Whether the Hawks are settled or not will be starkly evident when they resume, 4-15, at Eastern Oval tomorrow.

The winner gets a coveted final spot in the Ballarat Cricket Association club firsts play-offs.

East boasts some heavy artillery yet to take to the crease, needing 99 runs.

But, as the Hawks bowlers know, a bit of moisture in the green wicket favoured tight bowling.

Golden Point managed to muster only 113 runs on day one and the Hawks looked in control.

A handy run-out and O'Loughlin's hat-trick quickly changed momentum.

Golden Point captain Josh White said his team must apply pressure bowling from the outset tomorrow.

White was disappointed with his team's batting effort but said players were confident they could pull off a victory in the field.

"I don't think they (East) are too keen to get out there," White said.

"They saved a couple of their better bats and hid them down the order.

"They sent their younger blokes out there first.

"They only need 100 runs but it will be pretty tricky because I think the wicket will be the same again."

Hawks opener Mark Shaw and number-four bat Brad Whittaker were big scalps claimed on day one.

The Hawks are still to sport returned top-order bat Chris Gardner, seasoned performer Carl Haseloff, former Victorian Premier Cricket batsman Michael Kuiper and versatile skipper Simon Irving, who nabbed four Point wickets.

Point's experienced bowlers have been its strength this season and will again prove crucial in this match.

Paceman Mark Vandeheuval carried the load, taking five wickets last round against Brown Hill, while O'Loughlin has already had an impact.

This match has all the makings for a thrilling finish.