A sensational maiden first class century by Tasmanian George Bailey guided the Tigers to an unlikely Pura Cup victory over a Western Australian side teetering on the brink of disaster.

Chasing 348 to win, Tasmania reached 8-348 with 11.1 overs remaining in the day, thanks largely to Bailey's superb 117, which included 13 boundaries and one six.

Despite building a 171-run first innings lead, the Warriors still couldn't avoid their fourth straight outright defeat to commence the four-day competition.

It's their worst start to a season since losing all four matches played in the 1948-49 season.

The first innings points were WA's first for the year, but the decision not to enforce the follow-on plus some poor second innings batting allowed the Tigers back into the match and they took full advantage.

Stand-in WA captain Marcus North, who also skippered the side in Friday night's ING Cup loss to Tasmania, had few answers for the state's poor form.

"Obviously it's extremely disappointing to walk away from two fixtures against Tasmania without a win," he said.

"It's our worst start to four-day cricket for a number of years now and it's extremely frustrating for all of us.

"Hopefully it will turn around sooner rather than later."

The Warriors are missing the likes of senior players Mike Hussey and Damien Martyn, but North felt the side still had enough talent to be competitive.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP