Weekly Roundup 26th Nov 2017

Juniors

 

PeeWees vs

 

Result: not important

Peewees played Crusaders and drew 18 all. The game was well supported. The peewees batting and fielding was on par showing much improvement in their play’s. The players enjoy themselves and had fun today. Well done Peewees.👏👏👏

 

U10’s vs Crusaders

 

Result: 23-18 (VOB)

The U10’s played Crusaders won 23 – 18. Our boys managed to play 6 frames in the blistering heat and kept their opponents scoreless in 2 of the frames. Some errors were made in the diamond that we need to work on, but at the end of the day they had fun. The game was very close. Caleb Bell, Storm Doyle, Chad Pastor and Daniel Arendse hit 1 homerun each. Tulan Davis was very good with the bat today hitting the ball all over the park and hitting 2 brilliant homeruns. Thanks again to the parents for their support. Well done boys
U12’s vs Crusaders

 

Result:

No report received

 

U14 Softball

VOB vs

 

Result:

No report received

 

U15 Senior Sluggers

vs Crusaders

 

Result: 7-6 (Crusaders)

This week we travelled to the only unbeaten side in this league and we knew it was going to be a tough one. Crusaders latched onto Josh November who started on the hill and scored 5 runs in the 1st inning. There was no means of defending against this as Crusaders managed to find all the holes in the field. We came back in the 2nd inning with the bat scoring 4 and then a further 2 runs in the 4th thanks to an awesome bunt by Shakeel Jattiem.. Josh managed to contain Crusaders in the next 2 innings and was replaced by Jared Riffel. He totally dominated with his pace and variation allowing only 2 runs in his 3 innings pitched. Crusaders were lucky to remain unbeaten taking the game 7 – 6, but best they be ready for the return leg. A big thank you to Kevin Johnson who took over the game as I had to leave to go and coach the Young Guns.

 

 

Parents

 

Can we please ask that parents not get involved with calls made by the umpire or chirps from the opposition as this reflects badly on the club and the boys then think that they can do the same. At the same time kindly refrain from negative comments during a game. Remember, they are kids, they learning and they most certainly are trying their best so let’s be positive in the comments that get passed.

 

 

U15 Young Guns

vs Battswood

 

Result: 11-8 (Battswood)

Like Crusaders, Battswood also found all the holes in the field managing to score 9 runs in the first 2 innings. This must really have motivated Zinadene Rocks to throw harder as they only managed to score a further 2 runs in the next 3 innings. Zinadene threw with control and with total heart as he slowly took control of the game striking out 7 batters. With some of the regulars not available some positional changes were required and the ladies (Madison Blows at 3rd & Jade November at 1st) really performed exceptionally in their new positions. Best batter on the day went to the Jayden Davis and player of the day went to Zinadene Rocks for his sterling performance. This team is really showing what fun baseball is all about. Irrespective of the result you will always find them smiling and having a total blast. Final result 8 – 11 to Battswood.

 

U18’s vs Crusaders

 

Result:  11-5 (VOB)

VOB U18 Win from Behind – Again

 

Batting first at a breezy Rooikrans Sports Ground in Grassy Park, VOB U18 blew the chance to go into a dominant position in the first.  First up designated hitter Luke November drew a hit by pitched ball, advanced on a wild pitch and a steal, and scored on Luke Budler’s hit. Budler stole 2nd, and advanced on a wild pitch.  Jesse Johnson walked and advanced to second on catcher indifference. It looked like runs. Not to be as 4, 5 and 6 were retired by 2 K’s and a long fly.  Crusaders bounced back with a hit, a walk, and a double to score one, before starter Johannes Nuy was able to induce two pop fly’s and a ground ball to short stop.  1 -1.

 

Again VOB U18 got runners on through a walk and hit, but a missed signal cost us.  Crusaders then piled in as Johannes struggled to find the edges.  Two walks sandwiched a K, and then runs followed on a long double to left, and missed shallow fly, and blown run down.  Not our best performance.  1 – 5.

 

Up stepped the team.  Luke and Jesse walked.  Jesse punched a double, scoring Luke, and Jordyn Riffel singled over the 2nd base to score Budler and Jesse.  The top order had done their job and we were back in it.  Johannes in turn held firm and we were at 4 – 5.

 

3 walks and a fielder’s choice saw VOB U18 load up the bases, and Budler did his job perfectly, driving in Keegan Hickley and Abduraghmaan “Durie” Wakefield.  The bases were loaded again as Jesse walked, and Jordyn then drove in Luke and Budler.  Jesse then scored on a wild pitch as Alex Japhta drew a walk to end the innings on the 5 run rule with one down only. 9 – 5.

 

Up stepped lefty Kian Africa and he efficiently set about closing out Crusaders hopes of a comeback.  A further run in the top of the 5th from Liam Willemburg, who scored on Durie’s second hit of the day, kept the momentum shift going.  Alex Japhta, who had bagged 3 pop fly’s at catcher, and made a good recovery throw for a caught stealing at 3rd in earlier frames, then put the cherry on the top with a strong throw to 2nd for another caught stealing.  Kian promptly finished it off. 10 – 5.

 

Batting: Luke Budler 2 – 2, 1 bb, 3 rbi’s; Jordyn Riffel 2 – 3,  2 rbi’s; Abduraghmaan Wakefield 2 – 3, 1 rbi;  Jesse Johnson 1 – 1 , 2 bb, 1 rbi.

 

Pitching: Johannes Nuy 3 innings, 1 K, 4 hits, 3 bb, 5 runs, 2 earned; Kian Africa (W) 2 innings, 3 K, 1 hit, 1 bb, 0 runs, 0 earned.

