Sebastopol seeks advantage on synthetic

TWO cracking matches will headline Round 7 of the Geelong-Ballarat Premier Division.

Top of the ladder and undefeated, Bareena takes on thirdplaced Sebastopol at home in what looms as a mouth-watering clash.

Sebastopol’s last venture to Geelong proved a success when they surprised by knocking off Queenscliff.

Bareena at home will be another tough mission, but Sebastopol skipper Rob Baker said his side was up for the challenge.

“We have been going better than usual on artificial greens, this will be a great test for us,” Baker said.

“We need to be in the game after 80 ends, if we are anything can happen.”

Bareena goes into the match with an unchanged lineup from its three-shot win in Round 6 against Eastern Park.

The Premier Division match of the round will take place on the carpet at Lara, with two enthusiastic in-form Geelong clubs slogging it out.

Lara is fifth and Eastern Park just marginally behind in sixth on the ladder — both on the same points.

Lara skipper Mick Kelly said an unchanged side would benefit his club.

“We have had no changes for a couple of weeks,” Kelly said.

“Last (round) was a confidence boost for us beating Victoria up there because we have not been able to do that for a long time.”

Lara will be hoping for a win at home to consolidate its last road trip.

“Recent history shows we match up well with Eastern Park,” Kelly said.

“Both teams need the win, both teams have a new-look line up from last year and I am sure the 32 players involved will generate a high level of noise on the sound level meter.”

Queenscliff is on the road to Buninyong and Barrie Close will be keen to return a win after being promoted to skip in place of the unavailable Luke Wayth.

One thing assured, Raymond Butler will be hoping to celebrate his 21st birthday with victory.

Ocean Grove welcomes back skipper Leigh McIlvenny for its clash at Webbcona, while Highton should be able to get the points against Victoria at home.

Let’s hope the weather gods look after us and allow us to take to the greens for Round 7.