By Tara Murray
Bacchus Marsh got through a tough semi-final test to book its spot in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup Premier Firsts grand final.
While the Bulls had the upper hand for much of the game against Diggers Rest Bulla, they had to fight for the win.
Bulls’ coach James Lidgett said it was a really good game.
“You can’t get any better than a grand final,” he said.
“We got challenged a bit … we’re ready to play some hard cricket and are ready to go for the grand final.”
The Burras made 183, with Upul Fernando continuing his good form by making 55.
Lidgett said both teams were able to stick to their plans on day one, but he thought his side was slightly on top.
Madushanka Ekanayaka and James Bailey took four wickets each.
Lidgett said both played important roles.
“It’s the best I’ve seen James bowl this season,” he said.
“He had nearly a 12-over spell at the end of the day and was hitting the right areas.
“That’s the best team performance from Eka. While he didn’t get the rewards early on, he kept the pressure on and he got them at the end of the innings.”
The Bulls were never in trouble in their innings, finishing 3-184 with 19 overs remaining.
Lidgett said it was a patient batting innings.
“We built partnerships, even if the scoreboard doesn’t show it,” he said.
“We didn’t lose two wickets in a row and made sure we had wickets in hand at the break, so then we could attack.”
The star with the bat was Lidgett himself, who hit 118 not out.
Lidgett said the main thing was being there at the end of the match.
“I didn’t want to leave the job for someone else,” he said. “It’s what I say to the boys about finishing off.”
Photo Gallery: Bacchus Marsh vs Gisborne
The Bulls will face Gisborne in the grand final.
The Dragons needed less than a day to beat Romsey after a brilliant bowling display.
The Dragons dismissed Romsey for 102 before making 1-130.
The last time the two grand final teams met, the game was washed out.
Lidgett said the two teams hadn’t had a completed two-day match in two seasons, with last season’s match washed out, also.
The Bulls won the one-day clash between the sides earlier this season.
“They’re a good team and I’m not surprised that they got through,” said Lidgett of Gisborne.
“It’ll be a good game of cricket. I know they were down watching us and they probably enter the final in better form, but that doesn’t matter.”
It was a good day all round for the Bulls, with their seconds and sixth XI winning through to grand finals. Their under-17 team claimed the premiership on Sunday morning.
“It’s really exciting and there’s a real buzz around the club,” Lidgett said.
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