Premiers on the march
NORTHSIDERS moved to third spot on the Ipswich Logan Premier League ladder with their win over Swifts on Saturday.
The premiers had no trouble chasing down Swifts' 160 after resuming on 1-113 at Ivor Marsden 1.
Brendan Forwood (67), Marcus Hillier (53) and Paul Milne (51) all made half-centuries before the Tigers declared at 6-250.
It was a seamless return to the competition following a bye in the opening round of the new year.
"It was the sort of start we needed," Forwood said.
"It was nice (to get a half-century), given we were a bit rusty after Christmas."
Just as pleasing was seeing most of the batting line-up make substantial contributions.
"That's the key for us," Forwood said. "Not relying on any one guy to do it."
After declaring 90 runs ahead, Northsiders were keen for an outright win, giving themselves 40 overs to bowl Swifts out a second time.
"We had every opportunity," Forwood said.
"Just time go us."
And Alex Coogan's 39 runs opening the innings for Swifts.
"He gave us a few chances," Forwood said.
"We knew it was only a matter of time until we got him out.
"Kevvy (fast bowler Kev Cumming) got a few that just passed his outside edge.
"A couple flew in the air but landed between fielders."
After a stuttering start to the season, Northsiders appear to be building well towards finals in March.
"The more guys spend time in the middle, the better it is for us heading into the end of the season," Forwood said.
"Bowling-wise, the guys spent a couple of hours in the heat last week and (on Saturday).
"The more opportunities they get to experience these conditions, the more it will hold us in good stead."
Forwood said good form running into finals was of "massive" importance.
"We need to be doing it for our own confidence," he said.
"And other teams are obviously following your form."
Northsiders can climb further up the ladder into second spot, behind leaders Laidley, if they can beat Brothers next start.
