It is an understatement to say it is currently an interesting time in women’s sport. The growth of Women’s cricket has been inspiring, and to see the women now included in the player’s MOU collective is a giant leap forward. The women have also had a successful year on the field, and the 2017 Ashes series saw record crowds at all venues to watch Australia retain the Ashes. The game is almost as popular with junior girls as young boys and the game for women looks to be in good shape going forward, and now has the support of those who run the game.
The Matildas are arguably this country’s most successful national team at the moment with some outstanding performances. Sam Kerr is a sensation, and is inspiring a whole generation of girls to take up soccer.
Netball, one of this country’s most successful female sports, is now shown nationally on prime time TV and continues to lead the way in participation.
There is already a buzz in AFL circles around the 2018 Women’s comp after the success in their inaugural year.
Charlotte Caslick continues to fly the flag for the Australian Women’s Rugby Sevens. Caslick, whose exploits at the Rio Games earned her the mantle as the best Australian Sevens player, has recently been identified as the player schoolboys want to watch play rather than her partner and captain of the Men’s Sevens, Lewis Holland.
While most of the focus this Friday night at Suncorp will be on final of the Men’s Rugby League World Cup between the Kangaroos and England, it just might be that the better game of the night might be the women’s final between the Jillaroos and arch rivals the Kiwi Ferns.
The Women’s teams are not just there to play an exhibition curtain raiser to the main event. The Jillaroos will be out to retain their crown while the NZ women’s team has only conceded eight points in the competition, and is obviously in a lot better place currently than their male counterparts.
It is sure to be an emotional night at Suncorp with Killarney’s Steph Hancock and fellow Queenslander Renae Kunst hanging up their boots after the game.
Both have led the way in women’s rugby league, and have seen great developments in the women’s game. Hancock who is co-captain of the Jillaroos scored a double in her team’s win over Canada last weekend. She is hoping to finish her career with another World Cup victory, but is taking nothing for granted. Earlier this week, she commented on the final saying she expected it to be one of the most physical games of footy she’s played in a long time. “It’s a lot harder (than previous years).” The game is quicker, and everyone’s a lot fitter. “You know to expect it’s going to be the bloody toughest game you’ve played in a long time.” Hancock said.
Congratulations Steph on what has been an outstanding career. It has been a pleasure to watch you and the game develop. Hancock and her cohorts have made real in-roads and played a big hand in making this an ideal time to be in women’s sport.
– Casey
GABBA PUTS ON A SHOW
The Gabba Test rarely fails to turn on a show, and the opening game of the 2017 series produced one of the best for many years. While there are those who may have found some of the sessions of play a little tedious and slow, this was in essence a real “Test”. There were periods when the Poms looked to have the upper hand and then the pendulum would swing the way of the Aussies.
It was also the end of an era with Kevin Mitchell Jnr stepping down as Gabba curator. With the unusual weather conditions in the weeks prior to the game, the pitch was nothing like players commentators and fans expected and that in itself added another layer of intrigue to the game.
The Australians, however, prevailed and as we have seen so often when they sniff a break through or a win they go for the jugular. And, of course, they had the bowling attack to execute the plan.
It was great to see Nathan Lyon reap rewards for a job well done and the quicks were sensational unless you were a Pommie tail ender on day three.
Hats off to Cam Bancroft who put the disappointment of the day one behind him to, along with Dave Warner turn it on in the second innings. Tim Paine also silenced some of the critics with his performance behind the stumps.
And so it is on to Adelaide for round two with the pink ball. Adelaide is sold out for the full five days, and is sure to be another enthralling encounter. Neither of the combatants has lost a pink ball test, so there is much to play for. Interesting to see if Ben Stokes is parachuted into the side at the 11th hour. Perhaps not in Adelaide, but I am sure Trevor Bayliss (English Coach) will be hoping to have his services before the end of the series.
Having always had a desire to go to an Adelaide Test, I’m off this week with my co Spin conspirator to the first couple of days of the game. The weather reports are looking a little iffy, but before that my new spare parts and I have to negotiate those metal detectors at the airport. That should be almost as entertaining as the cricket.
BRL FURTURE REMAINS UNCLEAR
The future of the Border Rugby League remains unclear after a disappointing turn out at Sunday’s AGM. There was not one representative from the 2017 premiers Inglewood. A third attempt to hold an AGM in Inglewood on Saturday failed miserably with just one person turning up. Tenterfield has been left between the devil and the deep blue sea waiting anxiously to see if the BRL will form for 2018. They have the opportunity to play in a revamped Group 19 competition over the border, but would probably remain in the BRL if the opportunity arises.
