Tara Murray
Spotswood has missed out on a finals spot in its first season in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association.
After knocking off ladder leaders Caulfield in the previous round, the Woodsmen gave themselves a shot at a finals spot in the south-west division.
The Woodsmen needed a win in the final round of the south-west season and for Caulfield to beat Malvern to sneak into the top six.
The equation became even more interesting, with rain and wet pitches thrown into the mix with a number of matches across Melbourne not going ahead.
While Caulfield did the job, Spotswood was beaten by Hoppers Crossing in a rain reduced match.
Sent in, the Woodsmen made 7-138 from their 30 overs. Jarryd Vernon top scored with 39 at the top of the order.
The Cats got off to a flier with the bat to take control of the match. They would chase down the runs with 14 balls remaining, finishing 7-139.
Vernon was also the pick of the bowlers taking three wickets.
The loss means the Woodsmen finish in seventh, three points behind Malvern.
Also missing finals are Williamstown, Altona and Yarraville.
All three teams finished the seasons on the sidelines, as rain meant their games didn’t go ahead and finished in draws.
Williamstown was to play Yarraville, while Altona was meant to host Moorabbin.
Williamstown finished the season in 10th, Altona in 12th and Yarraville in 14th after inconsistent seasons.
Just one team from the west will play finals.
Werribee finished in second spot. The Tigers finished the regular season with a big win against Melton.
Hoppers Crossing (11th), Taylors Lakes (15th) and Melton (16th) were the other west teams to miss finals.
Taylors Lakes finished its season with a loss to Elsternwick.
Caulfield claimed the minor premiership, while Ormond, Oakleigh, Brighton and Malvern will also play finals.
