The two MNC clubs that advanced to the state finals both failed to advance to the semi finals however put in strong performances and did the district proud.
Park Beach found themselves against former premier league club Raymond Terrace Jets in round one, with the Jets getting out of the hangars quickly to hand the Parky boys a sound beating. The side bounced back in round two against Avoca beach with a twenty two shot victory. For the Park beach side to advance they needed to soundly beat Alexandria Erskineville in round three and see the Jets also suffer a loss by a significant margin. Unfortunately neither occurred, the Jets advancing to the semi finals. Erskineville is fast becoming a traditional rival of the Parky boys, the two sides having now faced each other at three consecutive state finals, with Erskineville leading the head to head 2-1.
Nambucca travelled to Tuncurry with a side that many felt could take out the flag. And the side backed up their supporters faith with a strong opening victory over The Greens the Entrance. Round two saw much of the same when they claimed their second win, this time over Lismore Heights. In round three they faced tournament favourites Cowra, who were spearheaded by former State and National player Gerard Beath. Despite putting in a great effort, Cowra prevailed and went on the reach the final.
Both Park Beach and Nambucca Heads have a number of younger or improving bowlers in their ranks ensuring that this years results will be improved on in years to come.
The best result for Zone Fourteen came in Grade Six with Crescent Head taking out the flag. Although a State Flag is a major achievement in any grade, it has to be noted that the side contains Joel Bourke and a number of other high grade players, so anything less than at least the state final would really have been seen as an under achievement.
Cheers,
Chippy