Killarney also look to be no closer to forming a committee with little support shown for the Cutters.
On a brighter note, it seems that Texas may be able to get a team together and a call has gone out for people to take up executive positions this week. It is hoped the club can pull together an AGM before the BRL holds their D-day meeting on 6 December.
It is beyond crunch time for the BRL, and while the Gremlins have been able to get support for an executive with President David Ball prepared to take the helm for another season, it is looking more likely that Inglewood and Killarney may not. That will mean the no BRL competition next season and likely beyond. Those interested in playing league will be forced to join a TRL club. It is a sad state of affairs. If you are a league follower in any of these areas, now is the time to stand up and do some of the heavy lifting for your team and town.
BIG MORNING AT SPORTERS
John Walsh took out the main prize at Sporters last Sunday morning, ahead of runner-up Mark Lynam. The run-downs went to Brendon Barker and Rod Pettiford. Barker had the best gross and also picked up the pin shot at 17. Mark Lynam was also on target taking the pin shot at 12 and also the pro pin. However, it was Max Hunter and Dick Hilton who were seen leaving with a meat tray tucked under their wing.
A reminder that the club Christmas party will be held on 10 December – Sporters friends and family are invited to join the fun for a barbecue brekkie, a round of golf and lunch – remember organisers need numbers for catering.
It was wonderful to see such a big turnout on Sunday following Sporters for Clarkie’s farewell. There were some wonderful memories shared and some funny stories told by his friends and family – Clarkie is one Sporter who will never be forgotten. Thanks to those who gave to Sporters Golf in his memory. Sporters wish to thank the Clarke family, Shirley, Fiona, Damian and all their family.
SHOOTS SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
Shots rang out across the Inglewood range last weekend, with Pistol Metallic Silhouette competitions on Saturday and Sunday.
It was Monika White who out-scored Glen Small and Wal Shepherd in the 100m centrefire on Saturday.
Glen Small fared better in the 50 Metre Rimfire with a win over Craig Pilon, Wal Shepherd, Richard White who tied in second place and third-placed Tom Donald.
Wal Shepherd and Ray Dudgeon could not have done any better in the Rimfire Benchrest – Rabbit. Both shared the win with perfect 100/100 scores. Second placing was shared by Tom Donald and Craig Pilon who were not too shabby with scores of 98/100. Ross Jackson scored 96/100 to claim third place.
3rd: Ross Jackson 96/100
Wal Shepherd was also on target in the Rim fire Benchrest – Little red circles edging out Ray Dudgeon and Tom Donald for an outright win.
In Sunday’s shoot, Monika White again took out the Centrefire when she outscored Jason Lewis and Wal Shepherd.
The Rimfire event was won by Richard White with Kirsten Small and Wal Shepherd filling the minor placings.
This Sunday, the club will be holding Single Action events, SSAA Simulated Field Shotgun Match and pistol events after the field shotgun.
Field shotgun will be shot on the trap on the rifle range. Each shooter will shoot at the five positions as normal. It is undecided however that may be followed by a shoot at the eight metre muzzle loading distance.
There will then be positions forward and to one side of the trap. The layout will be determined prior to Sunday. Varying the elevation of the trap will ensure some fun clays.
As they say on the range, “Bring ya ammo, bring ya gun and bring ya granny. The club always has guns and ammo, but no spare grannies.”
You can follow all the action on the range at www.facebook.com/pages/Sporting-Shooters-Association-of-Australia-Inglewood-Branch-Inc/253643571426626
NUMBERS UP AND DOWN ON CROQUET COURTS
Association croquet was played last Tuesday after a doubtful start. Pat Schnoor partnered new player, Peter Tunbridge in a game against Jenny Tunbridge. The newcomer played some good shots, but honours went to Jenny winning 14 hoops to 9.
In the other game, Effey Russell and Andrea Denkewitz teamed up against Joy Newman and
Heather Widderick. Good to see Heather back after a few weeks off. Honours went to Effey and Andrea with a score of 18 hoops to 11.
There was only a small turnout for the new format ricochet croquet.
Andrea Denkewitz and Margaret Dickenson teamed up against Sharyn Roser and Jenny Tunbridge. The game is very new to all players, so the group took time to consider possible tactics. Roser and Tunbridge finished the morning opponents – the score 20 hoops -19.
