It was a steep learning curve for the Mudgee girls, not winning any of their round robin matches in the second tier competition known as the State Cup.

Although Mudgee finished fifth during the round robin they were able to finish on a high, defeating Orange 13-7 in a fourth versus fifth playoff. It reversed their day-one 15-3 loss to the hosts.

Mudgee Softball said via their Facebook page there were tremendous improvements made over the two-day tournament and many memorable “outs”.

“It was great to be able to reverse our 3-15 loss against Orange on day one,” Mudgee Softball said.

“The team was in a winning position at the hour mark against both Campbelltown and Tamworth but ended up fielding for most of the final 30 minutes of both games. 

“Over the five games the 15s were in the field for about 62 per cent of the game time, so they obviously had fewer opportunities to experience batting against quality pitchers.”

Mudgee catcher and 3rd base specialist Ally Henry took out the side’s most valuable player over the two days.

Mudgee head coach Mick Boller said it was also great to be able to watch the top tier final where Manly-Warringah defeated Hornsby 3-2.

Mudgee Softball thanked all their volunteers who gave up the weekend and many training afternoons to provide the playing experience.

Mudgee’s results: 4-13 v Campbelltown; 3-15 v Orange; 3-27 v Southern Districts; 5-18 v Tamworth; 13-7 v Orange (playoff).