The fairytale beginning to the season for Lakes Entrance in the Bairnsdale Cricket Association’s premier grade competition continued last Saturday, when the Seagulls defeated Lucknow by 95 runs at the Lucknow Recreation Reserve.
Defending a massive 9/259 from day one, Lakes Entrance co-captains Ben John and Jack Le Maitre had minimal concerns as the bowlers got the job done, dismissing the Magpies for just 164 in the 71st over.
The Seagulls remain unbeaten after four matches with only Lindenow South Glenaladale sitting above them on the ladder.
Opening bowlers Jack Timms (1/17) and Le Maitre (2/27) both picked up wickets in their opening spells, before Matt Corbett (30) and exciting youngster Mitchell Johnson (46) put together a dangerous third wicket partnership for the Magpies.
Just when it looked like it might prosper into a game changing unison, Irish spinner Sam Kincaid (4/77) struck, trapping Corbett in front of his stumps, much to the delight of the Seagull players.
Bowling in tandem with Kaleb Day, who took 1/40 from 21 consistent overs, Kincaid ripped the heart out of Lucknow’s middle order with only former Sale-Maffra player Isaac Love (35) offering any real resistance.
Tailenders Beau Haslam (16) and Taj Corben (nine not out) delayed the inevitable late in the day, but it only took three balls from Josh Sackfield (1/2) to break the partnership, as Haslam was caught by Le Maitre.
The Seagulls are a genuine improver who have recruited well, getting great output from imports Timms and Kincaid.
Timms has added impetus in the Seagulls ability to consistently post scores close to or above 200, which will win the majority of matches.
With co-captain John yet to hit his straps, Lakes Entrance still has plenty of improvement and is certainly looming as a contender for ultimate glory.
Surprisingly Lucknow has just registered one win from its initial four matches but has been competitive and played some good cricket and can’t be ruled at as a top four contender.