The gateballers group enjoyed the pick of the conditions for the week when they hit the court on Friday.
Pat Schnoor, Les Williams, Grace Howard and Sharyn Roser teamed up to take on Andrea Denkewitz, Margaret Dickenson and Joy Newman.
There was little between the two teams all morning with most games decided by only a point or two. The first two games went the way of Pat Schnoor and her team with scores of 11-8 and 10-8.
Andrea Denkewitz, Margaret Dickenson and Joy Newman must have been buoyed by the coffee at the break. They came back to win the next game 11-10 but Team 1 hit back in the final game winning 11-9 and claiming bragging rights for the week.
The Stanthorpe Golf club held their annual Golfer of the Year presentation last Saturday at an event after the completion of the normal day’s play. The presentation was also held in conjunction with the club’s Christmas party.
Mick O’Brien was announced as Men’s Golfer of the Year by club president Stephen Kay and the 2017 Lady Golfer of the Year is Nikki Waterworth. Runners-up were Matt Waterworth and Lynette Ludlow, so it is not hard to guess who holds the bragging rights in the Waterworth household for the next 12 months.
The Awards were once again sponsored by the Apple and Grape Motel and Gracious Giving long time supporters of the Stanthorpe Golf club.
The Captain’s Match Play winner for 2017 was also announced and was won by promising junior golfer Billy Webb edging out the more experienced runner-up Mark McCosker. The list of 2017 winners throughout the year was announced.
The full list of 2017 winners follows:
TENTERFIELD SPRING AN UPSET
Cricketers certainly relished the improved conditions last weekend. In Stanthorpe, RSL convincingly beat Wanderers and in a surprise result, Tenterfield thrashed Valleys in the weekend games.
The upset of the round came on Sheahan Oval where Tenterfield showed they are no long the competition easy beats.
Tenterfield had the first use of the wicket, and posted only a modest total of 123. It was the seasoned ever green performer Alan Donges who led the way with the bat. Donges top scored with 42. (His team mates from the Qld Cricketers Club Over 40s side will be pleased to hear he is in good touch as they prepare for their annual game against Stanthorpe in a couple of weeks.) Dave Fowler also batted well for a score of not out 41.
It was at times an undisciplined bowling performance from the Valleys as their bowlers gifted the opposition an extra 18 runs from wide deliveries.
Of the Valleys bowlers, Anthony Coup ripped into the Tenterfield tailenders taking 3/8 while David Marino bowled finishing with 3/36. Damian Anderson and Ben Davies took two wickets apiece.
Chasing such a modest total, Valleys players and supporters fancied their chances of picking up easy points in this round.
That was a plan, however, that was not shared by Tenterfield bowler Danny Potter who had other ideas. The Valleys batsmen had no answers as Potter ripped through their line-up, taking 5/17 in an impressive bowling spell. He was well supported by Little who finished with 3/23.
In a disappointing batting performance, Valleys were dismissed for just 43 runs.
Wanderers and RSL played on the CF White turf and after winning the toss, Wanderers elected to bowl hoping to get something out of the wicket.
However the pitch played surprisingly low and slow, and the RSL batsmen adapted well to the conditions. Jason Lawer (42), Luke Brady (35), Duane Lihou (40) and Tom Garland (20) all got significant starts.
Wanderers had RSL dismissed in the 38th over, but not before they had piled on 209 runs. Chris Williams bowled well and in a good performance with the ball finished with 5/25 bowling his medium pace skidders.
Wanderers catching skills let them down and had an impact on the target they were set to chase.
Bettering RSL’s score of 209 looked to be a tall order for Wanderers, however their batsmen did show more resolve than we have seen in the early stages of the season.
Chris Williams backed up his efforts with the ball to top score with 29, but his side was dismissed for 100.
Tom Garland was the pick of the RSL bowling attack. Garland took 3/21 from his eight-over spell. Josh Wren and Anthony DiBella each picked up a pair. RSL fielded well, hanging on to some good catches on their way to what was in the end a comfortable win.
4BBB OPEN CHALLENGE DRAWS GOOD FIELD
Numbers on the Wallangarra greens swelled on Sunday when local players were joined by visitors from the Stanthorpe club for the Wallangarra 4BBB Open Challenge. The sun was not the only thing shining – there were some shining examples of good scores.
