School Sport Victoria recently announced the athletes named to the Team Vic Baseball 18 Years and Under State Team!
Baseball Victoria wishes to congratulate all of these players on their accomplishments, and we're looking forward to seeing how the team goes at the School Sport Australia 2019 Championships, hosted by SSV in Geelong from Sunday, April 28th - Sunday, May 5th!
This is a fantastic opportunity for these talented student athletes to play their beloved sport against their peers from other Australian State and Territories!
For more details on this event, including the full team list, please visit the official School Sport Victoria website: https://www.ssv.vic.edu.au/team-vic/Documents/TeamVicBaseball18YrsTeamAnnouncemed2019.pdf
The VSBL 2018/19 Women's finals continued on Saturday, March 2nd as six teams faced off for one last shot at Grand Final glory. It was a showcase of some of the state's best women's players as they battled for a position in the Grand Final, and Essendon, Doncaster and Doncaster/Melbourne teams prevailed. Well done to all players, teams and clubs on an excellent season, and good luck to those participating in Women's Super Saturday on March 9th at Cheltenham Baseball Club!
Women’s Division 1 Preliminary Final (Saturday, March 2nd)
Essendon Bombers vs. Doncaster Dragons
4 3
The Dragons battled hard, but the second-place Bombers prevailed to make it into the Grand Final. With some strong hitters and pitchers such as Abbey Kelly and Allison Bebbere, Essendon had the upper hand. They'll now set their sights on an even tougher test as they prepare to face six-time premiers Springvale. Throughout the regular season, Springvale certainly had the upper hand, winning every game against Essendon, but anything could happen in the Grand Final that's set to start at 3:30 PM on Saturday.
Women’s Division 2 Preliminary Final (Saturday, March 2nd)
Doncaster Dragons vs. Footscray Bulldogs
20 0
It wasn’t a pretty outing for the Bulldogs as they found themselves in a double-digit deficit. Nevertheless, the Footscray team can be very proud of their accomplishments and how far they’ve come this season. Now the Dragons will need to make the most of every out as they face Springvale on Saturday. Doncaster won two of their games while Springvale took one, and their final regular season meeting ended in 9-9 draw back in round 16. First pitch will be at 1:00 PM.
Women’s Division 3 Preliminary Final (Saturday, March 2nd)
Werribee/Footscray vs. Doncaster/Melbourne
3 9
The second place and third place teams faced off, with the Doncaster/Melbourne girls coming away with a big victory following their 15-2 win over Cheltenham in the semis. Doncaster/Melbourne will try to hand Wheelers Hill their first defeat of the season in Saturday's Grand Final, starting at 10 AM.
Women’s Division 1 Preliminary Final (Saturday, March 2nd)
Essendon Bombers vs. Doncaster Dragons
4 3
The Dragons battled hard, but the second-place Bombers prevailed to make it into the Grand Final. With some strong hitters and pitchers such as Abbey Kelly and Allison Bebbere, Essendon had the upper hand. They'll now set their sights on an even tougher test as they prepare to face six-time premiers Springvale. Throughout the regular season, Springvale certainly had the upper hand, winning every game against Essendon, but anything could happen in the Grand Final that's set to start at 3:30 PM on Saturday.
Women’s Division 2 Preliminary Final (Saturday, March 2nd)
Doncaster Dragons vs. Footscray Bulldogs
20 0
It wasn’t a pretty outing for the Bulldogs as they found themselves in a double-digit deficit. Nevertheless, the Footscray team can be very proud of their accomplishments and how far they’ve come this season. Now the Dragons will need to make the most of every out as they face Springvale on Saturday. Doncaster won two of their games while Springvale took one, and their final regular season meeting ended in 9-9 draw back in round 16. First pitch will be at 1:00 PM.
Women’s Division 3 Preliminary Final (Saturday, March 2nd)
Werribee/Footscray vs. Doncaster/Melbourne
3 9
The second place and third place teams faced off, with the Doncaster/Melbourne girls coming away with a big victory following their 15-2 win over Cheltenham in the semis. Doncaster/Melbourne will try to hand Wheelers Hill their first defeat of the season in Saturday's Grand Final, starting at 10 AM.
