(A Grade Women) Strathalbyn v Torrens ValleyTorrens Valley were up to bat first in the last game of the minor round with Amber Hood starting off the game with a home run followed by safe hits to the next two batters and a triple to Sophie Hoyle to bring them home and she got home herself through great running. Strath’s pitcher Tessa Norris started well in the field, making two outs at first followed by a K2 to end the innings. Strath were up to bat and started with a two base hit to Norris but were unable to bring in any runs with a double play made by Torrens Valley pitcher Courtney May taking a catch and quickly throwing to third base Georgia Ballard to take out the lead runner and a catch by Ballard to send Strathalbyn from the diamond. Strath were better in the field during Torrens Valley’s second dig holding them to one run with a catch taken by catcher Gab Martin, another K2 and second base Buttsy Milne fielding well and throwing to Eliza Lovelock at first for the third out. Strathalbyn’s second turn at bat could not produce any runs with a catch taken by Torrens Valley catcher Alex Mackay, an out at first and a K2 to end the innings. Three quick outs by Strath, an out at second base, one at first and an out at third kept Torrens Valley scoreless in the third dig. Torrens Valley’s pitcher was on fire in Strath’s third turn at bat with two K2’s and a catch taken at third by Hoyle again kept Strathalbyn off the scoreboard. Strathalbyn’s pitcher Norris returned the favour by taking a catch and pitching a K2 with outfielder Tilly Lovelock contributing with a catch in the outfield to keep them from scoring in the fourth. Strath needed runs but was unable to bring any in with two outs at first and a catch taken at third for a three up three down innings. Two runs were brought in by Torrens Valley in the fifth dig before a catch taken at second by Tash Mayes, a great tag out at home by shortstop Kim Cutting throwing to Martin to stop a run and an out at first ended the innings. Strath were determined to get some runs on the board but again were unable to with a K2, an out at second and an out at first to end the innings and the game. Final scores were Torrens Valley 7 defeated Strathalbyn 0. In the other ‘A’ grade game on Friday night, Hahndorf defeated USC Bears 12-6.Premiership ladderTorrens Valley 16, Hahndorf 12, USC Bears 7, Strathalbyn 5.(C Grade Women) Strathalbyn v MacclesfieldStrathalbyn took on Macclesfield in the last game of the minor rounds and the first innings set the scene for a close fought affair. Strath’s lead-off batter was caught out by Macclesfield second base Tania Nethercott but second batter Maddison Lippasaar showed patience and a keen eye in the batter’s box to see herself on base through a walk. Her quick feet saw her steal her way to second base. Alicia Spinks had a solid crack to left field to see herself safely on board. Clean up batter Bobbie Taylor, fourth in the lineup, waited for the perfect pitch and sent the ball deep into left field, bringing in the two runners while scoring a stand up Home Run. The second out for the inning came from a pick-off throw from Maccy catcher Alisha Golding allowing Sandra Lions to tag Claire Foley out at second base. Tania Nethercott struck again picking up another fly catch at second to send Strath back to the dugout with three runs on the board.Strathalbyn was kept busy in the bottom of the first. The top of the order all got hits to the left side of the diamond and were able to beat out the throws. Strath scored their first and second outs on force runs to three thanks to clean fielding from Kelly Roe and Maddison Lippasaar. Batters continued to get bat to ball bringing in two runs from Alisha Golding and Mary Karaitiana. The third out came from shortstop Kelly Roe who made a quick throw to beat out the runner and find the safe glove of Alecia Spinks at first base. The top of the second was a clean three up three down. Sandra Lions’ clean fielding at shortstop saw Strath’s first batter out at first. Amy Wouters took a clean pick up at the pitcher’s plate to secure the second batter out at first before the third batter also fell victim to the solid arm of Lions to also be out at first.Not wanting to leave that unanswered, Strathalbyn brought in new pitcher Kelly Roe which caused the Macclesfield batting line up to adjust to the new speed. Mel Calome was out when Bobbie Taylors quick pick up as catcher on a dropped third strike saw her out at 1. Tanya Meese was also out at 1 securing the second out with the second batter. Kelly Roe made for a clean three up three out finish with a K2 on Alisha Golding.In the top of the third innings, Strath knew they needed some runs to stay ahead of Maccy. Maddison Lippasaar got on base from a fielding error at shortstop allowing her to beat the throw to first base. Wouters pitched another K2 for the first out on Strathalbyn’s second batter. Bobbie Taylor needed her speed to beat out a throw from third base Mel Calome and she kept her running boots on, stealing her way to second and then third base. Claire Foley’s keen eye saw her on base on balls. Casey Taylor was unlucky to narrowly be beaten by the throw at first on a throw from pitcher Wouters. Both Maddison and Bobbie were able to cross the plate bringing in two more runs before Jo Falkland also fell victim K2 to pitcher Wouters.Strath came out looking to defend their lead and first batter Mary Karaitiana was out K2. Ali Pope’s experience was on show as she settled in the box and got on base beating out the throw from third base Maddison Lippasaar. Sandra Lions was eager to get bat to ball but also went down swinging for the second K2. Tania Nethercott made a valiant attempt to get the ball in play. Her 4 fouls out the right side of the diamond kept Strath’s fielders on their toes before a change of pitcher saw Jodi Hauwai enter the game with a 2 and 1 count on the batter. One pitch closed out the innings with a K2.The final innings was started off in style by Strath’s Heidi Samuel with a well placed hit to right field dropping in the gap and seeing her safely on board. Rebecca Sims settled in the batter's box and made her way on base on balls. Maddison Lippasaar was the first out for the dig but runners progressed around the diamond. Alecia Spinks was out at first after an infield hit was picked up by pitcher Amy Wouters but Heidi Samuels was able to cross the plate bringing in Strath’s sixth run. Bobbie Taylor’s patience saw her on base on balls before Claire Foley was the third out via a K2.In the final dig of the game, Jodi Hauwai showed her pitching credentials with a K2 for the first out. Jess Taylor got bat to ball but Claire Foley’s calm fielding at second saw her out at first. In yet another three up three down inning, batter Mel Calome was out on a throw to first to end the game. The final score was Strathalbyn 6 defeated Macclesfield 2. In the other ‘C’ grade games, Echunga beat Red Sox 15-3 and Hahndorf White beat Hahndorf Black 20-4.Premiership ladderEchunga 18, Strathalbyn 18, Hahndorf White 17, Redsox 8, Macclesfield 7, Hahndorf Black 4.

Lobethal pulled off a stunning win at Strathalbyn on Saturday to secure the all-important double chance during round 17 action in the Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA). Amazingly 20 wickets fell for just 174 runs as Lobethal pulled off a thrilling four-run triumph. Lobethal batted first and collapsed to be 7/51 with Mitch Weeks (17) and Sam Graeber (10) the only top-six batsmen to reach double figures. Steve Huxter (30) and Will Zadow (11) combined for what turned out to be a very important 38-run eighth wicket stand before the Tigers lost their last 3/0 to be bowled out for just 89 in the 37th over. Five Stallions bowlers claimed wickets with Matt Abbott (3/7), Zach Reekie (2/9), Tim Dellatorre (2/11) and Danny Horan (2/20) leading the way. Strathalbyn needed 90 runs to win and shore up a finals berth and they reached 2/39 before the dismissal of Abbott (16) precipitated a collapse of 6/25 to leave the home side in tatters at 8/64. Matthew Harris battled hard to make 30 from 76 balls as the home side got within five runs of victory before Harris was dismissed to give Lobethal an unlikely win. All five Tigers bowlers took wickets with Dave Huxter (3/14), Weeks (3/21) and Cam Winen (2/20) the standouts. Strathalbyn now faces a nervous wait as they have the bye in the final round and will be sweating on other results going their way to take their place in the finals.After seemingly being out of the finals race after losing to Wistow last week, Nairne roared back into contention with an important 40-run win over fellow finals aspirant Hahndorf at Nairne Oval. The home side batted first and posted a competitive total of 173 with Jarrad Tait (39), Robert Crook (35) and Luke Timmins (26) leading the way. Hahndorf skipper Ryan Trafford-Walker snared 3/29 (9) and he was well supported by Ashley Eckermann (2/33) and Shaun Tait (2/38). Hahndorf got off to a good start in the run chase through veterans Andrew Baker (30) and Greg Hassold (21). The big wicket was Shaun Tait and he made his way to 36 before being dismissed by his brother Jarrad Tait (2/17). From then on it was all Nairne with the Hein brothers doing the damage with Matt taking 4/34 and Mitch 4/45 as the Magpies were bowled out in the 35th over for 133. The equation is simple for both Nairne (playing Lobethal) and Hahndorf (playing Woodside) in the final round...win and you’re in!Woodside won their seventh game of the 2020/21 season following a comprehensive nine-wicket win over Mount Barker at Woodside Oval. The visitors batted first and struggled as they were bowled out for just 89 in the 30th over. Skipper Rhys Paterson (27), Simon Turk (17) and Jason Webb (10) were the only Kookaburra batsmen to reach double figures. All seven Woodside bowlers took wickets with Chris Baschiera (3/25) leading the way. Baschiera has had an excellent season with 26 wickets at an average of 13.31. The Warriors wasted no time in knocking off the runs in just the 12th over with Dave Wescombe (40 not out) and Brad Collins (29 not out) making light work of the target. Tommy Baldock (13) was the batsman dismissed with Turk (1/18) the wicket taker. Wistow won their second game in a row with a six-wicket victory against Bremer/Callington at Callington on Saturday. The Cobras batted first and were disappointing as they were bowled out for just 60 in the 35th over. Skipper Jai McMurtrie (12) and Sandeep Huda (12) were the only players to reach double figures. The Wistow bowlers shared the wickets around with Dan Jenner leading the way with figures of 2/4 from a miserly nine-over spell. Sam Smith (2/4), Josh Fidler (2/12) and Harry Burgess (2/27) were the other multiple wicket takers. The Echidnas run chase didn’t start well as they slipped to 2/3 before Matt Chapman (17), Fiddler (15 not out) and Smith (15 not out) saw the visitors home in the 27th over. Langhorne Creek had the bye. Ladder (after round 17)Langhorne Creek 46, Lobethal 44, Strathalbyn 40, Hahndorf 38, Nairne 36, Woodside 32, Wistow 16, Bremer/Callington 12, Mount Barker 8.Round 18 fixtures (6/3/21) (home team named first)Woodside v HahndorfLanghorne Creek v Bremer/CallingtonNairne v LobethalWistow v Mount BarkerStrathalbyn has the bye

The Fleurieu & Districts Junior Cricket Grand Finals were played on Sunday with Alexandra & Eastern Hills winning the Figg Cup with a convincing victory against Great Southern, Hills won the Calaby Shield following a dramatic one run victory over Alexandra & Eastern Hills, while Kangaroo Island and Great Southern shared the Fuller Shield after a tie at Kingscote.Figg Cup (U/21) - Grand Final @ Strathalbyn OvalAlexandra & Eastern Hills 7/267 (Matt Chapman 89, Adam Clements 60, Matthew Roberts 26, James Graves 21, Josh van den Broeke 4/28, Riely Williams 3/26) defeated Great Southern 116 (Liam Harris 30 n.o., Colby Whitbourne 22, Darcy Paech 3/25, Harry Burgess 2/14) by 151 runs.Calaby Shield (U/15) - Grand Final @ Uraidla OvalHills 9/133 (Charlie Morbey 59, Wil Thomas 16, Zach McKenny 3/20, Jack Roberts 2/26) defeated Alexandra & Eastern Hills 9/132 (Jack Roberts 40, Mitchell Bannister 17 n.o., Jay Temme 4/24) by 1 run.Fuller Shield (U/13) - Grand Final @ Soldiers Memorial Park KingscoteGreat Southern 6/133 (Levi Stringer 43 n.o., Zane Garrett 19, Timmy Turner 2/20) tied Kangaroo Island 9/133 (Colton Trethewey 26, Tyler Richardson 23, Wadsworth 22, Jimmy Hamblin 4/10, Garrett 2/37) 

Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 16 resultsBack Valley 5-7-69 defeated Inman Valley 4-5-53Victor Harbor 6-9-78 defeated Goolwa 3-4-53Ladder (after round 16)Back Valley 122.5, Inman Valley 115, Victor Harbor 83.5, Goolwa 63.Semi-Final Fixtures (home team named first)Back Valley v Inman Valley (Saturday 6 March @ 1.00pm)Victor Harbor v Goolwa (Saturday 6 March @ 1.00pm)Onkaparinga Tennis AssociationRound 14 resultsClarendon 6-6-36 defeated Macclesfield 0-0-14John Wesley 4-4-28 defeated Strathalbyn 2-2-26McLaren Flat had the byeLadder (after round 14)Clarendon 69, John Wesley 48.5, Strathalbyn 27, McLaren Flat 24.5, Macclesfield 23.Semi-Final Fixtures (home team named first)Clarendon v John Wesley (Saturday 6 March @ 8.30am)Strathalbyn v McLaren Flat (Saturday 6 March @ 8.30am)

