Torrid time with the bat

and will no doubt be hoping that they can build some momentum heading into the last couple of matches before finals.

Chance of an upset

Neerim District (145) vs. Hallora (1-6): A gritty ninth wicket stand between Dave Ferguson and Kody Wilson has helped Neerim District to maintain even footing in their clash with Hallora – and a late wicket to Dane Fawcett would have seen the Stags walk off the ground with a spring in their step as they look to upset the ladder leaders.

The Neerim innings began poorly with Aaron Fawcett and Dane Fawcett both out early – and when Toby Codd was able to breach the defences of Jack Ward and have him on his way for just 14, the danger signs were there that Hallora could run through their opponents.

However, Warren Darcy struck a gritty 48 to fend off some testing bowling, and Ferguson and Wilson combined for a crucial 31-run ninth wicket stand that helped to lift the Stags to 145 before they were dismissed.

Codd (who snared 2-23 from 18.3 disciplined overs) and James Williams (who chimed in with 3-36) were the pick of the bowlers for Hallora as they were able to apply consistent pressure with the ball.

Left with nine overs to face out, the Kangaroos endured the loss of James Vela – trapped in front first ball off the bowling of Dane Fawcett – to finish at 1-6.

Lyrebirds restrict Eagles

Ellinbank (204) vs. Buln (0-3): An encouraging bowling performance has provided Buln Buln with the impetus they might need to record an upset win over Ellinbank, with the Lyrebirds restricting their opponents to a chaseable target.

It took dedication and determination from the duo of Jackson Noonan and Rhys Holdsworth to dismiss Ellinbank for 204, with the pair snaring 4-48 and 3-84 respectively.

They ensured that Brad Berry (who made 45), Chris Pallot (who marked his return to division one with a knock of 40) and Matthew Barrand (who struck 38* late in the innings) couldn’t make the most of their starts, with Ellinbank out in the 76th over.

Left with just one over in which to face out for the day, Charlie Park remained unbeaten on three, with Jack Armour yet to trouble the scorers.

It will take a much improved batting effort from those seen of late for Buln to chase down their target of 205 – but they will no doubt be buoyed by their performance with the ball on day one.