Baseball Victoria is pleased to announce the 2019 Women's and Youth Women's State Teams!
These talented players will represent our state at the 2019 Australian Youth Women's Championships in Canberra from Sunday, April 14th - Sunday, April 21st and the 2019 Australian Women's Championships from Monday, April 15th - Saturday, April 20th.
Congratulations to all the women who have been selected. This is an excellent opportunity and we are so looking forward to supporting their success at this year's championships.
Last year, the Youth Women's team brought home a Gold Medal, while the Women's Blue secured a Silver Medal finish and the Women's White team came in 5th place. These incredible results are a testament to the player's dedication and development, and we're positive they will continue to grow and flourish this year.
Please click on the following links to view the team rosters, and stay tuned to Baseball Victoria and Baseball Australia digital platforms for updates throughout the tournament!
Baseball Australia recently named a young Victorian player as the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week! Congratulations to Oli Baillargeon!
Oli has won $500 for his baseball club.
13 months ago Oli was not confident to play baseball....but this year his courage has shone through and his character is developing on the mound.
Oli does not get phased when things don’t go his way and when it come to loyalty, this trait is quickly developing to the sport as he wants to play catch every night!
He also pitched his heart out in his team's Grand Final that went 3 extra innings, so well done to Oli on a fantastic year!
Oli was awarded the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week for 17-24 February.
To go into the draw to become the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week and win $500 just like Oli, enter your details HERE.
Congratulations, Oli! We can't wait to see what he accomplishes in the years to come!
13 months ago Oli was not confident to play baseball....but this year his courage has shone through and his character is developing on the mound.
Oli does not get phased when things don’t go his way and when it come to loyalty, this trait is quickly developing to the sport as he wants to play catch every night!
He also pitched his heart out in his team's Grand Final that went 3 extra innings, so well done to Oli on a fantastic year!
Oli was awarded the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week for 17-24 February.
Oli was awarded the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week for 17-24 February.
To go into the draw to become the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week and win $500 just like Oli, enter your details HERE.
Congratulations, Oli! We can't wait to see what he accomplishes in the years to come!
It's finals time for Victorian Summer Baseball League! The top teams in the competition are vying for a Grand Final finish, while their fellow players are not far behind with the finals for the seconds, thirds and fourths! Keep up with all the action with results and recaps below, and congratulations to all teams on such a successful season!
Division 1 Firsts – Semi Finals
Geelong Baycats vs. Sunshine Eagles
18 2
The Baycats left no doubt that they still have it in them to pull off another premiership, as they crushed the Eagles with a dominating performance. Feeling good after a game 1 victory, Geelong jumped on the board early with four runs in the 1st. Although Sunshine answered with one of their own in the bottom frame, they never regained control of the game. Geelong added another four runs in each of the next two innings to secure a 12-2 lead after three.
Sunshine's pitching and defense couldn't hold up against these hard-hitting Baycats. Geelong were relentless, with another run in the 4th and five more in the 5th. Things quieted down for the last two innings, but the damage was done and Geelong secured their ticket to the Grand Final, where they will go for a second straight premiership against Blackburn.
Overall, Geelong had 18 hits compared to just five for Sunshine. The Eagles made two errors while Geelong made just one, and starter Rudy Jaramillo was positively on-point during his six innings of work. He threw 20 first-pitch strikes and had eight strikeouts on the day, while Sunshine's Taylor Rowe had eight first pitches for strikes and three strikeouts.
Kelli Zablan and Elliot Biddle had four hits on the day to lead the Baycats, while Ryan Darcy followed in close pursuit with three of his own. Biddle had 7 RBI's while Zablan had six. These two and their hot bats will be keys to Geelong's success in the Grand Final.
Blackburn Orioles vs. Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers
13 5
After winning the first game 4-0, the Burners came back strong for game two. It didn't take long for them to get the job done, as they hopped on the scoreboard in the 3rd inning thanks to a double from David Dicker. Blackburn's Adam Jones was reliable as ever on the mound, as his teammates worked their way to a 6-0 lead by the bottom of the 6th inning. Other offensive highlights for Blackburn included the RBI double by Liam Hopkins and a 3-run blast from Nicholas Rossell to make the score 11-2 in the 8th. While the Tigers were able to get a few more runs home, it wasn't enough to extend their season any further. This means there will be a replay of last year's Grand Final with Blackburn and Geelong facing off.
