WORKING to higher standards and executing the one-percenters could be the catalyst behind Coomealla Wentworth making a return to Sunraysia Cricket Association finals.
While the Blues are 1-2 after three rounds, one loss came into a final over thriller against reigning premiers Irymple, before a superb bowling performance led them to an eight-wicket win over the previously undefeated Mildura Settlers.
The other loss was at the hands of ladder leaders Nichols Point in round 1.
Justin Freeman’s brilliant 3/8 from eight overs, which included dismissing Jason Morrison who scored a century the previous week on the opening ball led the way, while Mitch Kemp’s strong form as the leading spinner continued.
Skipper Luke Cullinan and Liam Freeman then shared an unbeaten 88-run stand to guide them home after losing two early wickets.
“It was very pleasing, we’ve been building a bit since the start of the season so to get a result like that against a team that won their first two games was great,” Cullinan said.
“Justin getting a wicket off the first ball was huge, especially when it’s someone as good as Jason Morrison is.
“That second match against Irymple we were right in it, and probably should have won it, but we’re working really hard behind the scenes.
“We’re really trying to lift our standards a bit higher and just getting those little one percenters right that can make a difference.
“(The partnership) was pleasing, that’s something we probably need to work with the bat, keeping partnerships and build after a wicket falls.
“Liam and I are two of the mature heads in the team now I guess so it was nice to be able put something decent together after we lost the early two wickets.”
It has been Kemp’s form with the ball which has been perhaps the biggest surprise from the outside, second in the competition with seven wickets from three matches.
The results, however, have been far less of a surprise to his teammates, Cullinan saying the leg spinner has taken a greater opportunity with both hands.
“He’s bowled eight overs straight in every game so far, I was after a spinner and now I think I’ve found one,” the captain said.
“I think Mitch always wanted that spot, and losing Jakey Wright this year who we relied on pretty heavily in the past few years the spot opened up for him.
“Mitch has worked really hard on his bowling and I think it’s showing in his performances.
“He’s been in great form, honestly he probably hasn’t had much of a chance with the bat so far but he’s bowling has been brilliant.”
An important contest awaits on Saturday against Gol Gol at Alcheringa Oval, with their fellow NSW side surprisingly also 1-2 to start the season.
“Gol Gol have probably been the best team over the last few years and now we’re coming into this game with the same record,” Cullinan said,
“I reckon there’s a bit of pressure on both sides but it should be a great game.”
The contest starts at 1pm Saturday.
