BDCA 2023: Leschenault bank another crucial win prior to festive season as Hay Park fade throughout

Leschenault were able to kick off their festive season in style after easily defeating Hay Park by 123 runs on Saturday away from home. Chasing 223 for victory, the Redbacks never seriously threatened to win the game. Green Caps skipper Tyne Dodds won the toss, electing to send his men in. This paid off, with openers Nico Le Roux (40 off 54 balls) and Justin Woods (52 off 67 balls) putting the visitors in a brilliant position. The home side was spurred on by former AFL player Connor Blakely, who returned to play with his old club and worked hard throughout his spell. Gradually, the Redbacks bowlers attained some reward for effort — although a patient knock from Matt Fink (36 not off 92 balls) and some aerial exploits from Robert Turner (51 off 33 balls) ensured the Green Caps posted a credible 7-222. In reply, Hay Park made a steady start to their run chase, scoring at about four runs per over. However when potent opener Nic Rep fell, the Redback wickets again began to tumble with the home side collapsing to 6-64 by the 29th over. To their credit, the home side was able to bat out their 50 overs, finishing on 8-99. However their overall intent at the crease and run-rate resembled their present plight in the bottom half of the table.