BARANDUDA captain Mitch Ryan says 200 at Dederang last week was a pass mark.
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But he said the Rangers would need early wickets, including Demons opener Andrew Creamer, if they are to take first innings points today.
Both sides enter the second day of their clash win-less, knowing wins before the Christmas break are essential if they are to play a role in the finals. Ryan said greater depth in his bowling ranks gave them the edge.
“We have recruited really well in the off season and there really is no let up in our attack now,” he said.
“Vince Moran, who came across from Tallangatta’s Provincial side this year, will be the key early — he swings the ball and is difficult to get away.
“But after that we have any number of bowlers who can bowl long spells; if we can get Creamer early then any one of those is more than capable of taking apart the low order.
“Last week Dederang’s Luke Deans showed how tough it was to score against accurate bowling with 20 overs for 40 runs.”
Ryan said the depth at the club was a result of additions and the development of junior talent.
“Last year at 6-105 we would probably have been run over but we were able to still get almost 200,” he said.
“I’m batting at No. 8, last year I was batting at first drop.
“We have some more than handy players who have come to the club but also some of the juniors are starting to push for selection.
“Zach Leach is just 16 and now has two seasons of first grade cricket to his name and there are any number of others who are looking good.”
The Rangers won just one game last year and Ryan knows the importance of early points.
“If you can get some wins ahead of the Christmas break it makes it that much easier in the second half of the year,” Ryan said.
“But Dederang are in the same position and they too will be keen to get their first win of the year tomorrow.”