Geraldton softball grand final preview: Suiside look to extend their title run while Rams aim for redemption

It’s grand final time in the Geraldton Softball League, with all divisions vying for the coveted prize over the weekend.

Suiside is into an impressive three finals, featuring divisions one and two for men, and division two for women, all making it through.

In the men’s division one final on Saturday evening, Dylan Percy’s team faces off against Rams, with recent performances suggesting it will be a fast-paced and hard-hitting match up.

Suiside displays strength across the diamond, with Cooper Jefferies, Liam Meharry, and Jy Thurstun standing out throughout the season.

Even in the absence of their star players, Suiside remains a formidable force, with Blade Jefferies, Jy Prosser, and Jaxen Meharry all performing well in recent games.

Rams boast MVP Dean Pascoe leading the charge, both on the mound and as helm, making them tough to beat.

Big hitters Paul Valenti and Shane Clark have the potential to change the game, but consistency across the entire team will be crucial to topple the Bulldogs and halt their quest for a fourth consecutive grand final victory.

In the men’s division two game on Saturday afternoon, Suiside takes on Blaze after Eli Etherton’s stand-out performance in the elimination final propelled Blaze forward.

Adam Gilchrist’s team promises to give Suiside a run for their money, but it will be a tall task to stop the reigning champions from securing another grand final victory.

In the women’s division one final on Saturday afternoon, Rams will take on Marlins after Les Purcell’s Marlins secured their spot by defeating Suiside in the elimination final last weekend.

Rams are the clear favourites after dominating most of the season. Dion Harrison’s squad faced a stumble or a falter towards the end of the league campaign but they managed to regain momentum with a couple of good wins.

Rams boast depth in their line-up, with Erin Dawson, Kate Harrison, Haylee Coker, Harmonie Narkle, and Stacey Derschow all in fantastic recent form.

Marlins, fresh off two impressive wins against Martians and Suiside, rely on the Purcell and Gould sisters but will need a strong supporting cast, including Jaimee Davies, Michaela Clarke, Tori Nicholson and Jade Newman, to push through.

In the women’s division two final, Suiside faces Marlins. The two teams are evenly matched, with only one point separating them on the season ladder.

Key players like Sharni Percy and Jenna Buston will be pivotal for Suiside, while Ava Gould and Michaela Clarke could swing the game for Marlins.

In the women’s division three final, Gunduwa takes on Blaze. While Gunduwa has performed admirably to reach the final in the club’s first season, Blaze’s strength and experience make them the favourites to win in style.