Powering in: Ringwood's Blair Allen sends down a delivery against Essendon on Saturday. Picture: Wayne Hawkins
RINGWOOD'S bowlers have led the way this Premier Cricket season and now the batsmen are looking to follow their example.
The Rams completed another first-innings win on Saturday, passing Essendon's 142 then declaring at 5-217 with David King (74) and Joe Loorham (36 not out) among the runs in their clash.
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The Rams then declared to give themselves a slim chance at an outright win, needing 10 wickets in 27 overs.
The Dons made sure that wasn't going to happen, finishing play on 1-87.
Rams coach Gavin Kellar said his side had aimed to wrap up the win and get some time at the crease.
Players like Loorham, who had struggled to get batting time in the opening weeks of the season, made the most of the chance.
"We had the six points in our mind, first and foremost," Kellar said.
"After that we wanted to get a lead and then try and make a game of it.
"It didn't pan out that way, but we got the runs as quickly as we could."
Kellar said King was fantastic with his ability to force the pace of the innings, while Loorham showed some form with the bat.
"I think the way our games have presented, to be honest, the batters have had to chip in with bits and pieces because we have bowled sides out reasonably quickly.
"The batsmen have had to go out there and be selfless. Most of our batsmen haven't had the chance to go out and bat for 100 overs yet.
"Loorham has taken 19 catches as a keeper this season, the most in the competition.
"He's been sensational with the gloves and he has talent with the bat; he just hasn't had the chance yet."
Kellar also praised all-rounder Ian Holland, who was named in the 12 for the Victorian Bushrangers' one-day side which broke the competition record for the highest run chase in domestic one-day history on Sunday.
Unfortunately, Holland was named 12th man, but Kellar said the rising star would get another shot to play for his state.
The Rams have also lobbied for other players like fast bowler Michael Topp and opening batsman King to get a look-in for Victorian second XI matches in which Holland has starred this summer.
"It was sensational for Ian," he said.
"He didn't get a game, but it's great for him and the club.
"This is why you play Premier Cricket, to aim to be the best cricketer you can and play at the highest levels.
"He's getting his just rewards with that selection.
"We have a couple of really good guys performing well and we would like to see them get their chance at some stage."
The Rams will play Twenty20 matches against Melbourne University and Frankston Peninsula this Saturday at Lavington Sports Ground as part of the Premier Cricket T20 Bush Bash round.