West Newport batted first and managed a total of 245. In reply, United was 4-164.

The coach said lack of experience among his players showed on the scoreboard.

"I wasn't pleased with 245 as I thought we were sitting on excess of 300 runs, but it wasn't to happen for us," McGowan said.

"We lack a bit in the pressure department as we have a young squad and our side hasn't played finals for a few years, but I was pleased by the endeavour shown by our guys.

"Our oldest player is 26 and the next one down is 23, so I'm pleased with how they're going and there is no need to panic as this is a six-day match."

West Newport captain Matt Shiell had the highest score, hitting an impressive 71. Next best were William Phillips and Colin Weller, with 46 and 40, respectively.

Chris Kingsland did well with the ball, and had 2-35. Chris Erving also impressed, bowling 27 straight overs and managing 1-33.

McGowan was pleased with Shiell's performance and said he was "very important" to his side's chances.

"He is only 23 and has good shoulders on his head. He's been very good for us in his first year with the club."

"He played well on the weekend and we will be looking to him to step up again. He definitely has a big influence on the way we play.

"I'll also be hoping Irving can apply pressure with the ball and hopefully we get off to a good start and get some early wickets."

Looking to Saturday, McGowan was concerned by the threat posed to his team by Grand United's Clinton Chugg and said he wanted to "contain" the star all-rounder, who had 6-68.

"They [Grand United] bowled really well, Chugg especially, and we'll have to try to limit his effect on the match."

"He bowls really smartly and has good pace but he can also bat well, which makes him very dangerous.

"We just have to bowl our lines and play to our strengths."

The WDCA grand final resumes at Laverton Park at 12.30pm on Saturday.