Youngsters’ game tested

THE Rockingham-Mandurah U17s won a tight game against competition leaders Wanneroo by just two runs at the weekend.

The game was played on consecutive days and tested how well the Mariners could play their cricket under pressure.

After being sent into bat on Saturday and stumbling at 6/51, the Mariners managed to make it to 9 for 130 off 55.

James Capener batted through the innings for 61 not out, adding 48 for the seventh wicket with Roy Crouch (30).

Although it appeared 130 was not enough to defeat the league leaders, the Mariners dug in and bowled Wanneroo out for 128, thanks to 4/26 from Lachlan Pratt and 3/13 from Kyle Gardiner.

Captain Michael Sharp’s runout when it looked like the game might slip away put the young Mariners in control.

The U15s bounced back from their first loss in the previous round to send Wanneroo all out for 176.

Aaron Burrage (71) and Matt Edwards (70) laid the foundation for their imposing total of 233.

In reply, the Wanneroo batsmen appeared to be cruising at 1/115, but a devastating spell by the Mariners’ bowlers saw any hopes of Wanneroo taking the points soon extinguished.

Burrage (4/28) and three wickets each from Adam Hankin and Jake Eardley-Wilmot sealed the win.