VTCA: Keilor’s finals bid killed by middle order collapse

A season of hard work came unstuck for Keilor in a Victorian Turf Cricket Association north division semi-final at the weekend.

Having been the best side in the competition all year, the Blues were dumped from the premiership race by fourth-placed West Coburg.

Keilor looked in control early, motoring along to 1-45 before West Coburg hit back with a vengeance.

The bowling side ripped through the Keilor top order with the score slumping to 4-50.

With gun Sri Lankan batsman Kaushal Lokuarachchi at the crease, the Blues still looked capable of posting a competitive total.

When he was dismissed for three a short time later, it was officially time for Keilor to panic.

The Blues were eventually bowled out for 92 in the 53rd over.

Evan Cole was the standout for West Coburg, taking 4-32, while Mohomed Feshal claimed 3-11.

In reply, the West Coburg batsmen made a steady stand, inching their way to 0-27.

The loss of four wickets for 18 runs gave Keilor some hope at stumps at the end of day one.

When day two resumed, the West Coburg middle order showed no sign of nerves, going on to make 147.

West Coburg will take on Doutta Stars in the grand final.