Finals spot on the line for Williamstown Imperials

Sandeep Mandalika of Williamstown Imperials. Picture Luke Hemer

By Lance Jenkinson

Williamstown Imperials’ spot in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3 will come under fire this weekend.

The fourth-placed Imperials are staring down the barrel against lowly Seabrook, despite going into the game at Bruce Comben Reserve as hot favourites.

A stop-start batting performance yielded just 156 off 74.3 overs on a disappointing day one for Williamstown Imperials.

Mason Lindner was the bright spot for the Imperials with a patient 63 off 147 balls.

Seabrook had a bit of swagger with the bat, smashing 0-22 off two overs before stumps.

The Saints require just 135 for victory.

A loss could be disastrous for Williamstown Imperials with East Keilor and West Newport hot on their heels.

Sandeep P Mandalika and Mason Lindner of Williamstown Imperials. Picture Luke Hemer

Photo Gallery: Seabrook vs Williamstown Imperials 

West Newport had a dog of a day though, losing on first innings to bottom side Footscray United, but will be hoping for an outright on day two.

United’s rare day of joy came courtesy of a seven-wicket haul from Yaditha Ushan, who finished with 7-29 off 17 overs.

East Keilor has a big run chase against premiership contender Sunshine.

In senior division, Yarraville Club faces a strenuous task with the ball against Sunshine United at Selwyn Park.

The Clubbers could only produce 154 off 74.2 overs, leaving not much to defend for their bowlers. Adam Contessa (36), Andrew Cullen (33) and Konrad Kurta (32) showed potential for the Clubbers, but could not go on.

In division 1 west, Druids hold all the aces in their clash with Greenvale Kangaroos at Shorten Reserve. The Druids smashed 5-297 off its 80 overs with Shane Windridge (139) and Steven Nicholson (78) leading the way.

Altona North, looking to preserve its spot in the top four, is in a strong position at 2-36 in reply to Tullamarine’s total of 117.

In division 2, two games are finely poised.

Williamstown CYMS is 5-65 in reply to Werribee Centrals’ 105, while Altona Roosters defence of 104 is looking strong after Pascoe Vale Hadfield limped to 6-46 at stumps.

MORE VTCA NEWS

www.starweekly.com.au/sports/big-batting-a-hit-with-melton-centrals/

www.starweekly.com.au/sports/keilor-faces-big-chase-in-finals-reckoner/

www.starweekly.com.au/sports/seabrook-holds-the-upper-hand-in-win-chase/