At Osborne Park, North Geelong

NEWTOWN & Chilwell’s final day in the field for the summer was a long and hot one as North Geelong feasted on the Two Blues’ attack. With Magpies gun Jake Thorne missing with a finger injury, Newtown may have sensed an opportunity, but a quickfire 55 at the top of the order by Sam Hall laid the foundations for a huge total at Osborne Park. Mitchell Troy (117) was the star while Shane Dillon (55) also cashed in during the middle overs. And with Newtown on its knees, Braden Szponar (31 not out) and Tom Mathieson (57 not out) drove home the advantage in the sapping late afternoon heat.

North Geelong should win easily, but could still lose second spot if Geelong City wins outright against Murgheboluc, which is looking increasingly likely.