Vics close in on shield win as Redbacks falter
South Australia's slim hopes of a Sheffield Shield win in Melbourne have suffered a huge blow early on day three as Victoria routed their top-order.
Chasing an improbable victory target of 368 at Junction Oval, South Australia slipped to 4-80 at lunch.
Opening bowlers Mitch Perry (2-30) and Fergus O'Neill (2-3) did the damage, reducing the Redbacks to 4-27 inside 10 overs.
The pair fired out openers Jack Carder (4) and Henry Hunt (0) to leave the visitors 2-4, with Nathan McSweeney (12) and Jake Lehmann (3) also soon back in the sheds.
Daniel Drew, who came into the match on the back of a double century, remained unbeaten on 25 alongside the aggressive Ben Manenti (36no).
South Australia's struggles with the bat were in contrast with the effort of Victoria who had plundered quick runs on Monday to end the day at 8-285.
Matt Short led the way with a sparkling innings of 119.
The Vics' tail continued to swing the bat on day three with Perry hitting 38 and O'Neill 35 as the home side ended on 312.
