GEELONG BASEBALL ASSOCIATION
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    A Grade Match Reports (image for scores in all grades)   Senior Ladders for 2009
ROUND 14
1/2 AUGUST
Brewers and Wildcats untroubled: Guild well in touch
 
There is still great interest in finishing order – in most grades - with three rounds before the play-offs.
 
Ballarat and Lara share top placing in A Grade, with Guild a win back in third placing. Saints will almost certainly finish in fourth placing, barring the highly unlikely event of it losing all three and Werribee winning all of its three. Even then, head-to-head and run percentage would work against the Giants. Deakin and Bellarine are playing some decent baseball, while Bacchus Marsh is still a chance of causing an upset or two.
 
Lara and Deakin have the top two placings sewn up in A Reserve and Guild is favoured to make the play-offs. Werribee is vulnerable in fourth, with the Brewers, Bellarine and Saints locked on six wins and in with a shot.
 
Mounties has led the B Grade table all season, while Colac and Saints have had a terrific past few weeks. Corio needs one win to stitch up a finals berth, with Guild the only other, rough chance.
 
Corio has dropped just a solitary game in B Reserve and will finish on top. There is huge interest in the other placings, though, with Colac, Guild and Mounties locked on eight wins, with head-to-head or percentage shaping as a factor.
 
Saints have had some massive wins in C Grade and will surely finish the regular season on top. Guild, Brewers and Corio look the likely other finalists, although Lara is poised for a bid should any of those falter.
 
DEAKIN 6 drew with BELLARINE 6
 
Deakin overcame a 0-6 deficit to force a 6-6 draw with Bellarine.
 
With Sam Gibbons (Deakin) and Duane Davenport (Bellarine) on top early, the game was tight until the bottom of five, when the Bears plated five. But Deakin came back strongly in the sixth and seventh, while still coming up short of a win against their nemesis of recent times.
 
Deakin have not beaten Bellarine in their past six encounters, with the Bears winning four and the other two drawn.
 
While Gibbons and Craig Malthouse were steady enough for the Blues, Bellarine posted ten hits in a team offence that shared it around. Scott Malthouse (three hits) and Troy Malthouse (two) were again dangerous for the Blues, although Davenport’s effort over six innings was one of his better outings this season.
 
Bellarine has a tough Saturday assignment at home to Guild, who will be desperate to push for a top two finish. Deakin is away to the Brewers on Sunday.
 
DEAKIN:        0 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 (6) 1 error
BELLARINE: 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 (6) 3 errors
Safe Hits.
Deakin: S. Malthouse 3, T. Malthouse 2, D. Eales 1, S. Talbot 1, C. Malthouse 1, L. Strauch 1
Bellarine: B. McKentish 2, A. O’Keefe 2, B. Atkins 2, J. Crotty 1, L. Hockey 1, M. Osborn 1, D. Visser 1
RBIs.
Deakin: S. Malthouse 2, S. Gibbons 1, L. Strauch 1
Bellarine: L. Hockey 2, A. O’Keefe 1, B. Atkins 1
Pitching.
Deakin: S. Gibbons 4.1 inn, 5 hits, 5 K, 3 BB, 4 ER
               C. Malthouse 3.2 inn, 5 hits, 4 K, 1 BB, 1 ER
Bellarine: D. Davenport 6 inn, 5 hits, 3 K, 2 BB/1 HPB, 2 ER
                  M. Osborn 2 inn, 4 hits, 2 K, 1 BB, 1 ER
 
BALLARAT BREWERS 12 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 0
In another game played in miserable weather conditions (ah, winter baseball....), Ballarat Brewers delivered Bacchus Marsh a 12-0 trouncing after the Tigers had kept well into the game until the bottom of four.
 
Taking advantage of nine walks and six HPBs, the errorless Brewers wrapped it up in seven on the back of another superb outing by Rory Meddick, who by contrast issued no passes in a three-hitter that yielded eleven strikeouts.
 
Meddick again underscored his importance to the Brew Crew as a hitter with another three RBIs, while Nathan McKenzie drove in five on his pair of hits and a free pass. Although seven hits to three would not usually account for such a comprehensive result, fifteen passes and a couple of untimely Tiger errors enabled the Brewers to take full toll.
 
Even without one of its guns, Ballarat will sense the urgency of its Sunday game against Deakin. A loss would give Guild a chance of sneaking into the top two. Bacchus Marsh is at home to Werribee in what should be a hard-fought contest.
 
BACCHUS MARSH:   0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (0) 3 errors
BALLARAT:                  1 0 0 5 3 3 X (12) 0 errors
Safe Hits.
Bacchus Marsh: C.Porter, C.Galloway, J.Pate
Ballarat: N.McKenzie 2, A.Clack, N.Baldwin, R.Meddick, S.Kerr, B.Bennetts
RBIs.
Bacchus Marsh: nil
Ballarat: N.McKenzie 5, R.Meddick 3, A.Clack, N.Baldwin, P.Jacobsson
Pitching.
Bacchus Marsh: T.Pantelleresco 4.2 inn, 4 hits, 4 Ks, 8 BB, 5 HPB, 9 ER
                              C.Porter 0.1 inn, 1 hit
                              J.Bailey 1 inn, 2 hits, 0 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER
Ballarat: R.Meddick 7 inn, 3 hits, 11 Ks, 0 BB, 0 HPB, 0 ER
 
GUILD 8 defeated WERRIBEE 3
Guild remains a shot at the double chance after its comfortable 8-3 result over Werribee Giants. With Pat Moulton scattering four hits over seven, the Giants struggled for offensive production, all of their runs (two unearned) coming in the top of nine.

Lindsay and Tom Webb shared pitching duties for the Giants, while Mitch Miller (two hits and three RBIs) continued his hitting streak for the Lions. Teammate Ben Jensz posted three hits, as did Lindsay Webb for the Giants.
 
Guild hosts Saints on a Saturday game of huge importance to the Lions. Saints will finish in fourth placing, regardless of any other result, while Guild will need to keep winning and hope that either Ballarat or Lara falters.
 
LARA 7 defeated SAINTS 0
 
Lara retained its top-two status by downing Saints 7-0 in what was touted as the match of the round but turned into a rout as Cameron Forbes threw a complete game blinder (with twelve strikeouts) for the Wildcats.
 
Lara makes the trek to Bellarine in what could still be a danger game should the Wildcats take it too easy. Saints have been locked in fourth placing for some weeks and will remain in that spot regardless of their result against Guild on Saturday.
 
A worrying aspect to the reigning premier’s form will surely be its offensive production, which sees Saints with less runs for than against. At this stage last season, they had scored around double the amount scored against.

ROUND 13
25/26 JULY
Brewers regain top placing as Lara falters

Quite an extraordinary weekend of winter baseball. Partly in a couple of the final results, but more particularly the manner in which some games were played out.

With four rounds to play, Ballarat Brewers have regained top placing on the A Grade ladder, just a whisker ahead of Lara on percentage. Guild’s strong-finishing win over the Wildcats has the Lions just a game behind the two, with Saints certain – now – to finish in fourth placing.

In A Reserve, Lara and Deakin are pretty much assured of a top-two finish, Guild holds third clearly, while Saints and Werribee appear favoured to fill the placings ahead of the Brewers. In B grade it’s Mounties well ahead of Colac, Corio and Saints, with Guild still an outside chance of making the play-offs.

Corio has dropped just one game in B Reserve and is favoured to finish on top, with Mounties, Guild and Colac slugging it out for the double chance. No other club can make the play-offs. Last year’s runner-up the Brewers are the big improver in C Grade, where Saints have made the running, with Guild, Corio and Lara still in with a chance of finals action.

GUILD 12 defeated LARA 6

With his side on its knees 0-3 against Lara, Guild outfielder Hiroke Sekine blasted a solo bomb in the sixth to spark an unlikely Lions revival that saw them plate five in the eighth and another six in the ninth to set up a 12-6 result over the league leader and flag favourites - who for the first time this season showed some chinks in their defensive armour.

The Wildcats have taken all before them in recent weeks and would have been well-pleased with Jason Lester’s work over six innings that saw him concede just a sole run – the outfield blast to Sekine. Robin Longhurst started well in relief, but the Wildcats found themselves under the pump as Guild came out firing with five in the eighth. Another southpaw, Aaron Green was unable to stem the flow as the Lions took advantage of four passes and a cluster of hits to post a six spot in the ninth.

In a game of two halves, Guild turned the trend of play on its head to post a win that may be crucial in the context of the last several weeks of jockeying for top-two positions.

While Sekine’s shot may have been the catalyst for a Guild revival, the Lions had some standout players in offence. Mitch Miller posted three knocks, Ben Jensz had two hits and four RBIs, Cameron Lyons and Jason Landthaler two hits each.

Stephen Wilson (two hits and two RBIs) continued his great form with the stick for Lara, while Ben Hammer (two hits) was the best of the rest in a side that was out-hit, in the end, with Stuart Barnes (seven innings of work for a paltry five hits) and Pat Moulton (two innings) doing a great job for the Lions against a fearsome batting line-up.

Guild is at home to Werribee on Saturday, with the Giants blooding some of their young developing players in the ones. Lara is away to Saints in what should be a cracker, with each club aiming for a psychological edge as the finals loom.

GUILD            0 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 6   (12)  0 errors
LARA              2 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0    (6)  3 errors 
Safe Hits.
Lara: B.Hammer 2, S.Wilson 2, A.Green, R.Wilson, L.Arandt, J.Young
Guild: M.Miller 3, J.Landthaler 2, B.Jensz 2, C.Lyons 2, H.Sekine (home run), C.Harper, L.Harty
RBIs.
Lara: S.Wilson 2, R.Wilson, R.Longhurst
Guild: B.Jensz 4, J.Landthaler, C.Lyons, H.Sekine, L.Harty
Pitching.
Lara:  J.Lester 6 inn, 3 hits, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
           R.Longhurst 2 inn, 5 hits, 2 BB, 5 ER
           A.Green 1 inn, 4 hits, 2 BB, 4 ER
Guild: S.Barnes 7 inn, 5 hits, 6 Ks, 5 BB, 2 ER
           P.Moulton 2 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 2 ER

DEAKIN 6 defeated SAINTS 2 

Deakin has played some terrific baseball this season, interspersed with some less than memorable outings, as developing sides can do. 

Today, again, they put it all together to down Saints 6-2, a result that the reigning premier would not relish with four weeks to go before a shot at defending the league title. 

In an otherwise tight game of baseball, Deakin took advantage of opportunities presented to them to stitch the game up with five runs in the sixth innings. 

Perhaps the two most worrying factors for Saints would be some poor defensive play - on the day - and their lack of offensive output against Scot Malthouse, who hurled a superb eight digs for three hits and an impressive thirteen strikeouts against the reigning premier. With two hits, Dion Kirchner was the only Saint to post multiples.

With just 89 runs scored for - in seventeen games thus far - Saints are well behind those above them in offensive production. But to be fair, they were in a similar situation last year and still managed to come up with the goods when it mattered. Good pitching will beat good hitting. Usually.

By contrast, Sam Gibbons posted three hits for the Blues, who were well served by Scot Malthouse, Sean Talbot and Nick Hinrichsen (each with two hits).

Away to Bellarine on Saturday, Deakin will be buoyed by their recent successes and would have to be favoured. Saints face a tough one at home to Lara.

SAINTS          0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0   (2)  3 errors
DEAKIN         1 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0   (6)  0 errors
Safe Hits.
Saints: D.Kirchner 2, A.Kelly, M.Ernstzen
Deakin: S.Gibbons 3, S.Malthouse 2, S.Talbot 2, N.Hinrichsen 2, T.Malthouse
RBIs.
Saints: M.Ernstzen
Deakin: S.Talbot
Pitching.
Saints: B.Egan 4.1 inn, 9 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
             D.Barker 3.2 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER
Deakin: S.Malthouse 8 inn, 3 hits, 13 Ks, 2 BB, 2 ER
              S.Gibbons 1 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 2 BB, 0 ER

BALLARAT 26 defeated WERRIBEE 1

Werribee used four pitchers, with all struggling for control against a rampant Brewers offence that blasted five in the first and another six in the second to set up a staggering 26-1 result.

Rory Meddick threw a two hitter over five for the Brewers, the Giants' only run coming via a Leo Appledorf solo shot off closer Hamish Burrows.

The Brewers had the game well in control after smacking five in the first to chase starter Preston Yochim from the hill. But his reliever in Lindsay Webb fared no better, as the visitors batted through the order to plate another six in the second.

Another six in the fourth and six in the fifth turned the contest into an absolute rout that serves only to bloat the Brewers' percentage and to augment some of their already impressive hitting numbers.

Rory Meddick complemented his five innings three-hitter with a couple of hits and a bountiful seven RBIs, Brett Bennetts went four for two RBIs, Scott Kerr drove in five on his three hits, Anthony Clack scored four (three of those on a flare turned into a triple with bags loaded), Ned Baldwin was customarily dangerous and the Burrows brothers were productive. But when your opposition hands out thirteen passes and gifts six HPBs, a side is always going to have runners in scoring positions.

With two hits – including a solo home run – Leo Appledorf played a lone hand in offence for the Giants, who face another stiff task against Guild on Saturday.

The Brewers host Bacchus Marsh in what could be an intriguing clash given the Tigers’ improved form in recent weeks.

BALLARAT    5 6 0 6 6 3   (26)  1 error
WERRIBEE     0 0 0 0 0 1    (1)  3 errors 
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: B.Bennetts 4, S.Kerr 3, J.Burrows 2, N.Baldwin 2, R.Meddick 2, A.Clack, H.Burrows
Werribee: L.Appledorf 2 (inc home run), M.Smith, A.Markovic
RBIs.
Ballarat: R.Meddick 7, S.Kerr 5, A.Clack 4, N.Baldwin 3, B.Bennetts 2, H.Burrows 2, J.Burrows, N.McKenzie
Werribee: L.Appledorf
Pitching.
Ballarat: R.Meddick 5 inn, 3 hits, 6 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
               H.Burrows 1 inn, 1 hit, 1 ER
Werribee: P.Yochim 1.1 inn, 5 hits, 0 Ks, 3 BB, 3 HPB, 6 ER
                  L.Webb 2.2 inn, 5 hits, 1 K, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 6 ER
                 J.Curnow 1 inn, 4 hits, 2 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 6 ER
                 L.Appledorf 1 inn, 1 hit, 2 Ks, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER

BACCHUS MARSH 11 defeated BELLARINE 7

Despite home runs to Adam O'Keefe and Simon Murry, Bellarine could not withstand a withering late burst that saw Bacchus Marsh score nine runs in the sixth to set up the Tigers' 11-7 win - their third of the season.

While the Marsh scored early, the visitors hit back to score consistently and hold a 5-2 lead into the bottom of six, when the Tigers jumped on a tiring Simon Murry to do some serious damage and set up a match-wining break.

With three hits (including a home run and four RBIs), Bellarine’s Adam O’Keefe was a standout with the bat, along with Murry (three hits, with a bomb and two RBIs) and Lyndon Hockey. But there was little else happening in offence for the Bears, as starter Chris Porter did a solid job for the Marsh despite conceding eight passes.

Bacchus shared the hits around, with Kugele and Hornstra the only multiples in a team total of eight.

Heartened by their recent successes, the Tigers will trek to Ballarat with a rough chance of an upset on Saturday. Bellarine, at home, will be looking to atone against Deakin, who are on a bit of a roll.

BELLARINE                 0  1  1  0  2  1  0  2    (7)  3 errors
BACCHUS MARSH   2  0  0  0  0  9  0  X  (11)  2 errors
Safe Hits.
Bellarine: A O’Keefe 3 (incl HR), S Murry 3 (incl HR), L Hockey 2, W Visser 1
Bacchus Marsh: C Galloway 2, M Vanston 2, B Jones 1, C Dugan 1, J Bailey 1, S Hornstra 1
RBIs.  
Bellarine: A O’Keefe 4, S Murry 2
Bacchus Marsh: S Kugele 2, S Hornstra 2, B Jones 1, C Galloway 1, M Vanston 1, C Dugan 1, J Bailey 1
Pitching.
Bellarine:  S Murry  5.2 inn, 6 hits, 7 K, 5 BB / 0 HPB, 8 ER
                  M Osborn   1.1 inn, 2 hits, 0 K, 2 BB / 2 HPB, 2 ER
Bacchus Marsh: C Porter  5.2 inn, 5 hits, 4 K, 8 BB, 4 ER
                             J Bailey  1.1 inn, 1 hit, 0 K, 1 BB, 0 ER
                            T Pantelleresco 1 inn, 3 hits, 2 K, 1 BB, 2 ER

ROUND 12
18/19 JULY
Wildcats shade Giants: Saints over Bacchus: Deakin downs Guild

With five games remaining before the play-offs, much of the A Grade interest is in the order of the top four standings. While Lara is a game clear of the Brewers (in second), the Wildcats face what is – on paper at least – the toughest draw of the four contenders. All things being equal, the Brewers should be able to hold a top-two placing, although Guild will have plenty to say about that and Saints is still a chance of improving on fourth.

Of the bottom half, Deakin and Werribee are seriously capable of beating the sides above them, while Bellarine and Bacchus Marsh have played some decent baseball of late. A number of scenarios are yet possible as we head towards September action.

While Lara, Deakin and Guild look strong in A Reserve, another three clubs are vying for a finals spot. Mounties took its first loss in B Grade, with Saints, Colac and Corio appearing the most likely to book the other finals tickets.

Corio, Guild, Mounties and Colac appear the most likely in B Reserve, while C Grade is still wide open with five clubs in contention for a finals berth.

LARA 5 defeated WERRIBEE 4

Lara retained top placing on the A Grade table with a 5-4 result over Werribee. It was a hard-fought contest in stark contrast to the Wildcats' free-scoring wins of recent weeks and all credit is due to the Giants for taking the game down to the wire.

