Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 4 resultsMyponga Sellicks 4-6-46 defeated Inman Valley 2-3-37Goolwa 6-8-55 defeated Victor Harbor 0-0-19Back Valley 4-6-48 defeated Port Elliot 2-3-38Ladder (after round 4)Goolwa 25, Back Valley 18, Inman Valley 18, Myponga Sellicks 17, Port Elliot 14, Victor Harbor 4.Round 5 Fixtures (home team named first)Port Elliot v Myponga SellicksGoolwa v Back ValleyVictor Harbor v Inman ValleyOnkaparinga Tennis AssociationRound 4 resultsMcLaren Flat Gold 4-4-30 defeated John Wesley 2-2-32McLaren Flat Blue 4-4-32 defeated Langhorne Creek 2-2-22Macclesfield 4-4-35 defeated Strathalbyn 2-2-22Ladder (after round 4)McLaren Flat Gold 23, John Wesley 20, McLaren Flat Blue 17, Macclesfield 15, Langhorne Creek 12, Strathalbyn 9.Round 5 Fixtures (home team named first)John Wesley v StrathalbynMacclesfield v Langhorne Creek McLaren Flat Gold v McLaren Flat Blue

Aldgate bounced back from their first loss of the season last week with a convincing eight-wicket victory over top-of-the-table Stirling at Aldgate Oval during round five action in the Hills Cricket Association (HCA) on Saturday. The match was reduced to 29 overs per side with Stirling batting first. Matthew Frith continued the good start to his Eagles career as he top scored with 48 from 44 balls (8 x 4’s). Daniel Gonzalez (26) and Kosta Sinodinos (17) made handy contributions as Stirling posted 8/135. Jake Turnbull (2/14), Matty Hansen (2/25) and Felix Farmer (2/29) were the multiple wicket takers for Aldgate. Chris Shaw (1/29) removed Aldgate opener Mitch Thomas (2) early, before Josh Callaghan and Turnbull combined for a match-winning second wicket stand worth 130 before Turnbull was run out for 48 (62 balls). Callaghan finished with 69 not out from 89 balls (8 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s) as the winning runs came up with 16 balls to spare. Reigning premier Mount Lofty are back on top of the HCA ladder following their 56-run win against Scott Creek Ironbank (SCIB) at Cherry Gardens. The match was shortened to 33 overs per side due to the weather with the Redcaps batting first. The visitors were in trouble early with Josh Healey (5) and Jack Sandercock (19) dismissed and the score at 2/29. This brought Mount Lofty skipper Jordan Neis-Beer and Aaron Smith together and this pair put the SCIB bowlers to the sword. Their third wicket partnership was worth 107 runs before Smith was dismissed for an aggressive 63 from just 39 balls (11 x 4’s). Stewart Leigh (25) joined Neis-Beer to add a further 65 runs for the fourth wicket as the visitors put up a formidable total of 4/243. Neis-Beer finished with 94 not out from 104 balls (13 x 4’s), his highest score for Mount Lofty. It was tough going for the SCIB trundlers with Max Ashworth (2/48) the only multiple wicket taker. With players such as Adam Shearwood, Daniel Desengo and Andy Adams missing, it was always going to be a tough ask for the home side but they fought out the game well to finish with 187 as they were bowled out on the final ball of their innings. Thomas Watton was the standout with a hard-hitting 66 from 44 balls (7 x 4’s, 4 x 6’s). Jarrod Thompson (30), Nathan Abbott (24) and Devin Payne (21) made solid contributions as well. Five Mount Lofty bowlers took wickets with James Kittel-Neill (4/18) the standout. Kittel-Neill has 10 wickets at an average of 7.20 to lead the HCA wicket taker list after five rounds. Will Healey (2/38) and Smith (2/57) were the other multiple wicket takers.Kangarilla won their third game of the season with a 17-run win over Uraidla at Kangarilla Oval in a match reduced to 25 overs per side. ‘Kangies’ batted first and posted 6/102 with Che Martinsen (27), Ryan Grimmond (21) and Ryan Smallman (15 not out) leading the way. Renzo Gaetan (3/30) was the pick of the Uraidla bowlers, while Mitch Makings (1/21) and Trent Richardson (1/24) chimed in with a wicket each. Uraidla reached 2/57 in the run chase with Peter Wilson (21) and Simon Parker (15) putting on 36 runs for the third wicket. The dismissal of Wilson precipitated a dramatic collapse of 6/9 before Uraidla rounded out their 25 overs at 9/85. Ben Evans and Steve Featherstone were the destroyers for ‘Kangies’ as they combined for seven wickets. Evans finished with 4/29 (7), his best ‘A’ grade figures, while veteran Featherstone picked up 3/17 from his six overs. Unfortunately the weather won out at Bridgewater as the Raiders hosted Meadows. Only 5.1 overs were played before the match was abandoned with Bridgewater at 1/15 (Luke Hoyle 12 not out). Rohan Reid (1/3) was the wicket taker for Meadows.Ladder (after round 5)Mount Lofty 24, Aldgate 24, Kangarilla 21, Stirling 21, Meadows 15, Scott Creek Ironbank 6, Uraidla 6, Bridgewater 3.Round 6 fixture (home team named first)Mount Lofty v AldgateKangarilla v Scott Creek IronbankBridgewater v UraidlaStirling v Meadows

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 5 resultsMyponga 83 defeated Encounter Bay 55Port Elliot 61 defeated Goolwa Black 54Victor Harbor 72 defeated Yankalilla 49McLaren Vale 77 defeated Strathalbyn 50Willunga 75 defeated Goolwa White 43Ladder (after round 5)Willunga 45, McLaren Vale 40, Port Elliot 36, Goolwa White 36, Goolwa Black 35, Victor Harbor 33, Encounter Bay 32, Yankalilla 15, Myponga 14, Strathalbyn 14.Round 6 fixtures (home team named first)Willunga v MypongaPort Elliot v McLaren ValeYankalilla v Goolwa BlackVictor Harbor v Encounter BayStrathalbyn v Goolwa White

