THE FINALISTS of the McDonald’s East Tamworth Premier League are just about set in stone after McDonald’s and Imperial Hotel both chased their way to big victories in yesterday’s fourth round.

Maccas was at its batting best as it chased Joblink Plus’ monster total of 7-167 and got the runs with five overs to spare.

Simon Norvill (26) got Joblink off to a good start and Dean Hoy (55) and Warren Thornton (45) blazed away in the middle of the innings.

“They got off to a flyer,” Maccas captain Jeff Cook said.

“We were lucky enough to get a couple of wickets, most notably Simon Norvill.

“We bowled pretty defensively and we had to do that.

“Dean batted well.”

Cook took 3-25 and Nick Pearson got 2-18.

John Halloran then belted 40, Adam Lole finished with 63 not out and Tim Kensell blasted 48 before departing with the line in sight.

“Our batting was very, very good again,” Cook said.

“John Halloran got us off to a flyer and Adam Lole was good and Tim Kensell played a bit of a cameo.

“It’d be good to win next and cement a place in the final but I’m sure Jonesy (Adam Jones) will have other ideas about that.”

Jones’ Chris Paterson Stock and Station Agents managed just 121 and Imperial chased successfully.

Michael Rixon (34no) and Aaron Hazlewood (25no) polished off the total for a seven-wicket win.

“That was probably our most comprehensive win,” Impies skipper Don Lewington said.

“If we can win next week we’ll cement a final spot.

“The things I picked the team around have worked so far and it’s been really enjoyable.”

Earlier the older of the Rixon boys, Brendan, hit 47 and Kris Halloran 40 but it wasn’t enough.

Patersons and Joblink have been left with little chance of making the final and must win next week if they are any hope at all.