Pitchers on both sides did a great job, with Jason Lester and Cameron Forbes holding the Giants to five hits. Three of them were off the bat of Werribee powerhouse John Curnow, who blasted a two-run homer in the fourth - from his three RBIs - to keep his side well in the hunt.

Preston Yochim and Lindsay Webb were superb in holding the Lara offence to nine hits, while conceding just four passes over the distance.

Leading the league in RBIs, Stephen Wilson was dangerous for the Wildcats, while Luke Arandt posted another couple of knocks and Jordan Young chimed in with two and two.

Still a game clear on top, Lara hosts Guild in a pivotal clash next Saturday. This, and Lara’s second last round clash with the Brewers, will go a long way to deciding the final finishing order. Werribee are home to the Brewers, who will surely be anxious to retain second against a side capable of an upset.

LARA              0 2 0 3 0 0 0 X   (5)  3 errors
WERRIBEE     0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1    (4)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Lara: S.Wilson 2, L.Arandt 2, J.Young 2, C.Lewis, B.Hammer, R.Longhurst
Werribee: J.Curnow 3 (inc home run), M.Smith, L.Weldon
RBIs.
Lara: J.Young 2, C.Lewis, S.Wilson
Werribee: J.Curnow 3, H.Yochim
Pitching.
Lara:  J.Lester 6 inn, 3 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 2 ER
           C.Forbes  2 inn, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 1 ER
Werribee: P.Yochim  3 inn, 5 hits, 6 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER
                  L.Webb  4 inn, 4 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER

SAINTS 8 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 6

Bacchus Marsh continued to show some improved offensive form against Saints, who held on for a scrappy 8-6 win. Saints set up an early break, although the Marsh took advantage of some sloppy defence to hit back with five of their own in the third innings of a game that saw pitchers on both sides struggle for dominance.

Passes were again an issue for Bacchus starter Trent Pantelleresco, who gave up nine in three innings of work that produced six runs for the home side, whose four defensive errors contributed to the Tigers’comeback.

With an innings in relief and three hits, Manager Chad Galloway was a stand-out for Bacchus in his side’s total of seven off Dean Barker and Brad Egan. Although not the dominant force that they were at this stage during 2008, the left and right combination had a formidable mound presence that the Tigers found difficult to counter.

Dion Kirchner was best with the bat for Saints, who took early advantage of the scoring chances presented to them.

With the most likely scenario a fourth-placed finish heading to the play-offs, Saints are away to Deakin in what will be a close one. At home to Bellarine, Bacchus Marsh are in with a shot of posting their third win.

BACCHUS MARSH   0 0 5 0 0 0 1   (6)  1 error
SAINTS                      4 0 4 0 0 0 X  (8)  4 errors
Safe Hits.
Bacchus Marsh: C.Galloway 3, B.Jones, C.Porter, M.Vanston, S.Kugele
Saints: D.Kirchner 2, T.Elliott, L.Poulter, B.Twaddle, B.Egan, K.Wilson
RBIs.
Bacchus Marsh: C.Dugan 2, C.Porter, S.Kugele, J.Pate
Saints: T.Elliott, J.Lee, M.Ernstzen, L.Poulter, D.Kirchner, B.Egan, D.Barker
Pitching.
Bacchus Marsh:  T.Pantelleresco  3 inn, 3 hits, 9 BB, 6 ER
                               C.Galloway  1 inn, 2 hits, 1 BB
                               C.Porter  4 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 4 BB
Saints:  D.Barker  3 inn, 3 hits, 3 Ks, 3 BB, 4 ER
              B.Egan  5 inn, 4 hits, 3 Ks, 3 BB, 1 ER

DEAKIN 3 defeated GUILD 2

Guild dropped their second straight, going down to Deakin 3-2 in a quality game of baseball dominated by the pitchers. Scott Malthouse was terrific for the Blues and Pat Moulton was his characteristically efficient self for the Lions.

There was nothing in this high-standard defensive game, with the pitching stats telling the tale of the contest. Although Malthouse went for nine hits, he showed excellent control in getting himself out of a couple of jams before handing closing duties to Manager Craig.

With two hits and an RBI, Cameron Lyons had a great day with the bat for Guild, while the consistent Jason Landthaler was also among the hits.

Nathan Warren posted three of Deakin’s seven hits off Moulton, who threw the complete game and struck out seven along the way.

While Deakin is well out of play-off contention, it is in with a chance against the reigning premier, while Guild has plenty to play for against the Wildcats on Saturday. Losing to two of the lower-placed clubs in consecutive weeks does not spell the end of the world, but it will surely be of concern to Lions management.

DEAKIN         0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0   (3)  0 errors
GUILD            0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0   (2)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Deakin: N.Warren 3, D.Eales, S.Malthouse, S.Talbot, N.Hinrichson
Guild: J.Landthaler 2, C.Lyons 2, M.Miller, D.Jones, T.Snarey, M.Darcy, C.Harper, H.Sekine
RBIs.
Deakin: N.Warren, N.Hinrichson
Guild: T.Snarey, C.Lyons
Pitching.
Deakin:  S.Malhouse 7 inn, 9 hits, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 2 ER
                C.Malthouse 2 inn, 1 hit, 1 HPB
Guild:  P.Moulton 9 inn, 7 hits, 7 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 2 ER

BALLARAT BREWERS 7 defeated BELLARINE 3

Ballarat Brewers regained second placing with a comfortable 7-3 result over Bellarine, although there was little happening for them after an explosive start that saw Bears’ starter Duane Davenport chased from the hill.

After plating five in the first, the Brewers scooted to what was an insurmountable seven zip lead in the third, with Manager Simon Murry replacing Davenport - who had conceded seven passes in his brief stint.

The pitching change brought a change of complexion over the game as the Bears rebounded with three in the bottom of four and Murry conjured up a terrific stint that conceded just two hits over six innings of work. All up, the Brewers hit safely just five times, Scott Kerr smacking a solo bomb and Rory Meddick picking up two RBIs.

With three hits form a total of six, evergreen Lyndon Hockey starred with the bat, while Matt Osborn drove in two of the Bears’ runs. But the Bears were always going to struggle for a winning score against two of the league’s premier throwers in Meddick and Adam Irons.

Away to Werribee on Saturday, the Brewers will be throwing everything into a contest that has direct bearing on its prospects of a double chance, while Bellarine – away to Bacchus – is coming off a competitive showing against Ballarat.

BALLARAT    5 1 1 0 0 0 0   (7)  0 errors
BELLARINE   0 0 0 3 0 0 0   (3)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: S.Kerr (home run), N.McKenzie, A.Clack, R.Meddick, L.Ashmore
Bellarine: L.Hockey 3, B.McKentish, A.O’Keefe, M.Osborn
RBIs.
Ballarat: R.Meddick 2, N.McKenzie, A.Clack, S.Kerr, B.Bennetts, P.Jacobsson
Bellarine: M.Osborn 2, S.Murry
Pitching.
Ballarat:  R.Meddick 4 inn, 4 hits, 6 Ks, 1 BB, 3 ER
                 A.Irons 3 inn, 2 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB
Bellarine: D.Davenport 1 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 7 BB, 4 ER
                  S.Murry 6 inn, 2 hits, 6 Ks, 2 BB 

ROUND 11
11/12 JULY
Meddick stands tall for Brewers: Bacchus upsets Guild

Lara Wildcats are a game clear in A Grade after another big win this week, ahead of Guild and Brewers - who are separated only by a miniscule run percentage. Saints hold fourth, two games clear of Werribee, while Bacchus Marsh won its second game of the season in an upset over Guild.

Deakin inflicted Lara’s first loss in A Reserve, Mounties continued to show the way in B Grade with another thumping win, while Corio is undefeated in B Reserve.

BALLARAT BREWERS 9 defeated SAINTS 0

In atrocious playing conditions, Ballarat Brewers rode a "home weather advantage" to blank Saints 9-0 at Prince of Wales. While the visitors were distinctly uncomfortable in the cold and the gale and the sleet, Brewer Rory Meddick showed the way for his side with a remarkable solo performance - going four from four (with five RBIs, thank you) while also tossing the complete game for three hits. 

It was “reunion day” for the Brewers club, with a legion of old stagers turning out for a look at some modern-day baseball. More than one was heard to utter words to the effect “ah, this is real baseball, winter baseball” in deference to the miserable conditions, persistent rain and winds reminiscent of when the game invariably went ahead – uninterrupted – back in the day. 

It was a tough assignment for pitchers and all credit to them for issuing just a handful of walks. But Meddick was the player who stood tall to dominate the contest with bat, ball – and even in the field. He received decent support, though, from Hamish Burrows (three hits, including a copybook hit and run), Jamieson Burrows, Leigh Ashmore and Scott Kerr, aside from the Brewers being gifted a couple of runs on defensive errors.

Saints never seriously threatened after the second innings, when they loaded the bases with one out – only to have Meddick spear a line drive and convert to a double play.

Brad Egan was solid enough over four for Saints, but eleven hits to three told the tale of a contest that produced a spate of understandable errors in the greasy conditions.

Saints are at home to Bacchus Marsh on Saturday in a clash that takes on a new dimension with the Tigers showing improved form. While the Sainters are not yet certain of a finals berth, they appear to have a favourable draw, with two games against the Marsh, one against Werribee and one against Deakin still to come. The Brewers head to Wallington for a Sunday showdown with the Bears, who are also coming off a win.

SAINTS           0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)  5 errors
BALLARAT    0 0 1 2 3 3   (9)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Saints: L.Poulter, C.Rickard, D.Kirchner
Brewers: R.Meddick 4, H.Burrows 3, J.Burrows, A.Clack, B.Bennetts, L.Ashmore
RBIs.
Brewers: R.Meddick 5, A.Clack, S.Kerr
Pitching.
Saints:  B.Egan  4 inn, 7 hits, 0 Ks, 2 BB, 3 ER
              D.Barker  1 inn, 2 hits, 1 BB, 2 ER
              T.Elliott  1 inn, 2 hits, 1 BB, 0 ER
Brewers:  R.Meddick  6 inn, 3 hits, 9 Ks, 4 BB, 0 ER

BELLARINE 7 defeated WERRIBEE 6

Bellarine's Matt Osborn starred with the bat to help guide his side to a 7-6 result over Werribee Giants, who remain in finals contention with Saints losing to Ballarat.

It was a tight contest over four, with the Giants holding a 1-0 lead into the fifth dig, when Bellarine came to life to collar Preston Yochim and post five runs. Werribee replied with three of its own – as starter Duane Davenport began to tire - and another two in the sixth to hold a one-run break.

Enter Matt Osborn, who in his previous trip had fallen just short of hitting a ball out. This time his blast carried the fence for a two-run round tripper and a last gasp win.

A quality game of baseball – in the conditions – with both sides playing solid defence.

While the dangerous Osborn was a stand-out, Adam O’Keefe picked up two knocks and Damien Visser had a couple of RBIs. For Werribee, Harley Yochim, Lewis Weldon and Craig Knight were the best with two hits each.

At home on Saturday, Werribee faces a rampant Lara Wildcats while Bellarine can expect to face a refreshed Adam Irons at home to the Brewers on Sunday. 

WERRIBEE     0 1 0 0 0 3 2 0   (6)  1 error
BELLARINE   0 0 0 0 5 0 2 X   (7)  2 errors
Safe Hits.
Werribee: H.Yochim 2, L.Weldon 2, C.Knight 2, M.Smith, L.Appledorf, T.Webb, S.Riches
Bellarine: A.O’Keefe 2, M.Osborn 2 (inc home run), B.McKentish, L.Hockey, W.Visser, D.Visser
RBIs.
Werribee: H.Yochim 2, L.Weldon 2,   M.Smith, S.Riches
Bellarine: M.Osborn 2, D.Visser 2, A.O’Keefe, S.Murry, J.Atkins
Pitching.
Werribee:  P.Yochim  4.2 inn, 6 hits, 3 Ks, 3 BB, 2 HPB, 5 ER
                   L.Webb  2.1 inn, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 2 ER
Bellarine:  D.Davenport  6 inn, 8 hits, 2 Ks, 4 BB, 2 HPB, 4 ER
                   S.Murry  2 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER

BACCHUS MARSH 7 defeated GUILD 4

Bacchus Marsh pulled off the upset of the season thus far with an all-the-way 7-4 win over second-placed Guild. The final scoreline flatters the Lions, who were held to two hits by Trent Pantelleresco in arguably the game of his life at this level (notwithstanding eleven passes in the slippery conditions).

Manager Chad Galloway led a potent Tigers offence that amassed eleven hits and at one point held a seven zip lead as Guild was unable to mount a challenge in their first five innings. The Tigers took to Stuart Barnes, who was chased from the hill in favour of Pat Moulton after the damage had been done in frenetic second, third and fourth innings.

To cap off his game, Pantelleresco chimed in with two hits and two RBIs, while Brad Jones (two hits) and Shannon Hornstra (two and two) were valuable in offence for the Marsh.

While eleven passes (and two hit pitched balls) would usually spell trouble for any defence, the Lions were unable to take advantage of their opportunities, with Ryan Stewart and Cameron Harper the only serious contributors.

Bacchus Marsh, away, may fancy its chances against Saints on Saturday, with the haloed ones showing some inconsistency in their recent form. No doubt served a decent salvo by Manager Darcy after their shock loss to Bacchus, Guild will be primed to hit back against Deakin at the stadium on Saturday.

GUILD                          0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2   (4)
BACCHUS MARSH   0 2 2 3 0 0 0 X  (7)
Safe Hits.
Guild: R.Stewart, C.Harper
Bacchus Marsh: C.Galloway 3, B.Jones 2, T.Pantelleresco 2, S.Hornstra 2, C.Porter, M.Jones
RBIs.
Guild: R.Stewart 2, C.Harper 2
Bacchus Marsh: T.Pantelleresco 2, S.Hornstra 2, C.Porter, C.Galloway, J.Pate
Pitching.
Guild:  S.Barnes  4 inn, 9 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 2 HPB, 7 ER
             P.Moulton  3.2 inn, 2 hits, 4 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
Bacchus Marsh:  T.Pantelleresco  8 inn, 2 hits, 2 Ks, 11 BB, 2 HPB, 2 ER

LARA 13 defeated DEAKIN 2 

Lara continued its imperious offensive streak, belting Deakin 13-2 in seven.

Putting Deakin starter Griffen Weir to the sword, the Wildcats blasted five in the first and four in each of the next two to hold an unassailable lead after the third, despite Deakin hitting back with a couple.

Cameron Forbes and Jason Lester shared mound duties for the Wildcats, who again played terrific defence in difficult conditions. After the early onslaught, Deakin’s Sam Gibbons threw an impressive several innings in relief for a handful of hits and a sole earned run.

Ben Hammer cleared the yard with a three-run bomb as the Wildcats out-hit their opponent fifteen to five. Aaron Green and Ross Wilson posted three hits each, first sacker Robin Longhurst and Stuart Forbes were ever-dangerous, while Luke Arandt continued his hitting streak in the lower order. Nathan Warren was best in a subdued Deakin offence.

The Lara hitters have been unstoppable in recent weeks, suggesting that Werribee – at home on Saturday – will have to play out of their skins to have a chance. Lara’s recent numbers are staggering, for any level of baseball. Since their lost to Guild on 30 May, the Wildcats have won six on the trot – scoring 89 runs and conceding just five.

Deakin has promised so much this season and an improved showing against Guild is not out of the question.

LARA              5 4 4 0 0 0 0   (13)  0 errors
DEAKIN         0 1 1 0 0 0 0    (2)  2 errors
Safe Hits.
Lara: A.Green 3, R.Wilson 3, S.Forbes 2, B.Hammer 2 (inc home run), R.Longhurst 2, L.Arandt 2, C.Forbes
Deakin: N.Warren 2, T.Malthouse, S.Malthouse, S.Talbot
RBIs.
Lara: B.Hammer 4, R,Longhurst 2, C.Forbes, R.Wilson, S.Wilson, L.Arandt
Deakin: T.Malthouse, S.Gibbons
Pitching.
Lara:  C.Forbes  4 inn, 4 hits, 4 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER
           J.Lester  3 inn, 1 hit, 3 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
Deakin:  G.Weir  2.1 inn, 10 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 9 ER
                S.Gibbons  4.2 inn, 5 hits, 2 Ks, 5 BB, 1 ER  

ROUND 10
4/5 JULY
Guild sends Brewers to third: Deakin too strong for Giants

Weather-wise, not the greatest weekend for baseball, and a true test of the intrepid souls insisting on playing the game during the depths of a Victorian winter. But again, there was plenty of interest in the round – one that saw Lara extend its remarkable scoring streak, Guild replace the Brewers in second (for the time being at least), Saints score freely against the Bears and Deakin dispense with Werribee on the back of some Malthouse magic.

There were some cricket-score results in the lower grades, where Mounties remain undefeated in B Grade and Corio in B Reserve. Corio’s consistent winning form across all of its three senior teams suggests that the club may be well on track to make a welcome return to A Grade competition in coming seasons.

And up the highway – in sub-zero Ballarat conditions – the GBA team went through undefeated (with a draw) to take the Under 18 Winter Championship. Well done to a squad of terrific young players who will represent much of the future of Geelong winter baseball in years to come. Individual congratulations are extended to Wade Balzer (pitcher) and Kurt Wilson (outfield) on being selected in the Division One All-Star team.

DEAKIN 13 defeated WERRIBEE 7

With both clubs missing a number of their younger players and both making a series of defensive errors in the greasy conditions, Deakin posted an eight-spot in the fourth innings to set up a comfortable 13-7 result over Werribee.

The “Malthouse factor” was a key to this contest, with Scott, Troy, Dean and the more seasoned Darren variety chiming in with significant contributions. Throwing just five and a bit innings, Scott Malthouse racked up thirteen strikeouts (for no earned runs), while stroking three hits. Troy Malthouse was a great contributor with two hits and four RBIs. Superstar Dean – recently back from college – posted a couple of knocks and RBIs, while elder statesman Darren patrolled leftfield with aplomb while smacking in a couple of runs.

