Pioneers advance to Pathway Final

Despite boasting two Victorian representatives in Jack Blain and Sam Harper, the Eagles were rolled for just 67 in the 36^th over, thanks to a tight and even bowling display from the Pioneers.

Wickets at regular intervals meant that the Eagles never got going, with only two double figure scores and sundries top-scoring with 14.

Brayden Lambden took 3-18 from eight overs, while Tanner Stanton (1-11 from 10) and Joshua Dowling (1-9 from eight) kept the pressure on.

The Pioneers managed to bowl 11 maidens – sucking the oxygen out of their opponent’s innings.

In reply, Stanton settled his side after two early wickets, combining with Mitch Cox to guide the Pioneers home with five wickets in hand and into their second Final in three years.

The Pioneers will be looking for redemption from their previous performance, having been defeated by the South East Bayside Breakers two years ago at the MCG.

They will face the Inner South East Scorpions at the MCG on Sunday, February 23.

To see full results from the Under-18 Victorian Bushrangers Pathway Championships, click here.