Bombers blank Doncaster: Sandy over Sunshine

MIDWEEK GAMES

SANDRINGHAM 6 defeated SUNSHINE 1 (Thursday)

The Eagles stayed with Sandy for much of the contest but in the end lacked the offensive firepower to make headway against Claxton Shield star Matt Blackmore, who went the distance.

The Royals scored early on a Joe Beyer double followed up by an Alex da Silva triple that plated two. Three in the last was more than ample as insurance.

Sharing pitching duties, Shaun Moore and Adam Irons did the job for the Eagles, who remain confident of further success despite a tough run home.

ESSENDON 8 defeated DONCASTER 0 (Thursday)

The Dragons offence was never in the hunt as Essendon wheeled out some its best hurlers in Casey Jones, Shane Lindsay, Gareth Formisano, Russell Spear and Michael Formisano.

Going three from three, Tim Sullivan was a live-wire as Essendon scored consistently during the shortened mid-week contest.

"We were simply undermanned against quality pitching," said Doncaster Manager Stephen Black.

"I'm disappointed, but not devastated. We need some more application at times, but playing the top sides has given our young blokes a go against quality opposition. They will be better for that." 

"Our depth has really been tested," he said. "But we're about where we hoped we would be and we'll just keep pushing on."

NEWPORT 5 drew with CHELTENHAM 5 (Wednesday)

The Rams continue to play quality baseball for a split result - their second for the season - over Cheltenham, with both clubs in the middle of the table and keen to string a few wins together as the State League season reaches a crucial stage.

BLACKBURN 10 defeated UPWEY (Wednesday)

The Orioles had a comfortable win over ninth-placed Upwey and have  moved to second placing. For now, at least, with Sandringham meeting Sunshine and Essendon facing a danger game against Doncaster on Thursday.

GEELONG 7 defeated MALVERN 2 (Wednesday)

Loitering just outside the four for most of the season, Geelong notched an important win that has them only a game and a half behind fourth and two clear games ahead of Cheltenham in sixth placing. Malvern is in a three-way go with Bonbeach and Sunshine at the bottom of the table.