 

Thanks to Liam’s dad, Craig, for acting as a base ump; and Brady for being a very able assistant coach.

 

Seniors

Saturday

Masters vs Bellville

 

Result: 12-2 (VOB)

 

Sunday

Masters vs Battswood

 

Result: 11-9 (VOB)

 

Saturday

Once again the bats were working for us with no errors I can remember. We welcomed a few new players over the weekend who proved that they still have it. Adie, Clinton Overmeyer, Shaun, Haliem and others with some great hitting. Highlight of the day was Mark Isaacs hitting 2 homeruns on his return like he wasn’t gone at all. Overall a great game played in great spirit and lots of fun and laughter as always.

Sunday

What should have been a fairly comfortable win turned out to be quite a challenging game. Ruan started a little off balance on the mound but in the end proved too strong for the opponents’ batting. One of the great comebacks from the boys with the bats. Trailing until the end where the bats once again woke up and went crazy. Some serious character shown by all. Some dodgy calls from the umpire, Glen Joseph, who cried to the coach saying that he wants to come into the game. Apparently the team needed him. Welcome Michael Kulp to the VOB team. Kulpie looked very comfortable in the VOB uniform and even handed out Blue energade to the guys after the game. Guys acted a bit strange after those drink so not sure what happened. A great comeback accompanied by great finishing with Ruan securing us this win. Lotsa fun and laughter made it a great day.

 

 

SATURDAY

MLR vs Crusaders

 

Result: 8-6 (VOB)

 

SUNDAY

MLR vs Pirates

 

Result: 13-2 (VOB)

Saturday

Another windy day out in Southern Suburbs saw VOB take on the Crusaders of Grassy Park. VOB were keen to build on the recent momentum gathered by the senior team. Eager to get out of the blocks early VOB scored three runs in the first inning. VOB started with Lee van Wyk on the mound and kept Crusaders scoreless in the first. Then VOB added two more runs in the second and allowed Crusaders to score one run taking the score to 5-1.

VOB went to sleep in the middle innings allowing Crusaders to pull back two runs while VOB failed to score, making it a tight game at 5-3 by the top of the 6th inning.

VOB started a rally at the top of the 6th to score 2 more runs. Matthew Darius replaced Lee van Wyk on the mound. In Crusaders batting turn they matched the efforts of VOB taking the score to 7-5.

VOB managed another run in the 7th and had to defend 3 runs to get the victory. Crusaders got their leadoff on but VOB remained composed and went for the easy outs, leaving the runner to score, but running out winners 8-6.

A game that remained close but one that we never seemed in danger of losing. The team has stepped up from the early season promise and is improving by the day.

 

Sunday

On another windy day with the temperature around the 30-degree mark VOB travelled to Somerset West for the Sunday fixture. The VOB players were eager to continue where they left off on Saturday with 16 players on the line-up sheet. This is unheard of for a Sunday reserve team fixture.

With players like Miguel Wilson, Robin Jones, Luke November, Matthew Darius, Jesse Johnson, Liam Willemburg all with Major League experience and many more players who are regulars in the Major League squad, it was always going to be a tough ask for Helderberg to keep VOB in check.

VOB started the game well, getting runners on base early but only managed one run. Jesse Johnson started on the mound and dominated the Helderberg line-up, keeping them scoreless in the first.

In the next 2 innings, VOB scored six more runs while keeping Helderberg scoreless, taking the score to 7-0. VOB made seven changes to the line-up in the fourth inning using all of their substitutes.

VOB scored six more runs in the final 3 innings taking the score to 13-0 before giving Jordan Leppan a stint on the mound. With the game won VOB was sloppy in the field making several errors and allowing two runs to score. The final score was 13-2 to VOB.

 

 

SATURDAY

ML vs Crusaders

 

Result: 8-3 (VOB)

 

SUNDAY

ML vs Pirates

 

Result: 12-8 (VOB)

Saturday

On Saturday we were on the road to Grassy Park to face Crusaders who, after surviving the relegation drop due to a league format change, went 4-0 to start the season. However, their fortunes were soon to change and they started skidding down the log table and the Macaws were wary of the dangerous “wounded animal”.

Ex-Crusaders players Michael “Mikey #1” Scritten was given the ball to take on his old team. This would not only be a game against 9 opponents, but ALL the Crusaders supporters as well. They gave Scritten plenty of stick, but he handled it brilliantly and pitched 7 innings (2 hits, ER, 5BB’s, HBP and 4K’s) before he handed the ball to our Canadian pitcher Andy Orfanakos to close the game. Andy (2 inn, 2K’s) faced the minimum 6 hitters and closed like a true closer.

As we have become accustomed this season so far, our hitters kept their best for late in the game, scoring from 4th to 8th inning to take the game away from crusaders. Best hitters were Kieran Moore (2-4, RBi), Altino Elliot (1-2, SF, HBP, RBi) and Zubair Larney (2-3, HBP, 3xSB, 2 RBi’s).

Contrasting feelings with the Macaws continuing on their 5-game win streak while Crusaders plummeted to their 5th straight loss.

Player of the game was Michael Scritten for his sterling pitching performance.

Sunday

On Sunday we took our first trip to Somerset West to face Helderberg Pirates in years. The wind was pumping, but it was still scorching hot. With the team on a nice 5-game win streak the belief in the team can be seen by all. This is a new team currently and starting to play a little to their potential.

The ball was given to Josh Rich to continue the streak, but he struggled to get going and we were forced to make a change early as Pirates were just connecting and finding all the gaps. Josh (1.2 inn, 6 hits, 6ER’s, BB, 3 HBP, K, WP) was replaced by Jayde “madmax” Thorne to”stop the bleeding” which he did perfectly. Thorne (7.1 inn, 10 hits, 2BB’s, IBB and 7K’s) only gave up 2 more runs for the rest of the game to keep the Macaws winning streak going.

