PM’s XI Wednesday fixture fizzes
Despite playing out as one of the greatest upsets in the history of the iconic Canberra fixture, a record low crowd has raised questions about the level of public interest in the Prime Minister’s XI match.
The PM’s XI side, led by George Bailey, pulled off a stunning four-wicket upset win over the South African Proteas after bowling the tourists out for 173 runs.
But just 1,824 punters wandered through the turnstiles at Manuka Oval on Wednesday 31 October, the lowest crowd in the PM’s XI proud 67-year history.
Mid-week scheduling out of sync with school holidays was partially responsible, as was significantly less promotion of the fixture this year compared to summers past.
ACT Ladies eight ball side go back-to-back
The ACT Ladies eight ball side has successfully defended their national title, defeating Victoria in the final on 26 October.
As one of the smallest regions competing at the annual Australian eight ball nationals competition, the ACT Ladies remain the only team or individual from the ACT to win an Australian title.
Giants bring blockbuster to town
With the AFL’s 2019 draw being released earlier this month, Canberrans have every reason to be excited as the Giants bring a primetime fixture and top-tier opposition to UNSW Canberra Oval in Manuka.
The Giants will host the Fremantle Dockers 20 April at 1.45pm, St Kilda on 4 May at 1.45pm, and finally a Friday night clash against the Hawthorn Hawks on 9 August 7.50pm.
Miracle comeback draw dampens United’s day
Three goals in the final eight minutes from Perth Glory helped them to a share of the points on a wild afternoon at McKellar Park, Canberra on Sunday 4 November.
With top spot on the ladder up for United’s taking, it wasn’t to be as a Sam Kerr inspired comeback from the Glory saw them recover from being 4-1 down with eight minutes to play, stealing a draw.
Canberra looked to have the match in the bag, up 4-1 in the 80th minute against 10 players after a Glory sin-bin.
Enter Glory skipper Kerr who was directly involved in all three goals inside the last 10 minutes.
Canberra United will play their next home game against Sydney FC on 2 December 4pm; canberraunited.com.au
Capping off a strong start
The UC Capitals have continued the strong start to their campaign with a 5-point, 84-79 win over the Sydney Uni Flames at the National Convention Centre Canberra on 4 November.
In a well-rounded performance from the Caps, all five starters registered at least 10 points, while star Kelsey Griffin managed a double-double, with 15 points and 13 rebounds.
In other news, the Caps completed an October sweep of the Player and Coach of the Month awards with Kia Nurse and Paul Goriss taking out the honours respectively.
This weekend, the UC Capitals travel to take on the Perth Lynx in a top of the table clash to be played 10 November 12pm.
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