LAKE Illawarra's Scott Ulcigrai and Warilla Kookas' Mick Perry dominated the opening two-day round in the MLC Advice South Coast Cricket Premier League on Saturday as batsmen feasted on good batting conditions and lightning-fast grounds.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Ulcigrai was able to convert this year's form, which saw him score three half-centuries, to score his first century of the season while Perry blasted a massive 180.
Perry's innings included 26 boundaries and a six, and underlined his importance to the Kookas as his side finished the day on top after they had scored 311 and then had Oak Flats 1-42 at stumps.
Phil Dell'Orefice took three wickets for the Rats while Brad Morrow, Ryan Chatterton and Andy Twyford took two each.
With the Kookas still missing Perry and his Southern Zone teammates, spinners Callum DeBruin and Scott Cox next weekend, the Rats must still fancy their chances of running down the big score.
Ulcigrai's hard-hitting 126, which included four sixes and 17 boundaries, against Albion Park put the Lakers in a commanding position at stumps on day one as they posted 250.
Ulcigrai was supported by older brother Mark who made 37.
Premiers Albion Park are struggling at 6-88 in reply.
Lake skipper Brendan White, despite missing out with the bat, showing his versatility with three wickets while Aaron Henry took two.
Kiama Cavaliers seem to have the better of their Shellharbour hosts.
Kiama are hoping for back-to-back wins against Shellharbour after they downed the Scorpions the previous Saturday and are on top in the two-dayer at Tom Willoughby Oval.
Kiama posted 8-262 in just 51 overs, with Liam Anderberg (69), Jaya Hartgerink (49) and Lane Tully leading the way, while Sam Bracey, Ken Nguyen and Col Couchman each bagged two wickets for the hosts.
Shellharbour will resume at 3-87, with Sam Bracey unbeaten on 26 and Ned Taylor 22 not out, and will be hoping they can build on their 39-run stand next week.