In a rain-affected week for Kiama Cricket Club, only two lower-grade matches went ahead, with the fourth-graders keeping their finals hopes alive.

After three straight losses, the Cavaliers travelled to Albion Park looking to revive their season.

Kiama won the toss and elected to bat, with openers William and Glenn Coghlan putting on a 22-run partnership to give the visitors a steady start.

Two strong middle-order stands of 71 and 55 runs lifted Kiama to 187 from 35 overs.

“Adam McCrone once again exerted his dominance, blasting 50 not out from 34 balls while sharing a strong partnership with his son Reilly, who made 38 from 74,” said Kiama Cavaliers president Bernie Brown.

“Ollie Wilson shone in the latter overs, posting 41 not out from 40.”

Kiama struck early with the ball, with Giles Brown claiming a wicket in the opening over to leave Albion Park at 1-0.

“Giles has been fantastic with the ball this season, taking regular wickets with accuracy,” Brown said.

Brown removed the second opener in his next over, but Albion Park’s middle order responded to reach 4-128 and threaten the chase.

However, Kiama’s bowlers regained control, restricting Albion Park to 7-163 from their 35 overs as the required run rate climbed out of reach.

Giles Brown finished with three wickets, while McCrone, Wilson and Tyson Crawford claimed one apiece.

“Fourth grade have their final round this week before heading into the finals on 14 March,” Brown said. “It’s been an excellent effort from a great development squad of fathers and sons.”

Third grade also took the field in a reduced-overs match due to poor outfield conditions.

“Batting first, the Cavs started slowly in the first 10 overs due to some tight swing bowling and heavy field conditions,” Brown said.

Kiama found themselves in trouble at 2-31 before a 46-run partnership between Nathan Battishall (22) and opener Brendan Czulowski (46) steadied the innings, helping the Cavaliers post 7-139.

In reply, Kiama started well with disciplined bowling from Rob Denny and Darcy Parker, who finished with 2-15.

“Although several crucial chances were put down at key stages, allowing the Kookas to pass the total with two overs to spare,” Brown said.

Third grade are out of finals contention but will play Lake Illawarra this Saturday in their final match of the season.

This week, first grade face Bomaderry at Artie Smith Oval and will be looking to secure a win to cement their finals spot. Second grade host Lake Illawarra and remain an outside chance of playing finals with a victory.

The Cavettes’ final game was abandoned, with the side finishing the season one place outside the top four.