Although the hitters were getting on base regularly, they just did not make it count and left 10 runners on base before eventually exploding for a big inning when some pinch hitting changes were made. The best hitters were Lance Gordon (3-3, BB, SB, RBi) and Michael Scritten (2-4, 2B, BB, 2RBi’s) with Marc “makes” Quickfall getting the big pinch bases-clearing triple that blew the game apart in the 8th inning.

Two wins over the weekend gets the Macaws into third position on the log and continues the streak!

We also need to thank our behind-the-scenes-always-there scorer, Judi Beukes, for doing such a selfless job so brilliantly. Thanks Judi!

No Comments Weekly Roundup

Weekly Round Up 11 November 2017

This past weekend it was on the road for most of our teams, with only our new u15 Young Guns playing at home.
Our undefeated masters team travelled to Southfield to take on Silvertree, our undefeated u18’s was at neighbours Battswood while the rest of the teams were hosted by Durbanville Villians in the stifling heat of Durbanville.

After a successful last weekend our teams were keen to continue the upward momentum that has been evident this season so far.

Our club chairman, Kevin Johnson, has also brought more focus to our club by being appointed as the South African u15 head coach – well done!!

On to the weekend’s games!!

Youth teams

PeeWees vs Durbanville – Result: not important
The Peewees played Durbanville away and won the game 22 – 11. We managed to play 3 frames in the blistering heat and good batting was the order of the day. Our Peewees was just outstanding in the field. Rustem De Bruyn hit a homerun. Zeake Seller hit 2 homeruns and Caleb Abrahams hit 2 homeruns and took 3 catches. All nine batters scored runs in the last frame. Thanks parents for your support. Well done peewees for a good win.

U10’s vs Durbanville – Result: 30-20 (VOB)
The U10’s won Durbanville 30 – 20. We started the game with good batting scoring 8 runs in the first and second frame. The boys fielded well in the diamond and Durbanville’s only choice was to hit to the outfielders. Chad Pastor, Caleb Bell and Caleb Abrahams hit a homerun. Nur Scello, Tulan Davis and Storm Doyle hit 2 homeruns. Caleb Bell took 2 excellent catches off the bat at first base. My player of the day was Caleb Abrahams for hitting his first homerun in a U10 game and took 3 brilliant catches at pitcher. I want to thank the parents again for their good support today. Well done boys.

U12’s vs Durbanville – Result: 9-8 (Durbanville)
Having to be in Durbanville at 07h15 for our 8h15 game, seemed to be a bit early for some of the u12’s but after some encouraging words from coach Barry, they seemed ready to go. Being an away game, we batted first managed to get 2 runs on the board which gave the team some much needed confidence.
Fadiel was given his 1st pitching start for the season but looked as if he’d been doing it for months. Joshua Smith seemed to be very composed behind the plate as he didn’t stay at uncle Paul’s house Friday night and therefore got enough sleep.
Lots of discipline in the batter’s box by majority of the team and Shaun Sani’s 1st hit into the outfield allowed our 1st 5 run frame, for the season (u12’s using the 5 run, side away rule).
Mickey was handed the ball late in the game and did a superb job getting the ball over the plate and forcing hits to 2nd base where Fayaad happily fielded everything and put the runners out at 1st base.
Unfortunately, the excitement got the better of the team which resulted in a few costly errors, allowing Durbanville to also score 5 runs, leaving VOB 2 runs down in the last frame. They fought hard, but a few concentration lapses meant we only managed 1 run and therefore lost 8-9.

Once again, the enthusiasm of these boys was undeniably amazing and the improvement, as a team, is visible.

A special Thanks to Shanaaz, Tracey and Moerieda for the help. You ladies are awesome.

U14 Softball – No report received

U15 Senior Sluggers vs Durbanville – Result: 7-4 (VOB)
A nice outing to the Villians for the Sluggers as they walked away with 7-4 win. Aside from the heat that killed everyone our pitching staff slaughtered the opposition. Young Josh “51” November had an awesome outing going 3 innings before being replaced by Shakeel “stretch” Jattiem. Our closer Zinadene “Zizo” Rocks as always did an awesome job. Player of the day went to Alec Adonis hitting 3-3 and taking 4 outs from 3rd.

U15 Young Guns vs Silvertree – Result: 13-7 (VOB)
The game got off to a very slow start with both pitchers struggling to consistently struggling to find the strike zone. This saw us go down I the first inning. However, this did not stop the young guys and girls at all, as Lee threw his heart out on the mound, who was later replaced by Nicholas Jefferies. Our team fought from the first at bat to their very last, equalling Silvertree’s runs in the first inning. Our young guns did extremely well in the last inning of the game by shutting Silvertree and scoring an extra 5 runs to seal the victory for them. Jade November, got the base hit to right field in her last batting turn to score the fifth run, ending the game.
Many lessons were learned through this game and but each week, we can definitely see our players growing. Keep up the amazing work and Spirit and see you at the ball park in the week.

U18’s vs Battswood – Result: 12-9 (VOB)
A strong first innings was squandered, as Battswood were let back into the game, only for VOB U18’s to compose themselves, and, for the second time this season, pile on the pressure and the runs in the top of the last frame, and come away with the win.

Aggressive hitting and a couple of walks saw VOB U18 piling on the pressure in the top of the first and coming away with 4 runs as the top order scored off rbi’s from Luke Budler, Alex Japhta and Liam Willenberg. On the downside two runners were left behind in scoring position. Battswood showed they were not just going to lie down, driving in 2 runs in reply. 4 -2.