Port Elliot won their second game in a row after defeating McLaren Districts by eight wickets yesterday to consolidate their spot in the top-four of the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA). Port Elliot resumed the second day on 1/7 in pursuit of McLaren Districts first innings total of 101. After losing Jake Walton (9 off 64 balls), the Bloods were 2/25 but there was no further joy for McLaren Districts as opening batsman Hayden Gordge and skipper Joel Harris added an unbeaten third-wicket stand worth 78 runs to see Port Elliot over the line in the 47th over. Gordge went on to make 51 not out from 134 balls, while Harris finished 34 not out from 81 balls. David Smith (1/19) and Stephen Nairn (1/25) were the wicket takers for the Crushers. Willunga went to the top of the GSCA ladder with a comfortable 97-run victory over Encounter Bay at Willunga. The home side posted a good score of 4/228 on day one and the Bays were soon up against it as they slipped to 3/21 with Joe Last (2/9) and Jamie Graham (2/23) doing the early damage. Dillon Burns (14) and former skipper Cam Lintern added 32 runs for the fourth wicket but steady wickets continued to fall as the Bays were eventually bowled out for 131 in the 52nd over. Lintern was the standout batsman with 72 from 128 balls (6 x 4’s) but he needed more support with no other batsman surpassing 15. Leg-spinner Simon Roberts was the main destroyer for the Demons with 5/31 (11.5). It was Roberts’ 10th five-wicket haul in just 54 ‘A’ grade matches for Willunga.Goolwa and Noarlunga played out a frustrating rain-affected draw in their round three match at Goolwa. Day two action started more than 90 minutes late due to the inclement weather with Noarlunga resuming at 0/8, chasing Goolwa’s first innings of 133. Noarlunga lost two early wickets to sit precariously at 2/21 before skipper Jason Scarff (12) joined opener Mason Parry (33) in a 31-run third wicket stand before Scarff was run out, precipitating a collapse of 3/11 to see the Shoes in deep trouble at 5/62. Anthony Burgess (26) and Jeff Colo (16) then put on 40 runs for the sixth wicket to put the visitors in sight of victory at 5/102 before both players were dismissed and the game swung back in the Magpies favour. With a tight finish looming, rain intervened again to wash play out for the day with Goolwa requiring three wickets and Noarlunga 23 runs for victory. Jayden Crees and James Lawrence were magnificent for the Magpies with Crees snaring 3/41 (24) and Lawrence 3/45 (20). Round 4 fixtures (home team named first/two-day games)Port Elliot v WillungaNoarlunga v McLaren DistrictsEncounter Bay v GoolwaLadder (after round 3)Willunga 18, Goolwa 15, Port Elliot 12, Noarlunga 9, Encounter Bay 0, McLaren Districts 0.

Great Southern Bowls Association - Women’s Pennant Division 1Round 4 resultsGoolwa Black 69 defeated Victor Harbor 49Port Elliot 56 defeated Goolwa White 49Encounter Bay 64 defeated McLaren Vale 49Yankalilla 74 defeated Willunga 56Ladder (after round 4)Victor Harbor 31, Goolwa Black 30, Port Elliot 30, Yankalilla 28, Encounter Bay 26, McLaren Vale 20, Willunga 17, Goolwa White 10.Round 5 fixtures (home team named first)McLaren Vale v Victor HarborWillunga v Encounter BayGoolwa White v YankalillaPort Elliot v Goolwa Black

Hills Softball Association ‘A’ Grade Women Round 4 (Strathalbyn v Torrens Valley Redsox)The Strathalbyn Panthers' prowling continued as they defeated the minor premiers in a dominant batting display. Good pitching by TVR`s Ella Forrester held the Panthers to just one run in their first innings. TVR scored two runs in their first at bat, courtesy of Chloe Zakelj and Emma Ernst both scoring from safe hits to Lauren Christensen and Abi Jorgensen. The Panthers were then held scoreless in their second at bat with a double play from Jorgensen to Christensen, and a K2 to Forrester.Good pitching by Emily Eglitis to catcher Kim Cutting , a put out from left fielder Crystal Karayiannis to third base Britt Jackson, and Tilly Lovelock’s own play at first, kept TVR to just one run for their next innings. Strathalbyn then came out swinging their bats to record a whopping 12 runs in the third innings, with Cutting`s home run bringing the team to its feet.Great fielding by Strathalbyn again held TVR to a single run in the next innings. With a pitcher rotation from TVR giving Grace Hopkins a stint on the stripe, the Panthers scored another two runs. TVR came back strongly with the bat to score three runs in the next innings but the damage was done as the Panthers ran out comfortable winners 15-7.  Hills Softball Association ‘C’ Grade Women Round 4 (Strathalbyn v Macclesfield)On a cool day, Strathalbyn were up to bat first and with some walks, great base running and a two base hit to Bobbie Taylor, they brought in four runs with Macclesfield making three outs at first base relying on the safe glove of Karlyn McLeod. Great fielding by Strath’s second base Taihya Graham and shortstop Taylor throwing to the safe glove of Rebecca Sims at first base had Maccy held scoreless with three up and three down. Strath’s second batting dig had safe hits to Sims, Rebekah Mayes and a two base-hit to Heidi Samuel, and with more great base running added a further five runs to their tally while Maccy worked hard in the field with short stop Elsbeth Lions making an out at first, a K2 to pitcher/catcher combo Amy Wauters to Lisa Lions, and an out at second to end the innings. Maccy’s second batting dig produced safe hits to Wauters, McLeod and a home run to E.Lions to bring in three runs with Strath first baser Sims taking a catch, an out at first and catcher Mayes taking a catch for the third out. Strath added another two runs to their total with safe hits again to Taylor, Samuel, Mayes, Graham and Amy Bailey with Maccy doing a great job in the field as they were now down to seven players making a K2, a catch taken by E.Lions and an out at third to send Strath from the diamond. Safe hits to Annabel Lions, E.Lions and a two-base hit to McLeod brought home a further four runs for Maccy with another catch by Sims and two K2’s to Strath’s pitcher/catcher combo of Bailey to Mayes ending the innings. Maccy did a great job in the field holding Strath scoreless in their fourth turn at bat with another out at first and two K2’s for three up three down. Maccy were up to bat again and had a safe hit to Tania Nethercote and a three baser to McLeod which brought in one further run before a catch to Jess Rumble at right field, a catch to Taylor and a K2 ended the innings and the game with Strath coming out on top 11 to Maccy 8.

