Familiar foes meet for the flag

EAST Belmont and North Geelong will meet again in the GCA1 grand final at South Barwon Reserve this weekend, renewing a rivalry that has already delivered one finals clash this season.

The two sides faced off in the qualifying final just a fortnight ago and will now battle for the premiership tomorrow (Saturday 28 March) and this Sunday 29 March.

East Belmont booked its place in the decider with a dominant 179-run preliminary final win over Lara.

After winning the toss and batting, the Lions piled on 364 from 110 overs, led by Shane McNamara’s 119. Luke Inglis (72) and Lachlan Inglis (53) provided strong support in a commanding total.

In reply, Lara never gained momentum, despite 67 from captain Daniel Weigl, and were bowled out for 185 in 48 overs. Lachlan Molyneux led the charge for the victors with five wickets.

East Belmont’s batting firepower will test a North Geelong side rich in talent and big-game experience.

The Magpies are chasing a seventh straight GCA1 premiership, which would set a new benchmark for the competition. Standing in their way is the only side to defeat them this season.

In GCA2, Highton will take on Leopold in the grand final, also at South Barwon Reserve.

Highton finished atop the ladder in its first season in the division, while Leopold has surged into the decider from fourth after a strong finals campaign.