The second, third, and fourth saw VOB U18 leave five runners in scoring positions on base. VOB starter Johannes Ney had been very neat and tidy in the bottom of the second and third, facing only seven batters, but with the VOB hitters not doing their job, the door was still open. With one down in the bottom of the fourth, Battswood took advantage of Johannes’ first walk to work a very neat bunt play. A drive to left field saw Kian Africa come to the mound with bases loaded. After initially struggling, Kian righted the ship, but Battswood were 4 – 8.

A three up three down batting turn and VOB U18 were back out there. They settled, and closed out the bottom of the fifth comfortably. Still 4 -8, with the top orders of both team up and the clock showing only the sixth would be played.

VOB U18 No 9 Haydn Abrahams did his job and got on ahead of his top order, and then Luke Budler, Jesse Johnson, Jordyn Riffel, and Alex Japhta all collected hits and VOB U18 went ahead on Liam Willenberg’s single through the infield. Luke November then scored Liam, Josh Adonis and Haydn (his second run in the innings). 12 – 8. After an opening walk, Kian settled and Jordyn took responsibility, covering lots of ground to take to snag fly’s. Two down. Battswood tried to run to rally, stealing home to score with the battery focussed on getting the batter at the plate. K. Game over. 12 – 9 win.

Batting: Luke Budler 4 – 5, 1 rbi; Liam Willenburg 3 – 4, 2 rbi’s; Luke November 3 – 5, (1 double) 3 rbi’s; Jesse Johnson 1 -3 (1 x double), 2 rbi’s, 1 bb; Jordyn Riffel 1 – 3, 1 rbi’s; Haydn Abrahams 2 – 3, 2 BB 2 RBI; Alex Japhta 1 – 3, 2 rbi’s; Josh Adonis 0 – 1, 2 rbi’s.

Pitching: Johannes 3.1 innings, 4 K’s, 5 hit, 1 bb, 5 runs, 5 earned; Kian Africa (W) 2.2 innings, 2 K’s, 1 hits, 5 bb, 4 runs, 4 earned.

Thanks to “Liam’s mom Stephanie” for scoring.

Senior baseball teams

Masters vs Maitland Giants – Result: 19-3 (VOB)
Thank you Adie Langeveldt for bracing us with your presence and pitched the whole game. Great pitching. Homeruns by Adam and Shaheen was part of the run scoring fest. Bailey back with the bat, batting 1000.Hadley batting well. The bats were hot as always. Although their pitching was not very challenging to be fair. Everybody got a hit somewhere down the line and then there was Wayne. When Adie decided he was going to throw so the field can do some work, our centre fielder Ricky decided otherwise. But he almost caught the ball 4 times. Highlight was Ruan rounding third and tripping-rolling into 3rd being laughed at by Glen. Glen then decided to do a Ruan and went one better and did a double forward roll at the exact same spot and took out his shoulder. Lag nog!!! Let’s just say it was a you tube moment. Lotsa laughter and loads of fun with guys still Loving the game of Baseball.

MLR vs Durbanville – Result: 13-2 (VOB)
It was not the ideal preparation for the game, as the start of the game had to be delayed with players having to rush from the 18u game at Chucker road battling traffic. The Durbanville coaches were kind enough to agree to start the game a bit later to accommodate us.
A young Durbanville side showed grit early on against VOB that is starting to settle nicely. In the first inning, VOB managed one run and the Villians pulled one back immediately. Lee van Wyk started on the mound for VOB, and the lack of time for a warm-up may have assisted in allowing early runners on. He then went on to keep Durbanville scoreless for two more innings before Jesse Johnson replaced him.
VOB steadily accumulated runs throughout taking a 6-1 lead by the time Jesse took the mound in the fourth inning.
Durbanville battled with their pitching resources and VOB managed to capitalise on this in the top of the fifth inning. VOB batted through the order taking the score to 12-1, but Durbanville only managed to pull one run back taking the score to 12-2.
In the last inning, VOB managed another run but Durbanville could not manage to score after having the bases loaded ending the game at 13-2 to VOB.
Everyone contributed to the win, but the consistency shown by the pitchers ensured that the opposition had to earn their runs which they were unable to do.

ML vs Durbanville – Result: 16-6 (VOB)
Coming off a very emotional come- back win against A’s the week before, it was imperative to keep the focus and play good baseball against a young Villains team.
The game started with us storming out of the blocks with a 4run 1st. Josh Rich got the start this week and had a fairly comfortable 1st inning. 4-0
We added a run in the 2nd but had a sloppy bottom half of the 2nd, giving up 3 ER and 6 runs in total. That would be all for the villains on the day! The game lasted only 8 innings with us scoring in every inning but the 5th. Josh went on to pitch 3innings giving way to new boy Andy Orfanakos who pitched 2 scoreless innings with Kieran Moore coming on to pitch another 3 scoreless innings to close out the game.
While the pitching settled down, the boys broke out the bats, with the team combining for 17hits and 13 RBI’s on the day!
Paul Bell going 2-4 with 3 RBI’s, Jody Burch 2-5 with 2 RBI’s, Michael Scritten 2-4 with 2 RBI’s, Marc Quickfall 3-5 with 2 RBI’s, Altino Elliot 2-5 with 2 RBI’s and Grant Emmanual 1-1 with 3 RBI’s.
With all the hitting that has been going on, it is easy to miss the one really good aspect of our play over the last two weekends, we have now given up only two errors in two weeks which is a massive improvement in or defensive play and a testament to some of the hard work going on behind the scenes by the players and coaches.
With the high ceiling that this team possesses, we will be looking to keep the momentum going this weekend at home to a difficult Giants team.
See you at the ballpark!

