Geraldton softball round 9: Suiside looking to reclaim their early season form against the Rams

The Geraldton softball season is heating up with just one round to go until the Christmas break, and movement is expected in most divisions throughout the week. On the men’s division one ladder, Suiside has made an early mark, claiming the top spot but faltering in recent matches against Martians and Rams. Cooper Jefferies has been solid both on the pitcher’s mound and at bat, leading from the front in all aspects of the game. The Bulldogs, with the return of World Cup star Jy Thurstun, are hoping for a big win against Rams on Saturday afternoon. Rams have been inconsistent all season, struggling to build momentum after a win, but coach Paul Valenti said he was particularly pleased with the team’s performance over the weekend. “We had a fantastic result, it was our most complete game of the year, with everyone contributing in some fashion,” he said. “Signs are promising if we can get a consistent team on the park each week, which is a challenge and will be again for a doubleheader next weekend.” Rams will face Suiside and Batavia Blaze in their doubleheader on Saturday. The Blaze have started to find their feet with veteran players Sean and Josh Thompson leading the way, and young guns Eli and Jack Etherton coming into their own. The Blaze will be looking for a positive result to take them into the festive season. Martians have a bye this round but will be watching for other favorable results to maintain their second-place spot on the ladder. In women’s division one games, Rams have a bye and will go into the break atop their ladder, regardless of results from other games. Suiside takes on Marlins, and Pi’s Panthers go against Martians in the Saturday afternoon heat. While in the men’s division two, Suiside has made an early impression, maintaining a well-earned undefeated record. They have a game on Friday evening against Rams, and the last time the teams met the ladder leaders came away with a confident 11-1 victory. Blaze and Martians Black are pushing for the second spot and hope for positive results this week. The Blaze faces Gunduwa, who are starting to find their feet in the league, and Martians Black go up against Rams on Friday evening. Martians kicked off the week for women’s division two on Wednesday evening with a game against Pi’s Panthers. Suiside also top the division two women’s ladder and take on Martians on Saturday afternoon. In division three games women’s games, Gunduwa go up against Martians and Rams take on the Blaze on Saturday afternoon.