Mixed fortunes for the Seconds

While never appearing in serious danger of defeat, the spectators at the Boathole were kept on the edge of their seat to the very last - clearly enthused by their boys’ stubborn performance. Stand in skipper Kyle ‘Dumper’ Martin began the day boldly, inserting the Nedd to bat amidst bright sunshine. Keith Hamilton batted in unorthodox fashion to top score with 30 while Vinny O’Hara (23) and Matt Murray Snr (18) survived a hostile spell from Jonny Martin (2-22) as the Nedd battled to 159.

With the run rate inconsequential on such a free-scoring ground, Coleraine knew a disciplined performance would secure victory. Rory Knox and Matthew Douglas chose to express themselves however, punishing anything wide during a 72-run opening partnership. It was the cheers of the Martin faithful that rang loudest at the Nedd however, as a Jonny Martin skimmer sent the cows dispersing around the opposite field as Coleraine secured victory.

However, Coleraine’s title challenge suffered a huge dent on Sunday, succumbing to a 61 run defeat against a strong Bready side. In truth, Coleraine should have challenged Bready’s total of 191 a lot closer but the top order failed to get going amidst some very disciplined bowling from Bready.

Team Manager Nigel Barr admitted Coleraine failings with the bat have become a concern. “Being honest, we’re a couple of batsman short from a truly formidable side, today would have been a major coup but we’re still amongst things,” he said.