NORTHERN Power’s bid for an outright win over Warnervale was thwarted by the visitors’ rearguard action in their Central Coast cricket match at Toukley on Saturday.
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Power captain Caine Barnes made an aggressive second innings declaration, setting Warnervale an achievable target of 142 from 35 overs.
But the visitors lost early wickets, prompting them to shut up shop rather than risk an outright loss in chasing the winning target.
“They lost their captain [Jordan Liddle] for a duck in that second innings, and then dug in a bit after that,” Barnes said.
That early setback, followed by the loss of No 3 batsman Brett Russell for 14, ended any prospect of Warnervale engaging in the run chase.
Earlier, Northern Power secured first innings points by compiling a first innings total of 175 then dismissing Warnervale for 118.
Despite taking regular wickets, Northern Power called on eight bowlers to get the job done in the first innings.
Left-arm quick Dave Molan returned the outstanding figures of 4-25 off 22 economical overs.
Barnes said the absence, on the first Saturday, of left-arm spinner Chris Archer, to representative duties, and a niggling shoulder injury to seamer Brendon Charlton, contributed to the long bowling list. Charlton was able to bowl on the second Saturday.
Northern Power chased quick runs in the second innings.
“We batted for nine overs and tried to score at about 10 an over – and we almost did that,” Barnes said.
Power declared its second innings closed at 6-84, which Barnes considered to be a sporting declaration.
“I was slightly disappointed not to get the 10 points, but it’s hard when the other team doesn’t have a go at the total,” he said.
Power off-spinner Nick Babcock captured three wickets in the match – all to LBW decisions.
“He’s such a big fella that he bowls from a fair height, and I think that he tricks a few guys with the lengths that he bowls,” Barnes said.
“He also has a nice quicker ball, and that’s how he got Josh Killen.
“Chris Archer is our main spinner, but Nick gives me another good option.”
After four rounds, Northern Power has three wins.
It is one of three teams in equal second spot on the ladder with 18 points.
Terrigal leads the competition ladder on 26 points, including two outright wins.
This Saturday, Northern Power travels to Baker Park to take on Wyong (16).