Geraldton softball round 8: Suiside continue to rule men’s division one comp but Blaze eyeing off an upset

Geraldton softball round eight is shaping up as another big weekend on the diamond as Suiside continue their reign in the men’s division 1 competition.

Cooper Jefferies and his Bulldogs have looked a class above, controlling games with a blend of power hitting and smart field work.

Jefferies has been the heartbeat of the side, producing home runs at a rate that would make most players dizzy and keeping his team calm and steady from the mound.

The league leaders meet Blaze on Friday night and although Suiside will go in favourites, Blaze will arrive with a spring in their step after a solid result last round.

Jack and Eli Etherton have developed a tidy rhythm as pitcher and catcher and with the experience of Ashley Walker, Sean Thompson and Thomas McDonald behind them, Blaze will be keen to test themselves against the reigning champs.

Rams face Martians on Saturday and both teams are searching for some traction as the middle of the season approaches.

Rams can lean on their well known core of Dean Pascoe, Shane Clark, Paul Valenti and others, with the powerful addition of Kurt Mead giving them a little more punch.

Martians remain a rebuilding outfit but have shown glimpses and with Kynan Leggett doing dependable work on the mound they are more than capable of causing trouble.

Suiside have been just as impressive in men’s division 2 and remain unbeaten on the diamond.

Levi and Kane Jefferies have guided the team with confidence and after their huge 40-0 win over Gunduwa last round they now meet Martians on Saturday.

Pi’s Panthers will be encouraged by their recent win and face Rams Blue, Marlins will still be hunting their first victory when they meet Blaze later in the day, and Gunduwa take on Rams White before Blaze and Rams White return for the second game of their double header.

The women’s division 1 competition has come alive thanks to Marlins who have surged to the top after stringing several strong performances together.

Rams are close behind and Pi’s Panthers remain dangerous when they click.

Suiside meet Rams on Friday night and Martians take on Pi’s before preparing for their double-header against ladder leaders Marlins on Saturday afternoon.

There are match winners scattered across every side. Marlins continue to benefit from the heavy influence of the Purcell family, Rams will look to veterans Stevie Usher and Kate Harrison, Martians rely on the arm of pitcher Tamara Kuipers and Suiside hope that young Summer Palmer continues her steady rise.

The women’s division 2 contest remains wide open with Blaze, Suiside, Rams White and Marlins all on the hunt.

All games are on Saturday with Marlins meeting Blaze, Gunduwa playing Rams White, White returning later for their double-header against Blaze, Pi’s Panthers playing Rams Blue and Martians rounding out the day against Suiside.