Conan hat-trick destroys Alberton
BROADBEACH Robina quick Conan Sternberg recorded the first Kookaburra Cup hat-trick in five years as his side bowled out Alberton Ormeau for 67.
Sternberg, 49, posted career-best figures of 6-16 from his seven-over spell, which included the wickets of Matt Yiend, Steven Page and Simon Mills in consecutive deliveries to mire Alberton in a 3-11 hole in the fourth over.
Bulletin records indicate the Sternberg hat-trick was the first in Gold Coast’s first grade competition since Runaway Bay veteran Darran Green took 5-56 against Queens in October 2015.
Broadbeach skipper Trent Keep added his sixth half century in as many innings with a 72-run knock to lead by 82 at the conclusion of day one, but had special praise for his strike bowler after the match.
“It’s absolutely incredible what Conan is doing at his age,” Keep said.
“He keeps himself very active and is diligent with his rehab and we’re all very pleased to see him get the rewards he deserves.
“To be second in the competition for wickets at that age is tremendous and a great result for Broadbeach.”
Keep said the jubilation inside the huddle when Sternberg knocked over his third wicket was the stuff that cricketers play for.
“It was floating around the changerooms after the match it was his first five-for for Broadbeach,” Keep said.
“It was pure elation (out in the middle).”
Broadbeach will resume next week with four wickets in hand.
Palm Beach Currumbin must fight to defend its unbeaten run after being bowled out for 163 by Southport Labrador, with wild-haired quick Devon Hamley taking 6-41 from 20 overs.
Burleigh is in commanding position after bowling out Queens for 108, as is Surfers Paradise against Colts.
Mudgeeraba and Runaway Bay are neck and neck with Coomera and Helensvale respectively