Nathan Warren (three hits) and Bon Southall (two) were among the offensive action for Deakin in a game marred by fielding lapses. John Curnow and Jon Lowe were best with the bat for Werribee.

Werribee went with Curnow and Lindsay Webb early, although both struggled to contain a Blues offence that led the game 13-2 after four digs. There was a late flurry off Sean Talbot in relief, but it was a matter of too little, too late for the Bees.

While Deakin is out of finals contention, it still has much to play for. With all players available, it might seriously test Lara at home on Saturday. Werribee is still in with a shot of making the play-offs and will be looking for a bold showing away to Bellarine.

DEAKIN           0 2 3 8 0 0   (13)  6 errors
WERRIBEE     1 0 0 1 0 5    (7)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Deakin: S.Malthouse 3, N.Warren 3, T.Malthouse 2, Dean Malthouse 2, B.Southall 2, B.Lewis, Darren Malthouse
Werribee: J.Curnow 2, J.Lowe, L.Webb, S.Riches, L.Appledorf
RBIs.
Deakin: T.Malthouse 4, N.Warren 2, Darren Malthouse 2, Dean Malthouse, M.Lewis
Werribee: J.Lowe 2, A.Markovic, L.Webb, S.Riches, L.Appledorf
Pitching.
Deakin: S.Malthouse  5.2 inn, 3 hits, 13 Ks, 1 BB, 2 HPB, 0 ER
              S.Talbot  0.1, 3 hits, 1 K, 3 BB, 4 ER
Werribee:  J.Curnow  3 inn, 7 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 5 ER
                   L.Webb  2 inn, 7 hits, 2 Ks, 5 BB, 4 ER
                  J.Lowe  1 inn, 0 hits, 2 Ks, 0 ER

LARA 20 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 0

Lara continued its barnstorming second half season with a 20-0 whitewash of Bacchus Marsh. The Wildcats rested their guns in Cameron Forbes and Aaron Green, going with Jason Lester and Robin Longhurst in a game that saw four Marsh pitchers concede sixteen walks and three HPBs - a recipe for disaster against the league leader.

The Wildcats had the game well in hand early, leading ten zip after two and scoring at will throughout the contest. Stuart Forbes (three hits), Cameron Forbes (three), Aaron Green (two, with three RBIs) and Stephen Wilson (three RBIs) headed an unforgiving Wildcats offence that took advantage of the scoring opportunities that were presented.

Jason Lester did an efficient job over four, while rangy southpaw Robin Longhurst conjured up another terrific all-round game with three innings of hitless relief and a serious contribution to the Lara offensive output.

A disappointing spectacle in unpleasant playing conditions – one that says nothing conclusive about Lara’s form or the Tigers’ prospects of improvement this season.

Bacchus Marsh is at home to Guild on Saturday, but will find the assignment pretty tough against a side that will be looking to hold second placing and the coveted double-chance. Lara is in supreme form and it would take a punter with deep pockets to bet against the Wildcats against Deakin – despite the latter’s improved form.

BACCHUS MARSH   0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)  2 errors
LARA                           5 5 6 3 1 X  (20)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Lara: S.Forbes 3, C.Forbes 3, A.Green 2, J.Camov 2, R.Longhurst, S.Wilson, L.Arandt
Bacchus Marsh: C.Galloway, M.Jones, T.Pantelleresco
RBIs.
Lara: A.Green 3, C.Forbes 3, S.Wilson 3, S.Forbes 3, R.Longhurst 2, R.Wilson 2, J.Camov 2, L.Arandt 2
Pitching.
Lara: J.Lester  4 inn, 3 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
          R.Longhurst  3 inn, 0 hits, 3 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
Bacchus Marsh: J.Bailey  2.2 inn, 7 hits, 1 K, 6 BB, 1 HPB, 10 ER
                             C.Galloway  0.1 inn, 0 hits, 1 K, 0 ER
                             T.Pantelleresco  0.0 inn, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 4 ER
                            M.Jones  4 inn, 6 hits, 1 K, 7 BB, 1 HPB, 6 ER

GUILD 8 defeated BALLARAT BREWERS 1

Guild Lions moved to second placing after a comprehensive 8-1 win over Ballarat Brewers, who have slipped to third. Although Adam Irons was steady enough for the Brewers, the Lions caught up with him early in the third. Rory Meddick was terrific over six digs in relief, keeping the Brewers in the contest until Guild took advantage of some defensive blunders to plate four in the last. 

Apart from the dangerous Nathan Baldwin, the Brewers offence was well held by Pat Moulton, who threw a stunning complete game four-hitter without conceding a walk.

Short-stop Mitch Miller and third baseman Troy Snarey were stand-outs Guild, making a truckload of defensive plays and each picking up two hits in a team total of eleven. Former Brewer Dean Jones chimed in with two hits and two RBIs for the home side.

On form, Guild should be untroubled - next Saturday - to inflict another loss on Bacchus Marsh, who are giving it their best but are obviously under-manned. After a few weeks of away games, the Brewers host Saints in what should be an absolute ripper on “reunion day” for legions of Ballarat players from yesteryear.

BALLARAT    0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0   (1)  4 errors
GUILD             1 0 3 0 0 0 0 4   (8)  2 errors
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: N.Baldwin 2, A Clack, A.Irons
Guild: M.Miller 2, D.Jones 2, T.Snarey 2, J.Landthaler, C.Lyons, C.Harper, H.Sekine, R.Stewart
RBIs.
Ballarat: B.Bennetts
Guild: D.Jones 2, J.Landthaler, T.Snarey, C.Lyons, C.Harper, R.Stewart
Pitching.
Ballarat: A.Irons  2 inn, 6 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 3 ER
               R.Meddick:  6 inn, 5 hits, 4 Ks, 3 BB, 2 HPB, 1 ER
Guild: P.Moulton  8 inn, 4 hits, 2 Ks, 0 BB, 1 ER

SAINTS 13 defeated BELLARINE 3

The reigning premier wrapped it up in seven with a comprehensive 13-3 result over Bellarine, who started pretty well behind Duane Davenport but were strangled by Brad Egan (six innings) and Dean Barker with the close.

Trevor Elliott picked up three hits and three RBIs for the Sainters, while catcher Chris Rickard threw a couple of Bears runners out at second in fine style.

Lee, Twaddle and Rickard were also valuable contributors with the stick, as Saints out-hit the Bears ten to five and took advantage of ten passes delivered to them.

The Bears were still in the contest until the sixth, when Saints jumped on a wayward Wayne Visser to plate another six and put the game beyond reach.

Saints make the trek to Ballarat, who are expected to throw everything at the visitors after a couple of losses on the trot. Both clubs will be aware of the importance of the result to stay in contention for the double chance. Bellarine is at home to Werribee in what could turn into a hard-fought contest.

SAINTS          4 0 1 1 1 6 X   (13)  1 error
BELLARINE   0 0 1 1 0 1 0    (3)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Saints: T.Elliott 3, J.Lee 2, B.Twaddle 2, D.Kirchner 2, C.Rickard
Bellarine: B.McKentish, L.Hockey, W.Visser, J.Crotty, D.Visser
RBIs.
Saints: T.Elliott 3, C.Rickard 2, A.Mathieson 2, J.Lee, B.Twaddle, A.Hoe, D.Kirchner
Bellarine: B.McKentish, W.Visser, A.O’Keefe
Pitching.
Saints: B.Egan  6 inn, 4 hits, 4 Ks, 2 BB, 3 ER
             D.Barker  1 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 0 ER
Bellarine: D.Davenport  5 inn, 6 hits, 5 Ks, 3 BB, 3 HPB, 5 ER
                 W.Visser  0 inn, 3 hits, 2 BB, 2 HPB, 6 ER
                 S.Murry  1 inn, 1 hit, 2 Ks, 0 ER

ROUND 9
27/28 JUNE
Free-scoring Wildcats storm into top placing

Lara has assumed league leadership - on percentage - after its impressive win over the Brewers. With three clubs equal on ten wins and three losses, the Brewers hold second on percentage (0.748) - marginally ahead of Guild (0.745). 

Scoring 56 runs to just 3 against in their past four outings, the Wildcats are displaying the form that won them three consecutive titles and delivered a close second last year. Albeit with a few new, younger faces, they are looking good - the felines - and may still need to find roles for stalwarts Nathan Holmes and Dean Marnell should the rumours of their imminent return bear credence.

Starting to look vulnerable after consecutive scoreless losses, Saints responded in the best possible way by trouncing Werribee and gaining a clear game break on the boys from Presidents Park.

Every week, it seems, is producing games that may be pivotal in the context of the season. Next weekend is no exception and it will be interesting to see if the Under 18 Winter Carnival being held in Ballarat impacts on the clubs that have a strong under-aged component in their senior teams. 

While we congratulate the young men who have been selected in the squad, it is evident that the Werribee and Deakin clubs will be especially be affected by the absence of some emerging stars.

LARA 6 defeated BALLARAT 1

It was an errorless game of baseball at the snakepit - in perfect weather conditions - and Lara was irrepressible in leading the Brewers all day to finish with a comprehensive win.

Stand-in Manager Cameron Forbes showed the way for the Wildcats with a superb two-hitter over six, but his side had other stars in Ross Wilson (four hits and a couple of stunning plays at the hot corner) and Robin Longhurst (two hits and three RBIs) in an offence that out-hit the visitors twelve to three.

The Wildcats were dangerous early, landing a number of runners on base before a two-spot in the third delivered via a Ross Wilson triple and a Longhurst double. With both sides playing great defence, the Wildcats kept up the offensive pressure to plate another two in the fifth and then in the seventh innings to raise the spectre of a whitewash.

Relieving Forbes for the Wildcats, Aaron Green found the going tough, conceding a belated run and creating some hope of a revival for the visitors. But in the end, it was an impressive win for Lara, who played a superb all-round brand of baseball to give the Brewers nary a sniff. Some of the defensive plays by Ross Wilson and Stuart Forbes (second base) were inspirational for the Wildcats - who have something serious going in season 2009.

Lara – at home - will be at skinny odds to beat Bacchus Marsh on Saturday. The Brewers face Guild in the game of the round, at the stadium on Sunday. With much riding on this game, the losing club will find itself a win adrift of second placing.

BALLARAT    0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1   (1)  0 errors
LARA               0 0 2 0 2 0 2 X  (6)  0 errors
Safe Hits.
Lara: R.Wilson 4, R.Longhurst 2, C.Forbes, A.Green, B.Hammer, J.Camov, L.Arandt, S.Wilson
Ballarat: H.Burrows, N.Baldwin, A.Irons
RBIs.
Lara: R.Longhurst 3, R.Wilson 2, J.Camov
Ballarat: S.Kerr
Pitching.
Lara:   C.Forbes  6 inn, 2 hits, 2 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
            A.Green  2 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 5 BB, 1 ER
Ballarat:  A.Irons  7 inn, 12 hits, 4 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 6 ER

DEAKIN 15 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 3

Deakin rebounded from a couple of disappointing results with a massive 15-3 win over Bacchus Marsh.

After a quiet first innings, Deakin exploded with eight in the second as Trent Pantelleresco struggled to hit spots and was chased from the hill. But there was even more pain to come for the Tigers as the Blues smacked another nine off James Bailey to hold an unassailable lead after four.

With Scot Malthouse and Craig Malthouse sharing mound duties, the Blues held Bacchus to eight scattered hits while their own offence had stand-out performers in Jacob Harper, Nathan Warren, Scott and Dean Malthouse.

Although they have shown some improved form in recent times, the Tigers may spend some restless nights contemplating their upcoming Sunday game away to Lara.

Deakin meets Werribee at Presidents Park on Saturday, in what is a crucial game for the Giants to keep their finals aspirations alive. Deakin is still a mathematical chance to make the playoffs, but they would need the wheels to fall off for both Saints and Werribee. Unlikely.

BACCHUS MARSH   0 1 2 0 0 0 0   (3)  0 errors
DEAKIN                       0 8 1 6 0 0 X  (15)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Bacchus Marsh: M.Jones 2, C.Porter, S.Hornstra, C.Galloway, M.Vanston, C.Dugan, M.Goldby
Deakin: J.Harper 3, N.Warren 3, S.Malthouse 2, D.Malthouse 2, D.Eales, S.Talbot, W.Balzer, S.Gibbons
RBIs.
Bacchus Marsh: M.Jones, C.Porter, J.Bailey
Deakin: J.Harper 2, S.Malthouse 2, D.Malthouse 2, S.Gibbons 2, S.Talbot 2, D.Eales, N.Warren, W.Balzer
Pitching.
Bacchus Marsh:  T.Pantelleresco 1.1 inn, 2 hits, 0 Ks, 5 BB, 6 ER
                               J.Bailey 3.2 inn, 10 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 2 HPB, 9 ER
                               C.Porter 2 inn, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
Deakin.  S.Malthouse 4 inn, 4 hits, 5 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER
                C.Malthouse 3 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER

SAINTS 14 defeated WERRIBEE 1 

Currently vying with Werribee for fourth placing, East Belmont Saints produced one of its strongest offensive outings for the season to smash the Giants 14-1. With Brendan Twaddle and Marcel Ernstzen posting three RBIs apiece, Saints delivered the hits when it mattered to take full advantage of their scoring opportunities.

There was little in the game early, although Saints scooted to a four zip lead after four. It all came unstuck for the Giants in the sixth, though, as both starter Lindsay Webb and then John Curnow in middle relief struggled to throw strikes – gifting a welter of opportunities that produced another nine game-breaking runs for the haloed ones.

Sixteen passes in all – to only three issued by Saints – tells the story of this game. Although, it should be said, Saints produced some very timely clutch hitting that allowed them to take full toll.

With three hits, Harley Yochim was the stand-out in the Giants' total of seven as Brad Egan (five innings) and Dean Barker (two) shared mound duties to help wrap it up in seven for the Sainters, who move back to fourth, a game clear of Werribee.

Now perhaps back on track to defend their title, Saints will be looking to a big win at home to Bellarine on Saturday. But the Bears have proved troublesome to the Sainters in recent years and this result is by no means a foregone conclusion. Werribee will be looking to rebound against Deakin, after what was a dispiriting effort against Saints.

SAINTS          0 3 0 1 0 9 1   (14)  1 error
WERRIBEE   0 0 0 0 0 1 0    (1)  1 error 
Safe Hits.
Saints: M.Ernstzen 2, D.Kirschner 2, B.Egan 2, K.Wilson, C.Rickard, B.Twaddle, A.Hoe
Werribee: H.Yochim 3, L.Weldon, P.Yochim, J.Curnow, L.Webb
RBIs.
Saints: M.Ernstzen 3, B.Twaddle 3, L.Poulter 2, A.Hoe 2, A.Mathieson, B.Egan
Werribee: L.Webb
Pitching.
Saints:  B.Egan  5 inn, 5 hits, 3 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
              D.Barker  2 inn, 2 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
Werribee: L.Webb  5 inn, 6 hits, 5 Ks, 8 BB, 4 ER
                  J.Curnow  0 inn, 0 hits, 0 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER
                  C.Knight  2 inn, 4 hits, 2 Ks, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER

GUILD 11 defeated BELLARINE 4

Stuart Barnes threw seven innings in Guild's comfortable win over Bellarine, while the Bears used four of their own in an effort to quell the Lions' hitters led by Cameron Harper (home run) and a solid defence inspired by some telling plays from Dean Jones at second. Adam O'Keefe was a stand-out for the Bears with three hits.

The Bears took an early lead but were given a reality check as Guild hit back with four runs in the third. Bellarine was brave enough in staying in the contest until the Lions plated another four in the sixth to snatch a match-winning break.

While Harper’s two hits and three RBIs (including his solo bomb in the eighth) were pivotal in the contest, the Lions were very well served by evergreen Troy Snarey (three hits and three RBIs), Cameron Lyons and Mitch Miller. From his club’s perspective, O’Keefe received decent back-up from Matt Osborn and Brad McKentish.

Fourteen hits to nine was always going to be advantageous for the Lions, who benefited from some ragged Bears fielding at crucial stages in the contest - particularly in the third and seventh innings.

Guild plays host to Ballarat in what should be an absolute ripper at the stadium on Sunday, with the winner likely to pinch a break in second placing. Bellarine meets a resurgent Saints at Pioneer Park on Saturday.

GUILD              0  0  4  0  0  4  2  1  (11)  2 errors
BELLARINE   0  1  0  0  1  0  2  1   (4)   5 errors
Safe Hits.
Guild:  T Snarey 3, C Harper 3 (incl HR), C Lyons 2, M Miller 1, D Jones 1, B Jensz 1, L Harty 1, S Barnes 1, H Sekine 1
Bellarine: A O’Keefe 3, M Osborn 2, B McKentish 1, J Crotty 1, J Atkins 1, D Visser 1
RBIs.
Guild:  T Snarey 3, C Harper 2, M Miller 1, B Jensz 1, L Harty 1
Bellarine:  B McKentish 2, M Osborn 1, D Visser 1
Pitching.
Guild:  S Barnes  7 inn, 9 hits, 4 K, 2 BB, 2 ER
Bellarine:  D Davenport  5.2 inn, 9 hits, 3 K, 3 BB, 5 ER
                   J Crotty 0.2 inn, 2 hits, 1 BB, 1 ER
                   S Murry 0.2 inn, 1 BB, 0 ER
                   M Osborn 1 inn, 3 hits, 1

ROUND 8
20/21 JUNE
Saints slump to fifth behind Giants: Wildcats in imperious form 

With nine games to play in A Grade, it seems that three clubs – Deakin, Bellarine and Bacchus Marsh – have all but blown their chances of September action. But all are eminently capable of having a say in the final placings.

Deakin is blooding a number of young players at this level, Bellarine can be dangerous when they put it all together and Bacchus Marsh has shown distinct improvement after a disastrous start to the season.