Meadows wrapped up their sixth consecutive minor premiership in the Hills Cricket Association (HCA) following a four-wicket victory against Aldgate at Aldgate Oval on Saturday. The home side batted first and got off to a good start through Josh Callaghan and Mitch Thomas who added 58 runs for the first wicket before Thomas was dismissed for 31 (58 balls). Callaghan went on to make 42 (77 balls) as Aldgate started to build their innings but at 4/110, Meadows were a chance to keep the ‘Gaters’ under 160 on the small confines of ‘The Swamp’. Jack Woollard (27 from 21 balls) and Frank Clements came together to add a whirlwind 72-run fifth wicket stand as the home side reached 5/190 from their 40 overs. Clements was the star of the innings with a hard-hitting 73 not out from just 45 balls. His innings contained three boundaries and eight sixes. Meadows skipper Rohan Reid (3/48) was the only multiple wicket taker for the Bulldogs. Meadows got off to a quick start with Luke Tonkin (24) and Kris Dawe (20) scoring at better than a run a ball but at 3/61 in the 10th over, the game was in the balance as Max Buckley joined Rohan Reid at the crease. Buckley proceeded to take the game away from Aldgate with a powerful display of hitting as he brought up his second half century of the season off just 24 balls on his way to 65 from 49 balls (2 x 4’s, 9 x 6’s). Teenager Oscar Tydeman (30 from 33 balls) then put on 44 for the sixth wicket as Rohan Reid (41 not out) brought up the winning runs with a ‘maximum’ in the 34th over. Matty Hansen (2/45) was the sole multiple wicket taker for Aldgate in what was a tough day for the bowlers. Meadows will now face Mount Lofty in the ‘double chance’ semi final while Aldgate slipped to third place and will take on Kangarilla in the ‘knockout’ semi final. Kangarilla will play finals for the first time since joining the HCA back in the 2014/15 season after a comprehensive six-wicket win over Flagstaff Hill at Kangarilla. The game was virtually an elimination final with the winner to take the last available spot in the top four while the losers season would be over. The Falcons started the day well as they won the toss and chose to bat first but this was about as good as it got for the visitors as they were rolled for just 80 in the 39th over. Max Renfrey (29), Jess Lemon (13) and Jack Walton (12 not out) were the only batsmen to reach double figures. Jack Evans (3/18), Ben Evans (3/19) and Ryan Grimmond (2/17) took the bowling honours for ‘Kangies’. Cole Davy (46 from 51 balls) continued his good recent form as Kangarilla were relatively untroubled in knocking off the target in the 21st over for the loss of four wickets. Davy has scored 235 runs at an average of 47.00 in the past five matches. Former Kangarilla player, Lenny Berkefeld, took 2/16 for the visitors. Kangarilla will face off in a cut-throat semi final against Aldgate at Balhannah Oval with the winner to advance to the preliminary final on March 13 while for the loser, it will be season over. Mount Lofty grabbed the all-important double chance after a crushing nine-wicket win over Uraidla at Uraidla Oval. The home side started well with Thomas Bassett (19) and Alex Heptinstall (15) adding 37 for the first wicket. From then on it was all Mount Lofty as they took 10/35 to bowl out the home side for just 72 in the 37th over. All five Redcaps bowlers took wickets with Aaron Smith (3/13) and Adam Carthew (2/2) the standouts. Mount Lofty were keen for an ‘early minute’ as they knocked off the small target in just 8.2 overs. Josh Healey (29 not out), Jack Sandercock (20) and Jordan Neis-Beer (19 not out) all got in on the act with the bat for Mount Lofty. Bassett (1/20) was the wicket taker for Uraidla. Mount Lofty will enter their semi final clash at Meadows with confidence after four consecutive wins plus a dramatic victory in the T20 final against the Bulldogs.Stirling rounded out their season with a fifth victory of 2020/21 following a 67-run at Cherry Gardens against Scott Creek Ironbank. Stirling batted first and got solid contributions from Jacob Kemp (24), Jack Pick (20) and Myles Collins (13) but at 3/67, a good partnership was needed. Pete Fryer (43) joined Kosta Sinodinos (49) in an innings-defining partnership worth 87 runs as the visitors finished with 7/206 from their 40 overs. Veteran Andy Adams took 3/63 (8) while Beau Thomas bowled economically to snare 1/12 (6). Scott Creek Ironbank were in early strife at 4/44 before Thomas Watton and Mark Kipping added 40 runs for the fifth wicket. This was easily the best partnership of the innings as the home side lost their last 6/55 to be bowled out for 139 in the 34th over. Watton went on to top score with 46 from 46 balls with seven boundaries. Jack Read (5/29 off 8) claimed his first five-wicket haul in ‘A’ grade ranks and he was ably supported by Sinodinos (3/29). Sinodinos had an excellent season with the ball for the Eagles with 24 wickets at an average of 11.38.Ladder (after round 16)Meadows 63, Mount Lofty 57, Aldgate 54, Kangarilla 48, Flagstaff Hill 42, Stirling 36, Uraidla 27, Scott Creek Ironbank 9.Semi-Finals (6/3/21)Meadows v Mount Lofty (Meadows)Aldgate v Kangarilla (Balhannah)

Encounter Bay took the honours on day one of their match against Port Elliot during round 10 action in the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) at Encounter Bay on Saturday. The Bays are 0/34 at stumps with Dennis Rice (18 n.o.) and Jason Parry (16 n.o.) at the crease. They are in pursuit of Port Elliot’s first innings total of 116 with a win giving the Bays a shot at the double chance in the finals. The visitors batted first and were in early trouble as they slumped to 3/15 and then 7/58 just before the tea break. Port Elliot skipper Brodie Whitbourne (21) was the only top order batsman to reach double figures. Some lower order resistance from Riley Paull (25), Liam Harris (21) and Harry Grenfell (11 n.o.) lifted the Bloods to 116 before they were bowled out in the 58th over. Blake Bailey (3/31), Simon Acheson (2/9) and Dillon Burns (2/22) were the chief wicket takers with the ball for Encounter Bay. Noarlunga are locked in a tight tussle with Goolwa in their match at Old Noarlunga after day one was dominated by the bowlers. Goolwa did an excellent job to bowl the Shoes out for 125 in the 65th over before facing a tricky five-over period to end the day. The Magpies lost two wickets in their second over to Noarlunga skipper Jason Scarff (2/0) to finish the day at 2/3. Earlier, Tyron Rigney took the first six wickets to fall en route to the excellent figures of 6/34 (18). It was Rigney’s first ‘A’ grade five-wicket haul. Anthony Burgess (27), Jason Scarff (21), Matthew Ray (17) and 16 year-old debutant, Travis Bronstein (16 not out) battled hard for the home side. James Lawrence, in just his second ‘A’ grade game for the season, snared 3/32 from 19 tight overs of left-arm orthodox bowling. A half century to McLaren Districts’ Daniel Petrucci and a seven-wicket haul for Willunga’s Simon Roberts, were the standout performances on day one at Willunga Oval. McLaren Districts batted first and made 129 before being bowled out in the 69th over. The Crushers innings was dominated by Petrucci who finished with 54 from 138 balls (4 x 4’s, 1 x 6), his first half century of the season. He was well supported by a patient Ben Wilcox (21 from 81 balls). Unfortunately for the visitors, only two other batsmen reached double figures in Luke Goodieson (13) and Josh van den Broeke (11). Roberts was the star again for the Demons as he took 7/31 (23.1). It was Roberts’ third five-wicket haul of the season and he now has 32 wickets at an average of 6.22 in 2020/21. Joe Last (1/4), Joel Docking (1/22) and Luke Harding (1/23) were the other wicket takers for Willunga. 

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 17 resultsPort Elliot 54 defeated Goolwa White 52Encounter Bay 60 defeated Victor Harbor Blue 53Goolwa Black 62 defeated McLaren Vale 50Strathalbyn 85 defeated Yankalilla 42Willunga 57 defeated Victor Harbor White 55Ladder (after round 17)McLaren Vale 143, Strathalbyn 118, Goolwa Black 117, Victor Harbor Blue 100, Encounter Bay 99, Willunga 98, Port Elliot 84, Goolwa White 59, Yankalilla 43, Victor Harbor White 39.Round 18 Fixtures (6/3/21) (home team named first)Strathalbyn v Goolwa BlackEncounter Bay v Port ElliotWillunga v Victor Harbor BlueMcLaren Vale v Victor Harbor WhiteGoolwa White v Yankalilla

