The Under 19 Vanuatu Colts did their best to lose at the weekend, but still snuck away with a fortunate two wicket win against a team of local All Stars.
The Colts were seemingly cruising to victory before a spate of late, cheap wickets gave the All Stars a sniff of victory.
But the youngsters did manage to hold on for the win, in what was their second last hit out before the East Asia - Pacific U19 World Cup Qualifying Tournament begins on July 17.
Batting first, the All Stars had more starts than a geriatric racehorse, with seven batsmen reaching double figures.
But no one converted their start into a significant score, Paama's Aby Joel top scoring with 28, as the All Stars were all out for just 161.
Best of the bowlers for the Colts was captain Andrew Mansale, whose offies claimed three wickets.
But the most promising spell in terms of tournament preparation came from Steven Lynch, the paceman bowling with impressive accuracy on his way to figures of one for 24 from his ten overs.
The All Star's score was never likely to be enough runs, but the Colts made hard work of what should have been a regulation chase.
A measured half century from Mansale, and 30 runs to Simpson Obed had the Colts side in an ideal position at three for 109.
But the loss of Mansale was followed by another four quick wickets, as Ross Fraser spun the All Stars back into contention with a four wicket spell.
It was eventually left to Brendan Lynch to help the Colts lower order crawl over the finish line.
The Colts will have one last hit out before their big tournament when they meet the Under 19 Fijian side next Monday.
They will then meet the Fijians again two days later in the opening round of the tournament.
Last Modified on 10/07/2007 10:39