Senior softball teams

SL – No reports received

2nd – No reports received

Anniversaries, birthdays, etc.
Adam Jaffer (14/11), Jesse Johnson (15/11), Rio Harrison (19/11), Randall Hendricks and Josh Adonis (20/11) all celebrate birthdays this week. Congratulations from the VOB family. Please don’t forget to let us know of any important dates so we can congratulate our members.

Events, Fundraisers, etc.
On Sunday 19/11/2017 from 11h30-13h30 we will be having our official club photoshoot as well as a boerewors fundraiser for club members who will get selected to represent WP this season. All players to come in club uniform as tem photos as well as a club photo will be taken.

Thought for the Week
All Life is a chance so take the chances that gets presented to you!! The person who makes the most of his/her chances, gets the furthest.

KEVIN JOHNSON

No Comments Weekly Roundup

Weekly round up 22 October 2017

A very significant week in our VOB history with the news that VOB member and stalwart VOB family member, Brent Beier had lost his battle with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) at the young age of 37 years old. This really hit many members very hard this week, but in the usual VOB spirit, it also showed that this is a FAMILY. VOB has come together, as a club, over the past few months to assist the Beier’s in their time of need and I must say THANK YOU to every single person in this wonderful club.

And, as fate may have it, we were home to our derby rivals Athlone A’s, a team that Boere fought many battles against over the years. A more fitting fixture we could not have asked for.

Our senior first team ladies had no fixture, but our second team and youth were back at City Park, one of the venues that softball will be using while they recover from the vandalising of softball home, Turfhall stadium.

On to the weekend’s games!!

Youth teams

PeeWees vs A’s – Result: not important
Peewees played A’s and won comfortably 18 – 6. The diamond started the first frame with brilliant fielding, finding the bases with ease. A’s had players playing for the first season and they struggled to hit in the gaps. Our peewees went to bat and scored 9 runs in the first frame. Rustem De Bruyn was our lead off batter and his batting has improved significantly. Caleb Abrahams was the outstanding player of the day with brilliant hitting and fielding. Thanks you parents for your support. Well done peewees.

U10’s vs A’s – Result: 28-12 (VOB)
The U10’s played A’s and beat them 28-12. I must thank the parents for their support. The boys started the first frame with excellent fielding limiting their opponents to only 3 runs. They then went to bat and scored 8 runs. The batters cleared the diamond with ease and scored runs throughout the game. Caleb Bell played at second base and took 2 brilliant catches and hit 2 homeruns. Nur Scello was also outstanding at 3rd base, fielding and taking catches, he also hit 2 homeruns. Talun Davis, Chad Pastoor and Cayden Williams also hit homeruns. My player of the day was Caleb Abrahams for his quick thinking and knowledge of reading plays and for 3 brilliant catches at pitcher. What a player for me to have in a game and for a six-year-old with talent like this makes the game interesting for baseball. Well done boys for a good win.

U12’s vs A’s – Result: 11-6 (A’s)
After last week’s close game, VOB u12’s where hoping to bag their first win. Unfortunately, this was not to be as VOB got off to a slow start. It was only later in the game that we could get a few base runners on and score a few runs. Lots of place for improvement but well done to these awesome guys for their determination every week.
With 4 games played and 4 runs being scored in each of the first 2 games and 6 runs in the 3rd and another 6 in the 4th game, we hope that this weekend we see 8 runs and possibly our first W.

U14 Softball – VOB vs Lavender Hill – Result: 15-6 (L/Hill)
We have a good team but Lavender Hill have a few exceptional players, including two pitchers who throw with pace. While we matched them in the first, it was just a matter of time before they pulled away. Mercedes and Nawaar were the only hitters to make good contact, though we drew many walks.
Jesse continued to improve behind the plate, most of our other players wilting under the pressure.

U15 Senior Sluggers vs A’s – Result: 17-6 (A’s)
What should have been a relatively easy game turned into a nightmare from a pitching perspective. Having to use a total of 6 pitchers in the game we were always on the back foot in this game. Shakeel Jattiem tried his best to contain the opposition in his stint throwing 56 pitches in 3 innings and thereby claiming the player of the day award. A big concern is the boys mental approach as they were beaten when they saw a big Taariq Adams throwing for Athlone. The boys need to realise that one player does not determine the outcome of the game and that if they are going lose focus because of a mental issue, then they have already lost the game. With pitchers struggling, a lot of walks were handed to Athlone, and they magically managed to find all the holes in the field when they did hit. Despite losing this one 17 – 6, the boys spirits were still high which is a good sign that they can be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

U15 Young Guns vs Devonshire Rovers – Result: 5-4 (VOB)
Our very inexperienced Young Guns are proving that fun and learning will get them to enjoy the game and eventually to win more than they lose.
This weekend we had THREE girls in one team for the first time in a very long time with Kelly Johnson, Jade November and Madison Blows taking on the boys on an equal footing.
Young Josh November again did pitching duties and his arm will grow stronger with each outing from the senior distance. He was replaced by Nicholas Jeffries who also is growing in confidence from the senior pitching distance.
Young Hilton Coenraad at 3B is an absolutely raw talent who runs like the wind and looks like he throws stones the entire day. Keep an eye out for him in the future.
Even though we were in the lead when the umpire wanted to call the game, we decided that we had enough time to let the kids play more. The more they play the more they learn. In the end the extra inning was still not enough for Rovers to catch up and we ran out 5-4 winners. Well done boys and girls!!

