COUNTRY week leader Ray Drew says Warrnambool's dream of promotion is still within reach despite a heartbreaking day three defeat.
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Drew said Warrnambool's bowling "lacked intensity" in seven-wicket defeat to Latrobe Valley on Wednesday and predicted a shake-up ahead of Thursday's clash with Bairnsdale.
The veteran coach will counsel skipper Nick Butters as the pair vie to strike the right bowling balance in pursuit of a division two final berth.
"We didn't bowl at the intensity we expect (against Latrobe Valley). We'll look at our structure overnight," Drew said.
They won't take this lying down. Look out for us.
- Ray Drew
"Young Xavier Beks was left out to rest up and he's bowled very, very well earlier in the week. We just felt a spell would do him the world of good. He'll fire up for Thursday.
"Hank Schlaghecke bowled well on day one but was a bit down on Wednesday, Joe Kenna came in and bowled OK and Alex Jennings was a bit expensive for us.
"We'll just think about our options and go from there." Star all-rounder Mark Murphy was a shining light in the Latrobe Valley defeat, blasting 64 runs from 74 balls, while Russells Creek vice-captain Jimmy Elford (34) was the only other player to contribute double figures.
Spinner Butters was Warrnambool's most efficient bowler, snaring 2-30 off six overs.
Drew called for calm and said his side had immediately switched its focus to Thursday's bout. Warrnambool will likely advance to the final with a victory over Bairnsdale.
"There's no use thinking about it now that it's over. As soon as (Latrobe Valley) won, we'd moved on," he said.
"They belted us (on Wednesday) in the finish. We have to recover now. We'll head out for dinner and get ready to go again.
"But the boys are in good spirits and these blokes have a bit of pride.
"They won't take this lying down. Look out for us." South West's division three match against Sunraysia was washed out.
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