The Eagles secured a place in the semifinals of the Standard Bank Pro 20-series after beating the Highveld Lions by three runs in an exciting cricket match at Good Year Park on Sunday.
The Lions chased a score of 162 and looked like sure winners with the score on 148/6 with still four overs in hand. A great catch by Mandla Mashimbyi to get rid of Justin Ontong for 17 and three silly run-outs, however, left the visitors minutes later on 158 all out.
The Lions still had one over to get three runs and with Vaughn van Jaarsveld on 36 (from just 23 balls) the Eagles looked destined to lose. Sadly for Van Jaarsveld and the Lions, he ran out of partners at the end.
Earlier Neil McKenzie played a wonderful cameo innings of 36 (3×4, 2×6) from just 24 balls.
Spinner Thandi Tshabalala played a huge role with the ball for the Eagles and ended with figures of 3/31. Deon Kruis (2/34) also offered good support.
The Eagles earlier scored 161/6 (20 overs). Captain Nicky Boje (38 not not, 29b), Davey Jacobs (34, 22b), Loots Bosman (34, 28b) and Boeta Dippenaar (28, 23b) all did their part for the home team.
David Terbrugge (2/26), Goolam Bayat (2/26) and Ontong (1/20) were the best bowlers for the Lions.
The Eagles will now face the Titans at Supersport Park in the semifinal on Wednesday. — Sapa