Once again district cricket was marred by wet weather, with just the one Coalfields Cup semi-final match played at the weekend.
The elimination showdown between fourth-placed Creeks and fifth-positioned Valley was scheduled for Singleton’s Cook Park before being transferred to Denman Oval.
On a bone-dry pitch, Creeks skipper Blake Cook won the toss and elected to bat first.
They were all out on the final ball of the 40-over contest for 157.
Bayden Mulholland (51) led the way with a well-constructed half century, with Steve Unicomb (25) and Nathan Stapleford the other batsmen to make an impression.
Isaac Barry (3-24 off 9), Tristan Muir (2-33 off 9) and Daniel Hayes (2-33 off 10) were the best bowlers.
The match then hung in the balance with Valley at 4-55 in reply.
But, the momentum quickly swung back in their favour with competition instigator Daniel Storey’s swashbuckling 38 from just 22 deliveries.
Meanwhile, the experience of former skipper Jacob Carey saw him play a very sensible role with a patient 43 up the other end, allowing Troy Barnett to cut the ribbon with an unbeaten 24.
Mulholland capped a fine all-round game with 2-28 off 10.
Although eliminated from the Coalfields Cup premiership race, Creeks did not come away empty-handed as they were awarded the “Jock Taylor” Shield as SDCA’s highest ranked team after the preliminary rounds.
The other elimination fixture was scheduled for Carmichael Park between third-placed Bellbird and Wine Country.
However, it was unfortunately washed out with the council closure of all Cessnock district grounds.
Hence, the current Coalfields Cup holders Bellbird will now host Valley in a replay of last year’s decider in the minor semi.
After enjoying the weekend off, minor premiers Greta/Branxton and second-placed Mulbring will clash in the major semi this weekend at Miller Park, with the winner advancing through to the Cup decider.
The loser of this match will get a second crack and take on the victor of the minor semi in the preliminary final.
- Mark Bercini
COALFIELDS CUP – final standings
- Greta/Branxton 42 (NRR 1.38), Mulbring 42 (1.02), Bellbird 39 (1.95), Creeks 27 (0.24), Valley 27 (-0.15), Wine Country 21 (0.03), JPC 21 (-0.60), PCH 21 (-0.89), Piranhas 15 (-1.36), Glendon 15 (-2.03)
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