Win boosts cup glory hope

The Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association’s hopes of CCB Belt Up Country Cup glory received a timely boost on Sunday, following a solid 78-run win over the Albany Cricket Association at Centennial Park. It was a win based on the deeds of dynamic duo Bradman May and Michael Tassone, who put on a 214-run partnership for the fourth wicket. An element of doubt swirled around the likelihood of this game taking place, due to the heavy showers predicted in the lead up to the clash. However, thankfully mother nature played her part and the BDCA arrived on the South Coast, albeit after leaving Bunbury at dawn on the day of the game. Home skipper Mitchell Green won the toss, however elected to send the visitors in. For a while, it appeared as though his decision would pay off, following Brian Hughes falling for a first-ball duck. But the visitors, who brought a solid squad with them, settled under Justin Woods and Jono Whitney, who both did their best to play themselves in. Whitney’s time at the crease eventually came to an end on 37, after he was caught by Seb Stanton off the bowling of Jeremy Wood. At 3-46, some sides could have buckled under the pressure, but not the visitors, with May and Tassone unleashing an incredible burst of stroke play. May, who shone in his opening club match with Donnybrook on October 31 against Dalyellup, showed everyone on hand at Centennial Park why he is such a gifted professional. Throughout his unbeaten knock of 101 off 123 balls, May dazzled, with five fours and three sixes sprinkled throughout his meticulous shift. Tassone was also impressive, crafting 105 off 108 balls, with four fours and four sixes, before he was eventually dismissed at the tail end of the BDCA innings. Set 276 for victory, the home side always appeared to be up against it, considering the blue wave of momentum which had engulfed the ground. Sure enough, the visitors finished off their hard work with a workman-like bowling performance and returned home with a big win. The competition resumes on February 7.