SOUTH Gambier has an uphill battled when it takes to the crease for the resumption of Round 9 of Barber Shield cricket tomorrow.
The Demons face a massive run chase at Malseed Park, after a stunning opening day with the bat from the Roos.
The highlight was a well-crafted century from Jake Blackwell, whose 112 runs helped steady the ship and set up the big score after a shaky start at the top of the order.
West sat at 4/53 at one stage, before Richard Crute joined Blackwell and pushed on.
He fell just one run short of a half-century, but down the order two more added to the scoreline, with Ben Hentschke (60) and Sam Willis (57) both reaching the milestone.
It all equated to a 349-run total, which is sure to prove tough for South.
South has tasted little success this season, currently outside the top four.
But a couple of shining lights has suggested the ability to find runs, with a century to Dylan Clough early in the season, along with half-centuries to the likes of Robert Drenthen and Josh Thompson.
Against East Gambier back in Round 3 Clough’s 102 and Drenthen’s 78 helped the side compile 267 runs off 74 overs.
They need quite a few more tomorrow and are up against a tough bowling attack, although the Bulldogs are no slouches with the cherry.
East showed last round the Roos are vulnerable, claiming the win and finding 145 runs off the allotted 40 overs.
The problem for the Demons is remaining focused while chasing such a big total on a ground that does lend itself to big scores.
If they can stay composed and find the boundary regularly they may be able to apply some scoreboard pressure, but going on season form, that is unlikely.