U18’s vs A’s – Result: 11-2 (VOB)
Tight pitching, well worked walks backed by power hitting, and aggressive base running saw VOB U18’s put up a dominant performance against traditional rivals Athlone A’s.

A ground ball out at 3rd and sweet 6 – 4 – 3 double play closed out the A’s first batting turn with no runs scored. Leadoff Luke November and Luke Budler, at #2, then did their jobs, scoring off two walks, from drives by Jordyn Riffel and an Alex Japhta double. 0 – 2. A’s clawed one back as our middle infield struggled with the ball coming slower off the heavier than normal grass after last week’s rain. Aggressive, forcing running saw Liam Willenberg and Keegan Hickley scoring, and doubles by Jesse Johnson a Alex Japhta (again) saw VOB to the 5 run compulsory innings close as Haydn Abrahams, Luke and Budler crossed. 1 – 7. A walk and a throwing error saw A’s get another run back. VOB quickly answered with two runs as Luke’s drive scored Keegan and Haydn. 2 – 9.

Southpaw Kian Africa was stingy on the mound, closing out A’s in top of the 4th and 5th scoreless, assisted by a 4 – 3 double play. Haydn and Luke crossed for their 3rd runs of the game in the bottom of the 5th, as Budler crushed a double to left field, and Jesse then closed out the game. 2 – 11.

Overall the team showed purpose and focus, playing forward and building momentum, but missing signs is becoming a bit of a habit.

Batting: Alex Japhta 2 – 3, (2 doubles), 3 rbi; Jesse Johnson 1 – 3 (1 x double), 2 rbi’s, 1 bb; Luke November 1 – 3, 2 rbi’s, 3 runs scored; Luke Budler 1 – 3 (1 double), 2 rbis, 1 bb, 2 runs scored; Haydn Abrahams 0 – 0, 3 bb, 3 runs scored; Keegan Hickley 0 – 0, 2 bb, 2 runs scored;.

Pitching: Johannes 3 innings, 0 K’s, 1 hit, 2 bb, 1 hpb, 2 runs, 0 earned; Kian Africa (W) 2 innings, 2 K’s, 0 hits, 1 bb; Jesse 1 inning, 2 K’s, 1 bb

Thanks to Kevin Mullins and Raees for umpiring.

Senior baseball teams

Masters vs Silvertree – Result: 12-4 (VOB)
It started with both teams wearing black bands in remembering our great friend Brent Boere Beier. Never to be forgotten. Ruan was the pitcher on the day and made Silvertree hitters look very average with a great pitching performance. Their pitchers on the other hand speedwise you can compare to Wayne Ripepis running. You get slow then you get that speed. Some nice hitting by most of the guys and solid baserunning for a change. Highlight of the day was Wayne Ripepi stealing to 2nd on an overthrow and getting safe. Yes, you heard me correctly. Other than that a game was played in good spirit although with a little sadness in our hearts. We still managed to have fun and loads of laughter.

MLR vs A’s – Result: 5-3 (A’s)
VOB hosted Athlone in this Major League Reserve game. VOB started with Canadian new recruit Andy Orfanakos on mound. He started well keeping “The A’s” scoreless in the first inning. They countered with Yusuf Galant on the mound and kept VOB scoreless in the first inning as well.
Athlone got on the board first and took a 2-0 lead as Andy battled with his location a bit and was replaced on the mound by Josh Rich in the third inning. Josh pitched well but hitting 4 batters and a few fielding errors allowed Athlone to accumulate a few more runs while VOB only managed 3 runs going into the bottom of the last inning.
With the bottom of the VOB order up, it was a tough ask of the youngsters. Athlone managed to get the first out before VOB got a runner on base. Then some confusion on the bases led to a double play, which ended the match 5-3 to Athlone.
It was a disappointing loss but a good game. Top performers on the day were Raees Haron, Josh Rich and Lee van Wyk. The mistakes were once again the difference between the sides, but with all the new faces, it will take some time before the team becomes consistent and put in more results like that of last week.

ML vs A’s – Result: 11-8 (VOB)
The emotion in this game was palpable from the outset. With Brent Beier’s number on our arms and his playing jersey hanging in the dugout, this one was always going to be about Boere.
Michael Scritten (VOB) opposed A’s lefty Cameron Fortuin which was “strange” as both are ex-crusaders pitchers. Scritten (4.2 inn, 4ER) kept a tight rein on A’s, but could not stop them A’s from taking a 6-0 lead by the 5th inning. Fortuin (3.1 inn, 0 ER) was the complete opposite in that, although he allowed regular runners on, kept VOB from scoring by making crucial pitches to stop runs from being scored.
A’s were the first to make a pitching change bringing on SA pitcher Dean Jacobs in the 4th inning and that’s when the Macaws started their comeback. In 1.2 innings the Macaws scored 6ER’s before A’s called in their evergreen ace, Carl Michaels, to stem the tide. Michaels tried his best, but the Macaws smelt blood and, by the time Michaels had settled, it was too late. VOB took the opportunity to make a change of their own giving the ball to Jayde Thorne who pitched superbly from there and took the win.
Lee Marks made a welcome return to the game after his horrific car accident last season, but he struggled mightily striking out 4 times before being lifted – welcome back Lee. Best hitters for A’s were Dillon Daniels (4/5) and PJ Abrahams (2/3).
Best hitters for VOB were Paul Bell (4/4, BB), Luke November (1/2, 2B, Rbi) and Jody Burch (2/5, 2B) getting his first hits of the season.
Good overall performance by VOB showing character to come back after being down 6-0.
Player of the game was Paul Bell.