Reserves
Blackburn Orioles vs. Sandringham Royals
8 6
It was a close battle between these two dedicated teams, but ultimately the Orioles pulled away for the win, marking their first premiership in the reserves since the 2001/01 season. They had an 8-4 lead going into the bottom of the 5th, but gave a few more runs up before shutting down the Royals for good. Well done to both teams for their efforts as they gave the game everything they've got. One thing seems to be for sure: these two will continue to be tough competition in the upcoming seasons.
Thirds
Geelong Baycats vs. Essendon Bombers
7 4
The Baycats are unstoppable! They secured their third-straight premiership with a convincing performance vs. Essendon. Geelong was up 5-1 by the top of the 4th, and they added two more runs by the top of the 7th to seal the deal and finish their one-loss season on a high note. The Baycats family are thrilled with this final result as the thirds just keep on cruising!
The team's winning formula includes Cooper Rickard, Hayden Peoples, Chris Rickard, Alex Hockey, Duane Davenport, Chris Hockey, Mat Belfrage, Jason Peoples, Angus McNee, Stotty Lachlan, Tim Cruise, Liam Whiteside, Daniel Anson, Jordan Isbister, Josh Agius and Dion Kirchner.
Fourths
Essendon Bombers vs. Berwick City Cougars
8 6
The Bombers had a tough challenge with the determined Cougars hot on their heels, but ultimately Essendon pulled away for a fantastic Grand Final win. It's been a highly-anticipated premiership victory for Essendon, as they've finally got the job done once and for all after years of being so close. Congratulations Bombers on such a strong season!
Reserves
Blackburn Orioles vs. Sandringham Royals
8 6
It was a close battle between these two dedicated teams, but ultimately the Orioles pulled away for the win, marking their first premiership in the reserves since the 2001/01 season. They had an 8-4 lead going into the bottom of the 5th, but gave a few more runs up before shutting down the Royals for good. Well done to both teams for their efforts as they gave the game everything they've got. One thing seems to be for sure: these two will continue to be tough competition in the upcoming seasons.
Thirds
Geelong Baycats vs. Essendon Bombers
7 4
The Baycats are unstoppable! They secured their third-straight premiership with a convincing performance vs. Essendon. Geelong was up 5-1 by the top of the 4th, and they added two more runs by the top of the 7th to seal the deal and finish their one-loss season on a high note. The Baycats family are thrilled with this final result as the thirds just keep on cruising!
The team's winning formula includes Cooper Rickard, Hayden Peoples, Chris Rickard, Alex Hockey, Duane Davenport, Chris Hockey, Mat Belfrage, Jason Peoples, Angus McNee, Stotty Lachlan, Tim Cruise, Liam Whiteside, Daniel Anson, Jordan Isbister, Josh Agius and Dion Kirchner.
Fourths
Essendon Bombers vs. Berwick City Cougars
8 6
The Bombers had a tough challenge with the determined Cougars hot on their heels, but ultimately Essendon pulled away for a fantastic Grand Final win. It's been a highly-anticipated premiership victory for Essendon, as they've finally got the job done once and for all after years of being so close. Congratulations Bombers on such a strong season!
Baseball Australia recently named a young Victorian player as the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week! Congratulations to Oli Baillargeon!
Oli has won $500 for his baseball club.
13 months ago Oli was not confident to play baseball....but this year his courage has shone through and his character is developing on the mound.
Oli does not get phased when things don’t go his way and when it come to loyalty, this trait is quickly developing to the sport as he wants to play catch every night!
He also pitched his heart out in his team's Grand Final that went 3 extra innings, so well done to Oli on a fantastic year!
Oli was awarded the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week for 17-24 February.
To go into the draw to become the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week and win $500 just like Oli, enter your details HERE.
