SOUTH West faces an uphill climb to resurrect its Melbourne Country Week campaign after shortfalls with the bat condemned it to defeat against West Gippsland on Tuesday.
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Todd Lamont’s men must now defeat recently-relegated Bendigo on Wednesday to advance to the division two grand final.
Despite another strong innings from both Jye McLaughlin and Lamont, West Gippsland dismissed South West for just 91 runs.
It reached the total in just 22 overs – with South West’s bowlers unable to stem the flow of runs.
Lamont said his side had no excuses for the performance.
“We batted very poorly, and they bowled very well,” he said.
“They put the ball in good areas and we just got out – it was simple like that.”
The Mortlake skipper was wary of Bendigo but hoped to pull off an upset triumph.
“They’ve given us a few touch ups over the years, particularly in division one,” he said.
“As long as we bat all our overs and play good cricket we’ll have a chance, but it will be tough.”