Reigning premier Nairne moved a game clear on top of the Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) ladder following their crushing 99-run win over Lobethal in the Grand Final rematch at Lobethal on Saturday. Nairne batted first with veteran Jarrad Tait (26 from 14 balls) getting the Razorbacks off to a fast start. Luke Timmins (30), Chad Harrop (28) and Mitch Hein (24) all made handy contributions as the visitors notched up 9/160 from their 45 overs. Will Zadow (2/13), Mitch Weeks (2/21), Dave Huxter (2/24) and Matt Martin (2/35) were the chief wicket takers for Lobethal. Weeks (24) and Ben Matthews (12) started in solid fashion for Lobethal, but they were the only two Tigers batsmen to reach double figures as they were bowled out for just 61 in the 24th over. Left arm spinner Matt Hein continued his excellent season with figures of 3/6 (5) and now has 10 wickets at an average of 9.00 this season to head the wicket takers list in the AEHCA. He was well supported by Tait (3/9) and Mitch Hein (2/16) in a dominant bowling display from the Razorbacks. Bremer/Callington travelled to Woodside on Saturday and won their second game in a row with a 72-run victory against the Warriors. Bremer/Callington batted first and their innings was anchored by a patient half century from opening batsman Ajay Pundir who top scored with 60 from 90 balls (8 x 4’s, 1 x 6). There were solid contributions from Amit Maina (26) and Johnny Fitzgerald (18), while 22 extras helped the visitors to post 9/180 from their 45 overs. All six Woodside bowlers took wickets with Jeremy Druwitt (3/19 from nine overs) leading the way. The Warriors were never really in the hunt during their run chase as they were bowled out for just 108 in the 33rd over. Only one batsman reached double figures for Woodside with Tommy Baldock playing a lone hand of 60 from 99 balls (4 x 4’s, 1 x 6). Extras (17) was the second highest score. The Cobras only needed four bowlers with all of them getting in on the wicket taking act through Sandeep Huda (3/20), Jonah Smith (3/47), Maina (2/14) and Nathan Fitzgerald (2/22). The Cobras win pushed them up to second on the AEHCA ladder while Woodside slipped to third.Langhorne Creek won their second game of the season as they disposed of Hahndorf by 73 runs at Hahndorf on Saturday. The Creeks got off to a good start through openers Daniel Kropp (22) and new recruit James Dawson who put on a 60-run opening stand. Dawson continued on to post his first half century for the Tigers as he finished with 52 from 80 balls (7 x 4’s). Ben Warren (26), Shannon Jones (23), Jayden Michelmore (18 not out) and Tom Whittlesea (18 not out) all contributed as Langhorne Creek made a handy 8/212 from their 45 overs. Henry Hassold (3/52), Michael Harden (2/27) and Lachlan Huxtable (2/32) were the multiple wicket takers for the Magpies. Hahndorf’s run chase started promisingly as they reached 1/92 with Henry Baker and Ben Judd (21) at the crease. Baker went on to score his maiden ‘A’ grade half century as he top scored with 59 from 83 balls (12 x 4’s). Unfortunately for Baker, he didn’t get a lot of support as the home side were rolled for 139 in the 33rd over. Ben Warren rolled back the clock to snare 4/11 (5.5) and he was well supported by skipper Daniel Cleggett who took 4/26 (7). Strathalbyn moved back inside the top-four with a comfortable eight-wicket win at home against Macclesfield. It was tough going for ‘Maccy’ as they batted first and struggled their way to 6/133 from their 45 overs. Kieran O’Connell continued his solid start to the season as he top scored with 33 from 71 balls (6 x 4’s). Skipper David Caddle (26) and Josh Lewis-Burns (20) both made starts but couldn’t post the big score needed for the Redbacks to score a total of 150+. Strathalbyn skipper Brayden Gaiter was a standout with the ball with a miserly nine-over spell which yielded figures of 2/10, including five maidens. Tim Dellatorre chimed in with 2/28 (9) in his first game of the season. The Stallions were relatively untroubled in their run chase with Matthew Harris leading the way with 70 not out from 92 balls (10 x 4’s). He was ably assisted by Matt Abbott (27 not out) and Mark Abbott (26), as the winning runs were made in just the 32nd over. O’Connell (1/16) and Connor Moore (1/25) were the wicket takers for Macclesfield. Round 5 fixture (home team named first)Langhorne Creek v MacclesfieldStrathalbyn v LobethalNairne v Bremer/CallingtonWoodside v HahndorfLadder (after round 4)Nairne 12, Bremer/Callington 8, Woodside 8, Strathalbyn 8, Langhorne Creek 8, Hahndorf 8, Lobethal 8, Macclesfield 4.

