West Warrnambool’s surprise outright of Nirranda on Saturday propelled the Panthers to third, with previously fourth Merrivale slipping to seventh.

Reigning premier Woodford – boosted by an outright over East Warrnambool earlier this season – has lost more times than both Wesley-CBC (sixth) and Merrivale but holds fourth after a string of two-day triumphs.

First-placed Russells Creek is the only other side to have an outright triumph.

Warrnambool and District Cricket Association chairman Gordon McLeod expected outright victories – which are worth 10 points – to heavily shape the final four.

“It gives captains the chance to use their discretion and to declare at the right time,” he said.

“At this stage, a loss can put you outside the top four and a good win can put you in. It’s fantastic.

“It keeps the interest in the game and definitely improves the standard of cricket.”

Woodford coach John Houston said while outright victories were often tempting to pursue, it was important to “control the controllables”.

“Wins at the moment are really crucial when you look at the ladder. Outright points are hard to come by, but bonus points are important,” he said.

“It comes down to playing good cricket. You plan for the opposition and work on things but you just have to focus on everything we can. 

“If you control everything to the best of your power, you put yourself in the position to get those six or 10 point wins.”

West Warrnambool skipper Alastair Templeton said the outright over Nirranda had eased pressure but hadn’t invited complacency. “It doesn’t suddenly make us any better or hasn’t given a false sense of ability,” he said.

“We know if we play badly in patches, we’ll lose the next two games we have (against Merrivale and Port Fairy). Both are good sides.”