Geraldton softball round 17 and finals: Action-packed games firm up pointy end of season

Suiside have slided their way into three grand finals — men’s division one and men’s and women’s division two — as clubs used the pointy end of the season to fine-tune tactics and build momentum.

The Geraldton softball season entered its final rounds last week, with all teams participating in either the initial round of finals or their last league matches.

In men’s division one, the Rams faced off against Blaze in a gripping match on Saturday afternoon that went into three tie-breakers, ultimately resulting in the Rams emerging as victors with a score of 12-9.

Later on Saturday, Suiside continued their impressive form, securing a 6-1 victory over Martians, with the return of “Red” Valenti to the Martians side not altering the outcome.

“The team is feeling great and we’re really happy with the way we finished off the regular season,” Suiside coach Dylan Percy said.

“Our fielding was on point and allowed us to hold the lead all game from a strong hitting Martians side. Our batting was good for the most part but shaky in others, so we will continue to practice.”

Suiside claimed top spot on the ladder and now await the winner of the Rams versus Martians playoff next week to determine their opponent in the grand final in two weeks.

In women’s division one, both games were played under the floodlights in windy conditions on Saturday evening. Suiside made a comeback from a 4-1 deficit to win the elimination final against Martians.

Charli Bidwell played superbly for the victors, making several catches in the outfield and contributing hits at bat.

Suiside player Priscilla Rodd highlighted the team’s depth going into the finals, praising the over 50s players in A grade — Rowena Randall and Susan Mundy — for their inspirational performances.

“These two are an inspiration especially for our younger superstars coming through.”

Mundy, who scored the winning run for Suiside, also praised the team spirit, emphasising the never-give-up attitude.

Suiside will now face Marlins in the final elimination before the grand final in two weeks.

Rams maintained their winning streak with a victory in the qualifying final, defeating Marlins 11-1 and securing their grand final spot in a fortnight.

“Stacey Dershow, Kate Harrison, Kristi March and Harmonie Narkle were stand-outs, but a real team effort, girls are excited to have the chance to go back-to-back,” Rams coach Dion Harrison said.

While Marlins showed promise in the early innings, Rams took control with outstanding pitching by Derschow and exceptional at-bats by the entire team, including a home run by the in-form Narkle.

In men’s division two on Friday, Rams faced Martians Black in the elimination final, winning convincingly 7-1. Pitcher Leon Chapman performed well for Rams and Tristan Reed contributed with numerous hits.

Rams are set to take on Blaze in what promises to be a high-scoring affair next week.

Suiside secured a solid win against Blaze in the qualifying final, 5-0. Pitcher Kane Jefferies hit a double to left field, earning a run batted in to get his brother Levi Jefferies across the plate.

In women’s division two, teams played their final ladder games before the finals. Suiside faced Martians and Pi’s went up against Marlins.

Suiside suffered a loss, falling 14-19, but managed to secure top spot in the ladder. Marlins had a good win against Pi’s, claiming victory, 17-7. Marlins finish second on the ladder and will face off against Pi’s.

In division three games, Gunduwa continued their good form with a 16-11 win over Rams, while Blaze solidified their top ladder spot with an 11-6 win over Martians. Blaze stands as clear favourites with 14 wins and only one loss this season.