Willunga’s Joel Docking scored his maiden ‘A’ grade century as the reigning premier notched up 4/228 on day one of their round three clash with Encounter Bay in the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) on Saturday. Docking had a ‘breakout’ season in 2020/21 with 436 runs (48.44) to lead the GSCA batting aggregate, but started this season with a duck in the opening round before missing round two. Willunga skipper Luke Harding won the toss and decided to bat first on their home ground and he and Docking started well as they added 76 runs for the first wicket before Harding was dismissed for 31 from 52 balls (6 x 4’s). Docking was joined by Rhys Allard in another good partnership which realised 90 runs with Allard making 37 from 100 balls (3 x 4’s). Luke Goldner was next in for Willunga and he and Docking produced the third consecutive 50+ run partnership as Goldner made a quickfire 36 from 45 balls (3 x 4’s, 1 x 6). Docking continued on to make 105 from 219 balls (10 x 4’s) as Willunga batted out their 70 overs and set Encounter Bay a big challenge next week. Left arm spinner Dillon Burns was the standout bowler for the Bays as he took 3/42 from 19 overs. Noarlunga travelled down to Goolwa to take on the undefeated Magpies and Shoes skipper Jason Scarff won the toss and decided to bowl first. The move paid early dividends with Jesse le Ray dismissed by Matty Ray (1/27) without scoring. Luke Giddings (31) and Josh Jones (19) then combined for a 48-run second wicket stand. Giddings’ dismissal started a dramatic collapse of 7/31 as Ben Stewart-Tonkin (3/24) and Cam Bullard (3/29) combined for six wickets as Goolwa slumped to 8/79. Goolwa captain Jayden Crees (16) and Tyron Rigney (27) then put on an important ninth wicket partnership worth 48 runs before the home side were eventually bowled out in the 65th over for 133. This left the Shoes with a tricky five overs to negotiate before stumps which they managed without losing a wicket to finish day one on 0/8. Port Elliot took the honours after day one of their clash with McLaren Districts at McLaren Vale as the Bloods bowled the home side out for 101. Opening batsman Ben Wilcox batted for almost three hours as he compiled a patient 30 from 125 balls but unfortunately for the Crushers, no other batsman could reach 20. Ben Worrall (14 not out) and Stephen Nairn (14) battled hard but after reaching 3/63, McLaren Districts collapsed to lose 7/38 and were bowled out in the 66th over. Ben Martin bowled a marathon spell for the Bloods as he snared 4/27 from 23 overs and he was well supported by Joel Harris (2/18) and Liam Harris (2/19). Port Elliot had four overs to bat before stumps and finished on 1/7 with opening batsman Darryl Mason (2) the wicket to fall with Nairn (1/3) the wicket taker.

Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 3 resultsGoolwa 5-7-49 defeated Port Elliot 1-2-27Inman Valley 4-6-45 defeated Back Valley 2-3-41Myponga Sellicks 3-5-44 defeated Victor Harbor 3-4-35Ladder (after round 3)Goolwa 17, Inman Valley 16, Back Valley 12, Port Elliot 12, Myponga Sellicks 11, Victor Harbor 4.Round 4 Fixtures (home team named first)Myponga Sellicks v Inman ValleyGoolwa v Victor HarborBack Valley v Port ElliotOnkaparinga Tennis AssociationRound 3 resultsMcLaren Flat Gold 5-5-32 defeated Macclesfield 1-1-18John Wesley 4-4-31 defeated McLaren Flat Blue 2-2-21Strathalbyn  3-3-26 defeated Langhorne Creek 3-3-24Ladder (after round 3)John Wesley 18, McLaren Flat Gold 17, McLaren Flat Blue 11, Langhorne Creek 10, Macclesfield 9, Strathalbyn 7.Round 4 Fixtures (home team named first)Strathalbyn v MacclesfieldJohn Wesley v McLaren Flat GoldLanghorne Creek v McLaren Flat Blue

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 4 resultsGoolwa White 69 defeated Myponga 53Goolwa Black 60 defeated Strathalbyn 59Encounter Bay 87 defeated Yankalilla 40Victor Harbor 64 defeated Port Elliot 53Willunga 68 defeated McLaren Vale 57Ladder (after round 4)Willunga 35, Goolwa White 34, Encounter Bay 32, Goolwa Black 31, McLaren Vale 28, Port Elliot 28, Victor Harbor 23, Strathalbyn 14, Yankalilla 13, Myponga 2.Round 5 fixtures (home team named first)Myponga v Encounter BayGoolwa Black v Port ElliotVictor Harbor v YankalillaMcLaren Vale v StrathalbynGoolwa White v Willunga

