Marist focus on chance to climb ladder

Marist will be hoping to cause the upset of the season when they come up against ladder-leaders Colts on Saturday at the Recreation Ground.

The Blues took a significant step up the Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association ladder with a handy bonus point win over Dalyellup Beach at Forrest Park North at the weekend and with two qualifying matches to go before the finals series, a win for Marist will cement a top-four spot.

A defeat at the hands of Colts will keep the pressure from Leschenault and Hay Park on them.

Colts are likely to lose skipper Cruize Ciallella after he was suspended for dissent in a spiteful match against Eaton last week.

Their defeat of Eaton last week wrapped up the minor premiership in spite of modest performances from their potent top order.

But the pressure is off them as they now have a home final booked in for the second weekend in March.

Dalyellup Beach’s season is all but over as they take on finals contenders and reigning premiers Hay Park and heavyweights Eaton in the final two rounds.

The Settlers are still a mathematical chance, but will need double-bonus point victories in both games and results to go their way if they are to scrape into the top four.

Leschenault had a great nine-wicket win over Hay Park to keep slot themselves into fourth position.

Cousins Matt and Tom Buchanan dominated the Redbacks and the pair will be looking for a repeat performance when they face Eaton this weekend.

Ace all-rounder Rod “Rocket” Shemeld, Kris Cumming, Jarrad Quinn and James Letchford are all in form with the ball, giving the Green Caps hope of a timely win.

But they have a tough fortnight before the finals, with the Beavers and then Colts standing in their way.

Redbacks have the Dalyellup Settlers this week and Marist the next, with wins vital if they are to re-enter the top four.