The nett winners were the team Wayne Davis and Madeline Jarman (Stanthorpe). Runners-up were John Green and Kevin Williams.
Local duo Simon Blair and Peter Butler finished the day with the best gross. Jamie Purcell and Andrew Thompson, Tony Murphy and birthday day boy Nicholas Hurtz, R. Simpson and T. Bartholomai and R. O’Leary and D. Duffy all figured in the rundowns.
It was a great day, and the club wishes to thank long time sponsors Sexton And Green. Without their support, events like the Open Challenge would not be possible.
GOOD ONFIELD PERFORMANCES IN WARWICK
Warwick cricketers were pleased to get back on the paddock last weekend for round seven of the Condamine Cup competition, and there were some impressive individual and team performances.
In the game between Maryvale and Wheatvale, Michael Bourke, Maryvale stalwart was in good form with both bat and ball. Wheatvale were restricted to 132 after a good opening bowling performance from Andrew McConnell who took three wickets for the addition of only 15 runs from his eight overs. The batsmen were finding it difficult to score runs, and Michael Bourke added to Wheatvale’s pain taking four wickets in four overs one of which was a maiden.
It was left to tailenders Jim and Jack Breen batting at nine and 10 to add some respectability to the score line with a defiant partnership. It is not often that the number 10 batsman is the highest scorer in a game. But in this game Jack Breen 29 was good enough to claim the batting honours ahead of his brother who scored 27.
The Wheatvale batsmen left their bowlers with not much to defend and 132 always looked a gettable target for Maryvale.
Michael Bourke topped off his good performance with the ball top scoring in the Maryvale innings with 35. He was well supported by Rob Lindsay (29) and Pat Bourke (26) as his side cruised to a very comfortable win despite a good bowling spell from Paul Cantwell who took 2/10 from his eight overs.
RASCALS TOO STRONG
Despite an outstanding batting performance from opener Tony Munro who carried his bat for an unbeaten 50 runs, his Sovereign Animals found their opponents Railway Hotel Rascals too strong.
In a show of batting strength, Rascals claimed a 97-run win in their round seven clash. Joe Morris was in good form with the bat, scoring 80 runs and was well supported by Jon Millard (58). The Rascals batsmen had the upper hand despite a good performance from Animals Luke Cullen who finished the innings with figures of 3/11 from four overs. In the end, it was Rascals who claimed a 97-run win.
In a worrying sign, Inglewood forfeited against Allora.
REDBACKS CLAIM ANOTHER SCALP
Warwick Redbacks and Allora Colts went head to head in what proved to be an enthralling game at Slade Oval on Sunday. It was Colts who won the toss and elected to bat.
Openers Lachlan Gross and Nick Inmon both got starts and after a few stutters in the field that saw a couple of catches go down Redbacks broke through when Inmon was caught behind off the bowling of Morgan Gilchrist.
Keeper Daniel Bowles was forced to head to the emergency department for some running repairs after copping a ball in the face shortly after.
Redbacks Justin Wheeler grabbed the wicket of the other opener Lachlan Gross (19).
Jacob Gross followed in Wheelers next over and the Redbacks bowlers looked to have the upper hand tying down the batsmen.
Colts were 4/90 when Fern(5) was dismissed. Kev Poole was out LBW for just 12 shortly after. Colts captain Shaun O’Leary (22) and 13-year-old Morgan steadied the innings, adding 42 runs before Andrew Politch struck.
Given the ball for the first time this season, it took just two balls for him to claim the wicket of O’Leary(22). In a good fielding display, David Brady swooped on a ball at point and threw the stumps down with a direct hit and Colts wicket fell.
Politch wrapped up the Colts innings dismissing Costello in the same over, caught behind by Clarkson for two. Morgan Bourke remained unbeaten on 21. Colts all out for 166.
Redbacks went into the game without the services of their usual openers and made a shaky start. In the fifth over were at 2/15. Ben Heppell (60) and Tyhe Clarkson (20) combined for a partnership of 73 to steady the ship. The Redbacks built to 5/135 in the 30th over chasing 167 for victory. The fall of a couple of cheap wickets saw the game hanging in the balance. Daniel Bowles returned after his running repairs, and hit the winning runs as the Redbacks tail wagged just enough to get them the points in the 37th over. This was a solid win after being left with only 10 men on the field for 35 overs and restricting Colts to 166.
Redbacks now have a win over every team in the Condamine Cup competition.