Congratulations, Oli! We can't wait to see what he accomplishes in the years to come!
Baseball Australia would like to congratulate Will Robins our Brut Little Leaguer of the Week.
Will has won $500 for his baseball club.
Will plays for the Southern Hills Warriors, and is a big fan of the Perth Heat in the Brut Australian Baseball League.
This season has been tough on Will. He was playing really well, leading pitching and batting when he was hit by a pitched ball and fractured his left hand.
This has not stopped him though, he continues to attend every training sessions and every game to support and help his team.
He throws BP with his good hand and bench coaches during club games. He's looking forward to getting back out on the diamond!
To go into the draw to become the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week and win $500 just like Will, enter your details HERE.
Stay tuned soon as we announce another Brut Little Leaguer of the Week!
(Will is the Brut Little Leaguer of the Week from 24 February-1 March)
The most exciting time of the year for the Victorian Summer Baseball League has arrived, with finals in full swing! Some of the most talented club teams and players in the state are taking on fierce rivals and intense competition in Division 1. Check out results and recaps from semi finals below, and good luck to all players, coaches, teams and clubs that have made it to Finals!
Firsts Semi Finals (Tuesday, Feb. 26th)
Sunshine Eagles vs. Geelong Baycats
2 5
After a lackluster start to the season, Sunshine has really turned things around and made a fantastic finals run that saw them secure the best record in the division after 27 regular season rounds. The Baycats started the season on fire with an 8-0 record before hitting a few road blocks, leading to a second-place finish overall with 17 wins, 9 losses and 1 draw. With both teams enjoying a successful and surprising season, this set the stage for a thrilling semi finals series.
In game 1, Sunshine had a few bright spots including a home run from import Brian Lane, but ultimately Geelong had the better outing. The Baycats jumped on the board in the 1st inning, and it wasn't until the top of the 4th that Sunshine tied it up 1-1. The Eagles saw the 5th inning get away from them as the Baycats added 3 off a costly error.
Although Lane's solo homer somewhat reenergized Sunshine's lineup in the top of the 6th, the deficit proved too much to overcome. Geelong added their last run in the bottom frame of the 8th inning, before closing it out to seal the deal on their first huge win of the semi finals series. Josh Davies led the way with 2 RBI's on the night, while starting pitcher Sam Gibbons was fantastic on the mound, throwing 9 innings with 11 strikeouts and 18 first-pitch strikes.
Game 2 will be played at Sunshine's ground at 2PM on Saturday, March 2nd. Another Geelong win sends the Baycats through for a shot at a repeat premiership title, while Sunshine must win to force a game three.
Blackburn Orioles vs. Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers
4 0
The Orioles and the Tigers finished tied on the ladder with a 61.54 win percentage, but Blackburn got the edge for the home side advantage. It showed on Tuesday night at Melbourne Ballpark in Altona has they came out confident and comfortable, shutting out the Tigers in a convincing win.
While Upwey's offense was uncharacteristically quiet, the same could not be said for Blackburn as several Orioles had huge hits that made all the difference. Ben Leslie, Tommy Kerr- Chapman and Liam Hopkins were all key players in the Orioles' essential first-game win.
An early run and a dominant pitching performance from Skyler Sylvester set the tone for Blackburn, as the Orioles carried a tight 2-0 lead going into the 9th. That's when a bases-loaded double from Liam Hopkins brought two runners home, making it 4-0 at the end of the game. Now, Blackburn will hope for a repeat performance on Saturday, while Upwey will need to pick up the pace to keep their hopes of breaking a 16-season premiership drought alive.
Division 1 Semi Finals (Sunday, Feb. 24th)
Firsts Semi Finals (Tuesday, Feb. 26th)
Sunshine Eagles vs. Geelong Baycats
2 5
After a lackluster start to the season, Sunshine has really turned things around and made a fantastic finals run that saw them secure the best record in the division after 27 regular season rounds. The Baycats started the season on fire with an 8-0 record before hitting a few road blocks, leading to a second-place finish overall with 17 wins, 9 losses and 1 draw. With both teams enjoying a successful and surprising season, this set the stage for a thrilling semi finals series.
