The Dilijafs team from Canberra has won the Cootamundra seven-a-side carnival for a record third time, with previous wins in 2015 and 2018.
Fine and warm conditions greeted six teams that took part, with all matches being played at Albert Park.
Dilijafs were the only undefeated side at the end of the preliminary rounds, winning all three matches, thus they advanced to the final.
Set 65 for victory the visitors won with three balls to spare.
The last preliminary match was the closest match of the day, with Stockinbingal defeating Here for Beer on the last ball. Stockinbingal's win forced a three-way countback between the Bulldogs, Here for Beer and Stockinbingal. The Bulldogs advanced to the final with a superior run rate of 8.63 over Here for Beer (8.32) and Stockinbingal (7.04).
In the final, the Bulldogs batted first and made 4/64. Best with the bat were Nathan Corby with 29 and Andrew Smart 20.
The catalyst in the Dilijafs' win was the last over bowled by Dennis Grubb. The former New York Yankees pitcher showed all his guile and experience. The 48-year-old bowled four dot balls, and the remaining two balls only conceded three runs.
Set 65 for victory the visitors won with three balls to spare, finishing with 2/66. Their hero was the big-hitting John Gladwin. The left-hander blasted a quick 40, a knock that included two big sixes and two fours. Phil Henderson remained 15 not out.
The six teams that contested the 10th annual carnival were Dilijafs, Bulldogs, Here for Beer, Stockinbingal, Sixers and the Coota Blues.
Cootamundra District Cricket Association has thanked David Garness, who sourced the six teams and completed the draw. Thanks to Dave, the carnival ran like clockwork with the first ball being bowled on time at 9am and the final concluding at 5.40pm.
