Relief as Rams edge past Park
GEELONG WEST survived a panic and a late collapse to fall over the line against Bell Park.
The Rams were cruising towards their first win since being promoted to GCA2 at 7-205, just four runs short of victory.
But skipper Alex Buckwell (48) was run out by Dragons fielder Tim Thompson and Sai Dhulipudi was trapped in front by Shane Lymer, leaving the Rams two runs short and nine wickets down heading into the final over of the match.
Fresh off a sterling performance with the ball earlier in the day, Mitch Stephens (9 not out) coolly hit the winning runs off the second ball of Bailey Kelly’s over, to the relief of the Geelong West dugout.
“We got a bit tight and we just panicked a bit towards the end, but we got the win which was all that mattered,” Buckwell said.
“I was always confident Mitch was going to get us home in the end, but we just had to wait for the right ball.
“It’s good practice for when we get in another position like that, so we know not to panic next time, and can take it easy and let it happen instead of forcing things.”
Stephens set up the win earlier in the day taking 5-41.
After Bell Park got away to a flyer at 0-45, the paceman took three scalps in quick time to turn the tide and help limit the Dragons to 9-208.
“He bowled really well and executed well and took some key crucial wickets to swing the momentum back to us,” Buckwell said.
“He is always wanting to get better and in the nets he is always asking ‘Punch’ (Rams coach Justin McPhee) how to get better, and his consistency and execution has been the main reason towards his success.”