A stunning seven wicket haul from Sam Crossley cemented the Deni Rhinos Under 14s side’s spot in the Murray Valley Cricket Association finals on Saturday.
The medium pacer displayed beautiful line and length to finish with figures of 7/12 off his eight overs to see the Rhinos hold on to a eight run victory in a two-day clash against Finley.
Day one of the clash the previous week saw Deni post a score of 4/99 off their alotted 40 overs.
It was Sam who also starred on day one, top-scoring for the Rhinos with 29 runs.
He was well supported by Jake Herberte (21) and Hamish Baker (11).
Charlotte Rafferty (2/9 off three) and Charlton Baxter (1/7 off three) were the wicket takers for Finley.
With a gettable target to reach and a finals spot on the line, the Cats looked to score quickly.
After jumping out to 28 runs, Sam struck for the Rhinos with back-to-back wickets, bowling both Dan Eldridge (12) and Jonty King (0).
Finley continued to score quickly with Angus Hay putting on a batting masterclass, however, wickets began to fall around him.
A thrilling finish was on the cards when Sam claimed his seventh wicket, having Charlton (0) caught to have Finley at 9/79.
Angus looked to steer the Cats home but when Hamish Baker (1/32 off 7.5) claimed his partner Charlotte (0), Finley finished all out on 91 after 30.5 overs.
The Cats’ opener was in devastating form, smashing five boundaries on his way to an unbeaten 54 runs in an impressive individual display.
Other Rhinos to take a wicket were Oscar Marshall (1/17 off six) and Charlie McCallum (1/11 off two).
The win saw the Rhinos jump up to third spot on the ladder.
They will now meet Tocumwal White in a semi final this Saturday, with the winner moving on to the grand final.