COSTS OF CATCHING
DOLPHINS RUE MISSED CHANCES
THE Gold Coast Dolphins will be out to make a statement to the heavyweights of Queensland Premier Cricket in the final two rounds, after conceding defeat in their quest for an unlikely finals appearance.
Despite having one of the youngest squads in the first grade competition, the Dolphins were well and truly in the top-four mix before Saturday’s two-wicket loss away to Sunshine Coast.
Defending 248, the visitors looked in full control when the Scorchers slumped to 5-88 and then 8-181, but Angus Lovell’s unbeaten 100 and some stubborn lower-order resistance would send the southerners home empty-handed.
Sitting ninth, the Dolphins, who were led by Liam HopeShackley’s fine all-round performance of 63 and 4-42, have an opportunity to improve on finishes of 11th (2017-18) and ninth (2016-17) in their last outings against Norths (away) and Redlands (home).
“There’s still a lot to play for. We want to stand up to these bigger clubs and show we’re not going to be walked over,” batsman Jack Hargreaves said.
“We can play for a bit of pride and show a bit of ticker. It’s definitely not going to be reckless cricket.
“Norths are pretty strong and then we’ve got Redlands in the last game, who are a strong side as well. For us there’s still guys who will want to perform and have a look at higher honours (with Queensland) and other guys in second grade wanting to force their way up.”
In and out of first grade since making his debut in 2014-15, Hargreaves has been a major success story this season with 430 runs at 28.67.
The 25-year-old said his ascension was part of wider progression for the batting group.
“It’s been a positive season I think. Since I’ve been at the club we’ve always had a strong bowling attack and not been able to score enough runs.
“This season, I think we’ve turned a leaf. We probably haven’t got the hundreds to play finals cricket but the younger guys are standing up.
“We definitely haven’t been push overs. It’s good signs for next year hopefully. Anything can happen.”