Demons on top as West Gippsland season hots up

Koo Wee Rup coach Chris O’Hara says his side has improved in one key area as it eyes back-to-back premierships in the West Gippsland Cricket Association.

Former Mt Eliza bowler Robbie Maskiell has been a good inclusion for Koo Wee Rup this season.

With just one loss at the halfway mark of the season, Koo Wee Rup is in familiar territory — on top of the ladder and primed for another premiership assault.

Demons coach Chris “Tubsy” O’Hara is bracing for the challenges to come, starting this week with a blockbuster clash with a red-hot Cardinia, the competition’s big improvers this season.

O’Hara says Koo Wee Rup is “a different side” to the one that has piled up the wins in recent years (the club has won seven flags in 11 years).

“We’re looking at trying to spread the load, not relying on any individual,’’ he said.

“I think we’re a different team, that’s for sure.

“Whether we’re better or not, I don’t know.

“Losing someone like Coops (Mark Cooper, was a blow) but we’ve been able to recruit as well so I’d say we’re different, a bit more even.”

Tooradin players celebrating a wicket. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Chris “Wombat“ Bright has stepped up as captain and is relishing the role, according to O’Hara.

Former Jindivick coach Steve Dillon made 54 off 65 balls in Koo Wee Rup’s win over Cranbourne Meadows on Saturday.

Mt Eliza medium pacer Robbie Maskiell has also been a splendid inclusion, nabbing nine wickets, at 15.

John Bright, back after a couple of seasons at Foster, has been a shining light with the ball, taking 12 wickets.

O’Hara said a season of one-dayers had “evened out” the competition and injected more excitement.

Clyde batsman Jason Hameetman. Picture: Valeriu Campan

He said the premiership race was wide open.

“Cardinia are flying at the minute, going really well. We’ve got them this week so that will be a good contest,’’ O’Hara said.

“Obviously Pakenham. Again they’ve got match winners, they’re a good side, they’re a proven opponent.

“Tooradin as well, they’ve got match winners

“I thought Clyde was a danger as well.

“From now until finals every game will be like a final. That’s one thing to come out of this COVID, it’s a really exciting season, which is good.”

WGCA PREMIER LADDER: Koo Wee Rup 66, Cardinia 60, Pakenham 54, Tooradin 48, Merinda Park 42, Clyde 30, Cranbourne Meadows 24, Upper Beaconsfield 12.