By Jack Rollings
Round 13 of the Saturday Pennant season delivered perfect bowling conditions, with temperatures settling in the mid-twenties.
It’s been a season of ups and downs for Monbulk 1, hovering near the relegation zone for much of the year. But a recent surge in form has seen them not only steer clear of danger but also sneak into contention for a finals berth. Against a stacked Ringwood lineup featuring regional champions, representative players, and top-tier club coaches, Monbulk knew they had to bring their A-game.
Smith’s Team Holds Firm Under Pressure
Brian Smith’s squad got off to a flyer, notching up ten ends early on. A massive 6-shot blitz on the sixth end put them firmly in control, and they managed to keep Ringwood in check forthe rest of the encounter. When the visitors mounted a late surge, Monbulk responded with a clutch 4-shot play to seal the victory.
Final scoreboard read: Monbulk 23, Ringwood 16.
Markham’s Team Deliver Last-End Heroics
Eric Markham’s side had a tough outing, trailing for most of the match and only securing seven winning ends. Heading into the final end, they were staring down the barrel of a 10- shot deficit, with Ringwood threatening Monbulk's overall scoreboard lead. But in a dramatic turn of events, Markham’s rink pulled off a stunning 7-shot play—a game-changer that secured Monbulk the overall win, despite a narrow 21-24 rink defeat.
French’s Team Struggles Against Ringwood’s Fightback
Tony French’s team started strong, taking six ends and building a handy 6-shot lead by the halfway mark. However, Ringwood shifted into overdrive in the second half, winning every end from that point on and securing a crucial 5-shot play on the seventeenth end. Despite
Monbulk’s valiant efforts to limit the damage, the visitors took control and claimed the rink 24-13.
Bras’ Team Brilliance Seals the Victory
Jim Bras’ team delivered a standout performance, dominating with thirteen ends won. They piled on the pressure with three 3s, two 4s, and a huge 6, establishing an unassailable lead early on. Facing high-quality opposition, Monbulk finished in commanding fashion, clinching a 33-16 rink win that proved crucial in securing the overall points.
Finals Hopes Still Alive
With just one round remaining, Monbulk stands resolute in fifth place on the ladder, comfortably avoiding relegation. Their finals dreams are still alive, hinging on a couple of top contenders stumbling next week. Regardless of the outcome, Monbulk has shown they can compete with the elite and will aim to conclude the season on a high note. The final showdown sees Monbulk facing off against Ferntree Gully, a team ranked second on the ladder, but with just one more victory than Monbulk this season. This match is pivotal, with a finals spot at stake.
Monbulk 2’s Tough Trip to Keysborough
Monbulk 2 made the long trip to Keysborough, grumbling about the long journey. Facing a team below them on the ladder, this round was a prime opportunity for Monbulk to break into the top four, provided they could secure a strong win. However, Keysborough had other plans.
Peter Koomen’s team played solidly, maintaining the lead throughout. Despite winning fewer ends, they picked up a 3 and two 4s to stay ahead, ultimately winning the rink 18-16, marking Monbulk’s only rink victory of the day.
Peter Lee’s team started slowly, falling behind by 11 shots before they got on the scoreboard. They then rallied with a 6-shot burst over three ends, sparking hope. However, Keysborough dominated the next six ends, including a few big multiples, building a massive 21-shot margin. Monbulk traded blows in the final stretch but couldn’t close the gap, losing the rink 9-33.
Case Broekhof’s team had a strong start, leading through the first third. Then, Keysborough hit their stride, doubling Monbulk’s score in the next third. Monbulk fought back in the final stretch, but Keysborough closed out the match by securing the final four ends, leading to a 13-28 defeat for Monbulk.
Norma Clerke’s team had a day they might want to forget. Last time they faced Keysborough it resulted in a good win. This time, on the Keysborough turf, they were hammered. Monbulk won only six ends and Keysborough’s wins included nine 3s. Monbulk lost the rink 8 shots to 35.
Overall, Monbulk 2 suffered a heavy defeat, losing to Keysborough 48-112, with only one winning rink. They remain fifth on the ladder with one round to go. Finals are now beyond reach, but they are still at risk of relegation, with lower teams facing each other and Monbulk up against third-placed Dandenong Club. The positive is that the match will be on Monbulk’s home ground—an important game no doubt.
