NESTLES and West Warrnambool will play off for Twenty20 bragging rights early next year.
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The Factory was the first to secure a spot in the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association (WDCA) final after toppling Brierly on Tuesday evening, while West was too strong for Wesley last night.
Nestles all-rounder Alex Pye will be the man to watch in the grand final at Jetty Flat on January 3 if his performance this week was any indication.
Factory captain-coach Brett Eldridge, who did not play due to injury, sent his side in to bat on the Bulls’ home territory.
“Getting runs on the board early is pretty important,” he said.
Louis Herbert (23) and Cameron Williams (42) did the hard work early, building an opening partnership of 67.
The pair was later supported by Andre Barr (37).
Nestles was hovering on 102 when tailender Pye was bumped up the order to join Barr at the crease.
“That was probably our match-winning partnership,” Eldridge said.
“We were a bit stagnant in the middle overs but we batted really well at the end.”
Nestles finished 5-168 after the 20 overs.
Brierly’s turn with the bat did not go according to plan.
The Bulls lost three wickets before they reached double figures.
Dale Mitchell (32) tried his best to build the tally with opener Nathan Murphy (21), but the burden was too big.
Pye again did more damage, this time with the ball. The right-arm opener picked up three wickets for 25.
“That was really pleasing,” Eldridge said.
“Alex probably started the season a bit quiet but he’s going to be really important for us after Christmas.”
Nestles has four more players seeking a spot in the final.
Alex O’Connor, Matthew Williams, Scott Kelly and Eldridge are battling for selection.
“It’s a handy problem to have,” Eldridge said.
“A lot of guys have been playing a lot of cricket and could have been forgiven for having a flat spot before Christmas.
“But the guys are really enjoying having the extra game during the week.
“It breaks up training and they’re having fun with it.”
Last night, West Warrnambool held off Wesley at Allan Oval.
The Panthers set a total of 148 (Andrew Robb 64) before Wesley started the chase.
Brad Pattison made 71 not out and had his side within 11 runs with an over to play.
But Wesley fell just short on 143.
The grand final will have an audience of colts who will be in town for Country Week.
