Tamworth Blue secured a home semi-final in the Connolly Cup thanks to a 106-run win against Armidale 2nd XI at Chaffey Park on Sunday.
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Despite having to field a series of fresh faces, the Blues defended their unbeaten record in the prestigious representative cricket competition.
Captain Chris Paterson was rapt with the performance.
“We had a few unavailable with First Grade playing on Sunday, but the boys we called into the side did a great job for us,” Paterson said.
“The win keeps us in top spot which is great.”
Tamworth Blue was sent into bat and wasted little time seizing the momentum.
Opening batsman Dan Whale set the tone with a vintage knock.
The stylish right-hander was in ripping touch, hitting eight boundaries on the way to scoring 91 from 97 deliveries.
Whale did a sterling job to provide the backbone of the innings after Tamworth suffered the early losses of Lachie Bradfield (5) and Paterson (9).
He shared in a 76-run third wicket partnership alongside emerging teenager Brock Morley.
Morley signalled he is a player of great promise, firstly building his innings with a series of ones and twos before opening up as the overs ran out.
He finished unbeaten on 70, while Brad Walters got in on the fun late, blazing his way to 47 not out (highlighted by five fours) as Tamworth Blue posted 4-255.
Pete Collins was the pick of the Armidale bowlers taking 2-46.
Armidale’s chase got off to a disastrous start as both openers returned to the pavilion with 20 runs on the board.
Kyle Taylor (42) and Ben Gleeson (31) led a rearguard action, but the Tamworth attack was in a frugal mood.
Aaron Madirazza was the leading light with the ball, taking 3-41 with his off-spin.
Leg-spinner Harrison Hauge (1-37) caught the eye, while Jake Philp (2-20) and Walters (2-5) enjoyed multiple success.
Moree recorded a five-wicket win against Gwydir in their final match of the campaign.