Jackson’s five leads way in rout
ST Peter’s emphatic eightwicket defeat of Geelong West has seen it storm into third place and a semi-final appointment with Geelong City.
Demonstrative left-arm seamer Josh Jackson shaped the Covid catch-up round, cutting a swath through the Rams on the way to a careerbest 5-18.
“At the start of the year I wanted him to take the new ball to swing it and bowl fast, whereas I felt today he’d be better with an older ball at the 25-30-over mark,” skipper Luke Ford said post-game.
“It might work this week and not next, but I think that’ll be his role to come through the middle period.
“Hopefully he’s got some great confidence out of today.”
James Stokes (1-18) proved an able replacement for Steve Illingworth, with only Ken Spence (33) and Justin McPhee (36) withstanding the Saints’ bowling onslaught for Geelong West.
Ford proved hard to get away with 2-21, while Josh Sorgiovanni chimed in with 2-32.
Barring a pair of run outs, St Peter’s response was almost flawless.
Bullish opener Hayden Illingworth stamped his authority from the outset, going at better than a run-a-ball to hammer an enterprising 53.
“Hayden has played 200 matches, so I leave him to his own devices,” Ford said.
“If he sees one in his area, he’s going to hit it, he’s definitely a great new-ball player.
“Yes, he rode his luck, but didn’t give any chances and it certainly helps our middle order when he gets away.”
Ford was more circumspect in crafting an unbeaten 41, combining with Illingworth in a 69-run second-wicket stand as the Saints made it five wins on the trot.
“There’s a lot of belief around the group, but we know the job is not done,” he said.
“It’s great to make it, but you’re not remembered unless you win it.”