BDCA 2022: Colts and Eaton set for epic Saturday showdown on hallowed turf

Irrespective of what grade it is, whenever Colts and Eaton get together, something special always happens.

In first grade however, this is heightened, given the sheer quality of players across both sides.

The Bobtails enter Saturday’s showdown at the Bunbury Recreation Ground desperate to record their first win of the season, after being convincingly beaten by Donnybrook in round one at home.

Although missing a few household names — including Julian Crudeli and Liam Renton — the Bobtails made no excuses for their 54-run defeat.

Renton has been appointed captain over the past few weeks, due to senior figure Clayton Caltsounis electing to scale down his leadership involvement for personal reasons.

“Last week was obviously very frustrating due to the wet weather,” Renton said.

“However, we have been able to complete another week of training.

“Everyone is pretty keen to bounce back from the Donnybrook game.”

As a reputable front-line seamer who has shone at representative level, Renton loves being able to pit himself against the best players, as do his Bobtail teammates.

This reason alone, is why Eaton love their rivalry with Colts so much.

“You know whenever you play them, it will be a quality game, as Colts have been excellent for a number of years now,” Renton said.

“This is a game we really look forward to. Both clubs have built a very good rivalry, especially given the fact we’ve played in a couple of grand finals.

“Everyone is raring to go.”

Colts skipper Josh Topliss told the South Western Times numbers on the training track had been positive despite last weekend’s wash out — and he was expecting a tough contest on Saturday.

‘It’s always a really big challenge against Eaton,” he said. “They probably have the best seam attack in country WA so that’s a challenge we look forward to.”

Up the hill at Roche Park, Leschenault will be keen to collect maximum points against Collie, who had their round two clash against Dalyellup abandoned after 26.3 overs on Sunday due to rain.

For Green Caps supporters who would prefer to watch something a little closer to home, Leschenault’s second grade side will take on neighbouring Harvey-Benger in a tantalising second grade match up at Leschenault Recreation Park.

Dalyellup will have their second home game in six days when they entertain Marist, while Hay Park host Donnybrook.