Ton’s high praise from rival coach

A BLISTERING 99-ball even 100 from Joel Davies steered the Swans to an imposing 306 setting East Belmont a substantial pre-finals test at Winter Reserve.

“It was probably one of the best innings I’ve seen in GCA cricket,” Lions’ coach Chris Williams conceded after the game.

“He didn’t give us a chance the whole time and he scored at a rate that set up the game for them. Despite the fact that we were on the receiving end of it, it was good positive cricket.”

Working in conjunction with the in-form Phil Lang (62), Davies dismissal came in the 32nd over at 162, laying the foundation for a big second session for the visitors.

Williams (3-71) and Dave Lineen (4-55) battled hard to stem the flow, but with veteran Brad Hauenstein (59) and paceman Nick Lynch (22) providing rearguard action, South Barwon was able to propel the score beyond the 300-mark.

The day also saw the first X1 return of Englishman Alex Willerton (1-38), from a side strain incurred in Round 5.

“We’ve been really cautious with his return, but he was able to bowl two separate spells, which was the main takeaway for us,” Williams said.

“When we had them 7-213 it would have been really tempting to bring him back for a third, but the risk-reward wasn’t there so we decided to keep him on ice a little bit longer.”