Wistow has severely dented Nairne’s finals hopes after pulling off a dramatic one-run victory during round 16 action in the Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) at Wistow on Saturday. The Echidnas batted first and were soon under pressure at 2/17 before Lachlan Elsworthy and Matt Chapman added 29 runs for the third wicket until Chapman was dismissed for 15. David Kinlough then joined Elsworthy with this pair getting the score to 3/80 when Elsworthy fell for 35 (81 balls). Kinlough continued on to make 41 (58 balls), his highest score of the season, but unfortunately he didn’t get much support as the home side were rolled for 126 in the 40th over. All seven Razorbacks bowlers took wickets with Jacob Sadler (3/7) and Matt Hein (2/29) the multiple wicket takers. Jarrad Tait (27) and Luke Timmins (16) had Nairne in a good position before a middle order collapse saw them under plenty of pressure. Matt Hein (22) and Brodie Clarke (18) tried hard to lift the Razorbacks over the line before Lachlan Elsworthy (1/34) dismissed Clarke as Nairne were bowled out for 125 in the 45th over. Veteran Steven Nettle was the pick of the Wistow bowlers with 3/11 from nine overs (six maidens). Harry Burgess (3/25) and Daniel Jenner (2/21) were the other multiple wicket takers as the Echidnas won their second game for the 2020/21 season. Lobethal took the honours in the top-of-the-table clash against Langhorne Creek at Lobethal Oval to keep their minor premiership chances alive. Lobethal sent Langhorne Creek in and it was a real struggle for the visitors as they were bowled out in the 42nd over for 131. Brodie O’Dea (45 from 66 balls) and Daniel Cleggett (32 from 58 balls) were the main contributors for the 2018/19 premier. Will Zadow (3/17) and Mitch Weeks (3/34) spun a web for Lobethal while opening bowler Matt Martin took 2/22. The home side started their run chase well with skipper Ben Matthews and Weeks adding 41 for the first wicket before Weeks was dismissed for 19 (30 balls). Matthews was his usual steady self as he batted through the innings to score 60 not out (123 balls) with the target being reached in the 42nd over for the loss of just three wickets. Matthews has now scored 447 runs at an average of 55.88 this season. Darcy Paech (1/14), Matthew Cannizzaro (1/22) and Tom Whittlesea (1/31) were the wicket takers for the Creeks. Hahndorf moved six points clear in fourth spot on the AEHCA ladder and still could grab the all-important double chance following a low scoring 57-run win on the turf at Callington against the Cobras. The Magpies batted first with their innings dominated by veteran Andrew Baker who easily made the top score of the match with 53. Baker has only played three ‘A’ grade games this season and has scored 112 runs at 37.33. Benny Montgomerie (22) and Graydon Brand (15) were the only other Magpies to reach double figures with Hahndorf bowled out for 121 in the 39th over. Brad Louch continued his good first season with the Cobras as he snared 4/23 (9), his best figures for his new club. Spinner Nick Williams chipped in with 3/21 (9). The home side's reply was a disaster as they were dismissed for just 64 in the 31st over. Nathan Fitzgerald (19) was the only player to reach double figures for the Cobras. Hahndorf’s opening bowlers did all the damage with Shaun Tait (4/19) and Ryan Trafford-Walker (4/25) sharing the wicket taking spoils.A century to Mount Barker’s Rhys Paterson wasn’t enough to stop Strathalbyn from winning their ninth game of 2020/21 to keep their double chance hopes alive. Paterson dominated the Kookaburras innings on his home deck as he scored his maiden ‘A’ grade century. After coming in at 1/1, Paterson made 109 from 112 balls with eight boundaries and seven sixes to show off his undoubted talent. Chris Pulford (12) was the only other Kookaburra to reach double figures as the total reached 9/172 off 45 overs. Acting captain Matt Abbott (3/20), Brayden Gaiter (3/23) and Danny Horan (2/26) were the chief wicket takers for the Stallions. Strathalbyn started the run chase well with Abbott and Luke Cousins putting on a 41-run opening stand before Abbott departed for 24 (21 balls). Steve Schofield (4) went cheaply as the visitors were 2/63 and Mount Barker were in the game. Any chance the home side had at an upset victory was snuffed out as Cousins and Zach Reekie put on an unbroken 111-run third wicket stand as the target was reached in the 36th over. Reekie finished with 56 not out, his first half century for the Stallions, while Cousins finished with 79 not out (103 balls). Cousins sits atop the AEHCA run scorers list this season with 525 runs at an average of 43.75. Deklan Porter (2/37) was the wicket taker for Mount Barker. Woodside had the bye. Ladder (after round 16)Langhorne Creek 46, Lobethal 40, Strathalbyn 40, Hahndorf 38, Nairne 32, Woodside 28, Bremer/Callington 12, Wistow 12 Mount Barker 8.Round 17 fixtures (27/2/21) (home team named first)Strathalbyn v LobethalNairne v HahndorfWoodside v Mount BarkerBremer/Callington v WistowLanghorne Creek has the bye

Kangarilla are back in the finals hunt in the Hills Cricket Association (HCA) following a thrilling two-run win at Uraidla against the Demons on Saturday. The game came down to the last over with Kangarilla’s Steve Featherstone (3/34) bowling and Uraidla needing 13 runs to win. When Shane Parker (32) hit the second ball of the over for six, the equation was six runs required from four balls. Featherstone held his nerve to dismiss Parker as Uraidla finished on 7/163 in pursuit of Kangarilla’s total of 165 all out. Alex Heptinstall (48), Renzo Gaetan (25) and Michael Parker (21) all contributed for the home side. Kangarilla skipper Che Martinsen was the star for ‘Kangies’ with the ball as he snared the miserly figures of 3/9 (8). Earlier, Kangarilla batted first and got off to a flying start with Cole Davy making 57 from just 31 balls (5 x 4’s, 5 x 6’s) as he and Featherstone (21) put on 74 for the first wicket. Uraidla fought back to eventually bowl the visitors out in the 37th over with Shane Parker (3/11) and Trent Richardson (3/21) the chief destroyers. Kangarilla will host Flagstaff Hill in a virtual elimination final with the teams separated by just .02% on the ladder, while Uraidla will finish off their season by hosting finals-bound Mount Lofty.Mount Lofty kept their hopes of a top-two finish alive with a tight two-wicket victory over Stirling at Stirling Oval. Stirling batted first and got away to a solid start with Myles Collins (36) and Jacob Kemp adding 48 runs for the first wicket before Kemp was dismissed for 11 (52 balls). Jacob Gonzalez (6) was elevated to number three in the batting order but this move didn’t work out as the Eagles slumped to 8/109. Skipper Jack Pick (26 from 37 balls) was the only other top order batsman to reach double figures. In just his fifth game for the season, Ben Zampa smashed 36 not out from just 19 balls (4 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s) as he and Ned Hopgood (9 not out) put on a very useful ninth wicket partnership of 47 to lift the home side to 8/156 from their 40 overs. Five Redcaps bowlers took wickets with Will Healey (3/25) and Max Hawke (2/25) leading the way. After losing Josh Healey (8) early, James Kittel-Neill and Jordan Neis-Beer combined for an excellent 96-run second wicket stand to see Mount Lofty in a commanding position at 1/106 in the 28th over before Neis-Beer was dismissed for 37 (82 balls). Kittel-Neill was gone in the next over for 56 (85 balls) and it was a different game all of a sudden. The collapse had begun with the Redcaps losing 7/19 to slump to 8/125. Kosta Sinodinos dismissed Dylan Dunbar (0) and Adam Carthew (0) with the last two balls of his seventh over and then clean bowled the dangerous Jack Sandercock (4) with the first ball of his eighth over to achieve the magical hat trick! The next ball was a wide before Sinodinos dismissed Will Healey to have four wickets in a row from four legal deliveries. Sinodinos finished with the spectacular figures of 6/14 (8). Watching the carnage unfold was Aaron Smith and he was joined by Hawke with the Redcaps needing 32 runs from 40 balls for what now would be an unlikely victory. This game had already had plenty of drama and there was more to come! When the 38th over was completed, Mount Lofty required 13 runs to win from 12 balls. A 12-run penalty (six runs per over not bowled in the allocated time) was issued against Stirling for only having completed 38 overs in the 150 minutes allowed. Therefore the match was essentially tied with 12 balls remaining! Hawke played out a maiden from Jacob Gonzalez before Smith (31 not out) hit a boundary from the second ball of the 40th over to bring up the victory. Mount Lofty can still grab the double chance with victory over Uraidla in the final round while Stirling will finish their season with a trip to face Scott Creek Ironbank.Meadows tuned up for their top-of-the-ladder clash with Aldgate this Saturday with a convincing 10-wicket victory over Scott Creek Ironbank at Meadows. The visitors batted first and were bowled out for just 95 in the 33rd over. Ben McGowan (21 not out) and Zane Lewis (20) were the leading lights with the bat Scott Creek Ironbank. Meadows shared the wickets around with Kris Dawe (3/24) the chief destroyer. Dawe, in his first season with the Bulldogs since 2014/15, has now snared 26 wickets at the incredible average of just 6.96 in 2020/21. He was ably supported by Tom Bevan-Giles (2/11), Chad Dawe (2/22) and Angus Frazer (2/31). Meadows were keen for an ‘early minute’ as they chased the target down in just the 14th over. Luke Tonkin was particularly devastating as he smashed an unbeaten 77 from only 59 balls. Tonkin’s innings included six boundaries and four ‘maximums’. Haydn Reid had the best seat in the house as he cruised to 18 not out from 24 balls (2 x 4’s). As mentioned earlier, Meadows will head to Aldgate for a huge clash which will decide the minor premiership. Scott Creek Ironbank will round out their first season back in ‘A’ grade ranks by hosting Stirling.Aldgate won their first game in three weeks to keep their minor premiership hopes afloat with a convincing 77-run win at Flagstaff Hill. Aldgate batted first with their innings set up by two good partnerships. Josh Callaghan (32) and Liam Winskill (49) added 65 for the second wicket before Frank Clements joined forces with Winskill to put on 55 for the third wicket with Clements going on to make 55 not out from 52 balls (4 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s). The ‘Gaters’ finished on 4/190 from their 40 overs. Jack Walton (3/42) was the leading wicket taker for the Falcons. Flagstaff Hill were in trouble early as they slipped to 2/11 before a 42-run partnership between Oliver Styles (25) and Lachlan Tosh (22) gave the home side some hope. This was quickly snuffed out with Aldgate skipper Jake Turnbull (3/23) taking two wickets in the 19th over as ‘Flaggies’ limped to drinks at 4/55. It was all Aldgate after the break as the home side were bowled out for 113 off 40 overs. The wickets were shared around with Clements (2/20), Perry Edwards (2/22) and Jack Woollard (2/23) joining Turnbull as multiple wicket takers. Aldgate will host ladder-leader Meadows in the last minor round game with the winner to secure the minor premiership, while Flagstaff Hill play Kangarilla with the winner taking the last spot in the finals.Footnote: I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my best wishes to Aldgate cricketer Jake Bilsborow and his family, after Jake had a severe accident last week (17 February). I have known Jake since he was in Kindergarten with my son and have coached and played with Jake at the Aldgate Cricket Club. He is a terrific sportsman and a fantastic young man. On behalf of the Fleurieu App and myself…we wish you a speedy recovery legend. Ladder (after round 15)Meadows 57, Aldgate 54, Mount Lofty 51, Flagstaff Hill 42, Kangarilla 42, Stirling 30, Uraidla 27, Scott Creek Ironbank 9.Round 16 fixtures (27/2/21) (home team named first)Kangarilla v Flagstaff HillAldgate v MeadowsUraidla v Mount LoftyScott Creek Ironbank v Stirling

Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 15 resultsBack Valley 6-8-72 defeated Goolwa 3-4-48Victor Harbor 5-7-62 defeated Inman Valley 4-6-66Ladder (after round 15)Back Valley 114.5, Inman Valley 111, Victor Harbor 74.5, Goolwa 60.Round 16 Fixtures (home team named first)Back Valley v Inman Valley (Saturday 27 February @ 1.00pm)Victor Harbor v Goolwa (Saturday 27 February @ 1.00pm)Onkaparinga Tennis AssociationRound 13 resultsMacclesfield 3-3-26 defeated John Wesley 3-3-19Clarendon 5-5-34 defeated McLaren Flat 1-1-19Strathalbyn had the byeLadder (after round 13)Clarendon 61, John Wesley 42.5, Strathalbyn 25, McLaren Flat 24.5, Macclesfield 23.Round 14 Fixtures (home team named first)Strathalbyn v John Wesley (Saturday 27 February @ 8.30am)Clarendon v Macclesfield (Saturday 27 February @ 8.30am)McLaren Flat has the bye

(A Grade Women) Strathalbyn v HahndorfDue to this season being interrupted by weather cancellations and a Covid shutdown, these two teams have not faced off since the middle of November. Hahndorf started the batting off but Strath had the first batter out with a play by second base Tash Mayes to first base Kerry Wilkinson. With a couple of walks and a perfect bunt by Chloe Davis, Hahndorf was able to bring in three runs with two more outs at first base ending the innings. Strathalbyn were up to bat for their first dig and had hits to Tessa Norris and Kim Cutting but with a catch to Chantelle Lewis at shortstop, a K2 to pitcher/catcher combo Tahlia Larosa to Georgia King and a play made at first, they were unable to get around the diamond to score. Four runs were made by Hahndorf in their second turn at bat which were brought in by hits to Michelle Davis, Nichola Zobel, Larosa and a three base hit to Lewis before Strath could stop the runs with another out at first by Mayes, a K2 to Strathalbyn’s pitcher/catcher combo of Gab Martin to Norris and a catch in the outfield by Emily Eglitis. Strathalbyn needed to get some runs on the board but were unable to with Hahndorf fielding well with another K2, a catch taken by King and a catch taken by Zobel for a three up three down innings. Hahndorf again batted well in their third dig and brought in a further three runs before Strath could shut them down with a play at second by short stop Cutting who fielded and threw quickly to Mayes, an out at third, again great fielding by Cutting to throw to Britt Jackson and the final out also made by Cutting throwing to first to end the innings. Hahndorf’s Larosa pitching to King was the perfect combo with another two K2’s and a catch taken at third by Peyton Daniels sending Strath on their way for another three up three down in their third turn at bat. Hahndorf were on fire again with the bat in the fourth innings with a three base hit to Jessica Luxon and a home run to Lewis which all helped to bring in a further four runs with Mayes fielding well for Strath making two outs at first and Cutting combining well with Jackson for another out at third to end the innings. Strathalbyn still needed to score and even with a two base hit to Martin and safe hits to Wilkinson and Tiahna Mayes, Hahndorf were fielding so well that an out at first, a good choice by shortstop Lewis to pick off the lead runner at third and great pitching again by Larosa ended it with another K2. The final score for the game was Hahndorf 14 defeated Strathalbyn 0. In the other ‘A’ grade game on Friday night, Torrens Valley Redsox defeated USC Bears 9-3.Premiership ladderTorrens Valley 14, Hahndorf 10, USC Bears 7, Strathalbyn 5.(C Grade Women) Strathalbyn v EchungaEchunga and Strathalbyn fought an epic battle of fun on the diamond during their ‘C’ grade clash. Eliza Lovelock pitched to Tamynka Wilks as Strathalbyn scored five runs in the first dig. Echunga’s Lovelock came out to bat against the Kelly Roe/Bobbie Taylor combination and hit a home run out to centre field scoring Echunga’s only run for the game.  Strathalbyn started strong with aggressive batting by Rebecca Sims and Bobbie Taylor hitting to centre field and strong base running by Alecia Spinks and Casey Taylor assisting Strathalbyn in their first five runs. Echunga pulled out all the stops in the field with Emma Leach showing us her expertise when the ball was hit to her at third base, she stepped on her own glove in the attempt to field it! Amazing and delightful work from Emma. Strathalbyn continued to push Echunga with more big hits to Jo Falkland and Kelly Roe. A line drive catch to Alecia Spinks at first base and three catches to Rebecca Sims. Her first was a line drive catch to third base, the second was an infield fly ball to third base and in the third dig, Rebecca came in to pitch and caught her third of the game. Echunga then decided to change their pitchers and they brought the heat of Lyndy Leach, coming in with her fast balls and fast comments and shutting Strathalbyn down in her turn at pitching. Aggressive batting by Jo Falkland, Clare Foley and Amy Roker in the last few digs helped push the runners around the bases, scoring runs and taking out the game. The final score saw Strathalbyn win 13-1. In the other ‘C’ grade games, Redsox defeated Hahndorf Black 13-7 while Hahndorf White had an 11-6 victory over Macclesfield. Premiership ladderEchunga 16, Strathalbyn 16, Hahndorf White 13, Macclesfield 7, Redsox 6, Hahndorf Black 4.

