10 Mar 2025
ASC Open Girls Secure Spot in Marie Cornish Trophy Finals!
he Armidale Secondary College Open Girls cricket team took on North Coast regional rivals, South Grafton High School, in a crucial match for the Marie Cornish Trophy.
A victory would guarantee a spot in the final four, set to be played in Bathurst.
After an early start and warm-up, Armidale was sent in to bat. A strategic change to the batting order saw Samantha Marshall and Emily Bull open.
Emily built a solid foundation, scoring 16 runs before being bowled. Sophie Parsons then stepped in and, alongside Samantha, continued to strengthen the innings. Samantha was eventually dismissed for a well-played 34 runs, but the momentum continued.
Enter Brooke Moran, who made an immediate impact by smashing a six off her first ball. She continued her aggressive form, finishing with 44 not out. Meanwhile, Sophie Parsons delivered yet another outstanding century, remaining unbeaten at 104 not out. Armidale posted an impressive total of 2/232 off 30 overs.
South Grafton’s chase got off to a shaky start, with Brooke striking early—taking two wickets in two balls, narrowly missing a hat-trick. A strong 60-run partnership gave South Grafton some hope, but once it was broken, wickets tumbled. Brooke produced a sensational spell, claiming four wickets in four balls, leaving the opposition rattled.
Clare Kelly also contributed with key wickets, while the entire team displayed exceptional fielding. In the end, South Grafton was bowled out for 129, securing a comprehensive victory for Armidale.
With this win, the team advances to the finals in Bathurst this April, where they will compete in two matches over two days. We wish them the best of luck—go ASC!