Five clubs have a realistic shot at finals positions. Clear on top by a game, Ballarat Brewers are looking the goods – as they did in the past three seasons, without producing a pennant. Lara is in imperious hitting form and holds second on percentage over Guild, who have already beaten both of the clubs above them.

Reigning titleholder Saints has drifted to fifth placing on percentage behind Werribee, who are back on track and will be taking it right up to Saints at home on Sunday.

With much at stake for all clubs, we’re in for some great winter baseball over coming weeks.

BALLARAT 9 defeated DEAKIN 0
Ballarat Brewers rolled out the heavy pitching artillery against Deakin, who were quelled in offence as the visitors scored regularly for a 9-0 result.

The Blues were behind the eight-ball from the start, with a couple of their stars not available for the clash. Evergreen Craig Malthouse headed to the hill and was respectable enough in holding the Brewers to three runs into the fifth innings, when it started to unravel somewhat. Sean Talbot was solid in relief – apart from a few passes – but the damage had been done by a side that was never going to give much away on the hill.

Recovered from a back niggle that has troubled him in recent weeks, Brewers starter Rory Meddick was pretty sharp - with a heavy fastball and nasty breaking pitches – to scatter three hits over his five innings. In relief, the versatile Adam Irons gave nothing away in another polished outing.

Youngster Wade Balzer posted two knocks – the only multiple for Deakin – while Ned Baldwin (three hits), Meddick (two hits and two RBIs), Irons and Ashmore were productive for the Brewer offence.

Ballarat travel to Lara for their top-of-the-table clash with the Wildcats on Saturday. While it’s clear that both clubs will make the play-offs – barring catastrophe – both should be close to full-strength and keen to establish a psychological edge. Deakin hosts Bacchus Marsh in what should be a close game given the Tigers’ improved recent form.

BALLARAT    0 2 0 1 0 5 0 0 1   (9)   2 errors
DEAKIN          0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)   1 error
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: N.Baldwin 3, R.Meddick 2, A.Irons 2, A.Clack, S.Kerr, M.Collins, L.Ashmore
Deakin: W.Balzer 2, N.Warren, S.Talbot, S.Gibbons, H.Narasaki
RBIs.
Ballarat: R.Meddick 2, L.Ashmore 2, H.Burrows, A.Irons, M.Collins
Pitching.
Ballarat: R Meddick  5 inn, 3 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
                A.Irons  4 inn, 3 hits, 5 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
Deakin: C.Malthouse  5.2 inn, 10 hits, 2 Ks, 7 ER
               S.Talbot  3.1 inn, 1 hit, 4 BB, 1 ER

WERRIBEE 6 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 4
Werribee overcame Bacchus Marsh in a game marred by errors. But only after the Tigers issued a late challenge that saw them draw to within two runs of the Giants, who have moved to fourth - equal on wins with Saints but marginally ahead on percentage.

The Giants appeared to have the game well in hand after scooting to a 6-1 break after four. But to their credit, the Tigers chipped away to get a couple back and have a late chance – with runners on in the last – to force at least a split result.

In what developed into a high-standard pitching contest, all four hurlers showed decent control. The Tigers out-hit the Giants seven to five, with Brad Jones, Chad Galloway and Mick Vanston all chiming in with two for the visitors. With two hits and two RBIs, Craig Knight was best with the stick for Werribee. 

But the difference, in the end, was the surfeit of defensive errors – nine in all – that rendered the task much more difficult for Bacchus Marsh. 

Without Daryl George (MLB Academy), Werribee is at home to Saints in a Sunday clash that will have a great bearing on the run to the finals. A win to either will create a one-game buffer in fourth placing. Away to Deakin on Saturday, Bacchus Marsh is a serious chance of its second win for the season. 

BACCHUS MARSH   1 0 0 0 2 1 0   (4)   9 errors     
WERRIBEE                  2 2 2 0 0 0 X  (6)   4 errors
Safe Hits.
Bacchus Marsh: B.Jones 2, C.Galloway 2, M.Vanston 2, S.Hornstra
Werribee: C.Knight 2, L.Weldon, S.Riches, C.Webb
RBIs.
Bacchus Marsh: M.Vanston 2, B.Jones, C.Dugan
Werribee: C.Knight 2, M.Smith, S.Riches
Pitching.
Bacchus Marsh:  T.Pantelleresco  2 inn, 0 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER
                               J.Bailey  4 inn, 5 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 2 ER
Werribee: J.Curnow  4.2 inn, 5 hits, 4 Ks, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER
                  L.Webb  2.1 inn, 2 hits, 1 K

LARA 24 defeated BELLARINE 2
Lara treated itself to a Sunday hitting feast against a Bears unit that had no answer to the barrage unleashed by a Wildcats offence that posted twenty-one hits on the way to a 24-2 drubbing.

It's been a productive eight days for the Wildcats, who have scored a staggering 54 runs for and only two against in three games played over that time. Numbers that will not have been lost on other aspirants for finals action.

The Wildcats were particularly harsh on Bears’ starter Duane Davenport and second reliever Josh Crotty, who between them went for the bulk of the final scoreline.

Lara import Robin Longhurst was terrific with four hits and two RBIs, although he was more than ably supported by Aaron Green (three hits and six RBIs), Stephen Wilson (three an five), the much-improved Luke Arandt (three and two), Stuart Forbes (two and four) and other of the usual suspects in Hammer, Lewis and Ross Wilson.

Wayne Visser was best for the Bears, who managed just seven hits off Wildcat hurlers in Jason Lester and Cameron Forbes.

Travelling along very nicely indeed, the Wildcats will be challenged to find a spot for Nathan Holmes when he returns in the next fortnight. At home to the Brewers on Saturday, the Wildcats may face their sternest test yet in what should be an absolute cracker. For their part, Bellarine can expect no respite from Guild, who are playing great baseball and are keen to secure a double chance.

BELLARINE   0 0 0 2 0 0 0   (2)  2 errors
LARA              0 3 8 3 5 5 X  (24)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Lara: R.Longhurst 4, A.Green 3, L.Arandt 3, S.Wilson 3, S.Forbes 2, C.Lewis 2, J.Young 2, B.Hammer, R.Wilson
Bellarine: W.Visser 2, B.McKentish, L.Hockey, A.O’Keefe, M.Osborn, J.Atkins, D.Visser
RBIs.
Lara: A.Green 6, S.Wilson 5, S.Forbes 4, B.Hammer 3, R.Longhurst 2, L.Arandt 2, R.Wilson, J.Young
Bellarine: W.Visser, A.O’Keefe
Pitching.
Lara:  J.Lester  4 inn, 3 hits, 4 Ks, 2 ER
           C.Forbes  3 inn, 5 hits, 4 Ks
Bellarine:  D.Davenport  2 inn, 8 hits, 1 K, 4 BB, 7 ER
                   S.Murry  2 inn, 5 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 1 ER
                   J.Crotty  1.2 inn, 8 hits, 2 Ks, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 10 ER
                   M.Osborn  0.1 inn

GUILD 4 defeated SAINTS 0
Pat Moulton spun a stunning complete game as Guild Lions whitewashed Saints 4-0 at the stadium. But it was by no means a one-sided contest, as Brad Egan threw a terrific starting stint for Saints, with scores deadlocked at 0-0 after six.

Guild is away to Bellarine on Saturday while Saints meet Werribee in what promises to be a blockbuster at Presidents Park on Sunday.

Details not yet provided.

ROUND 7
13/14 JUNE

Big wins the order of the round: Wildcats and Guild share second placing

The Saturday games may have been played in our first serious arctic blast of winter, but the weekend’s round – including the last of the double-headers - produced some results that would have left at least a couple of clubs with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

The Brewers hold a one-game break at the top of the table. Guild treated itself to a huge percentage boost, while Lara did not concede a run in two games played. The Lions and the Wildcats – remarkably – are locked in joint second placing with the same win ratio and an identical run percentage (albeit “unofficial”).

Saints are looking vulnerable in fourth – just a win ahead of Werribee, who recovered from a Saturday drubbing to down the Bears on Sunday. Deakin and Bellarine are well off the pace and Bacchus Marsh had a tough weekend after its first win a fortnight ago.

LARA 10 defeated SAINTS 0
Lara whitewashed Saints 10-0 in seven innings to deliver another ominous sign that the recent triple champion should be well among the post-season action.

Having a stellar season, Cameron Forbes threw a complete game two-hitter for the Wildcats, who blasted fourteen hits off the reigning premier - eleven of them (and eight earned runs) off Brad Egan, who was virtually untouchable in last year’s Grand Final. But that game, friends, is now just a distant memory for the Wildcats.

In a mystifying move, Saints Manager Dean Barker did not take the ball until the game was gone, even then handing it over to catcher Chris Rickard after a brief stint.

Stuart Forbes, Ben Hammer and Jordan Young all picked up multiples for the Wildcats, while Manager Clinton Lewis chimed in with three RBIs in an impressive offensive display by his team.

Both clubs have huge games in prospect next weekend. Away to second-placed Guild, Saints are in danger of slipping from the four should Werribee beat Bacchus Marsh. Lara will be confident of a bold showing at home to Bellarine.

LARA              0 1 4 3 2 0 X   (10)   1 error
SAINTS          0 0 0 0 0 0 0    (0)    2 errors
Safe Hits.
Lara: S.Forbes 3, B.Hammer 2, R.Wilson 2, J.Young 2, A.Green, C.Forbes, C.Lewis, L.Arandt, J.Camov
Saints: T.Elliott, B.Egan
RBIs.
Lara: C.Lewis 3, J.Young 3, S.Forbes 2, L.Arandt
Pitching.
Lara:  C.Forbes  7.0 inn, 2 hits, 7 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
Saints:  B.Egan  3.2 inn, 11 hits, 5 Ks, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 8 ER
              D.Barker  1.1 inn, 2 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 0 ER
              C.Rickard  1.0 inn, 1 hit, 2 BB, 0 ER

BALLARAT 6 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 2
Down at Mason's Lane, the home club had its chances, but conceded some crucial errors and delivered a string of walks that enabled the Brewers to lead all day and take the match 6-2 in fading light.

Trent Pantelleresco went the distance for the Marsh, holding  a potent Brewers offence to six hits, with catcher Leigh Ashmore – surely the league’s most improved player – the best with a couple of knocks that keep his hitting average chugging along at over .400. A catcher hitting at this clip lower in the order is always a decided bonus. 

But seven passes and a HPB were damaging in the final analysis, along with Tiger defensive lapses that gifted three of the Brewers’ runs. Although throwing more than his usual quota of balls, Rory Meddick was well on top in conceding just two hits over six digs. Jack Lindsay’s first outing since last season was a bit of a battle (five passes) before Adam Irons mopped up in the gloom by whiffing the three batters he faced.

Bacchus had their chances – in the third, in the seventh and again in the eighth. They could conceivably have scored more than one in the fourth, but struggled to string the hits together when it mattered.

The Brewers will be anxious to hold top placing and – with Adam Irons on the hill – should pack too many guns for the Blues, even at Deakin. Bacchus Marsh makes the trek to Werribee, who have run hot and cold in recent weeks.

BALLARAT                            1 0 1 1 0 2 1 0   (6)  1 error
BACCHUS MARSH               0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1   (2)  4 errors
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: L.Ashmore 2, S.Kerr, H.Burrows, R.Bennetts, A.Irons
Bacchus Marsh: J.Bailey, J.Pate, S.Hornstra
RBIs.
Ballarat: J.Burrows, N.Baldwin, A.Irons
Bacchus Marsh: C.Galloway
Pitching.
Ballarat: R.Meddick  6 inn, 2 hits, 9 Ks, 3 BB, 0 ER
               J.Lindsay  1.0 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 5 BB, 1 ER
               A.Irons  1.0 inn, 3 Ks, 0 ER
Bacchus Marsh: T.Pantelleresco  8 inn, 6 hits, 6 Ks, 7 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER

GUILD 15 defeated WERRIBEE 0
Werribee's chances of post-season action took a serious hit as Guild handed out a 15-0 pasting on fourteen hits in support of great pitching outings by Stuart Barnes and Pat Moulton.

Barnes scattered four hits over his four innings stint, while Moulton was miserly over three digs that produced just a couple of passes - and no hits.

By contrast, the Lions took it to starter Lindsay Webb to have the game well in hand at six zip over four, with some belated icing on the cake offered up in two final innings that yielded another nine as Webb was chased from the hill and reliever Craig Knight struggled to hit spots. 

Now with an impressive percentage (and with 105 runs for in eleven games), the Guild offence had a day out with contributions forthcoming throughout the order. Hiroke Sekine continued his great form with three RBIs and some quality defence for the Lions. 

The Lions host Saints in what is clearly the “match of the round” next Saturday. A win will keep Guild breathing down the Brewers’ necks, while Saints will be desperate to re-establish a break over Werribee. 

GUILD            2 3 0 1 0 5 4   (15)  2 errors
WERRIBEE     0 0 0 0 0 0 0    (0)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Guild: T.Snarey 3, C.Lyons 3, D.Jones 2, C.Harper 2, J.Landthaler, P.Moulton, R.Stewart, H.Sekine
Werribee: H.Yochim, L.Weldon, J.Lowe, A. Markovic
RBIs.
Guild: H.Sekine 3, R.Stewart 2, P.Moulton 2, C.Lyons 2, T.Snarey 2, J.Landthaler 2, M.Miller
Pitching.
Guild:  S.Barnes  4 inn, 4 hits, 1 K, 1 HPB, 0 ER
            P.Moulton  3 inn, 0 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
Werribee:  L.Webb  5.1 inn, 12 hits, 2 Ks, 5 BB, 1 HPB, 7 ER
                   C.Knight  1.2 inn, 2 hits, 0 K, 5 BB, 4 ER

BELLARINE 6 defeated DEAKIN 4
Needing a win to restore some confidence down Wallington way, the Bears downed Deakin 6-4, the latter having fallen away dramatically in recent times. 

Duane Davenport took the start, went the distance and posted the win for Bellarine despite conceding ten hits to a side that was well served with the bat by Darcy Eales and Dean Malthouse. 

Sean Talbot started in great nick for Deakin as his side gained a slender lead. But the Bears came to life in a defining fifth innings that yielded five runs and a defendable break.

Lyndon Hockey (three hits), Ben Atkins (three hits) and Wayne Visser (two) were dangerous for the Bears, who on their day – and at full offensive strength – are capable of causing nightmares for any team in the competition.

Bellarine will be severely tested by the rampant Wildcats at Lara next Saturday, while Deakin is at home to the league-leading Ballarat.

BELLARINE   0 0 1 0 5 0 0 0  (6)  1 error
DEAKIN          0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0  (4)  4 errors
Safe Hits.
Bellarine: L.Hockey 3, Ben Atkins 3, W.Visser 2, M.Osborne
Deakin: D.Eales 2, D.Malthouse 2, J.Harper, S.Malthouse, S.Talbot, W.Balzer, H. Narasaki, C.Malthouse
RBIs.
Bellarine: W.Visser, A.O'Keefe, J.Crotty, B.Mc Kentish, M.Osborne
Deakin: D.Eales, S.Malthouse, S.Talbot
Pitching.
Bellarine: D.Davenport  8 inn, 10 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB, 3 HPB, 3 ER
Deakin:  S.Talbot 4.1 inn, 6 hits, 3 Ks, 7 BB, 6 ER
               W.Balzer 1.2 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 0 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
               D.Eales  2 inn, 0 hits, 2 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER

WERRIBEE 6 defeated BELLARINE 1
Facing the Bears in a “must-win” Sunday game, Werribee rebounded from a downer against Guild to take the points clearly. Its win keeps Werribee just a game shy of fourth placing, with a couple of crucial clashes to come next weekend. 

Match details to come. 

LARA 16 defeated BACCHUS MARSH
Coming off a huge win over Saints on Saturday, Lara Wildcats showed no mercy in trouncing a hapless Bacchus Marsh in the second of a double-header for both.

The Wildcats were irrepressible against Tigers starter James Bailey, scoring nine in the top of three. Ben Hammer cleared the yard with a grand slam for the Wildcats, whose "reasonably successful weekend" produced two wins (from two) with a total of twenty-five runs for and none against.

Match details to come.

ROUND 6
30/31 MAY

Brewers take double-header: Tigers win their first: Saints blank Deakin

BREWERS 7 defeated GUILD 6

Holding a 6-1 in the top of three, Guild looked on target for a big win – and league leadership. But the Brewers took full advantage of their scoring opportunities to hit back with three in the equaliser and another three in the fourth to set up a 7-6 result over the Lions in an entertaining match-up between two likely finalists.

The Lions opened the scoring with three in the second. Troy Snarey drew a walk, Cameron Lyons a HPB, Harper hit safely and a Sekine infield single plated the first before Ryan Darcy’s double drove in another two. Although the Brewers responded with one of their own, Guild poured it one in the third, with a double to Jensz, a Snarey single, a Sekine single and a Pat Moulton sacrifice fly delivering another three for the visitors.

But in the style befitting a good baseball team, the Brewers took it to starter Jack Smyth in the equaliser – driving him from the hill and drawing the scoreline back to 4-6. With Adam Irons steady for the home team, the Brewers drew two passes in the fourth. Scott Kerr’s single scored one, an Irons sacrifice fly another and an infield error gifted a third for the innings – the go-ahead run.

The Brewers outhit Guild – eight to six – with Anthony Clack, Scott Kerr and Hamish Burrows the most productive, while Adam Irons completed another full-game outing to scatter seven hits and pick up seven strikeouts.

With five RBIs between them, Hiroke Sekine and Ryan Darcy were terrific with the bat for the visitors.

Although Guild might have regarded themselves as a bit stiff to have this one snatched away from them, you make your own luck in this game. The Guild hitters went quiet after the early assault, the pitchers conceded seven walks and a telling error was made – all at crucial points against a quality opponent.

The Sunday win gave Ballarat a one-game break at the top of the table, with what should be a manageable contest at Bacchus Marsh after the resumption. Second on percentage, Guild will be away to Werribee, who took the points in their opening round clash.

