Richard Bryan, Gleaner Writer

Led by a century from their captain, Paul Palmer Jr, champions St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) batted themselves into a strong position against Tacky at Chedwin Park yesterday, laying the platform to secure first-innings honours which will be good enough to hand them a place in the Grace/ISSA Headley Cup final.

However, the quest for honours remained in the balance in the other semi-final between Man-chester High and Holmwood at STETHS in Santa Cruz after rain delayed the start until 1:30 p.m. and then bad light ended play half an hour earlier than the expected 6 p.m. close of play.

Manchester, seeking to reach their second final of the season, battled the conditions well to reach 80 for two before suffering a mild collapse, then clawing back to finish on 142 for five from 49 overs.

However, the prospects for more runs lies in the hands of captain Courtney Allen, who was unbeaten on 38 while forging an ongoing 30-run sixth-wicket partnership with all-rounder Leighton Leslie (11).

No such uncertainties

There were no such uncertainties for STETHS, who made full use of being sent to bat on a traditional flatbed, posting 451 for seven after 92 overs at the crease. Besides Palmer's 130, Vanfield Bromfield (78), Brian Gayle (79) and Krishna Graham (74), all preened themselves against the Tacky bowling, which looked woefully short on quality.

Oraine Farr (two for 115) and captain John Campbell (two for 92) were the major bowling successes for Tacky.

However, Campbell's role with the bat will be hugely important today if Tacky, who reached 66 for two after 17 overs, are to produce a monumental performance on today's final day.