Under cooler and cloudy skies (at last), the boys arrived at the ground in an enviable position - guaranteed of a grand final playoff position (first or second), but with some historical scores to settle against Victoria (Blue). This Victorian team won the championships last year. If they had beaten South Australia yesterday, this game would have determined the second place getter for the final.As it was, they were hoping and they met our team galvanised and highly focused.
Our line up was seen by many as a precursor to tomorrow's final: Musulin (catcher - 2); Simon (first base - 7); Percival (second base - 1); Lindsay (short stop - 9); Myrmell (third base - 3); Barbaro (centrefield - 4); Bohan (left field - 8); McCallum (right field - 5). Dean Frew began as pitcher (batting 6).
The coaching staff were taking no risks - nor were they adventurous in any way. The grinding of teeth could be heard in some quarters. Winning can be unkind.
As if by way of symbolic reflection on the game, sunny skies emerged as soon as we hit an early seven run lead. By the end of five innings, we had again won on mercy rule. Beating them 10-0 was a grand gateway into the finals. Comprehensive.
Bailey Musulin was again strong. He scraps and fights at the batter's box, never relenting and always seeming to get on base. Percival was exceptional at second base with a throw as swift as his mother's wit. Myrmell was dominant and strong at third base with a bullet-like throw which lacked any sympathy for struggling runners.
The boys were composed and an emphatic result was gained.
James took a good running catch at left field early to get into the game and was enthusiastic in the field. The boys have been drilled closely to run at high speed from the dugout to their fielding position - and from the field back to the dugout. Professionalism. It is also hauntingly intimidating of any lacklustre and languid opponents.
With the bat in hand, James started with a sound single hit, before a massive strike over first base for a double. Even though he reached third base, it was credited as a double - after an unseen error by the fielder! The scorers are like NSW treasury officials.
His approach today was outstanding and he stamped his mark on the game. His third at bat was hit well, but found their short stop (a young lad who he billeted with last year in a Hills trip to Melbourne). A wry grin from both boys reminded us of the beauty of competitive sport.
Our hitting elsewhere was firm and consistent from Myrmell (three hits), Percival (two hits), Bohan (one hit) and Musulin (one hit). Mackenzie Bohan also wore one on the back of the helmet too - something his brother happily filmed on the family video camera.
Some players not hitting much would be worrying the coaches - they are certainly worrying some in the crowd - but they still offer promise. After some sixty or seventy training sessions over the past four months, coaches and players learn a lot about the merits of each player under pressure and their attitude.
Dean Frew was methodical and confident at the mound today, dominating again. His pitching has been fantastic at this tournament. Sam Giulieri finished things, pitching at high pace with sound accuracy.
The game was over before the Mr Whippy van had arrived. A sudden and emphatic end to children seeking coins from chatting parents - and to the game.
Our hopes and the boys' dreams turn to tomorrow's final. Certainly the team remain focused and are under strong leadership. James was not to be found immediately post game, having retreated, unbeknown to the coaches, instantly to the batting tunnels with three teammates.
We are at a great level of sport here with some fine young men.
That result is more than anyone could wish for. James is certainly playing very impressively at the moment. Good for him.
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