GUILD              0 3 3 0 0 0   (6)  1 error
BREWERS      0 1 3 3 0 X   (7)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Guild: R.Darcy, R.Stewart, B.Jensz, T.Snarey, C.Lyons, C.Harper, H.Sekine
Brewers: A.Clack 2, S.Kerr 2, H.Burrows, R.Meddick, B.Bennetts, N.Baldwin
RBIs.
Guild: H.Sekine 3, R.Darcy 2
Brewers: H.Burrows 2, J.Burrows, S.Kerr, A.Irons
Pitching.
Guild: J.Smyth  2.2 inn, 5 hits, 0 Ks, 5 BB, 4 ER
           S.Barnes  3.1 inn, 3 hits, 0 Ks, 2 BB, 3 ER
Brewers: A.Irons  6 inn, 7 hits, 7 Ks, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 4 ER
 

SAINTS 3 defeated DEAKIN 0

Lee Poulter's two-out, two-run double was the decisive offensive blow in a pitcher-dominated 3-0 result for East Belmont Saints over Deakin.

In stand-out pitching performances, Saints Dean Barker and the Blues' Scott Malthouse dominated the opposition hitters. Barker produced at something like his mercurial best to go eight innings for two hits and ten strikeouts, while Malthouse was equally impressive over eight in scattering three hits and striking out eleven.

With hits – and runs – in scant supply, the effort of Saints big man Leigh Poulter was outstanding. Recalling memories of his heroics in last year’s finals series, Poulter drove in all three of Saints’ runs, with his booming double in the sixth putting a terrific game out of reach for a valiant Blues side.

Third on percentage – at seven and three – Saints will be away to Lara in what shapes as the match of the round on Saturday week. Deakin have the chance to atone as they play host to lowly Bellarine.

DEAKIN                     0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)  2 errors
SAINTS                      1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 X   (3)  2 errors
Safe Hits.
Saints: J.Lee, M.Ernstzen, L.Poulter
Deakin: T.Malthouse, S.Malthouse, W.Balzer
RBIs.
Saints: L.Poulter 3
Pitching:
Saints:  D.Barker  8 inn, 2 hits, 10 Ks, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
              J.Lee  1 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER
Deakin:  S.Malthouse  8 inn, 3 hits, 11 Ks, 2 BB, 3 ER


BREWERS 9 defeated WERRIBEE 1

Ballarat Brewers stretched the Werribee losing streak to three with a comprehensive 9-1 result. Although the Giants scored in the first, Rory Meddick held them to three hits in a complete game while the Brewers mounted a telling offensive that produced nine runs in the middle innings after Darryl George was relieved.

With Werribee scoring in the first, George was super-impressive in holding the Brewers offence over the first three. But it started to unravel for Werribee in the bottom of four, with singles to Kerr and Baldwin and a pass to Meddick loading the bases with none out. Reliever Preston Yochim was unable alter the trend of play as the Brewers plated four for the innings.

Craig Knight relieved Yochim with Ballarat holding a 6-1 lead into the sixth, but the Brewers were irrepressible as the scoreline blew out to 9-1 and what was – in the end – a comfortable win for the home club.

After a shaky first innings by his defence, Meddick was superb in going the distance for Ballarat, with Darryl George (two hits) the shining light as he racked up ten strikeouts over eight. The Brewers were well served by Kerr, Meddick and Ashmore (all two hits), but more particularly they took full advantage of scoring opportunities created for them.

While the Brewers are looking strong at the top of the table, Werribee – fifth – is a win adrift of the four, making its double-header extremely important in the cotext of the season. To stay reasonably in touch, the Giants will need to win at least one of its Saturday game against Guild and its Sunday home clash with Bellarine.

WERRIBEE     1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (1)   2 errors
BREWERS      0 0 0 4 2 3 0 X   (9)  2 errors
Safe Hits.
Werribee: D.George 2, J.Curnow
Brewers: S.Kerr 2, R.Meddick 2, L.Ashmore 2, H.Burrows, N.Baldwin
RBIs.
Werribee: P.Yochim
Brewers: M.Collins 2, S.Kerr, N.Baldwin, R.Meddick, A.Irons, D.Wright
Pitching.
Werribee:  D.George  3 inn, 3 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER
                   P.Yochim  2 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 1 BB, 2 HPB, 5 ER
                   C.Knight  2 inn, 1 hit, 2 BB, 3 ER
Brewers:  R.Meddick  8 inn, 3 hits, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
 

BACCHUS MARSH 6 defeated BELLARINE 1 

Showing some improved form in recent weeks, Bacchus Marsh produced their "A" Game against the Bears for a 6-1 result - their first win of the season. Trent Pantelleresco threw a terrific eight digs for the Marsh, who were on top all day and produced key hits in run-scoring situations.

Although again conceding more passes than he would have liked – eight – Pantelleresco held the dangerous Bears offence to five hits, with Ben Atkins the best with a couple. Bellarine tried Josh Crotty, Matt Osborn and Simon Murry – who were all serviceable enough in between them restricting the Marsh to eight hits, Shannon Hornstra being the only multiple (with two).

But it was the Tigers’ conversion rate that was the most impressive. With a comparable number of runners reaching base, Bacchus was able to push them across and deliver the clutch hits when it mattered – a trend that enabled them to score in four of the eight innings played.

While it can take heart from some improved form in recent weeks, Bacchus Marsh face a tough weekend after the break, with a Saturday game against Ballarat and a Sunday rendezvous with Lara. Both games are at Masons Lane, with spectator support for the Tigers potentially becoming a factor.

Bellarine has an away double header – at Deakin on Saturday and Werribee on Sunday.

BACCHUS MARSH   0 1 0 2 2 0 1 0   (6)  2 errors
BELLARINE               0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0   (1)  3 errors
Safe Hits.
Bacchus Marsh: S.Hornstra 2, M.Vanston, C.Galloway, C.Dugan, J.Bailey, J.Pate, T.Pantelleresco
Bellarine: B.Atkins 2, W.Visser, M.Osborn, D.Visser
RBIs.
Bacchus Marsh: S.Hornstra, C.Dugan, J.Bailey, J.Pate, T.Pantelleresco
Bellarine: J.Atkins
Pitching.
Bacchus Marsh: T.Pantelleresco  8 inn, 5 hits, 5 Ks, 8 BB, 1 ER
Bellarine:  J.Crotty  5 inn, 7 hits, 1 K, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER
                  M.Osborn  1.1 inn, 0 hits, 0 Ks, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
                  S.Murry  1.2 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 0 ER

GUILD 6 defeated LARA 2

In a quality game of baseball, Guild dispensed with Lara 6-2 after the Wildcats passed up a number of scoring opportunities. Pat Moulton was superb on the hill for the Lions and Dean Jones hit well, while Cameron Forbes was a stand-out performer - again - for the Wildcats.

With little between the top four and Werribee still a realistic chance, Guild will be looking for a strong performance away to the Giants on Saturday week. Lara has the double-header, at home to Saints on Saturday and away to the Marsh on Sunday.

No details available.

ROUND 5
23/24 MAY

Bad news for Bears: Lara blanks Werribee: Saints shade Tigers

Ballarat whitewashed Bellarine to retain top placing with a healthy percentage and just seventeen runs against – in eight games. But the leading five clubs are in a titanic struggle to establish some sort of advantage heading towards the Winter Carnival break in hostilities. 

Guild and Lara have the same win/loss record – six and two – while Saints have posted six wins but from an extra game played. At five and three, Werribee is just off the pace after disappointing losses to the Brewers and Lara. But the Giants are still well in the action.

With two wins and a split result, Deakin are in danger of becoming among the “also rans”, although a couple of wins in coming rounds would give them renewed hope. Bellarine and Bacchus Marsh are struggling at the bottom of the table, although the Bears are ever-capable of an upset and the Tigers showed seriously improved form against Saints on Saturday.

Next weekend’s round offers up a number of fascinating contests – the results of which may have serious bearing on the prospects of at least six clubs.

SAINTS 2 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 1

Bacchus Marsh conjured up a much-improved performance on recent weeks, going down to reigning premier East Belmont Saints in a 2-1 result that was up for grabs into the ninth innings.

The game was totally dominated by the starting pitchers over four scoreless innings before Saints scored first. But the Tigers came back to tie it up in the bottom of six and scores remained deadlocked until Saints manufactured the go-ahead in the top of nine, with the assistance of a string of passes.

Brad Egan amassed eleven strikeouts in another dominant pitching performance for Saints that yielded four scattered hits. Dean Barker finished the job with clinical efficiency, fanning five of the final eight outs.

The Tigers would be delighted with the effort of southpaw James Bailey, who conceded just two hits – both to Brendan Twaddle – over his six innings stint. Twaddle was the only Sainter to hit safely for the game.

After a much-improved showing this week, Bacchus Marsh will be confident of its first win next Saturday – against Bellarine. Saints will be looking to greater hitting production when they host Deakin.

SAINTS                      0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1  (2)
BACCHUS MARSH   0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0  (1)
Safe Hits.
Saints: B.Twaddle 2
Bacchus Marsh: S.Hornstra, B.Jones, J.Pate, C.Dugan
RBIs.
Saints: J.Lee, M.Ernstzen
Bacchus Marsh: S.Hornstra
Pitching.
Saints: B.Egan  6.1 inn, 4 hits, 11 Ks, 1 BB, 1 ER
             D.Barker  2.2 inn, 0 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
Bacchus Marsh: J.Bailey  6 inn, 2 hits, 5 Ks, 5 BB, 2 HPB, 0 ER
                             T.Pantelleresco  2.1 inn, 0 hits, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
                             C.Galloway  0.2 inn, 0 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 1 ER   

LARA 4 defeated WERRIBEE 0

Lara was too accomplished in blanking Werribee, who have dropped three of their past five. Cameron Forbes was superb for the Wildcats, with a complete game one-hitter in a game in which Werribee starter Lindsay Webb also had a terrific outing over the early innings.

The Giants boast one of the more dangerous offences in the league, but they just haven’t produced the goods in their past two games. This time, just one hit for the game – to Harley Yochim – as Forbes completely dominated on the hill.

Although Lara was able to string a few together and plate three game-breaking runs off John Curnow in the sixth, its offence was well held by Webb over three digs. With two RBIs each, Baumann and Luke Arandt made invaluable contributions in the bottom of the order for the Wildcats.

Lara meets Guild at the stadium in the match of the round on Saturday, while Werribee is away to Ballarat – again – still smarting form a heavy loss against the Brewers under a fortnight ago.

LARA              0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1   (4)   2 errors
WERRIBEE     0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)   5 errors
Safe Hits.
Werribee: H.Yochim
Lara: A.Green, R.Longhurst, C.Forbes, S.Wilson, R.Wilson, S.Baumann, L.Arandt, J.Young
RBIs.
Lara: S.Baumann 2, L.Arandt 2
Pitching.
Werribee: L.Webb  3 inn, 2 hits, 2 Ks, 3 BB, 0 ER
                  J.Curnow  4 inn, 6 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 4 ER
Lara: C.Forbes  8 inn, 1 hit, 7 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER

BALLARAT BREWERS 8 defeated BELLARINE 0

Teenager Tom Harrington threw a complete game shut-out as Ballarat Brewers whitewashed Bellarine 8-0 at Prince of Wales. Although both sides committed defensive errors, they were far more costly for the Bears, who conceded six unearned runs and will be looking to a better performance in their Sunday clash with Deakin.

Playing his first A Grade game, Harrington came up with a quite remarkable outing that scattered six hits for the Bears and conceded just two passes.

While Matt Osborne was solid enough for the Bears over five innings, the Brewers made an emphatic early statement with four runs in the second - on singles to Baldwin, Irons and Hamish Burrows, aided by some clumsy defensive work. They sealed the game with another three in the sixth.

The Brewers had stand-out hitters in Jacobsson, Hamish Burrows and Baldwin, with Anthony Clack lacing a number of clean shots but not being able to beat the field. Josh Crotty was best in offence for the Bears with two hits.

Interestingly, the Brewers committed more errors – four to three – but the Bears simply did not land enough runners on base to convert into scoring opportunities.

Ballarat faces a tough double-header at home next week, with a Saturday game against Werribee and a Sunday clash with Guild, who will also be challenged with a pair of tough games but have a good recent record against the Brewers. Bellarine is at home to Bacchus Marsh, with both clubs desperate for a win to revive their flagging fortunes.

BELLARINE   0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)  3 errors
BALLARAT    0 4 0 1 0 3 0 0 X  (8)   4 errors
Safe Hits.
Bellarine: J.Crotty 2, S.Murry, L.Hockey, B.McKentish, M.Osborne
Ballarat: B.Jacobsson 2, H.Burrows 2, B.Bennetts, N.Baldwin, S.Kerr, R.Meddick, A.Irons, L.Ashmore
RBIs.
Ballarat: H.Burrows, A.Clack. N.Baldwin, L.Ashmore, B.Jacobsson, A.Irons
Pitching.
Bellarine: M.Osborne  5 inn, 9 hits, 1 K, 4 BB, 2 ER
                  J.Crotty  3 inn, 1 hit
Ballarat:  T.Harrington  9 inn, 6 hits, 8 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER

BELLARINE 3 drew with DEAKIN 3 

Deakin struck early – with two in the first – but neither side was able to gain a clear break in a high-standard contest that was tied up into the seventh.

Bear Duane Davenport came up with one of his better starting efforts to restrict the Blues after a shaky first while Scott Malthouse spent over six quality innings on the hill for Deakin, amassing eleven strike outs to concede a solitary earned run.

Both sides hit safely eight times, Josh Crotty and Ben Atkins picking up multiples for the Bears and Malthouse completing an outstanding game with three of his own.

While the Bears are in with a chance of posting their second win, Deakin – now three and a half games adrift of third and with a Sunday game against Saints - has a tough assignment to stay in touch.

BELLARINE   0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0   (3)  2 errors
DEAKIN          2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0   (3)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Bellarine: J.Crotty 2, B.Atkins 2, B.Foster, L.Hockey, B.McKentish, S.Murry
Deakin: S.Malthouse 3, T.Malthouse, J.Harper, N.Warren, S.Talbot, W.Balzer
RBIs.
Bellarine: L.Hockey
Deakin: D.Eales, N.Warren, S.Talbot
Pitching.
Bellarine:  D.Davenport  6 inn, 5 hits, 1 K, 4 BB, 2 ER
                   S.Murry  2 inn, 4 hits
Deakin:  S.Malthouse  5.2 inn, 6 hits, 11 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
                S.Talbot  2.1 inn, 2 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB

GUILD 6 defeated DEAKIN 2 

Southpaw Pat Moulton was well in control to throw seven innings of scoreless ball for Guild, who took a few innings to get the offence in action before blasting a match-breaking five runs in the fifth. 

While reliever Jack Smyth conceded two late runs on a string of hits and a couple of passes, the errorless Lions were untroubled for what was – in the end – a pretty comfortable win. Although the Blues out-hit Guild ten to eight and received a string of free passes, they were unable to convert their opportunities. 

Ryan Darcy and Ben Jensz picked up two hits each for the Lions, while Jason Landthaler again underscored his importance in offence, this time to the tune of three RBIs in a low-scoring contest. Harper and Warren were dangerous for Deakin, while Scott Malthouse picked up the first two of five hits in his club’s double-header.  

Second to Brewers on run percentage and marginally ahead of saints Guild has a huge weekend in prospect – at home to Lara on Saturday and away to Ballarat on Sunday in a weekend of great importance to each of the leading group.

GUILD            0 0 1 0 5 0 0 0 0   (6)  0 errors
DEAKIN         0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1   (2)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Guild: R.Darcy 2, B.Jensz 2, J.Landthaler, M.Miller, C.Harper, H.Sekine
Deakin: J.Harper 2, S.Malthouse 2, N.Warren 2, T.Malthouse, N.Hinrichson, C.Malthouse, A.Warren
RBIs.
Guild: J.Landthaler 3, R.Darcy, D.Jones, B.Jensz
Deakin: N.Warren
Pitching.
Guild:  P.Moulton  7 inn, 6 hits, 7 Ks, 5 BB, 0 ER
            J.Smyth  2 inn, 4 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 2 ER
Deakin:  G.Weir  4 inn, 6 hits, 2 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 5 ER
                T.Malthouse  5 inn, 2 hits, 4 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER

ROUND 4
16/17 MAY
A month into the season - and it could hardly be closer between five clubs

Just a month into the season and the A Grade competition is already shaping as one of the most closely contested in recent times.

Four clubs – Brewers, Guild, Lara and Werribee – are at five wins and two losses, while Saints are five and three. Deakin has won two games but will certainly add to that modest start, Bellarine has been competitive in a number of contests and Bacchus Marsh is hanging in there after losing a number of key players.
 

BALLARAT BREWERS 9 defeated WERRIBEE 0
Adam Irons turned in a stunning complete game two-hitter and his side's offence had a day out as Brewers cut the Giants down to size with a 9-0 shellacking at Prince of Wales Reserve.

Whether it was early nervous energy or simply unaccountable skill lapses, the Giants committed a couple of early throwing errors that gifted the Brewers a three zip lead in the bottom of the first.

Yet the carnage had only begun, as the Brewers – subdued with the bat in recent weeks – came to life to consistently land runners on base and push them across. Scoring in all but two of their batting innings, the Brewers amassed thirteen hits, with starter Lindsay Webb noticeably rattled under pressure applied by the likes of Hamish Burrows (three hits and two RBIs), Scott Kerr (two hits and an RBI) and Rory Meddick (a hit and two RBIs). In all, ten of eleven Brewers getting a run in the game hit safely.

But the real story to this contest was the outing by rangy right-hander Adam Irons, who threw the complete game for two hits and a dozen strikeouts against one of the better offensive lineups in the competition – on recent form, anyway.

