YOU can argue a lot of things in cricket, but you can't argue with raw statistics.
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With a little more than one round left to go before the CAW finals, it should come as no surprise that ladder leaders Dederang have taken the most wickets and scored the most runs.
The Demons have hit 1637 runs so far, and claimed 98 wickets.
Two outright victories have helped them along the way, but there's no doubt that Dederang's revamped lineup has developed serious premiership credentials.
Captain Andrew Creamer said the Demons were simply enjoying their cricket.
“We're pretty happy to be on top at the moment, but we know there isn't much between the top four at the moment.
“We've been able to bring a few blokes on board who have been really impressive.
“We're taking it one game at a time, but if you're enjoying getting out there you're more likely to play your best cricket.”
The only stat the Demons are trailing the competition in is runs scored against.
Dederang have had the second highest amount of runs scored against them this season (1587), behind the ninth-placed Howlong.
“Our opening bowling is something we probably need to address,” Creamer said.
“We need to find a bit more rhythm.
“I think that’s something we have been improving on lately, early wickets make all the difference.”
Wodonga are another side that have impressed.
They need to defend their total of 114 against Dederang on Saturday afternoon to keep their finals hopes alive, but a couple of different stats suggest they could be in with a chance.
The Bulldogs are third in least runs scored against (1336), and second in runs for (1623), 14 behind their opposition this weekend.
Against them is the fact that they’ve taken the third least wickets (83).
Captain Brad Scheetz said the stats were an indication that his young side was on the right track, albeit with some inconsistent performances along the way.
“Finals are the ultimate goal, and I think we’re capable of getting there,” he said.
“We’ve got a few young blokes in the side who have really surprised us this year.
“We need to be more consistent – we’ve followed up good wins with bad losses.
“But overall I think we’ve set ourselves up well to try and make the finals, or at least have a good crack at them next season.”
Elsewhere, Baranduda will tussle with Mt Beauty, Barnawartha-Chiltern should defeat Bethanga, Eskdale should reel in Howlong and Kiewa will beat Yackandandah away.
