Geraldton softball round 16: Rain cancels majority of play but Suiside too good for Blaze in men’s div-1

Round 16 of Geraldton softball was marred by the rain, forcing the cancellation of some games, but in the games that did go ahead, Suiside and Marlins proved too strong in the men’s and women’s top grades.

In men’s division one, Suiside brought Blaze back down to earth with a 5-0 victory on Friday, showcasing an impenetrable defence.

Coach Dylan Percy expressed gratitude to the level-headed squad members.

“The team feels much more relaxed after a solid win like that one,” he said. “We take pride in our defence and it really stood up in this game with no negatives to point out.

“The offence also performed well at times against quality pitching but we could’ve been more aggressive on the bases to apply pressure. With one game left until the grand final, we’ll continue to train hard and ensure we’re ready for whoever we face.”

Rams seized control of second place on the ladder with a 9-2 victory over Martians on Friday, clinching the win on the runs-ahead rule after five innings.

Shane Clark batted superbly, hitting two home runs and contributing several assists.

The team delivered a solid performance overall, backed by reliable pitching from Dean Pascoe.

In women’s division one games on Saturday, Marlins faced Pi’s in the only final ladder game played, as all other games were abandoned due to rain.

Miley Gould had a standout game for Marlins with three hits in three at-bats in a heated match that ended with a 12-3 victory for Marlins.

The victors scored six runs off five hits in the second inning, leaving no room for Pi’s to make a comeback.

Both Taryn Purcell and Sandra Watts pitched well for Marlins and Pi’s, with Zoe Purcell standing out for the winners, and Kylie Morgan and Nat Wisewould solid performers for Pi’s.

In men’s division two games on Saturday, Rams secured a convincing 14-8 victory against Martians Black.

Paul Sommerville scored an impressive home run and assisted in other scores, while Fletcher Harrison pitched well for the winners with two strikeouts.

Martians Red continued their good form with an 18-4 victory over the struggling Marlins side.

Kynan Leggett scored a home run for the victors and Damon Valenti had a great game with three strikeouts and a home run.

In women’s division two, Suiside had a doubleheader against Martians and Marlins on Saturday, losing a narrow game against Marlins 5-4, but they made up for that loss with a 33-3 victory over Martians in stormy conditions.

Jenna Buston scored an incredible home run given the playing conditions, with Susan Munday being solid as usual with two singles and several assists.

Pi’s Panthers faced an undermanned Martians team, securing a 23-5 victory.

Tania Copley stood out for Pi’s with two catches in the field and scoring two singles.

In women’s division three, Blaze beat Gunduwa 15-6.