Tara Murray
Keilor Park saved it’s best for last to secure a second straight North West Metropolitan Cricket Association women’s premiership.
After claiming the division 2 premiership in their second season, the Devils backed it up, defeating Pascoe Vale Central in a thriller in this year’s division 2 grand final.
Devils president Joe Carland said the group was absolutely thrilled to come away with the silverware.
“It was such a tough season and they didn’t even know if they would get a season up early-on,” he said.
“They didn’t have a pre-season. They’ve worked hard all year and put their heart and soul into the club.
“The win was so fantastic. They were pumped and really excited, full credit to them.”
The Devils batted first, making 4-76 from their 20 overs. Anoosha Thambi top scored with 21 not out at the top of the order, while captain Stacie Simon finished 19 not out.
It didn’t look anywhere near enough, with Pascoe Vale Central on top at 3-53 and looking set for victory.
The Devils grand final experience came to the fore late, as they took 5-16 to bowl Pascoe Vale out for 69, giving them victory.
Carland said it was some of the young girls who really stood up when they needed to.
“The young girls stood up and swung the momentum our way,” he said.
“It got everyone up and about and got everyone behind.
“It was fantastic to see them turn it around.”
Thambi took 3-2, while another youngster, Tyler Paredes, took 3-18 for her four overs.
Carland said both had been really good all year shouldering a heavy workload despite being so young. He said captain Simon, had been rock solid all year as well.
The premiership feat was made even more special, as the team played most weeks short of players.
Carland said they were hoping to build on the success of the past two seasons and expand the program.
“We’re always looking for players and would love to have a second side next season and grow the program.
“We want to continue the growth and performances and see where that takes us.
“We also want to look at having a girls side in the next season or two. We’ll do a strong call-out and hopefully get sides up and have a female program from the bottom up.”
Meanwhile, Grand United fell short of a premiership in its debut season in division 5 against Moonee Valley.
Moonee Valley made 7-96 off its 20 overs.
It would prove to be enough with Grand United, falling just short making 4-94.
Tayla Wilmot top scored with 25 not out.
