Sport
24 February, 2026
Giant killers! Navies’ upset denies spot in top four
CHARLTON saved their best performance for last, producing a drought-breaking victory over Southern Mallee Giants to close their Wimmera Mallee Cricket Association season on a remarkable high.
CHARLTON saved their best performance for last, producing a drought-breaking victory over Southern Mallee Giants to close their Wimmera Mallee Cricket Association season on a remarkable high.
Entering the final round without a win, Charlton faced a Giants side still fighting to secure a finals berth.
Few outside the club would have predicted the outcome but Charlton delivered a spirited and disciplined performance that not only secured their first success of the campaign, but also reshaped the entire finals picture.
The breakthrough began with the ball. Led by a dominant spell from Patrick Sait, who claimed five key wickets, Charlton applied relentless pressure to bowl the Giants out for just 90.
Supported by tight spells from Cooper Boyle and Leigh Van Boven, Charlton’s attack showcased the persistence that had built quietly throughout the season.
Chasing a modest target, Charlton’s innings was far from straightforward as early wickets fell and the Giants fought to keep their finals hopes alive.
It was Billy Sexton who steadied the ship, guiding the chase with a composed unbeaten 43 that highlighted maturity and patience under pressure. His partnership with Cooper Boyle, followed by the finishing touches from Ethan Soulsby, ensured Charlton reached 5/93 and sealed a long-awaited win.
Beyond the scoreboard, the result carried enormous weight.
Charlton’s victory proved decisive in the finals race, with Southern Mallee Giants ultimately missing out on a top-four position following the upset loss.
What may have appeared on paper as a final-round formality instead became one of the defining moments of the season.
For Charlton, the win represented more than just two points — it was reward for resilience, development, and belief, offering a positive platform heading into next season and a reminder that persistence can finally deliver its moment with a win that reverberated with success.
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