Premier Cricket 2018-19: Footscray posts 6-400 as Ash Armstrong hits 181

Footscray’s makeshift opening combination of Ash Armstrong and Nathan Caulfield could develop into a permanent pairing after they put Geelong’s bowlers to the sword.

Footscray’s Ash Armstrong celebrates his century on Saturday. Picture: Stephen Harman

Footscray’s makeshift opening combination of Ash Armstrong and Nathan Caulfield could develop into a permanent pairing after they put Geelong’s bowlers to the sword on Saturday.

Armstrong made an extraordinary 181 not out — his maiden First XI century — while Caulfield contributed 62 in just his second Premier Cricket appearance.

The 135-run opening stand set the platform for the Dogs’ monster score of 6-400dec.

Footscray has been searching for a settled opening pair with Greg Munro absent because of work commitments and Hayden Butterworth returning to Geelong.

Armstrong hit 20 boundaries in his 267-ball knock, while Caulfield found the fence six times.

“He just controlled it from the start,” Dogs skipper Dylan Kight said of Armstrong.

“He’s been working really, really hard on his batting. With the opening spot, he’s seen an opening and he’s tried to aim for that and make it his own.

“He controlled the whole innings and the good thing was they (Geelong) didn’t know what to expect with him and Nath.

“They really exploited them early and from there we were just away. The rest of the day for the rest of the batsmen was pretty easy.”

Jake Reed in full flight for Geelong on Saturday. Picture: Stephen Harman

Dylan Kight (57) and Jordan Kight (44) also made impressive contributions.

Geelong faced three overs before the close and reached 0-13, with Footscray having to take 10 wickets this weekend to claim the points.

“They’re a good side. They bat really strong and have made two scores above 350 already this year,” Kight said. “The wicket will be very flat and tough for the bowlers, so we’re going to have to come up with some plans and execute really well for 90 overs.”