Scott Creek Ironbank (SCIB) pulled off an upset nine-wicket win against Aldgate yesterday, and in the process won their first game in A1 ranks of the Hills Cricket Association (HCA) since January 2018. Aldgate skipper Jake Turnbull won the toss and decided to bat first at Cherry Gardens. It was tough going for the visitors early on with opening bowlers Daniel Desengo (2/21) and Aaron Thompson (1/16) keeping things tight to have Aldgate struggling at 2/25. Mitch Thomas and Luke Smet came together for a 53-run partnership, the best of the innings, to put the ‘Gaters’ innings back on track. Thomas made 42 from 64 balls (3 x 4’s, 1 x 6), while Smet continued on to bring up his second half century of the season as he top scored with 75 from 84 balls (7 x 4’s, 1 x 6). Daniel Key (3/40) was the leading wicket taker for SCIB as Aldgate finished their 40 overs on 8/169. SCIB wasted no time getting into the task of chasing down the target with the opening pair of Adam Shearwood and new recruit Devin Payne putting on 146 runs for the first wicket before Payne was dismissed for 62 from 73 balls (7 x 4’s, 3 x 6’s). Payne formerly played at the Modbury Cricket Club in the Adelaide Turf competition, where he has scored over 1,000 runs in the past two seasons. Shearwood continued on to score 78 not out from 99 balls (10 x 4’s, 1 x 6) as the winning runs were knocked off in the 31st over. Shearwood now has 209 runs for the season at the fantastic average of 209.00! Turnbull (1/34) was the sole wicket taker for Aldgate.Stirling moved to the top of the HCA ladder and are the only undefeated team through four rounds following their 37-run victory at Bridgewater yesterday. Stirling skipper Jack Pick won the toss and decided to bat first but his team was soon under the pump as they slipped to 2/7 with Daniel Gonzalez (4) and Jacob Kemp (0) both removed by opening bowler Rhys Jordan. It was left to Pick and new recruit Matthew Frith to get the innings back on track as they added 46 runs for the third wicket before Pick was run out for 20. Frith has played first grade cricket in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney so is a huge pick up for Stirling. Former Monarto all-rounder Harrison Webb joined Frith and the two new Eagles put together an innings-defining partnership worth 63 runs for the fourth wicket before Webb went for 23. Frith continued on to make a fine 89 from 94 balls (5 x 4’s, 3 x 6’s), while Ned Hopgood (20 not out from 12 balls), played a nice cameo at the end of the innings to see Stirling post a very competitive total of 9/179 from their 40 overs. Jordan was a shining light for the Raiders with the ball as he finished with the fine figures of 4/18 (8). Once again Bridgewater got off to a good start through veterans Justin Summerill (16) and Luke Hoyle (44) who put on 58 for the first wicket. Unfortunately for the Raiders, no other batsman could pass 20 as they finished their innings on 8/142. Pick (2/13), Charlie Fryer (2/16) and Kosta Sinodinos (2/27) were the multiple wicket takers for the high-flying Eagles. Reigning premier Mount Lofty got themselves back on the winners list with a comfortable seven-wicket victory against Kangarilla at Heathfield Oval. Kangarilla batted first and struggled their way to 8/133 from their 40 overs. Skipper Che Martinsen and all-rounder Steve Featherstone opened the batting and put up a 46-run stand before Featherstone was dismissed for 23. Martinsen went on to top score with 45 (76 balls) but sadly for ‘Kangies’, no other batsman could pass 20. Aaron Smith was the star with the ball for the Redcaps as he snared 4/10 from six miserly overs. Adam Carthew (2/19) was the other multiple wicket taker for Mount Lofty. The Redcaps lost James Kittel-Neill (3) early before Josh Healey and skipper Jordan Neis-Beer (25) came together to add 88 runs for the second wicket. Healey continued his excellent start to the season as he smashed 82 from 78 balls (8 x 4’s, 5 x 6’s), with the winning runs coming up with more than 10 overs to spare. Healey now has 206 runs at an average of 103.00 this season. Featherstone took 2/38 (8), while Che Martinsen bowled an excellent spell to finish with 1/8 (8). Meadows won their second game of the season with a comfortable six-wicket home win over Uraidla to bring the Bulldogs within half a game of the top-four. Uraidla batted first and were well served by opening batsman Alex Heptinstall who made 39 from 71 balls (7 x 4’s). Fellow opener Dylan Brown (19) and Simon Parker (15) both made starts but couldn’t go on with it as the Meadows bowlers kept things tight through Tom Bevan-Giles (1/16) and Chad Dawe (2/21). Some lusty hitting at the end of the innings from Tom Bassett (27 not out from 20 balls) lifted Uraidla to 8/143 from their 40 overs. Anthony Hughes was the chief wicket taker for the Bulldogs with 4/41 (8). Hughes was moved up the order to open with Haydn Reid but he went early to see Meadows at 1/2. Skipper Rohan Reid made a quickfire 21 from 16 balls, but when he was dismissed, the home side were 2/25 and Uraidla had a bit of a sniff. Young ‘keeper Oscar Tydeman joined the experienced H.Reid and this pair added 54 runs for the third wicket before Tydeman was dismissed for 21. Dawe came and went quickly as Brad Louch joined H.Reid to put on an unbroken 40-run stand for the fifth wicket to see Meadows home in the 36th over. H.Reid went on to score 67 not out from 117 balls (9 x 4’s), while Louch contributed a mature 10 not out (20 balls). Teenager Mitch Makings (2/28) and Simon Parker (2/41) were the multiple wicket takers for the Demons.Ladder (after round 4)Stirling 21, Mount Lofty 18, Aldgate 18, Kangarilla 15, Meadows 12, Scott Creek Ironbank 6, Uraidla 6, Bridgewater 0.Round 5 fixture (home team named first)Aldgate v StirlingScott Creek Ironbank v Mount LoftyKangarilla v UraidlaBridgewater v Meadows

Great Southern Bowls Association - Women’s Pennant Division 1Round 3 results*McLaren Vale drew with YankalillaWillunga drew with Goolwa WhiteEncounter Bay drew with Goolwa BlackPort Elliot drew with Victor Harbor*All games were abandoned due to the inclement weatherLadder (after round 3)Victor Harbor 29, Goolwa Black 20, Port Elliot 20, McLaren Vale 18, Willunga 17, Yankalilla 16, Encounter Bay 16, Goolwa White 8.Round 4 fixtures (home team named first)Goolwa Black v Victor HarborPort Elliot v Goolwa WhiteEncounter Bay v McLaren ValeYankalilla v Willunga

This season Strathalbyn has two T-Ball teams and a ModBall team in the Hills Softball Association competition. The T-Ball players from Strathalbyn Blue were enjoying the sunshine and really found their groove with the bat. Some players this week were playing their first ever official game, and coach Rebecca Sims was proud of their achievements. A special mention must go to Joey Forbes who had a massive hit to Right Field. The ModBall team may not be playing for premiership points, but the 34 to 27 score was a testimony to their improving fielding skills with a significant number of outs boosting their score.

Reigning premier Willunga maintained their unbeaten start to the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) season with a thrilling four-run win at home against Noarlunga on Saturday. Noarlunga skipper Jason Scarff won the toss and decided to bowl first as Willunga got off to a good start with Luke Harding and Dane McPhail adding 46 for the first wicket before McPhail was dismissed for 18. Two more quick wickets fell to leave the home side at 3/60. Ben Stewart Tonkin bowled a fine spell for the Shoes to finish with figures of 3/21 from his eight overs. Simon Roberts joined Harding and the experienced pair added a crucial 76 runs for the fourth wicket to help lift the Demons to 7/160 from their 40 overs. Roberts finished on 33 not out (45 balls), while Harding went on to top score with 82 from 132 balls (10 x 4’s). Matty Ray (2/39) and Cam Bullard (1/29) were the other wicket takers for the Shoes. Noarlunga also got off to a good start through Bullard and Mason Parry as this pair put on 44 for the first wicket before Parry was dismissed for 15. Anthony Burgess went without scoring to bring Jason Scarff to the crease to join Bullard. These two were a big key for the Shoes and they put on 57 runs for the third wicket as Noarlunga reached 2/108 before Scarff went for 31 from 34 balls (5 x 4’s). Bullard was next to go for 53 from 101 balls (5 x 4’s) and Willunga were back on top as the required run rate went up and wickets began to fall. Jeff Colo was providing solid resistance and along with Ray, they got their side within sight of victory with eight runs required from the final over to be bowled by Harding. Ray was dismissed leaving Colo to try and hit a six off the last ball of the match but he was bowled by Harding to bring the game to an end. Colo made a gallant 34 from 31 balls (3 x 4’s, 1 x 6). Willunga shared the wickets around with Roberts (3/18), Daniel Hockham (2/13), Serge Minot (2/26) and Harding (2/33) the best with the ball. Port Elliot are on the board with their first win of the season following their 35-run win at Encounter Bay. Port Elliot batted first and were in early trouble at 4/53 before Joel Harris and Liam Harris got together. The brothers added 69 runs for the fifth wicket with Joel scoring 44 (38 balls) and Liam 38 (43 balls), to lift the Bloods to 7/140 from their 40 overs. In his first ‘A’ grade game, Zac Thompson took 3/27 (7) and he was well supported by Riley Williams who was very economical with 2/9 (6). The Bays were never really in the hunt in the run chase as they slipped to 3/21 with Liam Harris continuing his good day with figures of 2/8 (6). Thompson (27), Jacob Grenfell (21) and Dennis Rice (18) all made handy contributions but it wasn’t enough as the home side finished on 7/105. Other wicket takers for Port Elliot were Scott Hannam (2/20), Ben Martin (1/18) and Andy Hayden (1/21). Goolwa made it two wins from as many starts to go top of the ladder with a convincing seven-wicket victory over McLaren Districts at Goolwa Oval. McLaren Districts batted first and got off to a reasonable start as Daniel Petrucci (13) and Ben Wilcox (9) put on 23 for the first wicket. From then on however, it was all Goolwa as they claimed 10/59 to bowl the Crushers out for just 82 in the 36th over. Lachlan Cooper (21 from 29 balls) was the only batsman to pass 20 for the visitors. All five Magpies bowlers claimed wickets with Andy Evans (3/16) the leading light. He was well supported by Jayden Crees (2/13), Josh Jones (2/13) and James Lawrence (2/11). Goolwa lost three early wickets in their run chase to sit at 3/37 to give McLaren Districts some hope but this was snuffed out with Jones (46 not out) and Jesse Consalvo (19 not out) putting on 47 runs for the fourth wicket to see the winning runs come up in the 25th over. Jett Holberton was the pick of the Crushers bowlers with 2/22 (8). Round 3 fixtures (home team named first/two-day games)McLaren Districts v Port ElliotGoolwa v NoarlungaWillunga v Encounter BayLadder (after round 2)Goolwa 12, Willunga 12, Port Elliot 6, Noarlunga 6, Encounter Bay 0, McLaren Districts 0.

Bremer/Callington won their first game of the 2021/22 Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) season on Saturday with a breakthrough 54-run win over the previously undefeated Hahndorf. The Cobras win means all eight teams in the competition have won at least one game, and just one win separates top from bottom on the ladder. Bremer/Callington won the toss and decided to bat first on the ‘top’ oval at Callington. It was an excellent batting performance from the Cobras as they put together four partnerships worth more than 30 runs to compile 7/221 from their 45 overs. Alex Durbidge was the standout with a fine 68 from 81 balls (8 x 4’s, 1 x 6). Skipper Jai McMurtrie made a handy 37 from 51 balls and there were useful contributions from Sandeep Huda (22 from 21 balls) and Brad Clements (19 not out from 12 balls). Henry Hassold (3/15) and Charlie Fielke (2/30) were the multiple wicket takers for Hahndorf. The Hahndorf run chase got off to a poor start as the Magpies slumped to 4/34. Benny Montgomerie continued his fine season with a hard-hitting 67 from 54 balls (6 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s). Montgomerie now has 153 runs at an average of 51.00 this season. Michael Shanahan chimed in with 38 (6 x 4’s), but no other Magpies batsman could get past 15 as they were dismissed for 167 in the 39th over. Six Cobras bowlers took wickets with opening bowler Nathan Fitzgerald (4/35) the standout.Woodside made the trip south to take on Langhorne Creek and the Warriors came away with a four-wicket victory and in the process, took top spot on the AEHCA ladder. The Creeks won the toss and decided to bat first and they were soon on the back foot as they crumbled to 4/21. Brayden Frost (29) and new recruit James Dawson (10), were the only Tigers to reach double figures as the home side was rolled for just 64 in the 22nd over. Woodside shared the wickets around with Tyson Reichstein (2/2), Dave Wescombe (2/5), Steve Ball (2/10) and Nick Johns jnr (2/15) leading the way. Will Dunstall (31) and Tommy Baldock (19) took the Warriors within sight of victory before they lost 4/5 but they still got across the line in the 12th over. Tom Whittlesea (3/13), Jens Christensen (2/23) and Dawson (1/9) were the wicket takers for Langhorne Creek.Reigning premier Nairne won their second game of the season with a five-wicket win at home against Strathalbyn. The Stallions won the toss and decided to bat first and it was a real struggle against a tight Razorbacks attack as the visitors posted 8/137 from their 45 overs. 137 was a lot better than may have been expected as Strathalbyn slumped to 5/45. Former skipper Mark Abbott was hanging tough as he ground out 45 from 113 balls and he formed an excellent 89-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Ben Cousins, who top scored with 47 from 74 balls. The Hein brothers were the chief destroyers for Nairne with Mitch taking 3/24 (9) and Matt 3/36 (8). Jarrad Tait bowled a miserly spell of 0/5 from nine overs with his spell including six maidens. The Razorbacks started their run chase slowly and at 3/35, Strathalbyn were in with a chance. Robert Crook (32) and Mitch Hein (27) made solid contributions but when they were both dismissed, Nairne had slipped to 5/95 and the Stallions were once again back in with a sniff of victory. The always aggressive Shane Kenney (25 not out) and Brodie Clarke (19 not out) made sure of the victory for Nairne with an unbroken 44-run stand for the sixth wicket as the runs were knocked off with 26 balls spare. Strathalbyn skipper Brayden Gaiter was the only Stallions bowler to take multiple wickets as he finished with figures of 2/35 (7.4). The closest game of the round took place at Macclesfield as Lobethal defeated the home side by just seven runs in an excellent encounter. Lobethal batted first and were in early trouble as they slipped to 3/34 before handy innings from Matt Martin (34). Ben Matthews (33), Sam Graeber (32) and Sam Martin (28) lifted the Tigers to 7/195 from their 45 overs. Connor Moore was the best of the Macclesfield bowlers with figures of 2/21 from nine overs (five maidens). The Redbacks response was underpinned by opening batsman Kieran O’Connell who made 62 at the top of the order. A number of Macclesfield batsmen made starts, including Moore (22) and Lachlan Barrett (22) but ultimately, ‘Maccy’ came up short in the 44th over as they were bowled out for 188. Six Lobethal bowlers took wickets with Mitch Weeks (2/22) and Matt Martin (2/36) leading the way.Round 4 fixture (home team named first)Hahndorf v Langhorne CreekStrathalbyn v MacclesfieldLobethal v NairneWoodside v Bremer/CallingtonLadder (after round 3)Woodside 8, Hahndorf 8, Lobethal 8, Nairne 8, Bremer/Callington 4, Macclesfield 4, Strathalbyn 4, Langhorne Creek 4.

Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 2 resultsGoolwa 5-7-52 defeated Myponga Sellicks 1-1-23Inman Valley 3-5-46 defeated Port Elliot 3-4-32Back Valley 5-7-44 defeated Victor Harbor 1-3-30Ladder (after round 2)Port Elliot 11, Inman Valley 10, Back Valley 10, Goolwa 10, Myponga Sellicks 6, Victor Harbor 1.Round 3 Fixtures (home team named first)Port Elliot v GoolwaInman Valley v Back ValleyVictor Harbor v Myponga SellicksOnkaparinga Tennis AssociationRound 2 resultsMcLaren Flat Gold 5-5-31 defeated Strathalbyn 1-1-21Macclesfield 4-4-27 defeated McLaren Flat Blue 2-2-19John Wesley 4-4-28 defeated Langhorne Creek 2-2-18Ladder (after round 2)John Wesley 12, McLaren Flat Gold 10, McLaren Flat Blue 9, Macclesfield 8, Langhorne Creek 7, Strathalbyn 2.Round 3 Fixtures (home team named first)McLaren Flat Blue v John WesleyStrathalbyn v Langhorne CreekMacclesfield v McLaren Flat Gold

Aldgate moved to the top of the Hills Cricket Association (HCA) ladder following their thrilling last over victory against Meadows on Saturday at Aldgate Oval. Requiring 12 runs to win from the final over, Aldgate’s Connor Milde (24 not out from 15 balls) hit Anthony Hughes (3/61) for two sixes to bring up a four wicket victory for the home side with two balls to spare. Earlier in the day, Meadows batted first and posted a competitive total of 8/204 from their 40 overs. The innings was underpinned by an excellent 120-run partnership between Meadows skipper Rohan Reid and young ‘keeper-batsman Oscar Tydeman. Tydeman made his highest score in ‘A’ grade ranks with 49 from 47 balls (5 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s), while Reid went on to top score with 80 from 81 balls (4 x 4’s, 6 x 6’s). Will Turner took the bowling honours for Aldgate with 4/44 from his eight overs. Luke Smet (2/33), Jake Turnbull (1/19) and Matty Hansen (1/22) were the other wicket takers for the home side. Aldgate opening batsman Mitch Thomas made a welcome return to form with a fine 85 from 116 balls (8 x 4’s, 3 x 6’s) and there were handy contributions from Smet (25), Angas Wauchope (24) and Turnbull (20) before Milde’s last over heroics got his side over the line for their third win in as many starts in 2021/22. Stirling ended reigning premier Mount Lofty’s undefeated start to the season with a comfortable eight-wicket victory at Stirling Oval. Redcaps skipper Jordan Neis-Beer won the toss and decided to bat first but his side were soon under pressure with the in-form Josh Healey dismissed by fast bowler Chris Shaw without scoring. Regular wickets fell as Mount Lofty slipped to 4/45 before the hard-hitting Jack Sandercock smashed a quickfire 23 from just 11 balls (1 x 4, 2 x 6’s). Once Sandercock was dismissed, the visitors collapsed, losing 4/4 to slip to 8/76. Will Healey (19 not out) added some respectability to the score as the Redcaps were eventually bowled out in the 36th over for just 107. Shaw wound back the clock as he snared 3/5 from six fiery overs and the big quick was well supported by Kosta Sinodinos (2/18), Jack Read (2/28) and Jack Pick (2/32). Stirling’s run chase hit an initial hurdle with Myles Collins (4) dismissed early, but the experienced duo of Pick (44 not out) and Daniel Gonzalez (38) added 68 runs for the second wicket and then Pick and new recruit Matthew Frith (10 not out) put on an unbeaten 22 runs for the third wicket as the winning runs came up in the 33rd over.Kangarilla won their second game of the season and consolidated their spot in the top four after a convincing seven-wicket victory at Bridgewater on Saturday. The home side batted first and it was tough going as they posted 6/132 from their 40 overs. They were off to an excellent start as Luke Hoyle and Justin Summerill added 70 for the first wicket before Hoyle was dismissed for 53 from 71 balls (5 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s). Summerill went on to make 30 from 68 balls, while Rhys Jordan battled hard to finish on 24 not out. Che Martinsen (2/18) and Ben Evans (2/23) were the pick of the bowlers for ‘Kangies’. Jordan (1/20) dismissed Kangarilla opener Steve Featherstone (4) to give the Raiders a glimmer of hope with the visitors at 1/14. Martinsen continued his good day as he was joined by teenager Lachlan Knight in a 77-run stand for the second wicket before Knight was dismissed for 49 from 66 balls. Knight has 129 runs from his two innings so far in 2021/22. Martinsen went on to make 56 not out from 77 balls as the winning runs were knocked off in the 31st over. Charlie Birnie (1/15) and Raff Sullivan-Llewellyn (1/27) were the other wicket takers for ‘Bridgy’.Uraidla won their first match of their 2021/22 campaign with a tight two-wicket win against Scott Creek Ironbank (SCIB) at Uraidla Oval. SCIB skipper Beau Thomas won the toss and decided to bat first and his team made a good start with Darcy Campbell and Adam Shearwood putting on 57 runs for the first wicket before Campbell was dismissed for 26. Shearwood continued on to carry his bat through the innings as he finished on 61 not out. Unfortunately no other Scott Creek Ironbank batsman could reach double figures as they were bundled out for 124 in the 34th over. Mitch Makings was the star with the ball for Uraidla as he took his best ‘A’ grade figures with 4/20 (8). He was well supported by Ben Brumby (2/20) and Israel Symington (2/22). Uraidla also started their innings well with Alex Heptinstall and the returning Dylan Brown (11) adding 38 for the first wicket. Heptinstall and Peter Wilson (18) then put on 46 for the second wicket as Uraidla got themselves into a commanding position at 1/84. Danny Coleman (3/30) was brought into the attack for SCIB and got the key breakthroughs as he dismissed Wilson and then Heptinstall. Heptinstall top scored with a hard-hitting 56 from 49 balls (8 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s). Uraidla were in freefall as they lost 7/30 to sit precariously at 8/114, still 11 runs from victory. Veteran left-arm seamer Andy Adams bowled a sensational spell to claim 3/7 (8) but it wasn’t enough as Ben Brumby (14 not out) held his nerve to see Uraidla over the line by two wickets in the 34th over. Ladder (after round 3)Aldgate 18, Stirling 15, Kangarilla 15, Mount Lofty 12, Meadows 6, Uraidla 6, Scott Creek Ironbank 0, Bridgewater 0.Round 4 fixture (home team named first)Scott Creek Ironbank v AldgateBridgewater v StirlingMount Lofty v KangarillaMeadows v Uraidla

