In his first innings at first-class level, Moama-raised Murphy made 34 batting at number 10 and had a crucial 88-run stand for the ninth wicket with Sam Harper (106 not out) to lift Victoria to first innings points.

Chasing South Australia's total of 333, Murphy gave the Vics the lead with a lofted drive for four over long-on off spinner Sam Kerber.

Next ball the Sandhurst premiership player spooned a catch back to Kerber. He faced 70 balls and hit five boundaries.

Victoria was eventually bowled out for 365 with a lead of 32.

The home side had the Redbacks in all sorts of trouble at 4-52 in their second innings before opener Henry Hunt (73 not out) and Harry Nielsen (35) steadied the ship.

At stumps the visitors were 5-151 with a lead of 119 with one day remaining.

Murphy bowled eight overs on day three for figures of 0-28. He took a catch to dismiss Alex Carey (12) at short third man.

Fellow first-gamer James Seymour had his first bowl at first-class level.

The former Bendigo Cricket Club all-rounder bowled a maiden in his only over.

After making 60 on debut in the first innings, Seymour looks set to play a crucial role on the final day.

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