Defeats make it a weekend to forget for Templepatrick teams

The seniors are now just one place above the NCU Section drop-zone after losing to strugglers Donaghcloney, while the 2nd XI’s promotion hopes were dented when they were beaten by Instonians III.

In the absence of 1st XI skipper Robert Smith, vice-captain Jordan Carlisle was in charge at The Cloughan where his side was bowled out for just 85. The damage was done by M. Nigade (4 for 14) and J Stevenson (2 for 20).

In reply, Donaghcloney improved their survival hopes by racing to 86 for 1, while TCC will need to secure a few wins in their remaining six matches to preserve their Section 1 status.

Andy McCrea’s 2nd XI went down by nine wickets in Belfast against Instonians III in a Junior League Section 3 fixture.

John McCombe with 66 and Simon Beattie (16) were the only two batsmen who got into double figures as they posted 129 for six, while 14-year-old Rhys Wallace was the only successful bowler as the hosts coasted to a 133 for 1 victory.

The 3rd XI collected Junior League Section 8 points without a ball being bowled when Larne II were unable to field a team.

On the positive side, there is some encouraging news from the club’s flourishing youth section.

The Under-11, Under-13 and Under-15 teams have all advanced to their respective Ulster league play-offs, which are scheduled to be staged this week.

Congratulations are extended to Ballyclare High School student Andy McCalmont, who has been selected to travel to Durham with the Ulster Schools’ party.

Saturday’s fixtures: 1st XI v Woodvale, home; 3rd XI v Laurelvale III, home.