Deni Rhinos’ Under 14s have made their way into a second consecutive Murray Valley Cricket Association grand final following a massive 142 run against Katamatite on Sunday.
The young Rhinos have gone through the 2018/19 season undefeated as they stake their claim for back-to-back premiership wins.
Deni were far too strong at home, winning the toss and electing to bat first, batting out their 40 overs and finishing 8/222.
Charlie Hillier dominated with the bat, hitting four boundaries on his way to an unbeaten 44 before retiring not out, while Lochie Holloway also impressed with one boundary in his 42 retired not out effort.
Others to score well for the Rhinos were Will Croker (33), Dom Rogers (33) and Charlie Paton (31).
Rhinos Under 14s coach Anthony Bradley said it was incredible to see his side in another decider.
‘‘Six years ago we didn’t even have any junior cricket,’’ he said.
‘‘Now we have a team together aiming for two flags in as many seasons.
‘‘Last year’s flag win helped keep kids interested in cricket which is great for the future of our club.
‘‘It’s still amazes me that we’ve been able to make a grand final again in just our second season competing.
‘‘Both the Charlie’s (Hillier and Paton) and Lochie Holloway have had standout seasons with the bat.
‘‘It was pleasing to see how deep we can bat too with Will and Dom both scoring strongly as well.
‘‘Hopefully we can continue our momentum and finish the year undefeated on Sunday.’’
The Rhinos were never threatened in their run defence, with tight bowling and early wickets seeing the visitors finish 8/79 after 40 overs.
Every Rhinos player got a chance to bowl with each player returning strong figures, which were as follows: Charlie Hillier (0/10 off five), Ryan Rotherham (1/10 off five), Jake Herberte (1/6 off four), Lochie Holloway (0/0 off three), Charlie Paton (1/1 off five), Jai Ezard (1/2 off three), Cooper King (1/1 off three), Will Croker (0/5 off two), Noah Bradley (1/5 off three), Nic Stubbings (0/10 off two), Zachary Mills (1/13 off three) and Dom Rogers (0/1 off two).
The Rhinos will now host Cobram in the grand final in a 40 over one day clash on Sunday.
The last time these sides met it was Deni who recorded a 48 run victory in a T20 fixture.
The Rhinos will head into the clash as heavy favourites, with Bradley hoping for a big crowd to cheer on his side.
‘‘What these young cricketers have achieved is outstanding,’’ he said.
‘‘Their efforts deserve to be recognised so we’d love a big home crowd to come down on Sunday.
‘‘The boys are all quite focused and are determined to bring home another flag.’’