Now in fourth placing, Werribee faces Lara in what is surely the match of the round at Lara on Saturday, while the Brewers play host to Bellarine.

WERRIBEE   0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   (0)  3 errors
BALLARAT    3 1 0 1 1 1 2 0 X   (9)  1 error 
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: H.Burrows 3, S.Kerr 2, J.Burrows, A.Clack, N.Baldwin, R.Meddick, A.Irons, B.Bennetts, L.Ashmore, D.Chetcuti
Werribee: D.George, A.Markovic
RBIs.
Ballarat: H.Burrows 2, R.Meddick 2, N.Baldwin, S.Kerr, J.Burrows
Pitching.
Ballarat:  A.Irons  9 inn, 2 hits, 12 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
Werribee:  L.Webb  6.1 inn, 11 hits, 2 Ks, 3 BB, 6 ER
                   J.Curnow  1.2 inn, 2 hits, 1 BB, 0 ER

LARA 8 defeated SAINTS 3
With Dean Barker not heading to the hill - as might have been expected - Saints struggled for pitching options and were over-run by Lara Wildcats, who move into the top four for the first time this season. 

An interesting sideline to this game was the appearance of Greg Anderson as starting pitcher for the Wildcats. Anderson is a club stalwart who has the unique distinction – insiders tell us – of having pitched in every senior grade during his time with the Wildcats. Today would be his first game – and his first start – in the ones.

And the return was fairly impressive. Going four innings for three hits and a couple of HPBs, Anderson gave way for Aaron Green with the Wildcats struggling for offensive production against Josh Lee, who was superb for Saints over his starting stint.

But with Lee’s departure the game changed complexion. The Wildcats collared evergreen David “Badger” Morrissey for four runs in the fifth and another in the six before calling catcher Chris Rickard to the hill for a cameo that yielded another couple of runs for Lara.

With two serious finals contenders committing nine fielding errors between them, the game never reached great defensive heights, although Aaron Green kept the clamps well and truly on the Saints hitters – whose only standout out was Lee, with three hits.

Green, Cameron Forbes, Arandt and Longhurst were dangerous with the stick for Lara, who would be more than happy with a weekend performance that produced two wins, seventeen runs for and only four against.

With their import providing great service and with the resting Nathan Holmes possibly getting itchy feet in a spectating capacity, the Wildcats are surely on pretty good terms with themselves. 

Looking to next weekend, Saints have the chance to improve upon their winning record and enhance their percentage against Bacchus Marsh – although the game is at Mason’s Lane, where the Tigers often manage to lift their game against the visitors.

Already confounding some of the pre-season doubters (including your GBA correspondent), Lara have the personnel and the winning culture that will make them very hard to beat from now on, although Werribee will be a worthy opponent next weekend.

SAINTS          0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0   (3)   4 errors
LARA              0 0 0 0 4 1 3 X   (8)  5 errors
Safe Hits.
Lara: R.Longhurst 2, A.Green, S.Baumann, S.Wilson, C.Forbes, S.Forbes, L.Arandt, J.Young
Saints: J.Lee 3, J.Isbister, A.Meehan
RBIs.
Lara: A.Green 2, C.Forbes 2, L.Arandt 2, R.Longhurst
Saints: B.Twaddle
Pitching.
Lara:  G.Anderson  4 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 2 HPB, 1 ER
           A.Green  4 inn, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 5 BB, 1 ER
Saints: J.Lee  4 inn, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 0 ER
             D.Morrissey  2 inn, 6 hits, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER
             C.Rickard  1 inn, 1 hit, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 2 ER
 

WERRIBEE 14 defeated BELLARINE 6
On a tough day for pitchers, Werribee out-hit Bellarine thirteen to twelve after the Giants pinched an 8-3 lead in the second and went on to take the game 14-6 - their fifth win from six outings.

Walks and errors were again costly for the Bears, while Werribee was never seriously threatened in the scoreline.

Bellarine started strongly, plating three runs in the first as Craig Knight settled into his work. But the Giants quickly tied scores up before careering to an 11-3 lead in the bottom of four.

While Knight finished his stint after a serviceable enough six innings outing for three runs in the opening sortie, the Bears’ Duane Davenport struggled to hold the Giants. While Werribee only marginally out-hit the Bears – thirteen to twelve – they took full advantage of a string of passes and HPBs.

Stand-out hitters for the Giants were Aaron Markovic (three hits and two RBIs), Lewis Weldon (two and three), John Curnow (two and two) and Harley Yochim. Damien Visser was terrific for the Bears with three hits and three RBIs. 

The Giants were travelling along very well indeed until they ran into a brick wall in Ballarat on Sunday. They face no respite for their clash with Lara next Saturday. 

Bellarine desperately needs to string a couple of wins together. They face the acid test in Ballarat on Saturday but have a few older heads who might be able to put it right to the younger Deakin brigade for the second of their doubleheader (on Sunday).

WERRIBEE               3 5 0 3 0 3 0   (14)   1 error
BELLARINE              3 0 0 0 0 0 3   (6)   3 errors
Safe Hits.
Werribee: A.Markovic 3, L.Weldon 2, J.Curnow 2, M.Collins 2, H.Yochim, L.Webb, D.George, T.Webb
Bellarine: W.Visser 3, S.Murry 2, D.Visser 2, L.Hockey, M.Osbourn, D.Davenport, J.Atkins, B.Atkins
RBIs.
Werribee: L.Weldon 3, J.Curnow 3, H.Yochim 2, A.Markovic 2, M.Collins
Bellarine: D.Visser 3, W.Visser, M.Osbourn, J.Atkins
Pitching.
Werribee:  C.Knight  6 inn, 9 hits, 3 Ks, 4 BB, 3 ER
                   L.Weldon  1 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 1 BB, 3 ER
Bellarine:  D.Davenport  4 inn, 10 hits, 2 Ks, 4 BB, 3 HPB, 7 ER
                   J.Crotty  2.1 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 3 ER

LARA 9 defeated DEAKIN 1
Lara was matched early before conjuring up the "big innings" that set up its 9-1 win over Deakin, who have battled after an impressive start to the season.

The Blues were well in the contest until Lara smacked six runs in the seventh in support of a complete game on the hill by Cameron Forbes.

Forbes and Scott Malthouse (Deakin) are quality acts and it was no surprise that they held sway for their respective sides over the first five digs. But the Wildcats snatched a break with two runs in the sixth – to make it three zip – and the Blues called Sean Talbot to the hill for what unravelled as not one of his better outings. 

With the game still up for grabs, Lara jumped on Talbot and put the game beyond reach after a couple of passes and three hits.

Forbes, meantime, continued to hold sway, scattering four hits over nine innings for a sole earned run.

Longhurst (two hits and two RBIs), Aaron Green (two and one), Ross Wilson (one and two) and Steve Wilson (one and two) were best with the bat for Lara. It was slim pickings for Deakin, with just four players picking up singles.

Deakin has been tipped as a serious improver for 2009 and have their chance next weekend to show where they really are at. They face a tough one against Guild on Saturday and will have to back up against Bellaire on the Sunday. Two wins would give the Blues great heart, one win will see them still in with a chance of finals action.

DEAKIN         0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0   (1)   1 error
LARA              0 0 1 0 0 2 6 0 X   (9)   0 errors
Safe Hits.
Deakin: T.Malthouse, S.Malthouse, N.Warren, S.Gibbons
Lara: R.Longhurst 2, A Green 2, S.Forbes, S.Baumann, R.Wilson, C.Forbes, S.Wilson, J.Young
RBIs.
Deakin: S.Talbot
Lara: R.Wilson 2, R.Longhurst 2, S.Wilson 2, S.Forbes, C.Forbes, A.Green
Pitching.
Deakin:  S.Malthouse  6 inn, 5 hits, 4 Ks, 3 BB, 3 ER
               S.Talbot  1 inn, 3 hits, 2 BB, 5 ER
               T.Kerr-Chapman  1.2 inn, 2 hits
Lara:  C.Forbes  9 inn, 4 hits, 10 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER

SAINTS 5 defeated BALLARAT BREWERS 2
Reigning premier East Belmont Saints inflicted the Brewers' second loss on the trot with a 5-2 result that was decided - in the end - with a four-spot in the bottom of the second of a contest highlighted by another strong outing by Brad Egan.

Coming into the game with a massive offensive percentage – notwithstanding a one-run loss to Guild last week - the Brewers matched Saints for hits (eleven apiece) but could not string them together nor come up with the goods in scoring situations.

The result was set up when Saints jumped on Rory Meddick in the second innings. AJ Kelly led off with a walk, advanced on a Rickard single and Twaddle loaded the bases – with none out – on an infield hit. An Egan flare scored one, Mathieson singled up the middle for another and Ashley Hoe doubled to the leftfield wall to drive in another two as Saints scooted to a 4-1 lead.

In the context of the game, that was enough as Egan settled into a quality spell that yielded two earned runs over seven innings, with Manager Dean Barker slamming the gate. Meddick went the distance for the Brewers, who failed to score in the last four innings.

After losing two on the trot and having a quiet couple of games with the bat, the Brewers hit their way back into form against the Giants and will be looking to show no mercy against Bellarine on Saturday. Saints were disappointing in the second of their double-header – against Lara – and will be keen to atone against lowly Bacchus Marsh on Saturday.

BALLARAT    1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0   (2)   0 errors
SAINTS          0 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 X   (5)  1 error
Safe Hits.
Ballarat: N.Baldwin 2, A.Irons 2, L.Ashmore 2, H.Burrows, J.Burrows, S.Kerr, R.Meddick, B.Bennetts
Saints: A.Mathieson 2, C.Rickard 2, J.Lee, M.Ernstzen, L.Poulter, A.Kelly, B.Twaddle, B.Egan, A.Hoe
RBIs.
Ballarat: N.Baldwin, R.Meddick
Saints: Mathieson 2, Hoe 2, Egan
Pitching.
Saints:   B.Egan  7.1 inn, 10 hits, 4 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER
               D.Barker  1.2 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER
Ballarat:  R.Meddick  8 inn, 11 hits, 8 Ks, 3 BB, 5 ER

GUILD 17 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 3
Bacchus Marsh tried a number of hurlers but were unable to stay in the contest against the free-scoring Guild Lions, who were merciless in what was - for them - a percentage boosting 17-3 rout of an opponent still after its first win.

The win takes Guild to second placing, with a massive 72 runs being scored in seven games to date. Bacchus Marsh has yet to win a game and is clearly undermanned. But there is a long way to go in the season just yet.

The Lions face Deakin Blues on Saturday, with a win of great significance to both clubs. Bacchus Marsh plays host to East Belmont Saints.

GUILD                            0 1 0 7 0 9 X   (17)  0 errors
BACCHUS MARSH    0 1 1 0 1 0 0    (3)    4 errors
Safe Hits.
Guild: T.Snarey 3, R.Stewart 3, J.Landtaler 2, B.Jensz 2, C.Lyons 2, C.Harper 2, D.Jones 1
Bacchus Marsh: S.Hornstra 2, C.Porter, M.Vanston, J.Pate, C.Galloway, T.Pantelleresco
RBIs.
Guild: R.Darcy 3, J.Landthaler 3, T.Snarey 3, R.Stewart 2, D.Jones, T.Snarey, C.Harper
Bacchus Marsh: J.Pate, C.Galloway, T.Pantelleresco
Pitching.
Guild:   S.Barnes  4 inn, 5 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 2 ER
P.Moulton  3 inn, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
Bacchus Marsh:   T.Pantelleresco  3.2 inn, 9 hits, 1 K, 4 BB, 1 HPB, 9 ER
C.Porter  1.1 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 1 ER
J.Bailey  1 inn, 1 hit, 2 Ks

ROUND 3
9/10 MAY
Lions inflict Brewers' first loss: Giants thrash Deakin

Thrashing Deakin by ten runs, Werribee Giants share top placing with Ballarat after Guild upset the Brewers in a thriller at Prince of Wales Reserve. Saints were far too strong for Bellarine, while Lara is just shy of the leading four after its comfortable win over Bacchus Marsh.

SAINTS 9 defeated BELLARINE 1
East Belmont Saints stretched their winning sequence to three with a comprehensive result over Bellarine Bears.

While it was tight enough in the early innings, Saints blew the game open with a five-run fourth dig on one hit, two errors and five walks as Bears’ starter Duane Davenport struggled for control. Although Josh Crotty applied the brakes with a decent stint over three innings for a solitary earned run, the Bears struggled for offensive output against Brad Egan and Dean Barker – both of whom posted impressive numbers.

Egan scattered six hits over five for one earned run, while Barker was back to something like his best, striking out six of the ten hitters he faced and conceding just the one hit – a last-gasp double to Josh Crotty, who was far and away the Bears’ best in complementing his pitching stint with three hits from a total of seven.

Brendan Twaddle (three hits and two RBIs) and Marcel Ernstzen (two and two) were serious contributors with the stick for Saints, who posted the same modest number of hits as the Bears – seven – but were gifted four unearned runs through walks and defensive lapses.

Now at one and four, Bellarine will be away to Werribee on Saturday, while Saints have a tough weekend in prospect with away games to Ballarat (Saturday) and Lara (Sunday), with Trevor Elliott likely to be out injured. Equal third with Guild at four and two, the Sainters will be aware how important even a split result will be at this stage.   

SAINTS:          2  0  0  5  0  2  0  0  (9)  2 errors
BELLARINE:  0  0  0  1  0  0  0  0  (1)  4 errors

Safe Hits.
Saints: M Ernstzen 2, B Twaddle 2, J Lee 1, A Kelly 1, D Barker 1
Bellarine: J Crotty 3, S Murry 1, W Visser 1, M Osborn 1, N Paul 1
RBIs.
Saints: B Twaddle 3, M Ernstzen 2, A Kelly 1, B Egan 1
Bellarine:          N Paul 1
Pitching.
Saints: 
B Egan  5 inn, 6 hits, 4 K, 2 BB/1 HPB, 1 ER
D Barker   3 inn, 1 hit, 6 K, 0 ER
Bellarine:         
D Davenport  5 inn, 3 hits, 4 K, 9 BB / 1 HPB, 4 ER
J Crotty  3 inn, 4 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 1 ER
 

WERRIBEE 11 defeated DEAKIN 1
Werribee shares top placing with the Brewers after dispensing with Deakin 11-1 in a result that says plenty – both about Werribee’s improvement in 2009 and Deakin’s youthful capacity to scatter a mediocre performance among some impressive outings. 

Although the pitchers held sway in the first two, the Giants went on a hitting spree that saw the game virtually over in the fourth innings with their lead at 7-1. 

Errorless in defence, Werribee was well served by starter Lindsay Webb (four hits for one run over five innings that produced just one walk), Jonathon Lowe and Craig Knight, who were miserly in relief. In all, the Giants gave up just five hits while posting fifteen of their own – with Harley Yochim, Lewis Weldon and John Curnow doing serious damage. 

Already looming as serious improver this season, Werribee faces an interesting double-header next weekend. Although – at full strength – the Giants should be confident against Bellarine on Saturday, they will be mindful of a Sunday sojourn in Ballarat that will deliver one of the clubs outright league leadership and possibly a psychological edge. 

Deakin will be looking to rebound against Guild Lions at the stadium on Sunday, with a win vital for the Blues to stay in touch with the leading group.  

WERRIBEE:                0 0 5 2 0 2 1 1   (11)  no errors
DEAKIN:                    0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0    (1)  2 errors

Safe Hits.
Werribee: H.Yochim 3, L.Weldon 3, J.Curnow 3, S.Riches 2, M.Smith, C.Knight, J.Lowe, A.Markovic
Deakin: T.Malthouse 2, D.Eales, N.Hinrichsen, N.Warren
RBIs.
Werribee: L.Weldon 3, J.Curnow 3, H.Yochim 2, S.Riches 2, C.Knight
Deakin: S.Malthouse
Pitching.
Werribee:
L.Webb  5 inn, 4 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 1 ER
J.Lowe  2 inn, 0 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER
C.Knight  1 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER
Deakin:
S.Talbot  3 inn, 8 hits, 4 Ks, 2 BB, 6 ER
G.Weir  1.2 inn, 3 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 1 ER
T.Malthouse  3.1 inn, 4 hits, 1 K, 3 BB, 4 ER


GUILD 3 defeated BALLARAT BREWERS 2
Guild Lions inflicted Ballarat's first loss for the season with a come-from-behind 3-2 win in a game dominated by the pitchers. 

Guild teenager Jack Smyth and Brewer Adam Irons restricted their opposition to one run each in quality starting stints that saw the game deadlocked 1-1 into the bottom of seven, when Leigh Ashmore tugged a single into leftfield to score Irons, who had walked and stolen second.

But the Lions were up to the task against Rory Meddick in relief, with Dean Jones and Ben Jensz singling, Cameron Lyons finding the righfield alley for the equaliser and Troy Snarey delivering the go-ahead on an infield hit.

Pat Moulton supported Smyth with a solid effort over five (for three hits), with the Brewers’ hits in the game all coming as singles. Meddick was uncharacteristically expensive for the Brewers in conceding six hits for two earned runs.  Lyons, Sekine, Landthaler and Jensz all posted multiples for the visitors, who share third placing with Saints and will front Deakin next Sunday. 

Ballarat meets Saints at Pioneer Park on Saturday before a home clash with the dangerous Werribee Giants. 

GUILD            0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0   (3)   1 error
BREWERS      0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0   (2)   2 errors

Safe Hits.
Guild: C.Lyons 2, H.Sekine 2, J.Landthaler 2, B.Jensz 2, T.Snarey, M.Miller
Brewers: J.Burrows, L.Ashmore, H.Burrows, R.Meddick, N.Baldwin, N.McKenzie
RBIs.
Guild: C.Lyons, D.Jones, T.Snarey
Brewers: M.Collins, L.Ashmore
Pitching.
Guild.
J.Smyth  4 inn, 3 hits, 0 Ks, 1 BB, 1 ER
P.Moulton  5 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
Brewers.
A.Irons  6 inn, 4 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 1 ER
R.Meddick  3 inn, 6 hits, 2 Ks, 2 ER

LARA defeated BACCHUS MARSH
Lara moved to three wins and two losses with a comfortable 9-4 win over Bacchus Marsh.

