Following their four-wicket loss to Euroa last weekend, the Jets roared back to their best by dismissing their round six opponent for 86 runs off 55.4 overs.
Saturday's performance at Waaia Recreation Reserve has the Jets in complete control after they finished the day 1-40 and 47 runs behind claiming first innings points.
The Jets’ coach Steve Allen said he was pleased with the response from his senior group against the Bombers.
“I thought it was a very strong effort from everyone,” Allen said.
“Without taking anything away from Euroa, we were very disappointed with the loss last weekend.
“But it was a far better effort at the weekend and we understand that the job isn't done yet.
“But we have put ourselves in a very good spot to try and win.”
Waaia was able to creep to 24 runs with no loss of wicket, but found trouble soon after, with the departure of captain Brayden Carey (17 runs).
The Bombers then lost the next two wickets cheaply — to be 3-29 — which left opening batsman Sam Trower (20) to bunker down and build partnerships with the tail-order.
But Trower exited the crease after a delivery from Grant Hutchins (3-19) and Waaia went on to lose 4-28.
Northerners’ Joel Brett struck gold with 4-36 and was the most damaging bowler, while teammate Zane Newbound fought tirelessly for no wickets.
Newbound (0-6) supported Brett with seven overs of superb bowling and earned the praise of Allen.
“I thought all our bowlers did a terrific job, it was a combination of everyone bowling well,” he said.
“Zane tried really hard and bowled superbly to create pressure.
“Although he didn't get the wickets, he bowled beautifully alongside Joel.”
The Jets will resume this weekend with Brett (26) and Ben Predretti (11) at the crease, following the dismissal of Darcy Collins.
THE GAME
Waaia 86 (Sam Trower 20, Joel Brett 4-36, Grant Hutchins 3-19, Trent Sidebottom 2-6)
Northerners 1-41 (Joel Brett 26 not out, Ben Pedretti 11 not out, Jesse Trower 1-11)
STAR PLAYER
Joel Brett (Northerners): What a terrific start to the Haisman Shield season for the all-rounder. His 4-36 effort takes his season tally of wickets to 16 and he now leads the competition in that category.