Noarlunga moved into second spot on the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) ladder following a convincing 151-run victory over McLaren Districts at McLaren Vale on Saturday. The Shoes made an imposing total of 7/271 on day one and defended their total comfortably, as McLaren Districts were bowled out in the 52nd over for 120. Justin Twartz (26), Stephen Nairn (26) and Daniel Petrucci (25) all made handy contributions for the home side but no-one went on to make the big score that was needed to chase down Noarlunga’s total. Left-arm opening bowler Matthew Ray was the star with the ball for the visitors as he snared 5/33 from 16.3 overs. It was the third five-wicket haul for Ray in his third season at the Shoes. Peter Lamz (2/19) and Harry Jackson (2/24) were the other multiple wicket takers with 15 year old Jackson claiming his first ‘A’ grade wickets. Noarlunga will look to secure the double chance in their final round match at home against Goolwa, while McLaren Districts will tackle minor premier Willunga to round out their season.Port Elliot has all but wrapped up a spot in the finals following a 41-run victory over arch rival Goolwa to win the inaugural South Lakes Golf Club Challenge Cup at Port Elliot oval. The home side were defending a solid day one score of 9/220 and they got off to a good start by removing Goolwa’s opening batsmen Luke Giddings (1) and Josh Jones (17) to have the Magpies at 2/34. Jesse Le Ray and Fred Nissen joined forces as Goolwa worked their way back into the game with this pair adding 52 runs for the third wicket before Le Ray was dismissed for 50 from 86 balls. It was Le Ray’s first ‘A’ grade half century. Nissen (20), Andy Evans (20) and Jesse Consalvo (26) all made handy contributions but eventually the visitors came up short as they were bowled out for 179 in the 66th over. Ben Martin claimed his second ‘A’ grade five-wicket haul for the Bloods with figures of 5/29 from 13.2 overs while Liam Harris snared 4/62 from a marathon 20-over spell. Port Elliot will look to confirm their finals spot when they travel to Encounter Bay next round while Goolwa will tackle Noarlunga at Noarlunga. Willunga notched their 21st consecutive victory with a comprehensive nine-wicket win at home against Encounter Bay on Saturday. Willunga resumed on 0/10 after dismissing the Bays for just 89 on day one with Paul Roberts and Joel Docking at the crease. This pair added 68 runs for the first wicket before Docking was dismissed for 30 from 72 balls (2 x 4’s). Roberts continued on to finish with 41 not out from 75 balls (2 x 4’s, 3 x 6’s) as the Demons finished on 1/93 with the winning runs coming up in the 30th over. Michael Walters (1/30) was the sole wicket taker for the Bays. Willunga will take on McLaren Districts in the final round hoping to complete an undefeated minor round while Encounter Bay will host Port Elliot needing a win to try and reclaim second spot on the ladder. Ladder (after round 9)Willunga 54, Noarlunga 30, Encounter Bay 30, Port Elliot 21, Goolwa 15, McLaren Districts 12.Round 10 fixtures (27/2/21 & 6/3/21) (two-day games/home team named first)Noarlunga v GoolwaEncounter Bay v Port ElliotWillunga v McLaren Districts

Great Southern Bowls Association - Open Pennant Division 1Round 16 resultsVictor Harbor Blue 70 defeated Goolwa White 42Goolwa Black 73 defeated Victor Harbor White 39Strathalbyn 71 defeated Port Elliot 39Encounter Bay 65 defeated Willunga 61McLaren Vale 75 defeated Yankalilla 36Ladder (after round 16)McLaren Vale 141, Goolwa Black 107, Strathalbyn 106, Victor Harbor Blue 98, Willunga 90, Encounter Bay 89, Port Elliot 76, Goolwa White 55, Yankalilla 43, Victor Harbor White 35.Round 17 Fixtures (27/2/21) (home team named first)Port Elliot v Goolwa WhiteVictor Harbor Blue v Encounter BayGoolwa Black v McLaren ValeYankalilla v StrathalbynVictor Harbor White v Willunga

Great Southern Tennis AssociationRound 14 resultsInman Valley 7-10-72 defeated Goolwa 2-4-47Back Valley 7-10-77 defeated Victor Harbor 2-3-47Ladder (after round 14)Inman Valley 107, Back Valley 105.5, Victor Harbor 66.5, Goolwa 57.Round 15 Fixtures (home team named first)Inman Valley v Victor Harbor (Saturday 20 February @ 1.00pm)Goolwa v Back Valley (Saturday 20 February @ 1.00pm)Onkaparinga Tennis AssociationRound 12 resultsJohn Wesley 5-5-34 defeated McLaren Flat 0-0-23Strathalbyn 5-5-36 defeated Macclesfield 1-1-24Clarendon had the byeLadder (after round 12)Clarendon 54, John Wesley 39.5, Strathalbyn 25, McLaren Flat 23.5, Macclesfield 18.Round 13 Fixtures (home team named first)Macclesfield v John Wesley (Saturday 20 February @ 8.30am)McLaren Flat v Clarendon (Saturday 20 February @ 8.30am)Strathalbyn has the bye

Port Elliot took the honours on day one of their match against local rival Goolwa during round nine action of the Great Southern Cricket Association (GSCA) at Port Elliot on Saturday. The two teams are playing for the Goolwa-Port Elliot Cup presented by the South Lakes Golf Club. Goolwa won the toss and sent the Bloods in and after losing Colby Whitbourne (13) early, Ethan Spriggs and skipper Brodie Whitbourne dug in to add 62 runs for the second wicket before Spriggs was dismissed for 35 (101 balls). The in-form Joel Harris joined Whitbourne and this pair set about putting a big score on the board with a 68-run third wicket stand. Whitbourne went on to make a patient 61 from 153 balls (7 x 4’s), while Harris was eventually run out for 70 from 97 balls (6 x 4’s), his highest ‘A’ grade score. A flurry of wickets at the end of the innings saw Port Elliot lose 5/7, but they finished their 70 overs with a very competitive total of 9/220. Jayden Crees, in just his fifth match of the season, took his eighth career five-wicket haul for the Magpies with figures of 5/77 from a marathon 24 overs.  Willunga are in excellent shape to win an incredible 21st consecutive match at stumps on day one of their round nine clash against Encounter Bay at Willunga. The Demons last tasted defeat back on the 12th of October 2019. Encounter Bay skipper Cam Lintern won the toss and elected to bat and it was tough going early as the visitors slipped to 3/36 with Sam Hoffmann (17), Ambrose Willloughby (8) and Dennis Rice (4) all back in the pavilion. Lintern joined Blake Bailey as this pair dug in against some tight Willunga bowling to put on 32 runs for the fourth wicket before Lintern was dismissed by Luke Goldner for 14. Lintern’s dismissal sparked a collapse of 7/21 as the Bays were dismissed for 89 in the 64th over. Bailey went on to top score with a patient innings of 20 from 106 balls. Goldner took the bowling honours with 4/23 from 17 overs and he was ably supported by skipper Luke Harding (3/8) and Simon Roberts (3/28). Joel Docking (7 not out) and Paul Roberts (2 not out) safely negotiated the six overs left in the day as the Demons reached 0/10 at stumps. Noarlunga are in a good position in their match against McLaren Districts after posting 7/271 on day one of their clash at McLaren Vale. Noarlunga skipper Jason Scarff won the toss and had no hesitation in deciding to bat first as he and opening partner Anthony Burgess started well to add 58 for the first wicket before Scarff was dismissed for 21. David Scarff then joined Burgess in a 55-run second wicket stand with Burgess bringing up his second half century of the season before being dismissed for 53 (95 balls). David Scarff (57 from 99 balls) continued on to make his third half century of the season and added 84 runs with Anthony Tucker (47) for the third wicket. Jeff Colo (24) and Scott Russell (34 not out) then made it four 50+ partnerships for the innings with a 53-run seventh wicket stand. McLaren Districts used nine bowlers for the day with Luke Goodieson taking his best ‘A’ grade figures with 4/53 off nine overs. Crushers skipper Stephen Nairn bowled well without luck to finish with 1/38 from 14 overs. 

