Scotch College

Tunbridge-Cowper Cup defeat

For the third successive year the Scotch team has lost to Geelong Grammar in the Tunbridge-Cowper Cup.

Losing the toss, we were happy to field in 35 degree heat, in the hope that it would get hotter. It certainly did, as the day went on, but unfortunately our performance cooled off as we ingloriously managed to steal defeat from the jaws of victory!

The wickets were shared between all the bowlers: Gavin Williams (1/30), Gus Elliott (2/30), Rob Ashton (1/23), John Ross (1/37), Warren Junkeer (1/23), Mark Gnatt (1/16) and James Ross (2/20).

Geelong Grammar mustered an imposing 224 from their 45 overs, but with a quick outfield and sensible batting we were confident as we set about the chase.

Rory Stewart was first out playing one on for 5. Mark Gnatt and Tim Shearer then took the score to 120, before both were forced to retire (Gnatt 58, Shearer 51).

This had an immediate impact on the game as we lost 9/77 to slump from 1/120 to all out for 197.

Rob Ashton looked good for 12 before being brilliantly caught; Warren Junkeer didn't bother the scorer and Gus Elliott came and went for 6. The tail refused to wag with Gavin Williams and John Ross falling in quick succession and James Ross holing out at midwicket for 8.

A great day was had by all and we thank Geelong Grammar sincerely for hosting us so warmly and allowing us the use of their Main Oval.

Plans are already afoot to recoup the Cup in 2002 - that is if the Captain holds his job after three successive defeats!!

Tim Shearer