A CLOSE match can be expected at Scott Park over the next two weeks, when East Gambier hosts South Gambier in the final minor round of Barber Shield cricket.
The teams sit fifth and third on the ladder respectively, with only the Demons guaranteed a place in finals, while the Bulldogs rely on a good win and a loss to West Gambier to sneak into contention.
Despite just one win for the season, East has proven capable of making runs in recent rounds, with in-form captain Dion Stratford leading the charge.
Last week the side managed a solid 211 runs against Penola and although it was not enough to trump the Eagles’ target of 286 set in day one, it was a respectable effort.
Stratford led the way with 97 runs, while Alex Hentshke (36) and Darren Whitehorn (24) were the next best scores.
In the end it was East’s bowling which let it down, with Penola too strong at the crease to drop only four wickets on its way to the winning total.
Simon Golebiowski was best with ball in hand, taking two scalps for the day, while Hentschke and Ash Dumigan managed one each.
Each of them will look to fire this round, whether in day one or two and limit the Demons to minimal runs.
South also comes off the back of a credible score, which saw it with the round nine honours over West Gambier.
Holding the Roos to 163 on day one, Dylan Clough was on target to take four wickets for the Demons.
Camron Jorgenson also fired to take two scalps, while Daniel Loupos, Adam Kuhl and Luke Zadow will all be eager to improve on their single wickets.
South then posted an impressive 266 runs in day two, with Josh Thompson the top scorer on 91.
Michael Sims (43), Kuhl (34) and Clough (24) helped the total on its way and will all await the chance to back up their performances.
Should both teams be at their best it could be a close encounter and provides further intrigue to the final round of the Barber Shield.
