Pambula's batsmen consolidated the innings to slowly advance the score to 52 without further loss. At this point, the weather turned nasty, with the temperature plummeting and strong rain covering the ground. At one point, it seemed as if the game would be abandoned, but the storm passed as quickly as it had arrived. With the help of many brooms and a leaf blower, the umpire deemed the wicket to be playable, but the game was to become a 30-overs a side match instead.

Pambula accelerated their scoring rate immediately and in the remaining 17 overs accumulated a further 81 runs to take their final score to 9-133. Rob Brown was the most successful of the Pirates' bowlers, taking 4-32 from 6 overs.

The Pirates' run chase began disastrously; with both openers unluckily back in the pavilion with only 10 runs on the board. The earlier rain had slowed the field appreciably and the Pirates' batsmen attempted to take the aerial route. This was a huge mistake, as wickets fell regularly. The only batsman to fully respect the conditions, and his own wicket, was Dave Sweet who held the innings together until his dismissal for 40 runs.

The lower order was unable to rescue the innings and the Pirates were dismissed for a paltry 102 runs. Dave Sweet received the Michaels @ Dalmeny Award for his determined display of batting.

The Pirates A grade team has some soul searching to do this week as they prepare for next weekend’s clash with the strong Tathra unit, a game which could very well decide a place in the one day final.

In C grade, the Pirates were narrowly defeated by 25 runs by Bega - Angledale, while the U14s Red team won the first match of the season. The U14s Black team, however, were no match for Pambula.

After quite a few years absence, the Pirates also are fielding an U12s team. Excitement was high as the youngest Pirates took to the crease for the first time. In a strong effort, they batted through the allotted 20 overs to make a score of 5-42. Jarrah Limon (7), Ruben Colom-Davis (4) and Micheal Longbottom (6 no) made valuable runs. The team showed plenty of grit with the bat and, with more practice, bigger scores are not far away.

In the field there was plenty of enthusiasm and some good bowling, but without luck. Although beaten, all players enjoyed their first match. The team travels to Pambula next weekend. Anyone wishing to play this season can contact Dean Friskin at Narooma IGA, or just come to training at 4.30pm this Friday at Dalmeny Oval. No previous cricket experience is necessary, only a desire to play.

Thanks to our sponsors and supporters, Club Narooma and Dalmeny, IGA Narooma, Richard Busuttil and Michaels @ Dalmeny.