The 30-year-old has been in scorching form this summer, but his well-timed knock of 121 against Brighton at the Frank Kirk Oval in Altona on Saturday was critical in his side's bid to reach the finals. Varchione, a 14-year senior player, including 12 years with the A's and two with Dandenong in Victorian Premier Cricket, described this season as his best and was thrilled to bring up his second ton in 2009-10.

"It was good to get some runs after Christmas," he said.

"I've finally turned it around.

"I didn't feel the pressure because we always have other players that step up." Varchione has plundered 542 runs at an average of 45.2.

The Hawthorn resident has been the cornerstone to the A's batting potency, which has them ranked third in the most runs scored. He was pleased to again play his part in the A's competitive total of 241 off 77 overs.

"It was a steady knock," he said. "I just put away the loose balls. "It was good in the sense that it's given us a target to defend."

Gordon MacFarlane was vital to Varchione's innings.

The old stager made 53 and featured in a 123-run third wicket partnership.

The A's are sitting third on the ladder midway through the penultimate round.

There is all still to play for with the shadow of fifth-placed Moorabbin looming large and the carrot of a home final for a top-two finish.

"The only dangerous result for us is if Moorabbin beat Sunshine outright and we lose here," Varchione said.

"The way to eliminate that problem is for us to win. We're also looking to get a home final."