Mariners put Uni to the sword

A century stand between captain Sam Whiteman and in-form all-rounder Craig Simmons guided Rockingham-Mandurah to a convincing win over University in last weekend’s First Grade cricket fixture at Lark Hill.

Chasing University’s 185, Whiteman and Simmons were in devastating touch as they combined for a 161-run partnership for the third wicket.

Simmons hit two sixes and 10 fours on his way to 107, while Whiteman fell agonisingly short of a century in a 96-run knock which included 14 boundaries.

An unbeaten 22-run cameo from Brendan Diamanti helped the Mariners post an imposing 275 from 83 overs.

In reply, University faced seven overs late in the day and eventually finished at 1-38, with Ryan Done snaring opener Mark Penter for 26.

The result lifts Rockingham-Mandurah to the top of the First Grade competition with two wins from as many matches.

The Mariners’ Second Grade side showed plenty of resistance but were unable to chase down a big total in a 56-run loss to University.

Resuming at 4-37 in pursuit of 281, Tyron Miley (42) got his eye in early to pull the Mariners back into the match.

However, it was an unbeaten 93-run knock by 17-year-old Jack Ward which proved the highlight on an otherwise difficult afternoon for Rockingham-Mandurah.

Showing composure and technique beyond his years, Ward stood firm as the wickets fell around him and helped his side post a respectable 225.

Rockingham-Mandurah’s Third Grade side also faced an uphill battle on day two after resuming at 2-26 chasing 211.

A solid fourth-wicket partnership between Danny Woollard (60) and John Murphy (37) took the Mariners to 3-103 before a middle-order collapse ended any hopes of victory.

They were eventually bowled out for 119.

There was more pain in store for the Mariners’ attack as University raced to 1-151 in their second innings.

Michael Chappel smashed 89 to see the Mariners to a comfortable win in the corresponding Fourth Grade fixture.

Needing just 80 heading into the second day, Chappel ensured there were no hiccups for the Mariners, while a half century from Sid Menezes lifted the side to 5-198 declared.