Senior softball teams

SL vs ON BYE

2nd vs St Augustines – Result: 18-4 (VOB)
Six available players at eight became ten at one. Thanks to Chiamaka, Tracey, Iman, and Alex, who came to the party at personal inconvenience.
Now to the game, a continuation of our dominance over most of the teams in this league. Doni and later Hannah, kept their hitters quiet, Alex catching confidently. Some recurring jitters in handling run-down situations was our only problems.
Though some of our less experienced players still have difficulties with pitch selection, we generally hit strongly against their consistent but slow pitcher. Our long-ball hitters were on song, Tracey, Doni, Terri, and Hannah hitting long home runs. The latter also smacked a triple. And Iman, her eleven years matching Alex’s debut last season, came into the game with assurance, driving the ball well, running the bases confidently, and scoring two runs.

And ….. to repeat yet again, we desperately need a manager and another coach so that the senior teams can be properly prepared.

Anniversaries, birthdays, etc.
Josh and Jade November (5/11), Yusuf Daniels (5/11), Hayden Abrahams (6/11 and Alex Japhta (9/11) all celebrate birthdays this week. Congratulations from the VOB family and we do love cake – just saying.

Events, Fundraisers, etc.
On Friday 27/10 we had our first boerewors fundraiser for club members who will get selected to represent WP this season and it was a great success. We will be doing this type of fundraiser regularly so that we assist all our players that get selected to represent WP at NBC next year in KZN. Please come and support whenever we have fundraisers because, if we start early, it makes life easier financially later.

Thought for the Week
Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% HOW you react to it!! Too often we think that WE have problems in life when in fact we make it bigger than it really is. Look outside yourself and realise that very often your “problems” are really not as big as you make it out to be.

KEVIN JOHNSON

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Weekly Round up 22 October 2017

This weekend was the Home Opener at Chukker Road Sports Complex and what a beautiful day it was. We could not have asked for better weather as we welcomed Bellville Tygers to our grounds.

It was not all smooth sailing leading up to the weekend with our facility in desperate need of grass cutting, but thanks to Sammy Daniels and the Chukker Road FMC for coming through at the 11th hour (literally LOL) and getting the grass cut late on Friday evening. It meant that we had to do our own line marking, but that was easily taken care of early on Saturday morning.

Our softballers are having an even tougher time with the vandalism of Turfhall Stadium meaning that softball is being played at three different venues at the moment. Luckily our ladies have been at Turfhall only these past two weekends.

Speaking of vandalism, our floodlights were completely stripped by thieves at the end of last season and we have had endless meetings and fights with the City of Cape Town regarding the repairs, but the fact that we are not the only

ones in our area that this has happened to, means it has become more complicated. Turfhall was hard hit, Athlone A’s were hit a few weeks ago as was William Herbert Sports complex. We are keeping fingers crossed that the City of Cape Town will finalise what they need to and assist in these repairs sooner rather than later.

On to the weekend’s games!!

Youth teams

PeeWees vs Tygers – Result: not important
No report received

U10’s vs Tygers – Result: 20-14 (Tygers)
The U10’s played Bellville today and unfortunately did not win. The boys took the field in the first frame and Bellville came out swinging with the bat scoring 8 runs. Our fielding was not up to par with 3 players absent and being replaced with Peewees. I must compliment the peewees for playing a good game. Thank you to our supporters for cheering our boys on. Well done players, a game well played.

U12’s vs Tygers – Result: 11-4 (Tygers)
What an awesome display of enthusiasm by the u12 team.
Bellville decided to go with their nationalu12 pitcher, who had a brilliant start. This however, did not stop the boys from swinging the bat. With very little time they had of doing any form of batting practice, it was awesome to see how they refused to back down. Due to having a combination of inexperienced players and those facing a pitcher for the first time (after coming up from tee-ball) we were still experimenting with who plays where. These players made my task very difficult as they played so well in the positions they were selected in.
The positive in this game was that we managed to score 4 runs, 3 of which were runs batted in.
Well done to these amazing kids. It can only get better from here because it was already a major improvement from the week before so I am definitely looking forward to the rest of the season.

U14 Softball – VOB vs Falcons – Result: 12-4 (VOB)
This team can hit, and they can run when they want to, which is just some of the time. Nawaar (Bokkie Jnr), Zahra (Tokkie), Zoe (Mustang) and Bling (Mercedes) batted strongly.
They can also field, Argentina (Hannah) outstanding as a fielding pitcher.
Baserunning!!!

U15 Senior Sluggers vs Tygers – Result: 13-3 (VOB)
Bellville had no chance against the senior Sluggers with our boys getting in 8 hits in the first 2 frames. Young Josh “CM 51” November did a sterling job throwing 51 pitches in 3 innings. He was replaced by Jared “Perd” Riffel who shocked everyone with his excellent control and variation on the hill. Not much fielding for our boys due to our pitchers but the boys showed great discipline with the bat drawing 10 walks.
Player of the was Logan Hodges who performed like a superstar behind the plate.

U15 Young Guns vs Mavericks – Result: 13-15 (Mavericks)
Our Young Guns had their 1st outing against Mavericks and performed beyond expectation. These boys have a lot of heart and passion and this could be seen on game day. We still have a way to go, but we will get there. Player of the day goes to Jayden for an awesome hit to right field as well as some nice fielding.

U18’s vs Tygers – Result: 8-3 (VOB)
With Jesse Johnson back on the mound, a scoreless 1st frame was followed by Bellville drawing first blood in the top of the 2nd on a hit by pitch, stolen base, advance on a fly to right field, and a passed ball. Jesse closed out the innings with the second of what was to become an impressive ten strike outs. VOB U18’s bounced back immediately. Putting the ball in play, and hard running saw Jesse score from Liam Willemburg’s E6 ground ball. 1 – 1.

