The Eels posted a big score of 9-272 on day one of its game against Nestles at Reid Oval on Saturday.

This total was build around an innings of 91 from 2014-15 Warrnambool and District Cricket Association cricketer of the year Kory Howlett. 

Coming in at number three, Howlett teamed with opener Luke Wines (68) to get the Eels off to a solid beginning.

He remained a calming influence through a tough middle period where the Eels lost 4-41 to come out the other side and lay the platform for a productive back end to the innings to produce a highly competitive total.

Woodford coach John Houston said he was happy with the performance.

“We have done our bit with the bat so now we need to back it up with the ball”, Houston said.

“Kory and Luke both batted well, I’m happy with the score but you’re never really comfortable. Nestles has a very good top four who are all capable of making hundreds, if one of them gets going it is game on so we will have to bowl well.”

Nestles captain Kyle Humphrys was the star of the day for the home side, a probing line and length bringing him a return of 7-88. Another highlight for Nestles with a wicket to youngster Callum Dunn in his division one debut.  Dunn bowled with good pace to finish with 1-26 off his eight overs.

But it was the contribution from Howlett that was the most telling news to emerge from the day. Howlett has enjoyed a solid season with the bat with 301 runs prior to this innings.

But while he has been consistent, a big score had evaded him until Saturday.

“He’s that bloke who can hang around or score quickly when you need,” Houston said of Howlett.

“Coming in at first drop you need to be able to adapt to whatever situation you find yourself in and Kory is very good at doing that.

“His shot selection is very good, picking the right shot to play is important whether you are coming in and it is the first over or you’re coming in with plenty of runs on the board. Kory’s batting is developing well, he hit four sixes I think which always helps put the opposition under pressure.”

Woodford is on top of the Merri conference ladder while Nestles is six points further back, sitting in fourth position.