In game 1, Sunshine had a few bright spots including a home run from import Brian Lane, but ultimately Geelong had the better outing. The Baycats jumped on the board in the 1st inning, and it wasn't until the top of the 4th that Sunshine tied it up 1-1. The Eagles saw the 5th inning get away from them as the Baycats added 3 off a costly error.
Although Lane's solo homer somewhat reenergized Sunshine's lineup in the top of the 6th, the deficit proved too much to overcome. Geelong added their last run in the bottom frame of the 8th inning, before closing it out to seal the deal on their first huge win of the semi finals series. Josh Davies led the way with 2 RBI's on the night, while starting pitcher Sam Gibbons was fantastic on the mound, throwing 9 innings with 11 strikeouts and 18 first-pitch strikes.
Game 2 will be played at Sunshine's ground at 2PM on Saturday, March 2nd. Another Geelong win sends the Baycats through for a shot at a repeat premiership title, while Sunshine must win to force a game three.
Blackburn Orioles vs. Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers
4 0
The Orioles and the Tigers finished tied on the ladder with a 61.54 win percentage, but Blackburn got the edge for the home side advantage. It showed on Tuesday night at Melbourne Ballpark in Altona has they came out confident and comfortable, shutting out the Tigers in a convincing win.
While Upwey's offense was uncharacteristically quiet, the same could not be said for Blackburn as several Orioles had huge hits that made all the difference. Ben Leslie, Tommy Kerr- Chapman and Liam Hopkins were all key players in the Orioles' essential first-game win.
An early run and a dominant pitching performance from Skyler Sylvester set the tone for Blackburn, as the Orioles carried a tight 2-0 lead going into the 9th. That's when a bases-loaded double from Liam Hopkins brought two runners home, making it 4-0 at the end of the game. Now, Blackburn will hope for a repeat performance on Saturday, while Upwey will need to pick up the pace to keep their hopes of breaking a 16-season premiership drought alive.
Division 1 Semi Finals (Sunday, Feb. 24th)
Seconds
Blackburn Orioles vs. Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers
11 3
As the top team in the reserves with 12 wins, 5 losses and 1 draw, Blackburn had the edge coming into this game, and they didn’t disappoint. They cruised to an easy victory, earning them a spot in the Grand Final, when they’ll host Sandringham. It’s been more than 15 years since either side as won a premiership in the reserves, so it will be a fierce battle for Grand Final glory on Sunday!
Fitzroy Lions vs. Sandringham Royals
7 11
The Lions were hoping to go all the way to secure their second premiership in three years, but the Royals dashed their hopes with a strong performance. Now Sandringham will go head-to-head with Blackburn on Sunday’s Grand Final as the club tries to snap a six-year senior premiership drought.
Photo: Sandringham Baseball Club - Facebook
Thirds
Essendon Bombers vs. Fitzroy Lions
6 1
The Lions also came up short in the thirds as they faced a team that narrowly beat them a few weeks ago in round 17. Essendon enjoyed a better day at the plate as they earned their ticket to the Grand Final, giving them the chance to bring home their first thirds premiership in eight seasons! The Bombers will have a tough task ahead of them though as they take on the Baycats, who have won back-to-back titles.
Geelong Baycats vs. Blackburn Orioles
13 6
It’s looking like Geelong could secure their third straight premiership if they keep up their fine form in the Grand Final! Duane Davenport pitched the whole game, keeping up his impressive command and control. His fellow Baycats backed him up with some explosive offense, including a 3-run bomb in the 1st from Daniel Anson. This fired up Geelong’s lineup, and from there on out they kept it going. Anson added 2 RBI’s on a single, while Chris Hockey brought home two runs of his own on a double and a single.
Angus McNee connected for three singles and 2 RBI’s, while Tim Rankin, Jason Peoples, Hayden Peoples and Josh Agius all had RBI singles. This fantastic effort has helped the Baycats keep up their momentum heading into the Grand Final, as the Baycats look to bring home their third flag in a row.
