Western Bulls won the toss and elected to bat.

The Bulls got off to a quick start getting to 0 for 20 off just two overs on a hot Isa summer’s day at the cricket.

Blackstars’ bowlers were able to slow the run rate over the next five overs.

The pressure they built up told on batsman Trent Te Wharau who was chasing quick runs when he was out caught by Lawrenson off the bowling of Magnus for 15 runs just before the drinks break.

Wickets were hard to come by with the Bulls’ solid batting line-up ticking the run rate along at a steady six an over.

Opener Nick Donker made a fine 42 runs until he was sensationally run out by a direct hit from Cameron Conlan at extra cover.

Tom Dimaline was picking off the bowlers with ease but no other batsman could go with him as wickets fell regularly.

Dimaline finished with a top score of the day of 73 not out and the Bulls closed their innings at nine down for 217 off 40 overs.

A. Lawrenson finished with figures of 3 for 27 while A. Baker and A. Benson took two wickets each.

Blackstars went about their reply at the required runrate though also lost wickets regularly.

Ian Barlow was patient early on but ramped up his runrate to compile a half-century, caught behind at 51.

Ash Benson scored with ease on his way to a solid 43 until caught at mid-wicket with the scores tied.

Luke Saunders entered the fray and off the second ball he faced he hit a two to give Blackstars the victory by three wickets over a quality Bulls outfit.

Best bowler for Western Bulls was Lewis Read who matched Lawrenson’s early figures of 3 for 27.

There are just weeks left of the regular season.

The Mount Isa Cricket Association says fixtures scheduled for March 4 have been cancelled and the semi finals commence on that date.

The second semi will be held March 11 and the grand final March 18.