Cudgen secures decade of dominance

CUDGEN has secured its 10th major title after defeating Goonellabah Workers Sports in the Far North Coast LJ Hooker League grand final.

The Hornets claimed back-to-back premierships with an 83-run win in a rain-affected 30-over final at Reg Dalton Oval, Kingscliff.

Caleb Ziebell starred with 80 runs as Cudgen posted 170 before taking three wickets to help bowl Goonellabah out for 87.

“Maintaining that level of success for so long is obviously a testament to a lot of people who do a lot of work around the club,” captain Alec Williams said.

“Counting the pandemic year, we’ve now won 10 major titles in about 13 years, which is a huge effort from everyone involved.

“It’s more of a club thing really, the people who run the club have done such an awesome job building that culture and making people want to play.”

Williams said getting key Goonellabah batter Jack Cooper early was crucial.

“The last time we played them he made 140 off 60 balls, so getting him early was important,” he said.

While the playing group has changed significantly in recent years, Williams said strong club culture had underpinned continued success.

“We’re all good mates; we spend a lot of time together and love our Saturdays, that’s a big part of it and there’s no selfishness at the club.”