Hoppers Crossing held on for a famous victory by 17 runs over Melbourne University in a low-scoring Women’s Community Cricket Twenty20 north-west final at McAlister Oval on Sunday.
The Cats must have feared the worst after compiling 9-88 off their 20 overs – their lowest score in this season’s competition.
In what turned out to be a tough day to make runs, Cats captain Brianna Herman was able to manufacture a priceless 35 and opener Taylah Steadman contributed 22.
The Cats’ middle and lower order were ineffective, but stuck around long enough to allow Herman to play her shots and get the scoreboard ticking over.
It was always going to take Hoppers Crossing’s best efforts with the ball to defend such a small total.
Enter Odette Lopez, who created pressure on the University top order from the outset. Lopez finished with 3-9 off her maximum four overs to get the Cats on their way. Kayla Koropeckyj finished off the job with 3-6 off four overs, including three maidens.
Melbourne University was bowled out for just 71 in 14 overs, sparking celebrations in the Cats’ camp.
Herman received both the premiership cup as captain and the player of the match award for her starring role.