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 3 resultsStrathalbyn 62 defeated Victor Harbor 60McLaren Vale 63 defeated Myponga 40Encounter Bay 64 defeated Goolwa White 56Port Elliot 57 defeated Yankalilla 51Goolwa Black 70 defeated Willunga 48Ladder (after round 3)McLaren Vale 26, Willunga 25, Port Elliot 24, Goolwa Black 22, Goolwa White 22, Encounter Bay 20, Victor Harbor 15, Yankalilla 13, Strathalbyn 11, Myponga 2.Round 4 fixtures (home team named first)Myponga v Goolwa WhiteStrathalbyn v Goolwa BlackEncounter Bay v YankalillaPort Elliot v Victor HarborWillunga v McLaren Vale

Hills Softball Association ‘A’ Grade Women Round 3 (Strathalbyn v Hills Heat)The first game of the night proved to be a very high standard and entertaining game between the Hills Heat and Strathalbyn Panthers with Panthers the eventual winners, 9-7. Heat got off to a good start scoring three runs to Jackie Pocock and Kerry Wilkinson, all scoring from a great home run to left field from Kim Copperstone. The Panthers came back firing with four runs to Crystal Karayiannis and Kim Cutting, all scoring from a huge home run to centre field from Britt Jackson, while Gab Martin scored from a brilliant three-bag hit to centre field from Sasha Penglase. Brilliant tight fielding from the Panthers held Heat to one run at the top of the second dig. Strathalbyn responded adding another two runs from Cutting`s great three-bag hit to right field and Jackson from a bunt and safe hits to Emily Eglitis and Martin. Top of the third innings saw great pitching from Martin to Cutting and an impossible catch at left field to youngster Karayiannis held Heat to one run. Panthers again came back with two runs provided by Karayiannis and Cutting from Jackson, Eglitis and Martin getting on base. Top of the fourth innings and conditions turned slippery and wet as light rain started falling and Heat added another two runs courtesy of Kate Adamson and Lisa Wilson. Panthers Tessa Norris stole home scoring one run from an out providing the edge. With 10 minutes remaining, the top of the fifth innings saw the Panthers again hold their nerve to keep Heat scoreless with great plays from catcher Cuttings throw to shortstop Penglase for a tag at second base, Pitcher Martin to another youngster in Tilly Lovelock`s first game at first base and another assist from Martin to Lovelock at first, ending the game to see the Panthers run out eventual winners in a highly enjoyable and skilled game.  Hills Softball Association ‘C’ Grade Women Round 3 (Strathalbyn v Pirates)Strathalbyn were having their first game against Pirates ‘C’ grade this season and did well in the field with Stacey Jamieson fielding at shortstop and throwing to Clare Foley at second base for the first out and Casey Taylor taking a catch at left field and then quickly throwing to third to make another out and a double play to hold Pirates scoreless and end their innings. Strath were up to bat but didn’t start well with Pirates making an out at first and a K2 to pitcher/catcher combo Kerry Elliott to Tamika Wilks before Rebecca Sims and Bobbie Taylor were choosy about the balls they faced and both earnt walks. They stole their way around the diamond before being brought home by a hit to Taihya Graham to bring in two runs before another K2 sent them from the diamond. Deb Taylor had a good hit for Pirates and with savvy base running, was eventually brought home by a hit to Jackie Atkinson to get a run on the board before two K2’s to Strath’s pitcher/catcher combo Sims to B.Taylor and an out at first base ended the innings with no further score. Pirates held Strath scoreless in their second turn at bat with an out at first, a K2 and a catch taken by pitcher Elliott to send them from the diamond. Pirates added one more run in their third turn at bat to Brenae Beattie who ran the bases well with C.Taylor taking another catch in the outfield, a catch to pitcher Sims and another K2 to end the innings. Strath were again held scoreless in their third batting dig but did include a safe hit to Sarah George before Pirates shut them down with a K2 and two outs at first. Young pitcher Annabel McGregor came in for Strath and did well for her first time pitching in a Senior game to get a K2, an out at first and an uncommon out for leaving the base early ended the innings after bringing in six runs for Pirates. Strath needed runs in their fourth turn at bat and with hits to Kelly Roe, Graham, George, Heidi Samuel and a three base hit to B.Taylor, the Panthers brought home six runs to tie the game. Time and game were called with the game ending in an 8-8 draw in a great game played with great fun and respect to all players.