Geraldton Softball League round 12 wrap: Pink round steals the show as Rams and Martians break even

Round 12 of the Geraldton softball season saw players don pink to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation, adding a charitable dimension to the competition.

In men’s division one on Saturday, the Rams and Martians delivered a nailbiting 9-9 draw. The Martians, facing a shortage of top-tier pitchers, relied on Kynan Leggett from division two, who managed two strikeouts.

Rams’ trio of pitchers combined for six strikeouts, and they led 9-4 at the bottom of the sixth inning. But a dramatic grand slam by Nic Valenti tied the game, with neither team able to break the deadlock in the seventh inning.

Valenti also contributed with a catch, while Leggett added three assists and two singles. Beven Yeoman stood out for the Rams with three catches, a double, and a single, and Fletcher Harrison added a double and two catches.

Suiside dominated in their match against Batavia Blaze with a decisive 13-0 victory, highlighting a well-executed game in offence, defence, and base running. Cooper Jefferies made a strong return to the pitcher’s mound, setting the tone for the team’s defensive shut-out.

The next round will see Rams going against Blaze, while Suiside will face the second-placed Martians.

In women’s division one action, Pi’s Panthers edged out Rams 7-4, adding another top-of-the-ladder scalp after beating Midwest Marlins last week.

Marlins secured a narrow 6-5 victory over Martians, with Taryn Purcell excelling on the mound, finishing with four strikeouts, a double, and a key catch. Lily Belotti’s solid performance at second base, including six assists and a single, was instrumental for Marlins.

For Martians, Tamara Kuipers stood out with seven strikeouts, two singles, and a double, while Nancy Kirby contributed three catches and a double.

Suiside showcased resilience in their 11-8 win over Pi’s, with Tayah Palmer delivering an outstanding pitching performance that restricted Pi’s to only two runs after an early lead.

Jamanda Jones, Rih McGee, Teagan Mundy, and Sharna Hansen led the charge with crucial hits in a great team batting display.

Rams bounced back with a dominant 14-3 win over Marlins in their final game on Saturday, displaying their offensive strength. Next round, Suiside will look to maintain their momentum against Rams, while Martians will attempt to end Pi’s winning streak.

Suiside overwhelmed Marlins 21-4 in men’s division two, with veteran Larry Prosser delivering an excellent pitching performance. Linc Scott and Zach Smith both hit monster home runs, contributing to the team’s commanding victory.

Rams Blue emerged victorious over Rams White 10-6 in a tightly contested match, while Batavia Blaze edged out Martians Black 8-7. Gunduwa continued their strong run with an 18-7 win over Pi’s, showcasing their consistency and teamwork.

The next round will see top-of-the-ladder Suiside take a bye, with Blaze taking on Rams White, Gunduwa facing Martians Black, and Pi’s going up against Rams Blue. Marlins will hope to bounce back against Martians Red in their pursuit of a finals spot.

Women’s division two games featured high-scoring contests, with Suiside edging out Marlins 21-16 in a top of the table clash.

Brooke Borg was a standout, hitting a home run and making two great catches and putout plays at third base.

Rams Blue triumphed over Batavia Blaze 14-10, and Pi’s dominated Martians with a 25-1 victory.

Gunduwa wrapped up the round with an 18-2 win over Rams White. Next round will see Suiside face Martians, Rams White in a double-header against Blaze and Martians, Gunduwa up against Pi’s and Marlins clashing with Rams Blue.