A captain’s knock by Tim O’Brien has given Werribee reason for optimism ahead of the second day of its do-or-die bout with high- flying western rival Altona in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association.
O’Brien scorched the Frank Kirk Oval with 102 from 144 balls, including seven fours and a six, as the Tigers posted a competitive 241 in 78.5 overs on Saturday.
It has given Werribee a massive chance to get the victory it craves to keep finals hopes alive.
“We’ll have to bowl well next week because they’ve got some really good bats, but with runs on the board we can put some pressure on them and give ourselves the opportunity,” O’Brien said.
The captain has enjoyed a recent revival with the bat, posting 222 runs from his past three innings after managing just 121 in his previous nine digs. He puts the form reversal down to batting on more batsmen-friendly pitches and a bit of improved luck.
“After a pretty lean start to the season, it’s good to be contributing,” O’Brien said. “The past couple of games I’ve been hitting the ball a lot better.
“I don’t think I’ve been seeing the ball any different, but I’ve probably just had a bit more luck, and I’ve been batting on some pretty good wickets.”
Werribee’s innings was set up by openers Matt Dean (28) and Adam Alifraco (34).
The pair put on 41 for the first wicket but, more importantly, batted through the first hour.
“We always know with Altona, if it’s got anything in the wicket, it will happen in the first hour,” O’Brien said.
“Those guys did a really good job to get through the first hour none down.”
With the Dean brothers (Shaun made just four) back in the dressing room, O’Brien joined Alifraco and the pair put on 62 for the third wicket.
Once Alifraco departed, O’Brien pushed the run rate with the middle order, taking his side beyond 200.
O’Brien received assistance from James Freeman (26), Darcy Phillips (13) and Michael Kelly (11).
Having laid a solid foundation, Werribee needs to take advantage with not only its season on the line; also at stake is the Paul Jenkins Shield, contested annually by Altona and Werribee and currently the property of the A’s.
Meanwhile, Hoppers Crossing is in a strong position after bowling Mount Waverley out for 194. Tom Glover was outstanding for the Cats with 5-37 from 17.3 overs.
At stumps, the Cats were 1-20.
