Port Kembla are the only club to have claimed first innings points, with the first hour's play crucial in all games in Saturday's day two of round five in Illawarra cricket.

Port bowlers Matt Skora (3-16), Josh Miller (3-21) and Jason Ralston (3-28), demolished premiers Keira for just 88 on day one, with Port to resume at 8-121, a lead of 33.

A wagging tail and a lead of 60-plus could be crucial to Port chasing an outright win, while Keira's fragile batting is the primary reason they remain win-less.

In contrast, unbeaten Helensburgh still need another 104 with only six wickets in hand to beat Wests Illawarra in a tight match at Helensburgh Oval.

Wests struggled for partnerships but gave themselves some chance by making 161, with English recruit Olly Thompson (53) top-scorer.

The Burgh resume at 4-58, with Wests skipper Josh Hill saying his side are a great chance of an upset win.

At Reed Park, Dapto's bowlers have the home side on top after dismissing Balgownie for 188.

Dapto resume at 1-51, with the first hour vital to the hopes of both clubs.

Meanwhile, half centuries by Amit Balgi (62) and Murray Crowe (67 not out) steered University from trouble at 6-90 to post 240 against Northern Districts at Uni Oval.

Jamal Banfield continued his great season for the Butchers taking 6-70, with the visitors to resume at 0-23.

A career best 6-30 from Pat Dillon has given Corrimal the upper hand against Wollongong at Ziems Park.

Wollongong were rolled for 130, with Corrimal to start day two at 3-48.

A victory will be especially important for all clubs given that next weekend many clubs will be without their Illawarra stars who are in Griffith for NSW country championships.

Ladder (before round 5): Helensburgh 33, Corrimal 22, Balgownie 17, Uni 17, Wests 16, Dapto 15, Port 15, Northern Districts 15, Wollongong 11, Keira 5.

ILLAWARRA CRICKET

Round 5 (Day 2)

 University v Northern Districts at Uni Oval

Corrimal v Wollongong at Ziems Park

Dapto v Balgownie at Reed Park

Keira v Port Kembla at Keira Oval

Helensburgh v Wests Illawarra at Helensburgh Oval