Blake Harper helps South Wagga to minor premiership

Not only did Harper star as South Wagga extended their advantage over Wagga City at Robertson Oval on Saturday but then almost repeated the dose to secure the minor premiership up against Lake Albert at McPherson Oval on Sunday.

After making 97 and taking 4-30 in the 32-run win over the Cats, Harper then finished unbeaten on 96 and claimed another two wickets in the 87-run victory over the Bulls.

With the Blues missing plenty of experience in the grand final rematch, Harper was thrilled to be able to help the team to an important victory.

"It is also nice to beat the Cats as they are such a strong side," Harper said.

"It is always a very important game and with a few out our batting wasn't the strongest but knew if we played to our strengths we could get the job done.

"We bowled very well in the back end of the innings too."

RELATED COVERAGE

South Wagga had plenty of experience missing from their side for the top-of-the-table clash with captain Luke Gerhard, former captain Joel Robinson and Mitch Sykes all missing the clash.

However Harper was thrilled with how the team adapted to the changes believing it only added to the significance of the win.

"To get the win with the side we had is very nice," he said.

Jon Nicoll finished unbeaten on 88 but Wagga City ran out of overs chasing South Wagga's 224, finishing at 6-192.

While Gerhard returned to tackle the Bulls on Sunday, stand-in skipper Brayden Ambler missed due to representative duties.

However Harper once again set the tone as the Blues amassed 3-235 from their 50 overs.

Lake Albert struggled in reply, slipping to 6-90 before Lachie Kendall (33) and Rhauri McLeod (26 not out) added some respectability to the scoreboard with a 53-run partnership.

However when Adam Whitbread removed Kendall, Connor McGinn mopped up the tail with three quick wickets to round out the win.

Despite coming so close to scoring a century twice over the weekend, the all-rounder isn't focusing on what could have been.

"It's alright still and I'm just happy to get some runs for the team," Harper said.

With one round remaining the Blues can not be dislodged from top spot, giving them an important advantage if wet weather is to become a factor in the finals series.

But first they will be looking to head into the business end of the season with more success when they take on St Michaels on Saturday.

The Saints will be desperate to cause an upset to keep their finals hopes alive after falling short against Wagga City on Sunday.

READ MORE