Around the Grounds
Struggling for numbers the Thunder teams dug deep and got some comprehensive wins. Firsts continued where they left off finishing with a second outright win in a row comfortably bowling Coolum out for 57 and 130. Seconds also kept their momentum, rising to the top of the table with a five wicket haul from Ollie Wilson spearheading a first innings win over Coolum 260 and 5/157 to 173. Third grade resumed batting with Ben Wilson (98) just missing out on a century. Unselfish batting got the score to 268 before Jason Toohey took 5 wickets to restrict Glasshouse (6/161) to a draw. Sixth grade unfortunately went down to a strong Yandina team batting better the second innings to avoid an outright defeat.
First Grade vs Coolum
Coolum resumed at 5/32 chasing 306, with heavy rain making getting the ground ready challenging.
With both opening bowlers unavailable and Riley Woolmer nursing an injury from the U17’s game earlier in the day, Ben Claypole took charge, starting with a wicket maiden. From there, the bowling attack was relentless, with only three bowlers needed to mop up the innings. The morning session saw Coolum collapse to 5/25 in 19 overs, leading to an easy decision to enforce the follow-on.
In the second innings, Claypole struck early, and Mick picked up three wickets before tea, leaving Coolum at 4/33 and staring at an early defeat. After the break, Giddy delivered his best spell of the season, spearheading the attack with 4/19 off 16 overs and taking an incredible 6/23 of 20 overs for the day. Coolum was all out for 130, sealing another comprehensive outright win. Huge thanks to Nate Watson for stepping in as a fielder and making an impact with an outstanding catch at point. Noosa now prepares for a crucial match next week at home against Caboolture.
Second Grade vs Coolum
Second Grade surged to the top of the ladder with a commanding win over Coolum, setting the stage for a thrilling final two rounds.
Defending 260, Noosa resumed with Coolum at 1/23. Despite being short on bowling depth due to late withdrawals, the squad stepped up in spectacular fashion. Oliver Wilson led the attack with 5/36 off 16 overs, while Joshua Christensen (2/43 off 17) and Jarred Davis (3/48 off 19) maintained control. The tight bowling sealed a comfortable 87-run first-innings win.
Noosa then batted aggressively in their second innings, with Blake Steel (73 off 42) and the captain (44 off 34) combining for a rapid 92-run stand. The team added 5/157, securing bonus points and boosting confidence heading into decisive matches against fellow finals contenders.
Third Grade vs Glasshouse
Noosa resumed at 4/228, aiming to add quick runs. Despite losing Ben Wilson close to a century and quick wickets, some unselfish batting lifted the total to 9/268. Glasshouse began cautiously, reaching 85 before their first wicket fell. Jason Toohey starred with the ball, taking five wickets, supported by sharp catching in the field. Despite their aggressive middle order, Glasshouse ultimately settled for a draw, prioritizing points over risk. Noosa remains confident for a strong finish to the season.
Sixth Grade vs Yandina
Facing Yandina, Noosa started the day in the field. Justin Latimer and Cooper Withers made early breakthroughs, including a sharp stumping by Alek Dillewaard. However, the slow pitch made batting difficult. Noosa was bowled out for 49 in the first innings, with Olly Tilley top-scoring (19). Sent in again, Blake O’Donnell’s gritty 40* anchored the second innings, helping Noosa avoid outright defeat. Despite the unfortunate result, the team displayed resilience and positivity throughout.
U17 vs Maroochydore
Noosa’s U17s fell short against Maroochydore, posting 132 in response to 164. The top order struggled, but Riley Woolmer (55) and Aedan Mayo (21) fought hard. The tail added valuable runs, but Maroochydore’s bowlers closed out the innings with 10 overs remaining. Noosa remains in second place and looks to return to form heading into finals.
13B vs Coolum
Noosa’s 13B side secured a fantastic team win against top-ranked Coolum Bullsharks. Posting 7/132, standout performances came from Xavier (38*) and Hugo (32). The bowling unit, led by Xavier (2/9) and Dexter (1/4), stifled Coolum, all out for 93. The team’s fielding was equally impressive, with Hugo and Reilly standouts. An amazing achievement for this young squad and a testament to their and coach Adam’s hard work throughout the season.
