Mosman keeps Philpott Cup in showdown against Manly at Allan Border Oval

FOR the first time this season Mosman first grade got the chance to play on the new centre wicket at Allan Border Oval.

FOR the first time this season Mosman first grade got the chance to play on the new centre wicket at Allan Border Oval.

The centre square had been dug up and relaid in September and despite earlier predictions the side would not play on it until next year, it was deemed suitable late last week.

It meant the Mosman players felt right at home when they took on rivals Manly in a one day game for the Peter Philpott Cup.

Philpott, who played for Australia in the 60s, has coached extensively at both Mosman and Manly over the years.

Both teams take great pride as to who will take the cup home with them and this year it will stay on the south side of the Spit, settled nicely in the Mosman trophy cabinet.

Mosman sent the visitors in and had immediate success with Dan Caldwell picking up a wicket in his first over.

Manly then pushed the score along to be 1 for 30 and were looking in control.

Sam Roberts was thrown the ball and between he and Caldwell, Manly lost 4-0 to leave them reeling at 5-30.

Roberts bowled a perfect spell finishing with the brilliant figures of 3-9 from 10 overs. Caldwell also shone with 3-30.

Manly clawed its way back into the game and pushed the score to 141 all out with a last wicket stand of 32 providing a significant contribution.

With left arm orthodox spinner and  NSW captain Stephen O'Keefe to face, it was going to be a tricky chase.

Mosman lost Ash Doolan early but captain Mat Day and Pat Pisel steadied the ship bringing the score to 45.

Day and Pisel were then dismissed in quick succession before the wickets fell regularly to leave the Whales at 6 for 91.

Ellery Clugston  scored a quick-fire 23, cracking five boundaries, to allow the Whales to finish the run chase to victory.