A tough weekend overall, with results not falling our way and some performances well short of where they need to be. Across the senior men’s teams, the only tangible “result” was a tie for the 1s — and even that should have been a win.
There were positives, of course: the 1s secured a top-six finish, the Ladies continued their outstanding run with a fifth consecutive victory, and the 2s, 3s and 4s continued to front up with effort and energy, even in defeat. But the weekend also laid bare some of the challenges we’re facing: availability, consistency, and turning performances into points.
What matters now is how we respond — and with league tables tightening, there’s still plenty to play for.
⚖️ 1st XI Tie at Woodvale – Top Six Secured, but One That Got Away
A dramatic tie at Ballygomartin Road was just enough to lock in a top-six finish for the 1s — but there’s no doubt we let the win slip through our fingers.
Batting first in a rain-affected 35-over contest, Stevie Saul produced a brilliant knock, finishing unbeaten on 99*, just one short of a well-deserved century. He shared a 127-run stand with Mickey Copeland (57), and the innings closed on 193 for 5.
In reply, Woodvale looked done at 78 for 6 — but a late partnership clawed them back. Needing three off the final ball, they scrambled two to tie. A more experienced outfit probably closes that game out. But that’s where we are, and what we’re working towards.
Top six is a good result — a base to build from. TK came in with a remit to develop younger players and start turning over the squad, but part of the plan wasn’t doing it with a threadbare eleven most weeks. The next five games give us a chance to put some shape on the season — and to finish with momentum, not just relief.
😬 2nd XI Let One Slip at Home
On Saturday, the 2s hosted bottom-of-the-table Woodvale 2s and came up short — a 16-run defeat that stung, especially given the control we had early on.
The visitors posted 243 for 5, with 30 wides again proving costly, Andrew Haire picking up 2 wickets.
In reply, Tom Crothers (54) and Haire (83) led the effort, and Jacob McClure-Dalzell added 18. But key wickets fell at key moments, and we just couldn’t find the late kick needed, finishing on 227.
They’ve now got a short break before a massive stretch in the league run-in — Junior 1 survival is in their hands, but it’ll take full buy-in.
📉 3rd XI Beaten at Collegians
The 3s were well beaten by a strong Cooke Collegians side on Saturday — bowled out for 134 (Frazer Mitchell 27, Zac Parker 20) before the hosts chased it down with ease.
The result isn’t terminal in terms of Junior 4 promotion — it’s that kind of league — but a reminder that consistency will be key in the run-in.
🧢 4th XI Edged Out by NIMACC 2s
The 4s keep going, taking on adult sides weekly with youth at the core. This time they came up 39 runs short against NIMACC 2s, but once again gave it everything.
Wickets were shared between Daniel Corbett (2-17), Harry McLaughlin (2-28), Daniel Coulter (2-26), and Daniel Kinnear (2-29) as the visitors were restricted.
With the bat, Callum Wilson made a composed 36, but regular wickets stifled the chase as we closed on 131 for 9. Another valuable outing.
🔥 5 in a Row – Ladies Beat Lisburn at The Green
The Ladies 1s made it five wins on the bounce with a 13-run DLS win over Lisburn at home.
Gracie Keenan was again to the fore, finishing unbeaten on 77, supported by Kiara Fisher with 42* in a total of 159 for 1. Rain shortened Lisburn’s target to 144 off 18 overs, and although they kept in touch, we held firm to close it out.
The bowling group worked hard again — and the fielding effort included a smashing caught-and-bowled from Amy Boyd that turned the tide.
Plenty of belief in this group now, and it’s being matched with results.
🕊️ Remembering Leslie Anderton
We were saddened to learn of the passing of long-standing club Vice President Leslie Anderton. A loyal supporter, generous sponsor and friend to many, Leslie’s legacy includes backing the practice facilities now used daily by our thriving youth section. Sincere condolences to Gillian and the wider family circle.
🏏 12th July Tournament – Get Involved
It’s nearly here — our annual fun-format 12th July Tournament. If you haven’t already, get your name down. Short matches, random teams, food, prizes and a good few laughs.
🎟️ And Save the Date…
We’re delighted to confirm another key social event — A Night at the Races returns to The Green on Saturday 9th August. Mark it in the calendar!
