Seniors Round Wrap: Solid Wins Before the Christmas Break

Helensburgh’s senior sides headed into the Christmas and New Year break with plenty to take confidence from, highlighted by strong performances in both Second and Third Grade, while First Grade enjoyed a scheduled bye.

First Grade had the weekend off, giving the side a chance to rest and reset ahead of the second half of the season.

In Second Grade, Helensburgh produced a commanding all-round performance against IPCC after winning the toss and electing to bat. The Tigers posted a competitive 7/241 from their 50 overs, built around an excellent innings from skipper Mark Cottom, who led from the front with a well-constructed 78. He was well supported by Kevin Read (66), while Luke Baillie’s unbeaten 28 provided valuable runs late in the innings.

With the ball, Helensburgh kept the pressure on throughout IPCC’s chase, dismissing them for 207 in 46.4 overs. Brett Morris was outstanding, finishing with 4/29 from 10 overs, while Warren Craig (2/31) and Mark Cottom (2/44) also made key contributions. Sharp fielding was on display as well, with James Cattley claiming two catches.

Third Grade continued their strong form with a comprehensive win over Balgownie. Batting first, Helensburgh compiled 8/220 from 45 overs, thanks to a balanced batting effort. Anthony Arena top-scored with 51, supported by Allan Manning (48) and Andrew Ainsworth (35).The bowlers then took control, dismissing Balgownie for 125 in 39.3 overs. Arena backed up his batting performance with the ball, taking 3/15 from 9 overs, while Finn Stewart’s impressive 4/26 from 6.3 overs sealed a dominant result.

In Fourth Grade, Helensburgh faced a tough outing against Wests Illawarra Blue. After the opposition elected to bat, the Tigers’ bowlers showed fight, with Brandon Waters (4/28) and Catherine Wilson (2/33) the standouts as Wests posted 9/269 from 45 overs. In reply, Helensburgh battled hard but were dismissed for 140 in 30 overs, with Scott Baker (32) and Jack Stewart (30) leading the scoring

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All senior grades now head into a well-earned Christmas and New Year break, with competition set to resume from 10 January. The club looks forward to returning refreshed and ready for a strong second half of the season.