Fourths
Fitzroy Lions v. Essendon Bombers
5 13
The Bombers overpowered the Lions on Sunday, a welcome result for Essendon after a disappointing 10-3 loss to Fitzroy in round 17. Essendon moves on to the Grand Final, where they'll hope to come out victorious with a premiership title they can celebrate in their brand new club room!
Melbourne Demons vs. Berwick City Cougars
6 12
Facing the top team on the ladder was no easy task for Berwick, but ultimately they got the job done and proved their impressive strength as a team. The Cougars will face yet another challenge as they head to Boeing Reserve to face Essendon in the Grand Final, having split the opening round series with the second-place Bombers.
Fourths
Fitzroy Lions v. Essendon Bombers
5 13
The Bombers overpowered the Lions on Sunday, a welcome result for Essendon after a disappointing 10-3 loss to Fitzroy in round 17. Essendon moves on to the Grand Final, where they'll hope to come out victorious with a premiership title they can celebrate in their brand new club room!
Melbourne Demons vs. Berwick City Cougars
6 12
Facing the top team on the ladder was no easy task for Berwick, but ultimately they got the job done and proved their impressive strength as a team. The Cougars will face yet another challenge as they head to Boeing Reserve to face Essendon in the Grand Final, having split the opening round series with the second-place Bombers.
VSBL Finals have seen four of the top teams in Division 2 go head-to-head in fierce competitions as everyone wants the same thing: a hard-earned premiership title to cap off a sweet season. Cheltenham, Newport, Werribee and Doncaster are leaving it all out on the field as they try to make it past the semi finals, while the finalists for the seconds, thirds and fourths have been decided.
Division Two 1sts – Semi Finals Game 1 (Thursday, February 28th)
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Doncaster Dragons
10 3
The Rustlers finished atop the ladder with an exceptional record of 21 wins, 3 losses and 1 draw. Cheltenham carried their undefeated record into round 23, when Doncaster pulled away with a surprise 7-5 win. The Dragons went on to win the next game as well with a walk-off 6-5 victory, securing the series win and exposing some of Cheltenham’s weak spots.
Fast forward to game 1 of the semi finals, and Cheltenham returned to their undeniably fine form as they bounced back from an early 3-0 deficit to overpower Doncaster with a convincing win. The Dragons, led by Club Coach Callum Lethborg and Assistant Coach David Medlin, know they have what it takes to beat Cheltenham, and they’ll have to lay it all out on the line for Saturday’s game.
Newport Rams vs. Werribee Giants
2 0
This was always going to be a close battle, as these Western rivals faced off once more. During the regular season, Werribee won 2 of their 3 meetings, but the Rams buckled down and got the job done on Thursday night. Despite a great 8-inning pitching performance from Josh Lee, Werribee’s offense wasn’t able to produce the same results against Riley Barr and the rest of the Rams.
The game was intense and tight going into the bottom of the 5th with still no score on the board. That’s when Newport broke through with a huge double stretched into a triple by Justin Gil. The score was 1-0 going into the bottom of the 6th, when the Rams struck again, adding another run to extend their lead.
Despite hits from Wade and Ryan Balzer, Werribee found themselves unable to produce much-needed runs as Newport claimed the first victory. The Giants host Saturday’s 2PM game, and if a third game is necessary that will be played at Newport on Sunday at 2 PM.
Photo: Newport Rams - Facebook
Photo: Werribee Giants Baseball Club - Facebook
Division Two Reserves – Semi Finals (Sunday, February 24th)
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Newport Rams
5 2
This was a close and highly competitive game as the Rustlers and Rams went head-to-head with a 2-2 tie at the end of the 7th inning. It was in the 8th inning that Cheltenham broke through to secure the victory and move on to the Grand Final. Regardless of the final score, the Newport team had a fantastic season and they're happy with all the memories they made.
Cheltenham finished the regular season with 16 wins and 1 loss, so they'll prove to be some tough competition for Werribee in the big game on Sunday, March 3rd.
Werribee Giants vs. Williamstown Wolves
4 0
The Giants had an impressive outing on Sunday, shutting out the Wolves on their way to the Grand Final. Back in round 13, Werribee beat Williamstown 8-0, but Williamstown took the second game 7-5. The semi was always going to be a tough test for both sides, but ultimately the second-place Giants prevailed. Now they'll turn their attention to Cheltenham for the chance to bring home a highly-anticipated premiership flag!
