South Gambier v East Gambier
EAST Gambier has had a tough opening two games in the Mount Gambier and District Cricket Association Barber Shield competition and is still in search of its first victory of the season when facing South Gambier at Blue Lake Sports Park.
On the other hand, the Demons claimed their first win of 2017-18 against Mil Lel last round and will come into this clash with confidence.
The Bulldogs have faced two of the expected front-running sides of the competition – Penola and North – and will bark at the bit to claim a victory in their first two-day clash.
East has the talent to get the job done and has strengthened from last season with recruit Alex Hentschke coming on board.
However, Hentschke is still finding his feet in the Bulldogs’ roster, but after two quiet games, it is likely he will put on a show tomorrow, whether it be with the bat or ball.
A lacklustre performance in Round 1 with the bat saw Peter Kerr the only player to reach double figures for East, while last weekend the Bulldogs’ highest score was a disappointing 15.
East captain Dion Stratford will hope his team can better their performance at the crease if it has any chance in taking the points this round.
A long day in the field saw the Bulldogs fail to take a solitary wicket against North Sportsmen’s last weekend, while in the opening round Nathan Gore was the saviour with five scalps.
Another quiet performance from East will have it in trouble at this early stage of the season.
South will come in with the desire to take the win.
After a disappointing Round 1 performance, which saw Robbie Drenthen best with the bat, totalling 39 – while also the only player to reach double figures – the Demons stepped up in their second game.
Luke Zadow reached a credible 49 runs, while Drenthen chipped in with 30 and Liam Neshoda 29.
South’s wickets have been shared around throughout the first two games, with Camron Jorgenson, Drenthen, Adam Kuhl and Neshoda all taking their fair share.
If the four can cut East’s time at the crease short it could see South take the win.
However, it is no secret the Bulldogs will be hungry for their first victory of the season, which could see this game come down to the wire.
