EAST Gambier has put itself in the box seat to cause an upset in the bottom versus top clash against reigning champions North Sportsman’s in the final minor round of Barber Shield cricket.
The Tigers were missing the services of Matthew Robinson and Josh Fidler from its line-up on day one and the Bulldogs took full advantage.
Matthew McInerney and Jake Schutz put North on the front foot early with a 44-run partnership, but from there the wickets tumbled.
East made light work of the Tigers’ remaining batsmen, with Gavin Coon, Michael Johnston and Nick McInerney the only other three to reach double figures.
A season-best four-wicket haul from Alex Hentschke had a big influence on the confidence around the Bulldogs players and they will hope to bring that momentum into tomorrow.
East captain Dion Stratford’s composure with the bat in the Australian Country Championships just weeks ago was impressive and he will hope to bring that calm consistency into tomorrow’s game.
However, the skipper will be under no illusion that North will be an easy feat.
The Tigers’ bowling attack is one of the best in the competition and with the game on the line, they will come out all guns blazing.
Nick and Matt McInerney, along with North captain Tim Young will have high expectations.
A loss will not affect North’s hold on the top of the premiership standings.
However, the reigning premiers will have every intention of finishing the home and away season on a good note.
It is a similar story for East, which is unlikely to move off the bottom of the ladder.
But with a disappointing one win for the season, the Bulldogs will be eager to end with a solid game.
This clash could go either way.