Nairne stayed in the finals hunt and just about put paid to Woodside’s finals aspirations after defeating the Warriors by 56 runs during round 15 action in the Alexandra & Eastern Hills Cricket Association (AEHCA) at Nairne on Saturday. The home side batted first and got off to the worst possible start with Robert Crook dismissed by Dale Robinson with the first ball of the game. Crook’s dismissal brought Nairne skipper Luke Timmins to the crease to join Jarrad Tait as this pair added 81 runs for the second wicket before Tait was dismissed for 50 (5 x 4’s, 1 x 6). Sam Rowe (2) and Timmins (24) were dismissed in quick succession as the Razorbacks slipped to 4/91 before the in-form Mitch Hein (27) partnered with Shane Kenney (37) to add 42 runs for the fifth wicket. Nairne finished up posting a competitive total of 8/192 from their 45 overs. Shane Collins (2/19), Robinson (2/26) and Charlie McDonough (2/39) were the multiple wicket takers for Woodside. Woodside’s top order had some handy contributions from Tommy Baldock (27), Jeremy Snoad (19), Dave Wescome (18) and Brad Collins (16) in their run chase but no one went on with it for the big score the Warriors needed. Hard hitting Sam Pullen came in and gave the innings some much needed impetus as he smashed 37 from just 14 balls including five sixes. Pullen has hit a whopping 12 ‘maximums’ in his last two innings! Matt Hein (4/17) got the crucial breakthrough to dismiss Pullen and the end came quickly as the Warriors lost their last 5/7 to be bowled out for 136 in the 41st over. Brodie Clarke (3/12) and Jacob Sadler (2/4) were the other multiple wicket takers for Nairne. Langhorne Creek has all but wrapped up their first minor premiership in AEHCA ‘A’ grade competition with a convincing 121-run win over Mount Barker at Langhorne Creek on Saturday. The Tigers had a number of players out with Martin Rigby and Jordon Whiting making their ‘A’ grade debuts. Langhorne Creek batted first and the going was tough as the score reached 2/28 after 10 overs with Mount Barker’s Hayden Lane (2/38) taking both the wickets to fall. Opening batsman Brodie O’Dea was joined by Ben Warren as this pair settled down as the Tigers reached 2/87 (23) at the drinks break. O’Dea went on to score 102 not out (146 balls) while Warren brought up his 14th ‘A’ grade ‘ton’ for the Creeks in the final over of the innings to finish with 108 not out (95 balls). The unbroken 223-run stand was the fourth highest ‘A’ grade partnership in the club's history as the Tigers posted an imposing 2/251 from their 45 overs. Mount Barker were in early trouble at 2/15 before Ryhs Paterson (15) and Simon Turk tried to lift their side back into the contest with a 35-run stand for the third wicket. Turk went on to top score for the Kookaburras with 40 (51 balls) as Mount Barker finished their 45 overs at 9/130. Six Langhorne Creek bowlers took wickets with Troy Blackwell (3/21) and Mathew Cannizzaro (2/11) leading the way. Blackwell has moved back to the top of the AEHCA wicket takers list with 26 scalps at an average of 14.65. Reigning premier Hahndorf won their seventh game of the season to remain in fourth spot on the AEHCA ladder following an eight-wicket victory over Wistow at Hahndorf Oval. Wistow batted first and were under immediate pressure with Daniel Jenner (6) and David Kinlough (0) both dismissed by Hahndorf skipper Ryan Trafford-Walker as the visitors slipped to 2/16. The in-form Matt Chapman joined opening batsman Lachlan Elsworthy as the Echidnas started to work their way back into the game. The partnership realised 81 runs before Elsworthy was dismissed for 48 (94 balls), his highest score of the season. Chapman went on to make 78 from 117 balls (7 x 4’s, 2 x 6’s) as his side posted 6/172 from their 45 overs. Chapman is having an excellent season after recovering from a severe knee injury and now has 403 runs at an average of 36.64 in 2020/21. Trafford-Walker with 3/20 (9) was the pick of the Magpies bowlers with Graydon Brand (2/13) offering good support. The Magpies got off to an excellent start in their run chase with Greg Hassold (73) and Andrew Baker (32) batting well. Shaun Tait (35 not out) and Sam Williams (15 not out) then put the finishing touches on the innings as the target was reached with more than 15 overs to spare. Strathalbyn kept their double chance hopes alive after defeating Bremer/Callington by 38 runs at home. The Stallions were sent in on their home deck and were in trouble early at 2/24 before a 56-run third wicket stand between veteran Steven Schofield (31) and Matthew Harris (33) put them on top. Ben Cousins then gave the innings some much needed impetus as he scored an unbeaten 46 from just 41 balls to lift Strathalbyn to a final total of 8/174. Brad Louch (3/22) continued his good debut season with the Cobras and he was well supported by Sandeep Huda (2/23). Bremer/Callington got good contributions from Arsalan Eubaid (34), Ajay Pundir (28) and Huda (23) but the middle and lower order failed to fire as the visitors were dismissed for 136. The Stallions shared the wickets around with Ben Cousins (3/18) continuing his good day. Brayden Gaiter (2/25), Zach Reekie (2/26) and Tim Dellatorre (2/38) chimed in with a couple of wickets each. Lobethal had the bye. Ladder (after round 15)Langhorne Creek 46, Lobethal 36, Strathalbyn 36, Hahndorf 34, Nairne 32, Woodside 28, Bremer/Callington 12, Mount Barker 8, Wistow 8.Round 16 fixtures (20/2/21) (home team named first)Mount Barker v StrathalbynBremer/Callington v HahndorfLobethal v Langhorne CreekWistow v NairneWoodside has the bye

(A Grade Women) Strathalbyn v USC BearsUSC Bears started strongly in the Saturday night game with safe hits to the first five batters bringing in four runs and included a two base hit to Leah Farrell before Strathalbyn pitcher Emily Eglitis made a play to first for the out. A trap play with Farrell eventually being tagged out by Kim Cutting for the second out and a catch at third base by Tash Mayes ended the innings. Strathalbyn’s Tessa Norris began the batting dig by getting a walk and then stealing her way home while her teammates were getting out with a catch in the outfield by Rita Meijer, a K2 and an out at first made by shortstop Kate Adamson sending them from the diamond without any further score. The Bears second turn at bat was held to another safe hit and run to Meijer with a pick off at second by Cutting, a catch at short stop to Cutting and a catch to Eliza Lovelock ending the innings with just the one run scored. Strath’s turn at bat also brought in one run after a safe hit by Tiahna Mayes before the Bears shut them down with an out at first, a K2 to pitcher Farrell and catcher Courtney Broughton and a trap play tag at second to send them from the diamond. Strathalbyn was trailing in the run count and had to hold Bears and did so with another catch by Tash Mayes, a catch at second by Kathryn Milne and Mayes fielding well to make the out at first for a three up three down innings. Confidence with the bat was needed by Strath and they brought it with a two base hit to Milne, three base hits to Cutting and Crystal Karayiannis and a maiden home run to Tash Mayes to help bring in six runs with Bears making two outs at first and a catch to new pitcher Lisa Wilson to end the innings. A K2 and a double play from Norris, now pitching, taking a catch and quickly throwing to Mayes at third to catch the runner off base held the Bears to just one run made by Jane Wreghitt in their fourth turn at bat. Strathalbyn were up to bat again as the game was coming to a close but USC Bears kept the fielding tight with another K2 and a catch to Wilson. Strath got runners on to base but after an injury to Milne, time and game were called with Strathalbyn winning 8-6. In the other ‘A’ grade game on Saturday night, Torrens Valley Redsox defeated Hahndorf 6-4.Premiership ladderTorrens Valley 12, Hahndorf 8, USC Bears 7, Strathalbyn 5.

