Harvey-Benger Cricket Club suffers agonising two-wicket defeat against Dardanup at Wells Park

Harvey-Benger’s fourth grade side suffered a nail biting two-wicket defeat playing away against Dardanup at Wells Park on Saturday.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Harvey-Benger openers Rowan Morrison (26) and Jarod Maughan (32) saw the score to 44 before Morrison was bowled.

This brought Darren Bozanich to the crease, who built another solid partnership with Maughan before being dismissed for 34 just before the drinks break.

After drinks the wicket of Maughan brought out Scott Fowler, who showed his class in combing with youngster Tyler Bozanich (15). Fowler worked well with the lower order, plundering 62 runs off just 50 balls to see the visitors reach a competitive 9/191 from their 40 overs.

It was a dream start with the ball for Harvey-Benger following the innings break. Juniors player Lachlain Brass (1/16), bowling with the new ball for the first time, claimed a reflex caught and bowled to the joy of the team.

The home side fought back after the early setback, with Harvey-Benger giving several chances in the field. These chances were ultimately punished as Dardanup opener Darrell Anderson made 116 not out in a sparkling display of stroke making.

Harvey-Benger were not out of the game, with Jarod Maughan (3/45) taking three late wickets to bring the visitors within reach of claiming the win. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be, as Dardanup reached the total in the final over eight wickets down.

Harvey-Benger will look to bounce back from the loss when they return to the Harvey Recreation Ground on Saturday against Dalyellup.