Underdog status just fine with Mulgrave
JACOB GRAMS JACOB GRAMS CHASING down a big total is well within Atherton’s reach but no one wants to chase a four-day game.
The minor premiers will go “all guns blazing” into Day 1 of the Cricket Far North grand final today in a bid to go into lunch in sight of completing a historic treble.
But Atherton all-round star Michael Salerno said having already exceeded expectations in the club’s 30th anniversary year with two trophies under the belt, there was no added pressure on what will be a monumental four-day test.
“We won the other two but this is the one that really counts,” he said.
“It’s a real battle of mental strength and whoever digs deep the most will definitely come out on top.
“The first session will definitely play a big part.
“The first 30 overs of the first day can really dictate the eventual winner.
“You’ve got to come out all guns blazing because if you’re behind the eight-ball at lunch on the first day, it’s really hard to fight back.”
Salerno laughed off suggestions Mulgrave were the underdogs based on the Toads’ five premierships in the past six seasons.
“This is probably their best format and they love tough, hard cricket and I’m sure the losses they’ve had will count for nothing this weekend,” he said.
“Everybody knows at this time of the year is when they really do shine.
“They’ve been there, done it before and we haven’t, so they’re definitely favourites.”
Cricketers from both sides will be watching the sky towards the latter part of the first weekend, with showers predicted late today and throughout tomorrow before more rain during the week.