The minor premier came through triumphant by 48 runs on Saturday at Sunset Oval, earning itself a week's rest as Starries are forced to play Panthers.

Batting first, Townview posted 227 largely thanks to Bill Baillie's 107 - his second century of the season.

Townview slipped to 5-108 when captain Clint Heuir fell to Andrew Lawrenson's tidy off-spin, however, Baillie kept his cool.

The left-handed opener had his chances early on, but cashed in with his 91-ball ton.

Paul Scarsi (22 not out) and Mick Jewell (20) added runs quickly towards the close, but Townview would be bowled out in the 38th over  with Lawrenson's deceptive spin striking five times (5-24).

In reply Starries captain Nathan Giles fell for a golden duck, with fellow opener Trent Cameron (15) following soon after to have the reigning premiers 2-17.

Lawrenson would find himself in the thick of the contest yet again, this time with the willow  combining for a 63-run stand with Ian Barlow (37).

However Lawrenson's (52) wicket at 5-130 signalled deep trouble for Starries, still needing another 100 runs with just 10 overs in hand.

Despite some lusty hitting from Scott Kyle (21 not out), Black Stars would fall short, bowled out for 179 in the 37th over.

Veteran Az Germaine ran through the lower order  including a team hat-trick, which saw three consecutive dismissals  to finish with 3-19.

Black Stars will play Panthers this weekend to determine the second Mount Isa Cricket Association grand finalist.