Division Two Thirds - Semi Finals (Sunday, February 24th)
Newport Rams vs. Springvale Lions
11 13
Both teams battled valiantly, but Springvale came back to win it and earn another shot at the premiership title. The Rams started off early, securing an 8-3 lead in the 3rd inning, but it didn't last long. The Lions managed 9 runs in the 5th inning, a painful series of mistakes for the Rams that they tried to recover from but ultimately couldn't. Nevertheless, Newport had a great season in which the team bond was apparent, and they'll be ready to regroup and get back at it next season.
The Lions move on to play Malvern next week in what should be a fast-paced, competitive Grand Final. In the opening round of the season, Springvale won 16-6, and they also took the second game 5-3. Malvern turned things around for the third game, winning 5-2, so anything could happen in the final game!
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Malvern Braves
2 7
Third-place Malvern managed to upset second-place Cheltenham with a strong performance. The Braves wasted no time, with Ryan Othen getting on base with the first pitch of the game. Steve Dean drove him in two batters later, and then Stuart Holland knocked in another run for a handy 2-0 lead.
This advantage gave starting pitcher Josh Brown the room he needed to easily shut down the Rustlers. Tom Copping scored in the 2nd inning on a hit from Brown, and the Braves were feeling good with a 3-0 lead. This carried on in the 3rd as a lead-off hit from Dean, a walk from Holland and a wild throw put runners in scoring position. Lachie Ducket stepped up and hit a huge double to score the 4th run.
In the bottom of the 3rd the Rustlers stepped up their game and started the inning with a single to right. A sacrifice bunt, wild pitch and a balk brought home Cheltenham's first run of the game, and the second soon followed with a big double to left through the cones.
With a score of 4-2, the Braves were feeling the pressure after failing to score Paul Gladman following his lead-off triple. Malvern buckled down with a solid inning in defense to get things back on track. By the time the top of the 5th rolled around, Dean picked up his third hit in as many as bats, coming around to score on another hit from Duckett. In the bottom frame of the inning, a key strikeout ensured the Braves maintained their lead.
Coach Dean managed his fourth hit of the game in the top of the 6th, driving in two runs to make the score 7-2. Although Cheltenham tried to bounce back and had a chance with a muffed fly ball, the Braves kept the defense on the ground and their eyes on an impending victory.
The Braves batters were retired quietly in the final inning, and the Rustlers put a few runners on with1 out. Gladman made a stunning catch in left to get the second out, while a ground ball to second base secured the final out of the game. Malvern will hope for a repeat performance as they host Springvale, a team they lost 2 out of 3 games to this regular season.
Division Two Fourths - Semi Finals (Sunday, February 24th)
Williamstown Wolves vs. Mulgrave Rebels
13 3
Last year's champions will have another shot at Grand Final Glory after a convincing win over fourth-place Mulgrave. Williamstown were the likely winners having won six more games than Mulgrave, although the Rebels did pull off
a spectacular 8-7 win over the ladder leaders in round 17. The Wolves had won the previous meeting 24-1.
Now, Williamstown moves on as they are hot on the heels of back-to-back premierships. The only thing standing in their way is fierce rival Cheltenham, who they have beat in two out of three games this season.
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Newport Rams
22 7
The Rustlers made a big statement in their huge semi final win over Newport, thanks to a fast and furious lineup and strong pitching that kept the Rams from scoring more runs. Tallying their highest run total thus far this season, Cheltenham will be feeling pretty good heading into Sunday's Grand Final vs. reigning premiers Williamstown!
Division Two Reserves – Semi Finals (Sunday, February 24th)
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Newport Rams
5 2
This was a close and highly competitive game as the Rustlers and Rams went head-to-head with a 2-2 tie at the end of the 7th inning. It was in the 8th inning that Cheltenham broke through to secure the victory and move on to the Grand Final. Regardless of the final score, the Newport team had a fantastic season and they're happy with all the memories they made.
