Saints secure win at Railway Road

Phil Patterson pictured at the crease for Ardmore II's during their match against Creevedonnell 2nd's. INLS2514-177KM

Ricky McDaid was on top early for the Roe Valley men as he hit 8 fours and a six in his 47 but elsewhere the bowlers were very much on top.

The spin of Colin McGettigan (four for six) did for the batting side and good support from Ross McCay (three for 46) and Mark Roulston (two for 29) kept Drummond’s finally tally down to a disappointing 102.

The home side didn’t totally get things their own way in reply but once again Stevie Moore’s men conceded way too many extras (31) and that, combined with an unbeaten 440 from the bat of Conan Pollock allowed Burndennett to seal a four-wicket victory.

That just left Sunday’s crunch game where leaders Glendermott headed to Donegal to tackle a much in-form St Johnston side.

The visitors won the toss and opted to bat first and it wasn’t long before Roy Silva was in the groove for them.

The Sri Lankan hit eight fours and three sixes on his way to 68 but for once the Waterside men’s batting was found wanting.

Of the rest only Alan Johnson with 26 managed to keep the Saints’ bowlers at bay as young spinner Anthony was again among the wickets - he and Kushpal Singh claiming three apiece.

A final total of 152 was disappointing given Silva’s contribution and the hosts set about chasing it down to try to blow the title race open.

Michael Rankin hit 39 at the top of the order and although Simon Killen picked up a couple of wickets to keep it interesting, the Saints had enough about them.

Jassia Wallia’s good season continued as he made 38 not out, sharing an unbroken seventh wicket stand worth 60 with Rammohan Goud (32 not out) to steer their side to a four-wicket win.

The result means that there are now five teams in the Championship title race covered by just two points as a compelling run-in looks assured.