A scintillating century by Peter Lalor has put Bacchus Marsh in a commanding position in its final game before the Gisborne and District Cricket Association finals.
Lalor (130) smashed Wallan to all parts of the ground on Saturday, sharing a 152-run opening stand with Tom McColl as the home side belted a struggling Wallan for 80 overs to rack up 8-298.
PICTURE GALLERY: Bacchus Marsh v Wallan
Bacchus Marsh had to grind out runs in the previous round but found the going much easier against Wallan after winning the toss. Lalor led the way in the opening stand, with McColl dismissed for 44 as he neared his century.
After Lalor passed his milestone the rest of the order batted around him, captain Scott Wakefield (24), Kieran Atkin (30) and Ian Spitiri (25) all contributing valuable runs.
There was no thought of a declaration as all the Bacchus Marsh batsmen got a hit in readiness for the semi-finals.
Wakefield was full of praise for his side’s efforts, especially Lalor’s heroics.
“We batted well, which was very pleasing,” he said.
“Obviously, Pete was the standout, but I thought the boys batted around him really well. Opening partnerships have been one specific area that we’ve been trying to work on and this week it certainly came good.”
After a strong month of cricket leading into finals, Wakefield said the confidence in his group was high.
“Winning form is good form and that’s what we’ve got to continue to do,” Wakefield said.
“I think we’re just starting to peak at the right time. If we can keep this form going into the finals, I’ll be very happy.”
Elsewhere, St Anthony’s conceded first innings points to Sunbury on the first day after the home side was skittled for 99.
Sunbury moved to 5-127 off 27 overs late in the day and will no doubt push for full points in this Saturday’s conclusion.
