Jacobs puts Melbourne on top

Jermaine Lannaman, Gleaner Writer

All-rounder Damion Jacobs' outstanding season in the two-day Jamaica Cricket Association Senior Cup continued yesterday when he claimed six for 59 to put Melbourne in pole position against Manchester in the final at Chedwin Park.

The 28-year-old who entered the final as the leading wicket taker, improved his seasonal tally to 56 as Manchester, after winning the toss and electing to bat were bowled out for 203 in their first innings.

Melbourne, in response, closed the day on 133 for three with hard-hitting former national youth representative, Tareque White, ending on an unbeaten 82.

Jacobs, who is also on the top five list of all-rounders, made 17, while off-spin all-rounder Tafari Williams is not out on 17.

"It's been 10 years now that we have not won the two-day title. We are pleased with the position we are in thanks to Jacobs and the other bowlers. The plan now is to come tomorrow press for first innings and then assess things from there," said Melbourne captain Nikita Miller.

After deciding to bat on a good batting track, Manchester found the going tough against Melbourne's predominantly spin bowling attack with Social Development Commi-ssion Community Twenty20 competition standout, Sherdon Allen, top scoring with 98.

The usually aggressive Allen, showed patience to bat for 129 balls, during which he slammed six sixes and four fours.

He was supported by the in-form Gary Graham, who made 36, and Zeniffe Fowler, who chipped in with 26.

support

Jacobs, who was a reserve in Jamaica's Twenty20 squad earlier this year got support in the bowling department from left-arm spinners Christopher Lamont, two for 37, and Miller, two for 56.

Manchester's coach, Barry Barnes, who prior to the final mentioned the absence of five regular players due to overseas competitions, and another three due to a national Under-19 training camp, said they are down but still have a lot to fight for.

"We are playing at the moment with a makeshift team but given the quality of several of the players we were hoping to be in a better position," he said.

"But it's cricket, and the plan from here on is to come tomorrow with a different mindset, and try to give it a shot," he added.

Play resumes today at 10 a.m.