With 19 players out the thirsty thirds grade took on a new look for our game against the boys from the shire.  welcomed Pat Effeney, Adam Cubbage and Anthony Sherman (and Bella) to the side and were quietly confident of a good performance.The wet weather over the preceding week meant the start was delayed and, with no surprise, Gordon lost the toss and were asked to bat first. The wicket proved difficult to bat on, however at 2/40 we had put ourselves in a reasonable position with both Dowsley and Rosen looking comfortable at the crease.
Brett Rosen showing resistance against the Sutherland attack
However, a 50/50 decision saw the departure of Dowsley and the remaining wickets fell very quickly and saw us reach a poor total of 79. Brett Rosen (34) was the only player to bat with any purpose and resolve on a slow and at times seaming wicket. This was definitely not a "79" wicket and the application at times was not good enough with easy wickets being offered to the opposition.
We started well with the ball, with Sweeney and Effeney picking up wickets to have the Sharks 2/15 after 10 overs. A glimmer of hope, but in the end they passed up 2 down and picked up a bonus point. Not a great day which now sees us in a pack just outside the top 6. We look forward to taking on leaders Wests next week and putting in a much improved performance to ensure we remain near or in the top 6 before the Xmas break.
Aside from the cricket, the following incidents occurred off the pitch:
 Pic and his step son (Cameron) helped with the putting down of covers after play. To be honest, I think Cameron did more work than Pic, but it was nice to see Sherman getting his hands dirty assisting with covers without the aid of gloves. I was quite surprised he did not call on Nat and his son Lachlan to lend a hand. Bella looked after the hessian!!
Kris Colley hears the sound no batter wants to hear
- Pat Effeney spent $520 on his anniversary meal, which included a $30 tip. We were all very surprised but suitably impressed (except of course Reg who thought this was ridiculous). A few also suggested Effeney put his hair in a pony tail and see how his better half liked it.
- Will Sweeney spent less time on his phone this week which was good for team morale. We also found out his new lady friend is not a local and sleep overs are difficult.
- Kris Colley goes to schoolies this week and although we did not enquire as to his plan of attack for this trip, I am sure he will be scrutinised when he arrives back. One hope his PG's coach has pulled him aside and explained a few ways of how not to pick up the ladies.
- The umpire came into the room and explained a couple of his decisions. He quoted the captain as saying a decision was "mad", at which the captain reliably informed him these were not the words he used. Fortunately, the conversation ceased here. He also noted Reg was wearing spikes this round and that in future it may be worth having a closer look at footwear prior to reporting such a trivial matter to the SCA. Case closed.
- Kells and Declan came to the cricket, with hats this time after it was noted they both did not wear this important attire last time they ventured to Killara oval. Declan has commenced riding without training wheels and is progressing well. He is also aware it is easier to jump on and get moving when starting on a down slope.
Tom Beverley playing off his pads
- Ed Howitt (Snr) lost his valuables bag after the PG's game at UNSW and was devastated. To many, this loss was probably the major story to come out of the great heist last weekend at Village Green. We proceeded to place wallets, phones and car keys in a used plastic bag which may have been the one used to pick up 17 dog turds prior to the commencement of play. There will be a club email shortly about assisting Senior with the replacement of this bag.
- Tom Beverley took a return throw one handed and was quickly reprimanded by an ex keeper who reminded him that he should be taking those with two hands. Thomas took this advice on board and proceeded back to his position. It should also be noted that Thomas took a wonderful catch diving low down to his right off Sweeney. The last man to the team huddle to celebrate this dismissal was the ex keeper!
- Nick Dowsley bored us again with what has been opening and closing in Crows Nest. Brett then entered the banter and said there is a great Japanese restaurant opposite the Crowie. No....not the one on the highway, the one in Falcon St. It was noted a Bavarian Bier cafe had opened up recently and Dowse worked out that Stuvyos is Stuyvescant House.
We really enjoyed having to put the covers down after play as meant we were not subjected to the worst song in grade cricket. By the time we had finished, the boys from the shire had packed up and taken the 7 points with them!
Ed Howitt Jnr
 
Hoppa drives while Will Sweeney shows us his forward defensive
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