As has happened a number of times this season, the Marsh conceded one big innings that turned the game against them early. Although Cameron Forbes held the Tigers in his starting stint, Bacchus came back to score some late runs to stay in the contest.

In fifth placing, Lara faces a tough double-header next weekend, with a Saturday clash against Deakin followed by a Sunday date with reigning premier Saints. Still after its first win, Bacchus Marsh meets Guild at the stadium on Sunday.

ROUND 2
2/3 MAY
Brewers undefeated: Guild looking ominous: Barker back in action for Saints

In stark contrast to last weekend’s conditions, this round produced some quality games of baseball against a backdrop of sunny skies and gentle winds as clubs continued to assess each other’s prospects for 2009.

While the season is in its infancy, the A Grade "game of the round" may have foreshadowed the September action as the undefeated Ballarat Brewers downed Lara 5-4 in a game of fluctuating fortunes decided in the bottom of the last.

Guild smacked Bellarine 17-2 for the Bears' second heavy loss in a week.

East Belmont Saints took the points 8-7 over Werribee in a contest that saw the lead change several times. 

Deakin Blues posted an impressive 8-1 win over Bacchus Marsh, who are yet to open their winning account. 

The usually impeccable GBA "mail" was that Saints Manager Dean Barker would be absent from the mound for several weeks yet. But he made a brief cameo against Werribee on Saturday before backing up on Sunday for five scoreless innings in relief that led his side to a 6-3 result over an enthusiastic young Deakin outfit who took it right up to the reigning premier.

No good news for Bacchus Marsh supporters in the second of its double-header, as Guild scored eight in the first to set up a comprehensive 16-1 win that completes a percentage-boosting weekend for the Lions, who have moved to third placing.

While A Grade action is the focus of our weekly reporting, much is happening in the other grades. From this week, the plan is to run a Wednesday “GBA Talk” column that will report on playing, social and other happenings around the league, at all levels. Clubs are urged to contribute snippets of information, news gossip and images for inclusion. Email us.


BALLARAT BREWERS 5 defeated LARA WILDCATS 4  
For baseball aficionados, this was an absolute corker. It had just about everything - a great display by the league's premier throwers in Meddick and Forbes, quality defensive work, individual hitting heroics, some terrific small ball, strategic management, sustained pressure and a couple of crucial errors that turned the game one way, then the other.

Lara opened hostilities by plating a run in the first and forcing Meddick to throw a stack of pitches. With Forbes in control on the hill and Ross Wilson and youngster Jordan Young playing some great defence for the Wildcats, the home side took until the third to respond, when Ned Baldwin’s single up the middle scored Hamish Burrows, who had hit safely and advanced to second on his brother’s sac bunt.

The Brewers took the lead after Burrows (H) blasted a solo shot over the leftfield wall in the bottom of five, but Lara came back in the sixth on a Steve Wilson sac fly.

Both pitchers were relieved in the top of seven, with scores deadlocked at 2-2. Wringing the changes for his club, Clinton Lewis tried to manufacture a run after a Pruis lead-off single in the top of seven. But Adam Irons was up to the task to get out of the innings.

With Aaron Green on the hill for Lara, the Brewers challenged in the equaliser, plating the go-ahead run on another sacrifice fly – this time by Scott Kerr – and the Brewers were looking good. Even more so in the eighth, with two out and two runners on for Lara. But what should have been a routine fly ball at leftfield was muffed, turning into a two-run scoring triple for Aaron Green. And the Wildcats were back in the lead.

Stuart Forbes opened the equaliser with a spectacular fly ball at short-stop, but the Brewers were not done. Bennetts walked and the Brewers came up with an amazing sequence of chinkers, bleeders, duckfarts, Texas Leaguers – call them what you will. It's not how, but what happens in this game of ours. Ashmore's single equalled the scores. With Irons running home on a force play, the Lara catcher dropped the ball on a tough contact play and the game was over.

With some of the league's best pitchers on show, it was no surprise that this turned into a titanic struggle. Among other highlights were some terrific defence by both sides (counterbalanced by late errors that were costly to both clubs) and some stand-out hitting by Hamish Burrows (three hits and a home run RBI) and Scott Kerr for the Brewers, while Ben Hammer and Ross Wilson were ever-dangerous for Lara.

Lara will have what should be a fairly comfortable assignment at Mason’s Lane next Saturday, while Ballarat is at home to the free-scoring Guild in what will be a challenging game for both clubs.

LARA:              1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2   (4)   Errors 2
BALLARAT:   0 0 1 0 1 0 1 2   (5)   Errors 2

Safe Hits.
Lara: B.Hammer 2, R.Wilson, A.Green, P.Pruis
Ballarat: H.Burrows 3, S.Kerr 2, J.Burrows, N.Baldwin, D.Chetcuti, L.Ashmore
RBIs.
Lara: C.Forbes, S.Wilson
Ballarat: H.Burrows, S.Kerr, N.Baldwin, L.Ashmore
Pitching.
Lara.
C.Forbes  6 inn, 5 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 2 ER
A.Green  2 inn, 4 hits, 2 BB, 2 ER
Ballarat.
R.Meddick  6 inn, 4 hits, 5 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
A.Irons  2 inn. 1 hit, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER


GUILD LIONS 17 defeated BELLARINE BEARS 2
Amassing eighteen hits to seven, the Lions scored at will as Jack Smyth threw another impressive five innings for one earned run on five scattered hits.

The Lions were all over their opponents early, blasting four in the first and scooting to an insurmountable lead after five innings.

All up, the Lions hit safely eighteen times to seven, with a number of players feasting on a hitting smorgasbord against Simon Murry and former player Duane Davenport, who stuck to their task but were unable to stem the barrage from a Guild outfit that is bigger and stronger this year and will cause other clubs some offensive grief with their capacity to hit the ball hard – and often.

Smyth’s performance is quite extraordinary when one considers that he was playing in Guild’s lower grades in the 2008 season. Scattering five hits over six innings, he strangled the Bears’ hitters and is already proving himself an invaluable addition to the Lions’ senior roster.

Desperate for its second win in what is shaping as an even competition this season, Bellarine will be at home to Saints on Saturday. Guild makes the trek up the highway to take on the undefeated Ballarat Brewers in what should give Darc and company a realistic assessment of where they are at.

BELLARINE: 0 0 1 0 0 0 1    (2)   Errors 4
GUILD:            4 2 0 3 6 2 X  (17)   Errors 2

Safe Hits.
Bellarine: L. Hockey 2, W. Visser 1, M. Osborn, N. Paul 1, D. Davenport 1, D. Elliott 1.
Guild: R. Darcy 3, B. Jensz 3, P. Moulton 3, J. Landthaler 2, H. Sekine 2, C. Harper 2, D. Jones 1, C Lyons 1, M. Miller 1
RBIs.
Bellarine: L. Hockey 1.
Guild: D. Jones 3, B. Jensz 3, P. Moulton 3, M. Miller 2, H. Sekine 1, C. Harper 1, R.Darcy 1, C.Lyons 1
Pitching.
Bellarine.
S. Murry  4.1 inn,13  hits, 0 K, 3 BB, 9 ER.
D. Davenport 1.2 inn, 5 hits,1 K, 0 BB, 2 ER.
Guild.
J. Smyth  6 inn, 5 hits, 2 Ks, 3 BB 1 ER.
B. Jensz 1 inn, 2 hits, 0 K, 1 BB 0 ER


SAINTS 8 defeated WERRIBEE 7
The difference in this game was the consistency of the pitching. While big rightie Brad Egan was terrific for the Sainters, free passes hurt the Giants at crucial points in the game.

Although Egan conceded nine hits over his seven innings stint, he issued just a solitary pass – although the Giants put together a big fifth innings that yielded four runs. But as the old adage goes, “You cannot defend against walks”. And thus it was, as starter Lindsay Webb issued nine of them – along with a HPB – that in the end gifted a string of runs to a Saints club that in fact earned just one of their total of eight.

Harley Yochim and Lewis Weldon were dangerous with the stick for the Giants, while Marcel Ernstzen had a day out for Saints, batting a thousand on his three hits and two passes. Having a great follow-up game against Deakin on Sunday - including a circus catch at shortstop - Ernstzen proved just how important he is to a proud Saints club shooting for two straight flags. 

WERRIBEE:    0 0 0 0 4 0 1 2   (7)  Errors 3
SAINTS:          2 0 0 0 6 0 0 X  (8)  Errors 3

Safe Hits.
Saints: M.Ernstzen 3, L.Poulter, A.Kelly, C.Rickard, A.Mathieson
Werribee: H.Yochim 2, L.Weldon 2, L.Webb 2, M.Smith, J.Lowe, M.Collins
RBIs.
Saints: T.Elliott, J.Lee, M.Ernstzen, L.Poulter, A.Kelly, B.Twaddle, A.Mathieson, A.Hoe
Pitching.
Saints.
B.Egan  7.1 inn, 9 hits, 7 Ks, 1 BB, 1 ER
D.Barker  0.2, 0 hits, 1 K, 1 BB
Werribee.
L.Webb  4.1 inn, 4 hits, 3 Ks, 9 BB, 1 HPB, 0 ER
J.Curnow  2 inn. 3 hits, 3 Ks, 1 BB


SAINTS 6 defeated DEAKIN 3
In the second of the weekend double-header for both clubs, Saints outstayed Deakin Blues in a quality game of baseball.

Saints jumped on Deakin starter Griffen Weir, chasing him from the hill with the score at four zip and the prospect of an early finish. But Sean Talbot responded to the call with a solid outing over five innings that produced another two runs – manageable in the context of the game, especially given that each was tested for pitching depth after a Saturday game.

Talbot was one of Deakin’s more productive hitters as they came back with three runs that drove unlikely starter Adam Mathieson from the mound. In relief, Manager Dean Barker did what he had to do in a scoreless stint that scattered four hits when the Blues were looking dangerous. 

Saints iced the game with two more in the sixth, Trevor Elliott and Leigh Poulter providing some serious offensive grunt for the home side.

With three hits, slightly-built Kurt Wilson was a stand-out for Deakin, whose average age is something in the order of seventeen or eighteen years. If they can stay together and continue to play together under the tutelage of the astute Craig Malthouse, this club can really be something in months and years to come.

Now fourth – at three and two – Saints will be confident of their chances against Bellarine next week, while Deakin faces another tough one against Werribee – although the Giants will be without Daryl George (on Victorian Schoolboy duties).

SAINTS:          2 2 0 0 0 2 0 X   (6)   Errors 2
DEAKIN:        0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0   (3)   Errors 0

Safe Hits.
Saints: T.Elliott 3, L.Poulter 2, B.Twaddle 2, M.Ernstzen, C.Rickard, G.Carter, A.Hoe, D.Barker
Deakin: K.Wilson 3, T.Malthouse, D.Hinrichsen, S.Talbot, S.Gibbons
RBIs.
Saints: T.Elliott 2, L.Poulter, C.Rickard
Deakin: D.Eales, T.Malthouse
Pitching.
Saints.
A.Mathieson  3 inn, 3 hits, 2 Ks, 5 BB, 2 ER
D.Barker  5 inn, 4 hits, 4 Ks, 2 BB, 0ER
Deakin.
G.Weir  1.1 inn, 6 hits, 0 K, 1 BB, 4 ER
S.Talbot  5.2 inn, 6 hits, 4 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER

GUILD 16 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 1

No good news for Bacchus Marsh supporters in the second of its double-header, as Guild smacked eight in the first to set up a comprehensive 16-1 win that completes a percentage-boosting weekend for the Lions, who have moved to third placing.

With pitching depth going to be an issue for the Tigers, Guild posted sixteen hits for sixteen RBIs in a strong offensive performance, while Pat Moulton was sharp over a hit-out that scattered half a dozen hits for the sole run.

Bacchus Marsh plays host to Lara in what will be another tough assignment next Saturday, while Guild make the trek to Ballarat to take on the undefeated Brewers in what should be a ripper.

Full details not available.

DEAKIN 8 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 1
Although going down to Saints on Sunday, Deakin split their weekend double-header after a clear-cut win over Bacchus Marsh on Saturday that keeps them well within range of the leading group. 

Struggling to score runs thus far, Bacchus did not really come to terms with Deakin starter Scot Malthouse, who was well in control over five despite tiring and conceding a run in the top of six. In relief, Wade Balzer gave nothing away, with Brad Jones the Tigers’ only multiple – posting two of his side’s four hits. 

Evergreen John Choppa Pate continues to give the Marsh players some guidance along with manager Chad Galloway and the experienced Mick Vanstan, all of whom can expect improvement from their young players as the season progresses and the club rebuilds. 

While Trent Pantelleresco went the distance for the Marsh, he conceded nine passes that were damaging for his side and bloated the scoreline somewhat from where it might have been.

DEAKIN:                    3 0 2 2 1 0 0   (8)  Errors 0
BACCHUS MARSH:  0 0 0 0 0 1 0   (1)  Errors 2  

Safe Hits.
Deakin: D.Eales 2, T.Malthouse 2, J.Harper 2, N.Hinrichsen, S.Malthouse, K.Wilson
Bacchus Marsh: B.Jones 2, J.Pate, J.Bailey
RBIs.
Deakin: D.Eales, T.Malthouse, J.Harper
Bacchus Marsh: J.Pate 
Pitching.
Deakin.
S.Malthouse  5.2 inn, 4 hits, 5 Ks, 3 BB, 1 WP, 1 ER
W.Balzer  1.1 inn, 0 hits, 3 Ks, 0 BB, 2 HPB
Bacchus Marsh.
Trent Patelleresco  7 inn, 9 hits, 9 BB, 2 HPB,1 WP, 5 ER    

ROUND 1

25/26 APRIL
Lara flexes muscle: Guild downs Saints: Brewers and Giants undefeated

While it is always a day of peace and enduring respect for our fallen servicemen and women, it was a case of "take no prisoners" as Lara belted Bellarine on a bleak Anzac Day of winter baseball.

Werribee continued its promising start to the season with an all-the-way 5-1 result over Bacchus Marsh after a quality game of baseball that produced surprisingly good pitching in bitterly cold conditions.

Reigning premier Saints incurred its second successive loss in going down 11-3 to a Guild club coming off two losses in its opening round double-header.  

In atrocious conditions at home, Ballarat Brewers took the honours 5-2 over Deakin, who looked threatening after Sean Talbot's two-run bomb off Rory Meddick in the top of four of a rain-affected clash.


LARA 16 defeated BELLARINE 1
While it is still early days, Lara Wildcats are making a mockery of some of the pre-season assessments that projected a lean year for the club – even after three consecutive pennants and a one-run loss in last year’s Grand Final.

Sure, the Bears made a string of fundamental errors that gifted a few unearned runs, but it was the clinical manner in which Lara went about this win that will have the pundits sitting up and taking notice.

Playing errorless baseball, the Wildcats smacked seventeen hits off a Bears’ pitching staff that was unable to stem the flow. Starter Duane Davenport was put to the sword big-time before he was relieved after conceding eight runs on ten hits in the early innings.

In all, the Bears pitchers could manage just one strike out for the game – Ben Hammer. While that would usually be regarded as a pretty decent scalp, the explosive Hammer also hit safely three times to collect four RBIs for his side.

He received great offensive support from (winning pitcher) Cameron Forbes (three hits and three RBIs), Ross Wilson (four hits and an RBI), Stuart Forbes (three hits) and Stephen Wilson (two and three). The first five Lara hitters in the order amassed fifteen hits in a stunning display of clean hitting.

By contrast, the Bears’ hits were scattered, with no more than one in any innings except the fifth – when they strung together a couple to score their sole run.

In another dominant all-round performance, Cameron Forbes threw a scoreless first four for four hits and half a dozen strikeouts. His relief in Jason Lester was not too shabby either, going three digs for one earned run on four hits.

All with two hits, Brad McKentish, Lyndon Hockey and Matt Osborn were best in offence for the Bears, who committed an embarrassing seven fielding errors in what was – for them – a forgettable game.

Lara makes the trek to Ballarat for next week’s match of the round, while Bellarine faces Guild at the Geelong Baseball centre. With Guild slated for a double-header (Sunday against) Bacchus Marsh, Bellarine may fancy its chances should the Lions go in at less than full strength.

LARA              4  2  1  3  3  3  0  (16) errors 0
BELLARINE  0  0  0  0  1  0  0  (1)  errors 7
Safe Hits.
Lara: R.Wilson 4, S.Forbes 3, B.Hammer 3, C.Forbes 3, S.Wilson 2, L.Arandt, J.Camov
Bellarine: B.McKentish 2, L.Hockey 2, M.Osborn 2, S.Murry, S.Martin
RBIs.
Lara: B.Hammer 4, C.Forbes 3, S.Wilson 3, P.Pruis 2, R.Wilson, L.Arandt, J.Young
Pitching.
Lara.
C.Forbes  4 inn, 4 hits, 6 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
J.Lester  3 inn, 4 hits, 3 Ks, 1 ER
Bellarine.
D Davenport  4 inn, 10 hits, 1 K, 2 BB, 8 ER
M.Osborn  2 inn, 6 hits, 1 BB, 4 ER
J Crotty  1 inn, 1 hit

BALLARAT BREWERS 5 defeated DEAKIN BLUES 2
The Brewers maintained their unbeaten record with a narrow win over Deakin in atrocious weather conditions at Prince of Wales Reserve.

With a blustery breeze and rain causing interruptions to play, conditions were tough for pitchers and defence, while hitters were made potentially vulnerable by poor light and distracting artificial lighting coming from the adjoining hockey field.

But that’s winter baseball, folks. And both sides adjusted pretty well in a game that produced some decent defensive work from both clubs.

