Skipper Brendan White and Scott Ulcigrai smashed unbeaten centuries and Greg Connor took seven wickets as Lake Illawarra claimed top spot by thrashing arch-rivals Oak Flats outright at Howard Fowles Oval.
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The Lakers belted 3/332 on day two with White unbeaten on 116 and Ulcigrai making an undefeated 100, while Ulcigrai’s brother Mark also contributing with 58.
Oak Flats were then rolled for just 97, with Greg Connor taking 7/27. The Rats final wicket fell in the last over off the day. Oak Flats made only 98 on day one.
Lake took top spot with the win, while Oak Flats remain second and face Kookas (third) on Saturday in the match set to decide second spot; vital if rain is a factor in the semis.
‘’It was a big win for us, with the bye and no points the next round,’’ White said.
‘’We want to finish top two and this win puts us on top.’’
Kookas took a huge step towards a top two finish by beating The Rail at Croome Sporting Complex.
Despite a slow outfield Kookas declared 7/182 off 48 overs.
Mick Perry made a fine 94 and Travis Hawkins 31, with Kookas chasing a first innings win despite day one washed out.
Set 183 off 35 overs the Rail were dismissed for only 90. Joel Willstrop made a fine 52 but lacked support, while Ellis Dale took 5/23.
‘’It’s a win which has given us a shot at top two,’’ Kookas skipper Craig Bramble said.
‘’We’ve a big game now against Oak Flats and then have Kiama the last round.’’
Ladder: Lake Illawarra 101, Oak Flats 89, Kookas 80, The Rail 59, Kiama 27.