Three K’s through Tyger’s 9, 1, 2 saw VOB back at the plate. Poor decision making saw us lose our lead runner on a fielder’s choice out at 3rd. A hit from Luke Budler, a walk, a sac fly from Jordyn Riffel, and a hit from Liam, saw two runs scored. 1 – 3.

Another quick innings and we were back at bat again, only to see a well taken double play blank us. An error saw a Bellville’s bottom order get on, and then a second error saw them score a two down run. Again VOB bounced back. Luke November scored off Jesse’s sac fly, and, Jordyn, in the 5-hole, smashed a triple to the long centre field boundary scoring Budler. 2 – 5.

Two hits saw Bellville claw back a run, and lefty Kian Africa come to the mound with one down. A strikeout, a walk and a K saw VOB back at bat. Again hard running saw us turn a bobble into a runner on. A walk, an error, set the table for a two run double from an on fire Jesse, as Kian, and Luke added to the score. A passed ball saw Budler cross the plate as well. 3 – 8.

A ground out, a fly to centre, and a ground out saw Kian earn his first Save of the season. Job done.

Batting: Jesse Johnson 1 -2 (1 x double), 3 rbi’s, 1 bb; Jordyn Riffel 1 – 2 (1 x triple), sac fly, 2 rbi’s; Liam Willemburg 1 – 3, 2 rbi’s; Luke Budler 1 – 2, 1 rbi (sac fly), 3 runs scored; Luke November 1 – 3, 1 bb 3 runs scored; Haydn Abrahams 1 – 2; Alex Japhta 1 – 4.

Pitching: Jesse (W) 6.1 innings, 10 K’s, 3 hits, 1 bb, 1 hpb; Kian Africa (S) 1.21 innings, 2 K, 0 hits, 1 bb.

This week’s well done – Paul Bell who picked up the slack umpiring his second game of the morning, and Charlie Ellisac who came through after coaching the U12’s and relieved Paul.

Senior baseball teams

Masters vs Durbanville – Result: 9-0 (VOB)
The defending champions Durbanville forfeited this game due to not being able to field a team.

MLR vs Tygers – Result: 14-4 (Tygers)
Naeem Dollie started on the mound allowing 2 of the first 3 batters walks which Bellville converted to runs before he came back and tied the opposition batters up till the end of the 3rd inning. VOB started off well with the bat scoring 3 runs in the first inning to but struggled to build on that.

The score was 3-2 to VOB until the 4th when VOB made their first pitching change. Newcomer Lee van Wyk was brought on to the mound and did well striking out 2 of the first 3 batters he faced. He struggled to get the next out and was replaced by Brady Conradie later in the inning. Bellville capitalised in the inning adding 9 runs before the innings was brought to a close. VOB managed only 1 run in response taking their total to 4.

The 5th and final inning saw Altino Elliot take the mound to close out the inning after Bellville added another 3 runs taking their score to 14. In VOB’s final at bat they were unable to add to the score bringing the game to a close at 14-4.

It was a tough game in which one tough inning cost VOB. There were enough signs to indicate that this team will be a formidable unit once they click.

ML vs Tygers – Result: 14-3 (Tygers)
Our 1st home game of the season against the defending champions, Bellville Tygers started very brightly.
Jayde Thorne got the nod for the start and breezed through the top of the first inning. In reply, we scored 3 runs, Mathew Darius accounting for 2 of the 3 RBI’S. we lost Grant in the 1st inning due to a muscle strain which we hoping will not keep him out for a significant amount of time.
Unfortunately, that was all the damage we could do on the day. Bellville pitching settled and their offence started chipping away. Our old enemy (errors) was again responsible for turning the game on its head and handing Bellville the win. 7 errors and too many walks cost us dearly this week, turning a 0-3 lead going into the 4th into a 14-3 loss.
Many lessons to be taken from this loss, but the most encouraging aspect is that this young team, with Kieran Moore starting at SS and Jesse Johnson filling in for the injured Grant Emmanuel, added to Lance Gordon at catcher along with the more experienced players, stood toe to toe with a great baseball team. Some time and some gelling and this team is capable of some serious damage.
We will be looking to turn the corner this weekend, much more to come from this team.

Senior softball teams

SL vs Glenthorn A’s – Result: 1-8 (G-A’s)
A better scoreline than last week and again a break or two would have helped us considerably.
Davine’ was again the entertainer of the moment; two hits, a home run conceded (bumpy outfield!?!), and another brilliant catch. And then a boogie between third and second (not second and third).

2nd vs Khayelitsha Eagles – Result: 0-10 (Eagles)
The Khayelitsha first team were a different kettle of fish to last week’s rookies. We were outclassed, though our infield showed some good touches.

Anniversaries, birthdays, etc.
Slade Sellars (1/10), Cayden Williams (5/10), Shayan Hendricks (15/10), Dre Valentine and Hilton Coenraad (both 19/10), Jermaine Boyle and Fayaad Damon (both 21/10), Judi Beukes (22/10), Alfie Johnson (23/10), Alvarco van der Vent and Kevin Johnson (27/10) all celebrate birthdays in October. Congratulations from the VOB family.

Events, Fundraisers, etc.
Friday 27/10 – Boerewors fundraiser for club members who will get selected to represent WP this season. Come and support because, if we start early, it makes life easier financially later.

Thought for the Week
Many hands make light work!! This is such a common saying yet has so much meaning to VOB currently. We have so many people standing on the side-lines and expecting everything to be done for them. We could be the biggest and best club in South Africa if members and supporters step out of the shadows and ask WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP! Don’t wait to be asked!

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