UNDERDOG and City Red aren’t two phrases often uttered in the same sentence.
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But according to skipper Kevin O’Keeffe, that’s just what the powerhouse club considered itself against emerging giant Koroit Blue on Saturday.
The Cramer Street club’s new-found tag brought luck, with City powering to a 10-shot triumph to snatch back top spot from its Moyne Shire rival.
O’Keeffe said his rink struggled for the last few ends of the match, but held on to score a nine-shot victory.
“Koroit are the top side in my opinion, and they are very strong,” he said.
“We’re lucky to beat them – at least I thought we were. They are the top side and aren’t easy to win against.
“It gives us a bit of confidence to beat them on our home turf. To get three rinks off them, we’re very pleased with that.”
O’Keeffe said bowlers battled trying conditions, with forceful winds affecting the quality of play.
“She was tough and quick out there,” he laughed.
“You have to think about how much grass you’re taking and how quick you let it go in those sort of conditions.
“They were very trying, so we were pleased to be able to beat them as well.”
He revealed belief stemming from wins was vital as finals edge closer.
“They’re just good for confidence, especially against Koroit and the other top sides,” O’Keeffe said.
“They’re all valuable.”
Brian Scott’s rink was the most successful, defeating Les Johnson’s by 12 shots, while Brian Lenehan salvaged a 16-shot win over Wayne Hall’s as a positive for Koroit.
Elsewhere, Terang Green (91 shots) lowered Dennington Red’s colours by just seven shots.
City Gold thumped Lawn Tennis Red by 56 shots to shoot up to fourth place, while Warrnambool Gold rose to wallop Port Fairy Red by 51 shots.
Morltake Blue kept its finals aspirations alive with a solid 26-shot rout of Warrnambool Blue, with Darren Grant’s rink notching a stunning 23-shot victory over Alan Campbell’s.
Saturday pennant returns next week.
