A stunning bowling performance from Dan Schuppan has lifted Keilor into the Victorian Turf Cricket Association north west division grand final.
Having set West Coburg 177 for victory, Schuppan was unstoppable during day two of the match at the Keilor Recreation Reserve.
He took seven wickets, ripping the West Coburg middle order to shreds.
All rounder Upal Bandara joined in the party, taking three wickets of his own to see the batting side bowled out for just 29.
Keilor coach Sean McManus was full of praise for his side’s exploits with the ball.
“Both Dan and Upal were standouts,” he said.
“To be able to come in and bowl at pace and roll a side for 29 is fantastic.
“It was great, we are in the grand final now and we are taking some really good positives out of the performance.”
CLICK HERE FOR A PICTURE GALLERY OF THIS MATCH
While a quick glance at the scoreboard suggests it was the bowlers who set up the win, McManus was equally impressed with his batsmen.
Keilor was 4-20 on day one of the match and it looked like a potentially small total was on the cards.
However, a lower order fight back saved the day.
It started with Robert Cook who steadied the ship with a well made 26 before two youngsters stepped up.
Lachlan Sneddon and Luke Delbridge both made 29 to help lift the total to 176.
“They were the toughest batting conditions we have had this season,” McManus said.
“When we were 4-20, Rob batted for about 30 odd overs. He just occupied the crease and gave us time to re-group.
“After tea, we just kept plugging away. At 4-20 you fear there might be a bit of a capitulation but we grafted and grinded and I think that showed the strength of the side and highlighted our depth to make 176.
“The outfield was heavy. The ball held up a bit. That 176 was as good as 200.”
For West Coburg, Matthew Dargan was the pick of the bowlers and finished with innings best figures of 5-50.
Keilor will take on Druids in the grand final this weekend.
Druids booked their place with an impressive win against Airport West St Christophers.
Having been set 73 for victory, Druids lost just four wickets before passing the total.
Keilor and Druids have not played since round three with that match finishing in a draw because of rain.
