Michael Long powers Tambellup into decider after tense preliminary final victory against Broomehill

Tambellup won a thrilling preliminary final against Broomehill at the weekend to book their place in Saturday’s Great Southern Cricket Association grand final against Kendenup. The defending premiers prevailed in Sunday’s tense contest with Broomehill to keep their hopes of back-to-back titles alive. Chasing only 93 for victory, Tambellup made hard work of the run chase. They were in trouble at 8-39 and the game almost looked over until Michael Long and Shane Willmott emerged as the heroes. Long finished unbeaten on 33 from 58 balls and Willmott played an important role with eight from 88 deliveries as they combined for 55 to help their side get across the line in the 40th over with two wickets in hand and progress to the decider. Sam Richardson bowled five maidens and finished with 4-11 from nine overs and Ethan Caldwell snared 3-15 to give Broomehill a hope of victory after their dismal batting performance. Broomehill were bowled out for 92 earlier on as Nathan Willmott (4-13), Jedd Herbert (2-13) and Devon Cristinelli (2-16) did the damage with the ball for Tambellup. Damien Stewart top-scored for Broomehill with 41. Kendenup progressed straight through to the decider after successfully defending 119 against Tambellup in Saturday’s second semifinal. Batting first, Mitch Jackson led the way with 55 while Herbert was the pick of the bowlers with 3-20 for Tambellup. A gallant 31 not out from Ben Hankinson was not enough to get Tambellup across the line as they were bowled out for 114 in reply. Jeremy Groves was the pick of the Kendenup bowlers with 3-20. Broomehill advanced through to the preliminary final after Saturday’s first semifinal against Wanderers was washed out. The highest ranked team, Broomehill, progressed as a result.