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Finland’s best season yet
In its early stages, the league was keenly contested though heavily rain affected. The result was that the final, at Kaisaniemi ground in Helsinki, was between SKK1 and Tampere. SKK1 set 186 from their 45 overs despite a tremendous bowling spell by S. Diagala (9 overs, 3 for 12) in an innings including equally good knocks by Petteri Moilanen (64) and Jonathan October (41). All was set for a dramatic final innings and Tampere started strong with E. Kuchey scoring 16 off the first over alone. Tampere, despite their strong start, became unstuck, losing their middle order rapidly and looking dire at 87 for 8. This is where the tide changed yet again, as Usama Rauf hit a quick fire 25 off 15, putting Tampere back in the game, as the lower order batsmen carried Tampere closer and closer to the required runs. A succesful bowling change in Julian Roach managed to finish off the tail with figures of 3 for 16 and SKK1 won the game by a mere 22 runs. In the plate contest, Empire, in their maiden season managed to beat MTS/MKK in the final in a rain plagued game on Suomenlinna and was a tribute to keen, developing sides attempting to establish themselves in the FCA League. In the play offs, Turku, who arguably came closest to performing the upset of the season against Helsinki in the semi's, beat Espoo in Turku to reach the 5th-6th play off final against SKK2 who had beaten Vantaa in their play off game. Turku eventually edged SKK2 by 15 runs in another close game, and Turku arguably performed the best turn around of the season despite under-performing in the group stages. This season's development owes many thanks to the people who got up early on Saturday and Sunday mornings, be it to play, travel long distances, officiate and even watch the games on offer, and it's thanks to all of them that this biggest season ever in Finland was possible. |