Spirit thump Scorpions by 108 runs

Fri, 8 January 2010

A strong all-round performance has seen the DEC VicSpirit thump the SA Scorpions by 108 runs in their WNCL clash at the Adelaide Oval on Friday. After winning the toss and making 9/254, the Spirit started well with the ball, capturing the key wicket of Shelley Nitschke for three caught by Kelly Applebee off the bowling of Kath Hempenstall. The Scorpions responded with a good partnership from former Australian captain Karen Rolton (47 off 70 balls) and Julie Woerner (38 off 52), before Sarah Elliott captured three wickets in four balls to swing the match the visitor's way. From there South Australia never recovered, collapsing to be all out for 146. Elliott was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 3/26 off her 10 overs, while Kristen Beams (2/35) and Briana Binch (2/17) also got amongst the wickets. Clea Smith, in her first game back after two months, took the last wicket of the match. The Spirit got their innings off to a flying start thanks to opener Elyse Villani, who made 51 off 37 balls, before bring run out attempting a quick single ending the 74-run opening partnership with Rachael Haynes. From there the Spirit had some solid contributions with Kelly Applebee (39 off 64), Haynes (32 off 55), Emma Inglis (28 off 25) and Jess Cameron (24 off 36) all helping to build the total. Despite the regular loss of wickets, Victoria was able to set the big target thanks to some late hitting from Kristen Beams (18 off 14) and Julie Hunter (14 off 9). The Spirit will be looking for a clean-sweep of the Scorpions in Saturday's WNCL game after knocking them off by 18 runs in Thursday's Women's Twenty20 match. For scores, check out http://www.cricket.com.au/