THE SEMIS - 1st Grade v Hillgrove 1986

Armidale Waratahs (The Tahs) | March 22, 2026

With Hillgrove winning two of the three meetings of the two sides, they had every reason to feel competitive but importantly, Waratahs had their only win in the game before the semi. Waratahs won the toss and batted. Openers Michael Connolly (#293) and James Campbell (#382) gave their side the best start possible, posting 119 for the first wicket, both making half centuries. Number three Tim Muldoon (#296) added a third half century for the innings and his third in three innings against Hillgrove. He and Connolly added another 54 and even though Hillgrove came back and took five wickets during the latter part of the day, Waratahs declared with a big total to chase. 

The match was determined in the remaining eleven overs of the day as left arm quick Andrew McNeill (#419-pictured) removed three of the top order before stumps, including the prize scals of Geoff Wood and Warwick Browne for ducks, leaving Hillgrove 4-7.

On the Sunday, youngster Derek Jenkins and the experienced Alan Gray added 113 before part timer Mark Hemmy (#501) broke through. Bede Ryan (#503) chipped in with a couple wickets and McNeill finished it off, with the outstanding figures of 6-32 off 17 overs. 

Rookie first grade wicketkeeper John Whittall (#499) held four catches in a competent display.

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