Geelong City, Barwon Heads chase debut flag

BOTH teams will be chasing top-grade premiership glory for the first time when Geelong City and Barwon Heads meet in the Geelong Cricket Association women’s grand final this Sunday, March 9.

Due to their round 11 clash being cancelled, they have only faced each other once this season, when the Sharks’ faster scoring rate prevailed in round four.

Both teams acknowledged the unknown as they expressed their excitement for the 30-over contest at South Barwon Reserve.

Geelong City captain Mary Rolfe is leading a side that just defended 100 runs against a gallant Lethbridge that made 92.

“No one gave up, everyone just kept staying calm, not letting wickets or runs from Lethbridge get to us… The girls just kept working away at their bowling and we eventually got the wickets that we needed,” she said.

“Especially the last five overs, was probably the closest game of cricket I’ve ever played in.”

Rolfe said the Sharks were pumped, particularly after missing out on playing in the B grade grand final last year because of extreme heat.

Poppy Agg, who top-scored with an unbeaten 28 from 59 balls, and Jasmine O’Donnell , who claimed 3-11 and a run-out assist, are bringing strong form into the big dance.

Meanwhile, Barwon Heads took down reigning premier North Geelong with an impressive bowling display and two run-outs.

Alana Sproule was outstanding with 45 as an opening batter before claiming 2-26 as the Seagulls restricted the Magpies to 109.

“It was great for the young kids. Last year was their first year playing [in the competition] and they did lose a semi-final so it was just trying to get them to believe and just give that one per cent extra,” captain/coach Steph Theodore said.

Theodore, who previously played for Australia in the 1990s, had a simple message for the team going into the grand final.

“Enjoy the moment… I don’t want them to overthink it, obviously nerves will come in,” she said.

“I still get nervous but I keep telling them if you’re nervous, it’s because you care so it’s a good thing.

“Nerves are good, use it in the right way and I just want them to have fun.”

The match starts at 1pm.