Camden Campbelltown Ghosts first grade cricket side won the toss and invited the home side, Manly, to have first use of the pitch last Saturday, in round 10 of the Sydney premiership.
It was a big mistake.
Manly piled on the runs, to end up with 5/254 declared to set the young Ghosts a victory target that proved to be way beyond them.
Seven bowlers were employed by the Ghosts in an attempt to snag a wicket or two, but they all struggled, with the best figures belonging to Luke Webb, who ended up with 1/43 off his 10 overs.
In reply, the visitors limped to 139 before losing their final wicket, lasting just 38.4 overs.
The heavy defeat mean the Ghosts are running last, and with five rounds to play look set to end up with the dreaded wooden spoon unless they can find a win here or there between now and the end of the season.
It starts with their next match, the round 11 clash with Sutherland at Raby Sports Complex this Saturday.
Three of their last five matches are at home, so there’s some hope there for the first grade boys, who have come against vastly more experienced sides.
They have given their all, but it just hasn’t been enough.
Neighbours Fairfield Liverpool Lions, who are also having an indifferent season, managed to record a rare victory when they were too good for Northern District on Saturday at Rosedale Oval.
Former Ghosts batter Jaydyn Simmons led the way with 122 as the Lions went on to declare at 4 for 244.
In reply, the visitors fell short, finishing with 9 for 230 off their 50 overs.
Lions, who are just three spots higher on the ladder than the Ghosts, are away to Gordon next round.