Ballarat established an early 3-0 break as Adam Irons doubled in the bottom of the second – to score two - and the Brewers took advantage of some scrappy Deakin field throwing.

But Blues starter Sean Talbot replied with a controversial two-run shot over the rightfield wall – in the top of four - to keep his side in the game. Brewers supporters – and even a couple of fielders – remonstrated that the ball had gone foul. But seriously, no-one could conclusively be sure – in the fluky light – and the records will show, in years to come, that the umpires conclusively “got it right”.

Having conceded the two runs, Rory Meddick settled back into his work for the Brewers as his side plated another two in the bottom of four, with rain and light causing the game to be mercifully called in the bottom of the fifth.

Aside from his pitching stint, Meddick picked up two hits, along with Matt Collins (with an RBI). While Talbot did the only scoring damage for the Blues, Sam Gibbons picked up two knocks for a young Deakin side that should be well among the action this season.

The Brewers will host Lara Wildcats in a blockbuster next Saturday, while Deakin travel to Bacchus Marsh confident of a big win over the struggling Tigers before they front up to Saints on the Sunday. 

DEAKIN         0 0 0 2 0   (2)   error 1
BALLARAT    0 3 0 2 X  (5)   error 1
Safe Hits.
Deakin: S.Gibbons 2, T.Malthouse, S.Talbot (HR)
Ballarat: R.Meddick 2, M.Collins 2, J.Burrows, A.Irons, D.Chetcuti
RBIs.
Deakin: S.Talbot 2
Ballarat: A.Irons 2, M.Collins
Pitching.
Deakin.
S.Talbot  4 inn, 5 hits, 5 Ks, 3 BB, 4 ER
G.Weir  0.2, 2 hits
Ballarat.
R.Meddick  5 inn, 4 hits, 6 Ks, 4 BB, 2 ER

WERRIBEE 5 defeated BACCHUS MARSH 1
Werribee is undefeated in three games after wearing down Bacchus Marsh in a quality game of baseball in the conditions.

Although holding a four zip lead after three, the Giants were unable to put the Tigers away as James Bailey stuck to his guns over six and his club played errorless defence in support. Manager Chad Galloway was superb in closing for the Marsh, who were not able to put enough together with the stick.

In a game dominated by the pitchers, Lindsay Webb kept the clamps right on his former club to the tune of three scattered hits for a series of donuts. Darryl George finished the job, with the Marsh plating its only run compliments of a Werribee error.

All up, the two clubs posted just eleven hits. Craig Knight’s two (with two RBIs) were decisive for the Giants, Harley Jochim (two hits) and Jonathon Lowe were dangerous, while the Tigers’ hits were all singles.

By any measure, a far improved showing from Bacchus Marsh, who copped a couple of pastings in the Opening Round and will be keen to open their account against Deakin next Saturday. Their Sunday clash against Guild should be interesting, with both clubs struggling for pitching depth.

At three and three, Werribee will be confident against reigning premier Saints, who have lost a couple and are relying heavily on Brad Egan to shoulder the pitching burden.

WERRIBEE   1 2 1 0 0 0 1 0   (5)   errors 2
BACCHUS MARSH 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 X   (1)   errors 0 
Safe Hits.
Werribee: H.Yochim 2, C.Knight 2, L.Weldon, J.Lowe
Bacchus Marsh: M.Vanston, C.Dugan, S.Hornstra, J.Bailey, A.Wallace 
RBIs.
Werribee: C.Knight 2, J.Lowe, L.Webb 
Bacchus Marsh: nil
Pitching.
Werribee.
L.Webb  6 inn, 3 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB
D.George  1 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 2 BB
Bacchus Marsh.
J.Bailey 6 inn, 6 hits, 4 Ks, 4 BB, 4 ER
C.Galloway  2 inn, 2 hits, 0 Ks, 1 BB, 1 ER

GUILD 11 defeated SAINTS 3

Although the final result was clear cut, there was nothing in this game for five innings that had the scores deadlocked at 3-3. It came down - in the end - to Guild taking advantage of some wayward relief pitching and timely hitting in a decisive last innings that produced seven runs.

Saints starter Brad Egan and Guild youngster Jack Smyth were terrific for their respective sides – Smyth conceding just a sole earned run over four (three hits and five passes) and Egan his usual honest self over five innings for two runs and just one walk in less than ideal pitching conditions.

But whereas Guild had the relative luxury of going to ace Pat Moulton to finish out the game, Saints went with part-timer Ashley Hoe – who negotiated the sixth with minimal damage but landed in serious strife as Saints got the defensive staggers in the top of seven. Issuing three passes, a HPB and a hit, Hoe was put under the pump by a Guild offence that drew a series of errors in a match-breaking last innings.

Returning to his former club, Adrian Kelly finished the job for Saints, who have played two disappointing games after a great first-up outing last Saturday.

With eleven hits to six, Guild set up numerous scoring opportunities. Ryan Darcy and Jason Landthaler were productive for the Lions with five hits and five RBIs between them, while Cameron Harper chimed in with two and one. Chris Rickard (a hit and a couple of RBIs) and Leigh Poulter (two and one) were the best contributors in an otherwise subdued Saints offence.

Both clubs are one and two and both face important double-headers next weekend. Guild seems to have the easier assignment, with home games against Bellarine (Saturday) and Bacchus Marsh (Sunday), while the reigning premier – at home - faces two of the league improvers in Werribee (Saturday) and Deakin (Sunday).

GUILD            0 0 0 2 1 1 7   (11)  errors 2
SAINTS          1 0 1 0 1 0 0    (3)   errors 4
Safe Hits.
Guild: R.Darcy 3, J.Landthaler 2, C.Harper 2, H.Sekine, B.Jensz, C.Lyons,T.Snarey
Saints: L.Poulter 2, A.Kelly, C.Rickard, B.Twaddle, C.Alldis
RBIs.
Guild: J.Landthaler 3, R.Darcy 2, D.Jones, T.Snarey, P.Moulton, C.Harper
Saints: C.Rickard 2, L.Poulter
Pitching.
Guild.
J.Smyth  4 inn, 3 hits, 3 Ks, 5 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER
P.Moulton  3 inn, 3 hits, 5 Ks, 2 BB
Saints.
B.Egan  5 inn, 7 hits, 4 Ks, 1 BB, 2 ER
A.Hoe  1.1 inn, 1 hit, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 4 ER 
A.Kelly  0.2 inn, 3 hits

OPENING ROUND (A Grade double-headers)
18/19 APRIL
Brewers deliver Opening Round message: Werribee wins both
Still smarting from their early exit in last year's finals series, Ballarat Brewers made an emphatic statement on Opening Day of the 2009 season. After dispensing with an undermanned Bacchus Marsh 15-2 in the fisrt of their double-header, they went on to crush a fumble-fingered Saints - last year's premier - to the tune of a 17-1 shellacking. Saints had earlier belted Bellarine 12-2, the Bears going on to atone 12-6 against Bacchus Marsh in the afternoon game.

Reports from the Brewers/Bacchus and Brewers/Saints games are not yet available.

Hostilities continued on a beautiful autumn Sunday, with Deakin rolling Lara 9-4 after going down to Werribee 6-4 in the morning. Lara's comfortable win over Guild (9-3) split its results for the day, while Guild was winless from two. The Lions led the Giants 5-0 into the bottom of the last, when Werribee scrambled back to 3-5, loaded the bases and set it up for Preston Yochim - who delivered with a booming double that scored all three.

BALLARAT BREWERS 15
BACCHUS MARSH 2

BALLARAT BREWERS 17
SAINTS 1

DEAKIN          3 1 0 0 0 5 0   (9)   2 errors
LARA               0 0 3 0 0 1 0   (4)   2 errors

With some impressive names joining the club, Deakin Blues made it clear - in both games - that they will be seriously competitive in 2009. After incurring a narrow loss against Lara Wildcats, the Blues jumped Lara early for a four zip lead before the Wildcats hit back in the third.

Young Griffen Weir was steady over a starting stint that yielded just a solitary earned run, while Sean Talbot closed out the game with three innings when Lara threatened to hit back. The game was decided in the sixth, when the Blues collared a tiring Aaron Green. 

Talbot led the way for his club with three RBIs, Jacob Harper and Nathan Warren were dangerous as Deakin amassed ten hits to six, the Wildcats' best being Camov and Hammer.

Safe Hits.
Deakin: J.Harper 2, N.Warren 2, D.Eales, T.Malthouse, S.Malthouse, S.Talbot, K.Wilson, S.Gibbons
Lara: J.Camov 2, S.Forbes, B.Hammer, C.Forbes, A.Green

RBIs.
Deakin: S.Talbot 3, J.Harper 2, D.Eales, S.Malthouse, N.Warren

Pitching.
Deakin.
G.Weir 2 inn, 1 hit, 0 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER
C.Malthouse 0.2 inn, 0 hits, 0 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER
T.Kerr-Chapman 1.1 inn, 1 hit, 1 K2, 2 BB, 0 ER
S.Talbot 3 inn, 4 hits, 5 Ks, 2 BB, 1 ER
Lara.
A.Green 6 inn, 10 hits, 2 BB, 1 HPB, 6 ER
R.Wilson 1 inn, 0 hits, 1 K2, 1 BB, 0 ER

WERRIBEE    0 0 0 2 2 2 0 0 2   (6)   3 errors
DEAKIN          1 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0   (4)   2 errors

Werribee and Deakin fought out a pitcher-dominated affair in their first outing of the new season, although neither side was helped by some costly defensive errors.

Well held early, the Giants hit back with six runs in the middle innings to establish a break that turned out to be enough, even though the Blues fought back valiantly. Returning to the club, Preston Yochim was terrific in offence with two hits and an RBI for the Giants, Craig Knight and Lewis Weldon showed some offensive spark, while Troy Malthouse and Scott Malthouse dominated the Deakin stats with five of their side's eight hits.

Werribee rotated its pitching guns astutely, with Curnow going five, Daryl George being miserly in the middle and Lowe doing a typically effectively job at the end.

Safe Hits.
Werribee: P.Yochim 2, C.Knight 2, A.Copland, J.Lowe, D.George
Deakin: T.Malthouse 3, S.Malthouse 2, N.Warren, S.Talbot, K.Wilson
RBIs.
Werribee: L.Weldon 2, C.Knight 2, P.Yochim 1
Deakin: S.Malthouse, S.Talbot
Pitching.
Werribee.
J.Curnow 5 inn, 5 hits, 2 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 3 ER
D.George 2.1 inn, 2 hits, 5 Ks, 0 ER
J.Lowe 1.2 inn, 1 hit, 1 K, 1 BB, 0 ER

GUILD            1 0 0 0 0 1 2 1   (5)   0 errors
WERRIBEE    0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6   (6)   4 errors

The Lions had this one well and truly wrapped up - or so it seemed.

With youngster Jack Smyth doing a solid job over five and Stuart Barnes not being hurt in a one innings cameo, Guild had the clamps well and truly on the Werribee Giants until a tumultuous last innings that literally "came from nowhere". Using Cameron Lyons in an effort to mop up at the end - with a 5-0 lead - the Guild hierarchy found it all coming well and truly unstuck as the Giants bats came out to play. 

Taking advantage of a pass and a couple of HPBs, Werribee scrambled three runs and then loaded the bases with one out - setting it up for Preston Yochim to blast a double that cleared the bases and delivered an unlikely win to the Giants, who are undefeated after their first two games.

The Giants made a series of early errors, but their offence was pretty impressive in posting fifteen hits to ten and raising some early questions about the Guild pitching depth without Mitch Miller yet able to play a role.

Conceding a sole earned run, Werribee starter Lindsay Webb did a terrific job for his side, who are shaping as a distinct improver for the 2009 season.  

Safe Hits.
Werribee: P.Yochim 3, H.Yochim 2, M.Collins 2, J.Lowe 2, M.Smith 2, L.Weldon, L.Appledorf, C.Knight, D.George
Guild: J.Landthaler 2, C.Harper 2, M.Miller, D.Jones, B.Jensz, C.Lyons, P.Moulton, L.Harty
RBIs.
Werribee: P.Yochim 3, H.Yochim, M.Smith
Guild: D.Jones, P.Moulton
Pitching.
Werribee.
L.Webb 7 inn, 7 hits, 8 Ks, 3 BB, 1 HPB, 1 ER
C.Knight 1 inn, 3 hits, 0 Ks, 1 ER
Guild.
J.Smyth 5 inn, 8 hits, 2 Ks, 2 BB, 0 ER
S.Barnes 1 inn, 3 hits, 0 ER
C.Lyons 1 inn, 4 hits, 1 BB, 2 HPB, 6 ER

SAINTS           3 0 1 2 2 0 4   (12)   0 errors
BELLARINE   2 0 0 0 0 0 0   (2)   2 errors

The reigning premier started its 2009 campaign in fine style by crushing Bellarine in a game that was wrapped up in seven.

Fresh from a summer off, Brad Egan was right on the money to hold a dangerous Bears offence in scattering five hits over six innings, Adam O'Keefe (with two hits) being the best for the Bellarine outfit. By contrast, Saints hit safely seventeen times, highlighted by four knocks to Marcel Ernstzen and a number of multiples. With a massive moonshot, Lee Poulter was responsible for four of the Saints' RBIs.

Transferring over from Guild, Duane Davenport was steady enough for the Bears, but in the end he and Matt Osborn were unable to stem the offensive assault that was unfortunately for Saints not replicated against Ballarat Brewers later in the day.

Safe Hits.
Saints: M.Ernstzen 4, T.Elliot 2, J.Lee 2, L.Poulter 2 (inc HR), C.Rickard 2, B.Twaddle 2, A.Matheson 2, A.Hoe
Bellarine: A.O’Keefe 2, B.McKentish, S.Murry, D.Visser
RBIs.
Saints: L.Poulter 4, M.Ernstzen 2, T.Elliot, C.Rickard, A.Matheson, G.Carter
Pitching.
Saints.
B.Egan 6 inn, 5 hits, 7 Ks, 3 BB, 2 ER
A.Hoe 1 inn, I K
Bellarine.
D.Davenport 4 inn, 10 hits, 3 Ks, 5 BB, 5 ER
M.Osborn 3 inn, 7 hits, 1 K, 3 BB, 5 ER

BELLARINE   3 1 1 0 3 3 1   (12)   2 errors
BACCHUS MARSH   0 3 1 0 2 0 0   (6)   3 errors

With both clubs losing their first game of the day by a decent margin, there was a bit riding on this clash - with Bacchus Marsh suffering a number of player losses and the Bears seeking to consolidate thier position in the league after some competitive outings last season.

Both sides scored freely in the early innings. With Bellarine leading 8-6 after the fifth, the game was clearly up for grabs. But it was the Bears who were able to take the scoring initiative to plate another three in the sixth to set up a comfortable win.

Bellarine's Brad McKentish completed a superb day with the bat with another four hits (and two RBIs), while Josh Crotty posted three knocks from his side's total of sixteen. Returning to the Marsh this season, Mick Vanston hit the ball hard and long - suggesting that he will be a key factor in the club rebuilding phase.

Manager Simon Murry took the bit between his teeth in throwing an effective six innings for the Bears, while James Bailey and Shannon Hornstra were dealt with quite severely by a Bears' offence that will have a capacity to score runs against all comers this season.

Versatile Adam O'Keefe suffered an unfortunate hamstring injury that might see him missing from the Bears' lineup for a couple of weeks.

Safe Hits.
Bellarine: B.McKentish 4, J.Crotty 3, W.Visser 2, A.O’Keefe 2, S.Osborn 2, S.Murry, L.Hockey, S.Martin
Bacchus Marsh: M.Vanston 3, C.Porter, S.Kugele, C.Galloway, J.Pate, J.Bailey, C.Dugan, H.Ryan, T.Pantaleresco
RBIs.
Bellarine: B.McKentish 2, J.Crotty 2, S.Murry, W.Visser, A.O’Keefe, L.Hockey, S.Osborn, N.Paul, M.Price
Pitching.
Bellarine.
S.Murry 6 inn, 10 hits, 8 Ks, 2 BB, 6 ER
J.Crotty 1 inn, 1 hit
Bacchus Marsh.
J.Bailey 4.2 inn, 10 hits, 4 Ks, 4 BB, 6 ER
S.Hornstra 2.1 inn, 6 hits, 3 Ks, 2 BB, 3 ER

GUILD              0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0    (3)   5 errors
LARA               0 4 0 2 0 1 0 2    (9)   4 errors

Lara was far too strong for Guild, with Cameron Forbes delivering a consummate outing on the hill for the Wildcats.

While the Wildcats out-hit the Lions only marginally - ten to seven - they were able to take advantage of some fielding lapses in a game that did not reach great defensive heights, with nine errors being committed between the two teams.

Forbes and reliever Jason Lester did what they needed to do, but the Wildcats were helped out big time by the offensive contributions of Ben Hammer (three hits and two RBIs), Stephen Wilson (three hits and two RBIs), Aaron Green (two and two) and Cameron Forbes (two and one). Ben Jensz was dangerous for Guild, while Ryan Stewart's two hits were a promising early sign for a player returning to the club after a break.

Safe Hits.
Guild: B.Jensz 2, R.Stewart 2, J.Landthaler, T.Snarey, C.Harper
Lara: B.Hammer 3, S.Wilson 3, C.Forbes 2, A.Green 2
RBIs.
Lara: B.Hammer 2, S.Wilson 2, A.Green 2, S.Forbes, C.Forbes, P.Pruis, J.Young
Pitching.
Guild.
P.Moulton 4 inn, 6 hits, 2 Ks, 5 BB, 1 HPB, 5 ER
K.Murrells 4 inn, 5 hits, 1 K, 1 BB, 3 ER
Lara.
C.Forbes 5 inn, 5 hits, 5 Ks, 1 BB, 1 HPB, 2 ER
J.Lester 3 inn, 3 hits, 3 Ks, 1 BB, 0 ER




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"Baseball is dull only to dull minds"
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