Cheltenham finished the regular season with 16 wins and 1 loss, so they'll prove to be some tough competition for Werribee in the big game on Sunday, March 3rd.
Werribee Giants vs. Williamstown Wolves
4 0
The Giants had an impressive outing on Sunday, shutting out the Wolves on their way to the Grand Final. Back in round 13, Werribee beat Williamstown 8-0, but Williamstown took the second game 7-5. The semi was always going to be a tough test for both sides, but ultimately the second-place Giants prevailed. Now they'll turn their attention to Cheltenham for the chance to bring home a highly-anticipated premiership flag!
Division Two Thirds - Semi Finals (Sunday, February 24th)
Newport Rams vs. Springvale Lions
11 13
Both teams battled valiantly, but Springvale came back to win it and earn another shot at the premiership title. The Rams started off early, securing an 8-3 lead in the 3rd inning, but it didn't last long. The Lions managed 9 runs in the 5th inning, a painful series of mistakes for the Rams that they tried to recover from but ultimately couldn't. Nevertheless, Newport had a great season in which the team bond was apparent, and they'll be ready to regroup and get back at it next season.
The Lions move on to play Malvern next week in what should be a fast-paced, competitive Grand Final. In the opening round of the season, Springvale won 16-6, and they also took the second game 5-3. Malvern turned things around for the third game, winning 5-2, so anything could happen in the final game!
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Malvern Braves
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Third-place Malvern managed to upset second-place Cheltenham with a strong performance. The Braves wasted no time, with Ryan Othen getting on base with the first pitch of the game. Steve Dean drove him in two batters later, and then Stuart Holland knocked in another run for a handy 2-0 lead.
This advantage gave starting pitcher Josh Brown the room he needed to easily shut down the Rustlers. Tom Copping scored in the 2nd inning on a hit from Brown, and the Braves were feeling good with a 3-0 lead. This carried on in the 3rd as a lead-off hit from Dean, a walk from Holland and a wild throw put runners in scoring position. Lachie Ducket stepped up and hit a huge double to score the 4th run.
In the bottom of the 3rd the Rustlers stepped up their game and started the inning with a single to right. A sacrifice bunt, wild pitch and a balk brought home Cheltenham's first run of the game, and the second soon followed with a big double to left through the cones.
With a score of 4-2, the Braves were feeling the pressure after failing to score Paul Gladman following his lead-off triple. Malvern buckled down with a solid inning in defense to get things back on track. By the time the top of the 5th rolled around, Dean picked up his third hit in as many as bats, coming around to score on another hit from Duckett. In the bottom frame of the inning, a key strikeout ensured the Braves maintained their lead.
Coach Dean managed his fourth hit of the game in the top of the 6th, driving in two runs to make the score 7-2. Although Cheltenham tried to bounce back and had a chance with a muffed fly ball, the Braves kept the defense on the ground and their eyes on an impending victory.
The Braves batters were retired quietly in the final inning, and the Rustlers put a few runners on with1 out. Gladman made a stunning catch in left to get the second out, while a ground ball to second base secured the final out of the game. Malvern will hope for a repeat performance as they host Springvale, a team they lost 2 out of 3 games to this regular season.
Division Two Fourths - Semi Finals (Sunday, February 24th)
Williamstown Wolves vs. Mulgrave Rebels
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Last year's champions will have another shot at Grand Final Glory after a convincing win over fourth-place Mulgrave. Williamstown were the likely winners having won six more games than Mulgrave, although the Rebels did pull off
a spectacular 8-7 win over the ladder leaders in round 17. The Wolves had won the previous meeting 24-1.
Now, Williamstown moves on as they are hot on the heels of back-to-back premierships. The only thing standing in their way is fierce rival Cheltenham, who they have beat in two out of three games this season.
Cheltenham Rustlers vs. Newport Rams
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The Rustlers made a big statement in their huge semi final win over Newport, thanks to a fast and furious lineup and strong pitching that kept the Rams from scoring more runs. Tallying their highest run total thus far this season, Cheltenham will be feeling pretty good heading into Sunday's Grand Final vs. reigning premiers Williamstown!