UPDATE: The Newport Rams continue to defy the odds in the Baseball Victoria summer league, advancing to the final four after a stunning series of victories in the playoffs. Just announced, the Rams triumphed over Waverley with a score of 5-2 on Saturday, marking a significant turnaround after finishing the regular season in eighth place.
The Rams faced an uphill battle, initially concluding the regular season with just two wins and seven losses. However, the team’s resilience has paid off, as they have now won three consecutive finals matches. Coach David Land praised the group for their determination and teamwork. “The guys stuck with the plan and had a little bit of faith,” Land stated. “We turned it around and won nearly every game after Christmas. We’re now in the final four.”
In a pivotal match against Waverley, the Rams showcased their skills after an early setback when Waverley scored in the second inning. The Rams quickly responded with a run in the third inning, eventually leading 4-1 after five innings. Waverley managed to score again in the seventh, but the Rams sealed their victory with another run in the eighth. “The most pleasing thing was Kyle Morrison, a home-grown player, pitched the majority of the game,” Land noted. “He dominated against one of the best teams in the state.”
Looking ahead, the Rams will face Malvern on Tuesday night, January 9, 2024, after Malvern eliminated the minor premiers, Sunshine. The winner of this matchup will go on to play Moorabbin on Thursday night. With the stakes high, Land expressed a desire to continue riding the wave of momentum, stating, “We feel like we are the Western Bulldogs in 2016. Why not us? The guys want to keep playing one more game together. We will leave everything on the field.”
The Rams’ success is also a testament to their robust junior program, which has nurtured many players who have returned to their roots after collegiate experiences. Land highlighted the importance of home-grown talent, crediting the club’s junior system for its role in developing future stars.
As the Rams prepare for their next game, the excitement and determination within the team are palpable. Fans and supporters are rallying behind them, hoping for a fairy-tale finish to a season that began with uncertainty. The countdown to the next game has begun, and all eyes will be on the Newport Rams as they aim for an improbable championship run.
