On Tuesday 25 March, the St Patrick’s College 1st XI Cricketers created history when they became the first St Pat’s side to win an ACC Division 1 title.
After losing the toss we were sent in to bat. Five early wickets had us in big trouble at 5/62 after 17 overs, only Lachlan Rea showing any solid resistance to be 22 not out. Once he was joined by Max Bunworth in the middle, the match started to turn in our favour.
A match defining partnership of 79 from only 70 balls swung the momentum our way. Max was dismissed for his highest score for the season of 33 from only 30 balls, and then Lachlan was dismissed for his highest score of 68 from 96 balls to have us at 8/146. A late cameo from Lachy McPhan helped push the score to 8/160 from our 35 overs. A sensational recovery in the final 18 overs to set St Joseph’s a significant total to chase.
In response, St Joseph’s made a slow and steady start and it wasn’t until the 10th over that the skipper Linc Koliba claimed the first wicket. Jack McMahon then claimed his first wicket as he maintained his excellent opening bowling spells. St Joseph’s had progressed to 2/55 and were looking quite comfortable. However, three quick wickets – two to Harry Sutherland and one to Armi Wakefield – reduced them to 5/60, a very similar position to what we were in at drinks.
Following the drinks break the boys stepped up a gear and in the next seven overs took five for 15 to seal a comprehensive 85-run victory. Vice Captain Armi Wakefield, who missed out with the bat, was inspiring in the field with three catches and three wickets. He was well supported by Harry Sutherland and Lachy McPhan who each took two, before the skipper Linc Koliba claimed the final wicket to also finish with two.
Overall, it was a wonderful finish to a season in which the boys were undefeated. A great team result with all players contributing to the victory.
– By Steven Biggin, 1st XI Coach
‘From the Captain’
Lifting the ACC trophy in my final game of school cricket was nothing short of remarkable. It was the crowning achievement of everything I’ve worked toward throughout my years representing St Pat’s. To go undefeated across every home and away match over the past three seasons, only to fall short in two consecutive semi-finals, made securing the premiership not only a relief, but a deeply satisfying reward for years of perseverance.
Each season in the ACC competition, I held a firm belief that we were the best team out there. This year, we proved it. We knew the grand final against St Joseph’s College, Geelong, would be our toughest challenge yet. They were a quality side stacked with talent, including players who had scored heavily and taken key wickets against us earlier in the season. Our game plan was simple, neutralise their biggest threats early. The turning point came when we dismissed their top-order batter, who had previously scored 70 against us. As soon as we claimed that wicket, I had a gut feeling we were going to win.
What made this team special wasn’t just the talent, but the way everyone played their role to perfection. Whether it was Albie Cheesman’s composed 30 at a run-a-ball or Max Bunworth picking up a few ‘cheapies’ at the death, every player contributed in moments that mattered. It was truly a team effort. The standout performance, however, came in the grand final when we found ourselves under serious pressure at 5 for 60 after 20 overs. That’s when Lachlan “RAZ” Rea produced a knock for the ages, 68 runs off 96 balls. It was a gritty, determined innings that gave us a target to defend and reignited belief across the group.
As Captain, I trusted the boys completely. Alongside Mr Biggin, I knew we had a squad of switched-on players who understood their jobs. That trust allowed me to captain in a relaxed way of supporting my teammates, backing their ability, and giving everyone a fair opportunity, whether it was opening the bowling or getting promoted up the order.
This victory means far more than a trophy. It symbolises the strength of our cricket program and serves as a beacon for the promising young talent coming through the ranks. I genuinely believe that many more premierships lie ahead for St Pat’s. To the younger players, embrace school cricket. It’s more than just a game. It’s where you forge lifelong friendships, learn valuable lessons, and create unforgettable memories. Be a part of it, you won’t regret it.
– By Lincoln Koliba, 1st XI Captain
