Stokes takes seven for Saints

AN INCREDIBLE seven-wicket haul from speedster James Stokes has seen St Peter’s skittle Lara and nearly claim a first-day victory on Saturday in the GCA1 Firsts.

Stokes ripped through the Cats’ middle order to see them all out for just 113, with the Saints batters finishing on 1/96 at stumps at Herne Hill Reserve.

Barring a Lara miracle, St Peter’s should claim their third win of the season and possibly bonus ladder points, which will be crucial with the competition as tight as ever.

Meanwhile, North Geelong look set to remain atop the ladder after a dominant first day in their clash against South Barwon.

An even bowling attack saw the Magpies bowl the Swans out for just 117, with four players taking at least two wickets.

It was an almighty batting collapse for South Barwon on the other hand, with five ducks and four players making five runs or less. North Geelong then faced 23 overs to finish the day, finishing at 1/72 and setting themselves up for a cruisy victory on day two this Saturday, November 29.

Grovedale face an uphill battle for their third straight win after St Joseph’s piled on an impressive total of 6/285 on day one.

Joeys openers Josh Appleford and captain Andrew Casey set their side up for the large score, making 81 and 87 runs respectively.

Tigers paceman Sam Coutts broke through to halt the away side’s momentum, taking both Appleford and Casey’s wickets.

Newtown & Chilwell will rely on their bowlers to secure their first win of the season, after East Belmont dismissed them 215 thanks to a four-wicket haul from Lachlan Molyneux.

The Lions finished the first day at 2/99 and now have all of day two to chase the Two Blues down for their third win this season.

In GCA2, Geelong City will look to overcome Highton’s 314, Bell Post Hill is chasing down Bell Park’s 241, Alexander Thomson must surpass Geelong West’s 256 and Leopold is in pursuit of Torquay’s 122.