Figg Cup (U/21) - Round 2 resultsHills 8/97 (Oscar Tydeman 48 n.o., Lachlan Knight 21, Max Bormann 5/25, Aedan Magee 2/22) defeated Torrens Valley 96 (Jack Druwitt 26, Nicholas Rowe 25, Ben Evans 4/15, Jack Evans 4/20) by two wicketsAlexandra & Eastern Hills 168 (Daniel Kropp 56, Matt Chapman 52, Riley Williams 4/20, Harry Grenfell 3/17) defeated Great Southern 104 (Joel Harris 22, Caleb Walker 2/9, Adam Clements 2/18, Darcy Paech 2/26) by 64 runsMurray Towns had the byeGrand Final - Sunday 28 FebruaryAlexandra & Eastern Hills v Great Southern (Strathalbyn - 10.00am)Calaby Shield (U/15) - Round 2 resultsAlexandra & Eastern Hills 7/110 (Tanner King 48, Finn Hayden 2/9, Finn Magor 2/15, Lucas Donlan 2/27) defeated Great Southern 109 (Caleb Polson 24, Finn Magor 21, Noah Dunn 3/10, Sam Erbsland 3/12) by three wicketsHills 9/155 (Jackson Harrison 60 n.o., Harry Moule-Hooworth 21, Bolwell 3/22, Lovering 2/10, Berden 2/31) defeated Kangaroo Island 145 (R.Florance 35, Bolwell 34, Jackson Harrison 3/7, Oliver Clements 2/20, Cooper Beauchamp 2/22, Riley Allison 2/22) by 10 runsMurray Towns had the byeGrand Final - Sunday 28 FebruaryHills v Alexandra & Eastern Hills (Uraidla - 10.00am)Fuller Shield (U/13) - Round 2 resultsKangaroo Island 161 (Timmy Turner 72, Tait Florance 23, Sebe Hull 2/9, Jake Hughes 2/11, Finn Baker 2/32) defeated Hills 88 (Cam Wildy 27, Timmy Turner 5/7, Tyler Richardson 3/14) by 73 runsGreat Southern 4/173 (Zane Garrett 68 n.o., Levi Stringer 36 n.o.) defeated Alexandra & Eastern Hills (1) 9/161 (Declan Bell 34, Ryan Davies 26 n.o., Mitch Westrych 20, Levi Stringer 2/16, Patrick Dutschke 2/34) by 12 runsAlexandra & Eastern Hills (2) 149 (Seb Morgan 30, Jack Rogers 27, Reuben Lane 20 n.o., Salter 3/18, Haggar 2/23) defeated Murray Towns 126 (Hamiester 22, Thomas Vickers 3/10, Hamish McInnes 3/35, Archie Wheaton 2/4, Sidney Cotton 2/17) by 23 runsGrand Final - Sunday 28 FebruaryKangaroo Island v Great Southern (TBC - 10.00am)

Meadows has roared to the top of the Hills Cricket Association (HCA) ladder following a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Aldgate at Meadows Oval on Saturday. Aldgate batted first and were always under pressure thanks to an excellent bowling performance from the Bulldogs. All five Meadows bowlers claimed wickets with skipper Rohan Reid (4/12), Kris Dawe (2/16) and Angus Frazer (2/20) the chief destroyers as the visitors were bowled out in the 40th over for 115. Aldgate skipper Jake Turnbull (36 off 57 balls) was the only batsman to pass 20 for the ‘Gaters’. Luke Tonkin and Haydn Reid got Meadows off to an excellent start as they added 67 runs for the first wicket before Tonkin was dismissed in the 18th over for 40 (56 balls). Haydn Reid continued on to make 45 not out with Rohan Reid (22 not out) bringing up the winning runs by taking 14 runs off the 30th over. Luke Smet (1/28) was the sole wicket taker for Aldgate. After losing three of their first five games this season, Meadows are undefeated since the 14th of November and they are looking in ominous form with just two games left before finals.Flagstaff Hill moved a game clear in fourth spot on the HCA ladder with an important five-wicket victory over Kangarilla at Flagstaff Hill. It was a big day for the Falcons as they celebrated their 40th anniversary in style. Kangarilla batted first and were bowled out for 118 in the 37th over. Steve Featherstone (31) and Cam Venter (30) were the only ‘Kangies’ batsmen to pass 20 runs in the innings. Ryan Grimmond added a valuable 15 not out from 16 balls at the end of the innings. Jack Walton continued his excellent season to take 3/26 (7.2). Walton now has 18 wickets at an average of 14.28 this season. Jess Lemon (2/8) was the other multiple wicket taker for the Falcons. Flagstaff Hill started well in the run chase to reach 1/58 before Matt Emes was run out for 28 as the Falcons lost 3/0 to see Kangarilla all of a sudden back in the game. When Josh Dunlevey was dismissed for 16, Flagstaff Hill were 5/82 and it was 'game on'. Stephen Wheatland joined his skipper Jacob Lemon (11 not out) to add an unbeaten 39 runs from just 47 balls for the sixth wicket. Wheatland hit the winning runs in the 38th over as he finished on 31 not out from 39 balls. Four Kangarilla bowlers took wickets with skipper Che Martinsen (1/13 from eight overs) the pick of them. Mount Lofty consolidated third spot on the ladder with a comfortable 62-run win at Heathfield Oval against Uraidla. The Redcaps batted first and it was hard going for the batsmen as the home side reached 2/46 at the drinks break. James Kittel-Neill (18), Jordan Neis-Beer (16) and Brad Hutton (16) all made handy contributions but when Jack Sandercock (0) was dismissed in the 29th over and the score at 5/77, Uraidla were well on top. Enter Adam Carthew to join Aaron Smith in an innings-defining sixth wicket stand worth 52 runs before Smith was dismissed for a run-a-ball 34. Carthew continued on to top score with 36 not out (40 balls) as the Redcaps posted 6/146 from their 40 overs. Carthew is having another good season with 234 runs at 39.00 and 11 wickets at 17.45. Thomas Bassett (2/18) and Trent Richardson (2/26) were the multiple wicket takers for the Demons. Uraidla’s run chase started disastrously as they slipped to 3/10 before teenager Mason Pitt tried to lift them out of trouble as he made a patient 22 from 61 balls to top score for this side. Unfortunately number 10 batsman Richardson (10) was the only other batsman to reach double figures as the visitors were bowled out for just 84 in the 39th over. Five Mount Lofty bowlers took wickets in an excellent bowling performance with Max Hawke (3/19), Kittel-Neill (2/9) and Smith (2/17) leading the way. Carthew (1/8 off eight overs) bowled a typical miserly spell as well. Stirling notched their fourth win of 2020/21 with a six-wicket victory at Stirling Oval against bottom side Scott Creek Ironbank. The visitors were sent in and were soon in strife at 4/17 with Kosta Sinodinos (3/10) doing the early damage. It was left to veterans Daniel Desengo (36) and Andy Adams (28 not out) to try and lift Scott Creek Ironbank to a decent score as they added 60 runs for the sixth wicket as the visitors ended on 6/99 from their 40 overs. Jack Pick (1/3), Myles Collins (1/21) and Chris Shaw (1/22) were the other wicket takers for Stirling while Jack Read was very economical with 0/7 (8). The Eagles were relatively untroubled in knocking off the target with opening batsman Collins (47 not out) and Read the standout batsmen. Read made a quickfire 30 (16 balls) which included two boundaries and three ‘maximums’ as the target was knocked off in the 20th over with a six from Collins.Ladder (after round 14)Meadows 51, Aldgate 48, Mount Lofty 45, Flagstaff Hill 42, Kangarilla 36, Stirling 30, Uraidla 27, Scott Creek Ironbank 9.Round 15 fixtures (20/2/21) (home team named first)Meadows v Scott Creek IronbankFlagstaff Hill v AldgateStirling v Mt LoftyUraidla v Kangarilla