By Lance Jenkinson
Keilor has a chance to seal its Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division finals berth this Saturday.
The task will not be easy for the Blues after second-placed Strathmore set a massive victory target of 268 at Syd McGain Oval.
The Blues had no answer for Strathmore middle order batsman Omar Phillips, who kept up his sparkling form with a knock of 106.
Keilor’s bowling figures were neat, but the Mores managed a steady stream of runs all day.
Kaushal Lokuarachchi, Upal Bandara and Shafraz Mohamed took two wickets apiece for Keilor and all five Blues bowlers got scalps.
But it will take Keilor’s best effort and then some to chase down the total. The Blues have not scored in excess of 250 in an innings this season.
If they can run down this score, they will be locked into the finals action and gain a psychological advantage over a possible opponent.
In division 1 north, Keilor Park’s finals prospects took a major hit, with the Devils beaten on first innings inside a day by Haig Fawkner. After getting bowled out for 82, Keilor ceded first-innings points quickly.
The Devils hit back with the ball, leaving Haig Fawkner only barely in front on first innings – so the outright will be in play this weekend. An outright win would revive Keilor Park’s finals hopes.
Fourth-placed PEGS are being chased by all teams outside the top four.
PEGS are in a strong position at 1-9 in their pursuit of West Coburg’s 160.
In division 1 west, Deer Park remains in danger of relegation. The Lions face a massive run chase for victory after Airport West-
St Christophers posted 244.
In division 3, Sunshine Heights lost a late wicket on day one to be 1-1, chasing Point Cook’s 165. Sunshine posted 5-207 off 60 overs against East Keilor.
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