The Hawks have yet to register a win this season, but strong efforts from David Ross (4-29) and Craig Arnell (3-28) have given them a chance. Their side needs 92 runs with nine wickets in hand.

There were three Hicks brothers in the first XI for Eildon Park's match at Upwey. However, it wasn't a good day for the young Panthers team, which was cleaned up for 130 in the 59th over. Upwey was 1-30 at stumps.

Upwey's 17-year-old medium-pacer and association under-18 captain, Ben Wood, showed promise with 3-11 from eight overs.

Monbulk's Jason Fraser (55) continues to be a lone hand in his team's total of 180 against Mt Gate, with Anthony Bailey taking five wickets.

Fraser has top-scored for the Hawks in every match so far this season.

Ferntree Gully, at 8-213, is like a duck cruising on top of the pond against Belgrave.

Good contributions from Ryan Handley (50), Graham Salan and Matt Black, on return from overseas, should see a winning total.

Upper Gully (239) is in a strong position against neighbours StJohns Tecoma. The Kings lost three wickets without addition to the score on 152, until Dean Roberts (68) and Al Lord (25) added 90 in a vital partnership.

Lysterfield made 231 against Johnson Park.

The Beavers are gradually hitting their straps with Chris Hill holding the innings together, gaining support from Jarrod Moody and Kyle Snyman.

Decoite Shield

THE clash between ladder leaders Knox Gardens and Auravale is set for an intriguing finish.

Batting first at Argyle Reserve, Knox Gardens could only register 169 with former Dandenong quick Paul MacDonald combining with Steve Hall to dismiss the Falcons, who struck back at the end of the day to have the Lakers 4-44.

The first hour of play next week should decide the outcome.

Johnson Park left-armer Tim Reid single handedly knocked over Lysterfield for 154, taking 7-33, with Warrick Peluso the only batsman to get a start. In reply, a little of the hard work was forfeited with the Sharks 3-27.