickets and he’ll be looking to Steve Ball, Harrison Reid and Shane Collins for continued support in 2021/22.Strathalbyn has missed finals action for the past two seasons and will be desperate for a return to the major round and get a chance at that elusive premiership which they last won in 1997/98. The Stallions had the two leading batsmen in the competition last season with Mark Abbott (542 runs) and Matt Harris (460). ‘Strath’ will once again be led by fast bowler Brayden Gaiter, who had an excellent 2021/22 season with 37 wickets. Gaiter will be supported by Ben Cousins, Tim Dellatorre Matt Abbott and Harris in the bowling ranks. Macclesfield made a competitive return to ‘A’ grade ranks, after a 15-year hiatus, to win five games last season. Skipper David Caddle, Kieran O’Connell and all-rounder Lachlan Barrett led the way with the bat for the Redbacks, while with the ball, Connor Moore claimed a team-high 26 wickets. Barrett completed a fine all-round season with 19 wickets to go with his 324 runs. Hahndorf struggled last season with just four wins and will hope for sharp improvement under new skipper Benny Montgomerie. Montgomerie had his best season in ‘A’ grade company with 289 runs and he was well supported by veteran Greg Hassold (330 runs). Ryan Trafford-Walker and new vice-captain Lachlan Huxtable were the chief wicket takers for the Magpies last season but they’ll need more support if their side is to threaten for finals. Bremer/Callington also found the going tough last season with just three wins for the campaign. Shannon Howie is the new captain at the Cobras and he will look to Ajay Pundir and Graydon Brand with the bat and Amit Maina and Nathan Fitzgerald with the ball to push his side up the ladder in 2022/23.Round 1 (Home teams named first)Bremer/Callington v HahndorfLanghorne Creek v LobethalMacclesfield v StrathalbynWoodside v Nairne

The Hills Cricket Association (HCA) ‘A1’ season gets underway on Saturday (8/10) with nine teams trying to get their hands on the prestigious Von Doussa Shield. Games will be 45-overs per side, up from the 40-over contests from the past two seasons. Stirling won their first ‘A’ grade premiership in 28 years with an upset win over Meadows in March, and they’ll be desperate to follow up this success in 2022/23. It was an amazing turnaround in fortunes for Stirling who had spent three seasons in 'B' grade in the 2010's. The Eagles had many contributors last season with Daniel Gonzalez (599 runs) and Harrison Webb (391 runs) their leading batsmen, while they had six bowlers take 15 wickets or more, including skipper Jack Pick (24). Perennial powerhouse Meadows have been runners-up the past two seasons and they can never be written off with Rohan Reid, Haydn Reid, Chad Dawe and Luke Tonkin still amongst the best players in the competition. 2020/21 premiers Mount Lofty are always competitive and will want to make up for their disappointing exit from the finals at the preliminary final stage last season. Josh Healey (665 runs) and Adam Carthew (34 wickets) were their standout performers last season and they’ll once again have a big say in the Redcaps’ fortunes. Aldgate have been knocked out of the premiership race in the first week of finals action the past two seasons and they’ll be boosted by key recruit Shaun Atkins who joins the ‘Gaters’ from Gumeracha. Atkins made 988 runs and took 33 wickets in the Torrens Valley competition in 2021/22. Skipper Jake Turnbull, Frank Clements and Josh Callaghan will be other key players for Aldgate this season.Kangarilla missed out on finals action last season after being on top of the ladder at the Christmas/New Year break. ‘Kangies’ will once again look to veterans Steve Featherstone and Che Martinsen, while Lachlan Knight (367 runs last season) and Ben Evans (21 wickets) are promising young players for the club. Uraidla won five games last season and will look to improve on that return in 2022/23. Alex Heptinstall and Peter Wilson provide a touch of class with the bat, while veterans Simon Parker and Renzo Gaetan are always consistent performers with the ball. Scott Creek Ironbank also won five games last season and will be confident of further improvement this season. Veterans Andy Adams, Daniel Desengo and Adam Shearwood will provide great leadership, while Thomas Watton will look to build on his best ever season with the bat after he scored 327 runs, including a maiden century against Bridgewater, in 2021/22. Bridgewater had a tough season in 2021/22 with just two victories to finish on the bottom of the ladder. They have stayed in ‘A’ grade ranks for this season and will hope for a rise up the ladder. Veteran batsmen Luke Hoyle and Justin Summerill combined for more than 800 runs last season but they need more support in the runs department. One of the shining lights for the Raiders last season was young leg-spinner Finn Sullivan-Llewellyn who claimed 17 wickets in his first season of ‘A’ grade cricket. Mylor will compete in ‘A1’ ranks for the first time in more than 30 years in a major move for the club. The ‘Pipers’ dominated the ‘A2’ competition last season with just one loss on their way to the premiership. Mylor dominated with the ball last season with skipper Michael Warburton, Thomas Jensen, Ben James and Oliver Barnes combining for a whopping 125 wickets. Their batting was also very good with James having a huge season with 805 runs, while Shane Maslin scored 467 runs. It will be interesting to see how the ‘Pipers’ compete in ‘A’ grade ranks after years of dominating the lower grades.Round 1 (Home teams named first)Mount Lofty v MylorScott Creek Ironbank v UraidlaKangarilla v StirlingMeadows v BridgewaterAldgate has the bye

The Port Elliot Cricket Club recently opened their new training facility and it looms as a real ‘game-changer’ for the club. The new facility has four nets and has been laid on one of the netball courts formerly used by the Port Elliot Netball Club, which sadly folded in recent years. This reduced the project cost considerably, given the good condition of the existing surface, which was shared between the club and the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund. The total project cost was approximately $45,000. This has been a work-in-progress for most of the last decade. With the expansion of junior teams at the club, the previous nets were in regular use and the club was unable to keep up the maintenance for both the fencing and matting. The nets will still be available for community use moving forward. “We are hoping to consolidate our training to fewer nights of the week for all our grades to ensure there is a ‘whole club’ feel to everything we do, which has already been evident in our Sunday pre-season training,” said Seb Goldsmith, who is Vice President - junior pathways at the club. “Having four nets is already making a massive difference, with more ability to do 'one-on-one’ skills training while full scale sessions can continue.” If you are interested in playing at the Port Elliot Cricket Club this season in senior men's, junior boys or girls cricket, you can email [email protected]