Double header Peaks’ defining moment

Manypeaks will face top-four sides Denmark and Railways in this weekend’s Albany Cricket Association A-grade competition double header, which will be crucial to where Peaks finish on the ladder.

Peaks coach Langley Angel said his side had targeted a strong win-loss record in February as they pushed towards a top-two finish with Saturday’s clash, with the Magpies and then another match-up with the Tigers on Sunday vital to the final make-up of the top four.

Last week Peaks were far too strong for North County, going on to record their fifth straight one-day victory, which included toppling reigning premiers the Tigers a fortnight ago.

“We targeted February and knew it was a big month for us,” Angel said.

“We want to have a good win-loss record in that month and we’ve been happy with the last few weeks, but this weekend is massive for us.

“If we can get ourselves a win in both games, that will set us up nicely for March.”

Angel, who said the competition was the closest he had seen since joining Peaks, believes his side have been boosted by an addition of youth in the past few rounds.

“We’ve got a bit of momentum at the moment,” he said.

“Playing some youth in the last couple of weeks has really helped.

“We’ve lifted in the field and it’s given us the chance to manage some of our older guys.

“Jeremy Stewart is back in this week, so we’ll have close to a full squad for the weekend, which we will need with two games.”

Peaks are eight points clear of Mt Barker in second place with four rounds to play, with both sides having four matches to come.

Meanwhile, the Magpies will be sweating on the availability of veteran Cary Green for Saturday’s crucial after he was reported in last Sunday’s win over Royals.

Green was given out lbw and was reported for level-two dissent towards umpire Herbie Hart. The prescribed penalty is two matches, but the Magpies will challenge the ban.

“We’ve done our investigating and the player denies the allegations,” Magpies president Jeff Atkinson said.

The matter is expected to be put before the ACA protests and disputes board before Saturday’s round.

ACA A-GRADE FIXTURES

Round 15, 12.15pm Saturday

Denmark v Manypeaks at Turf East

Royals v North County at Turf North

Collingwood Park v Mt Barker at Turf West

Round 16, 11am Sunday

Railways v Manypeaks at Turf East

Mt Barker v Royals at Turf North