Lions on the march to outright points

EAST Belmont was ruthless in claiming first-innings points on the opening day against Bell Post Hill at Winter Reserve.

Alex Willerton spearheaded the assault with 2-14, before coach Chris Williams (3-19), Charlie Walter (2-16) and Dylan McMahon (2-23, pictured) swept in to play their part as the Panthers were dismissed for 120.

Six players reached double figures with stubborn gloveman Matt Reid top-scoring with 29. In response, Sean O’Neill’s brutal 58-ball unbeaten 81 paved the way for East to race to 2-132 at stumps. O’Neill struck 16 fours and a six, while top-order colleague Andrew Baars was next best with 27. Lachie Horan claimed the scalps of Baars and Matt Lineker (19) in his 2-58.