Second XI claim second win against Derriaghy

It was an intense affair with both sides evenly matched for most of the game, and those who watched were certainly entertained.

After losing the toss, Ballymena bowled first, and on a good pitch had to work hard for their first wicket.

Jack Gibson took the first wicket, but it was the slower spin bowlers that had an impact on this ground.

Sam Glass, along with brother John, bowled extremely well picking up 2 wickets each.

Both of them showed great control with ball in hand and on a small ground limited the home side to a total of 182.

During this innings, Ballymena fielded exceptionally well, and the encouragement shown to all bowlers was at the level expected of skipper Colgan.

In reply, and digging deep for that second win, it was the senior players for Ballymena that showed their experience and guile to get them over the finish line.

Jack Gibson, who is a vastly improved batsman led from the front with a stylish 35.

Although riding his luck on a couple of occasions, Jack played some graceful strokes particularly on the off-side.

He was well backed up by Stephen Colgan, who after playing a supportive role for the first eleven at the beginning of the season is settling back as skipper of the 2’s.

Colgan was out for 39, but the good momentum continued with veteran Trevor McBurney showing exactly why he continues to be selected for a youthful seconds side.

Trevor bludgeoned his way to a match winning 41 and was well supported by Neil Fullerton with 19.

For this particular match situation it was the perfect combination at the crease.

McBurney punished anything loose, while Fulllerton worked his singles well.

Derriaghy did however fight back with wickets in quick succession.

So with the result still on a knife edge, Matthew Purse hit a spectacular six to sway victory towards Ballymena.

Purse batted very intelligently for 23 not out and steered the away team to a 3 wicket victory.

Ballymena now have a busy period ahead with two 20/20 games mid-week against Downpatrick and Lurgan, and then play Carrick at home on Saturday.

They will be without young John Glass who will be representing the NCU at the under 15 inter-pros – the club and team wish him good luck.

FIRSTS

Meanwhile, Ballymena’s First XI will be hoping to put further daylight between themselves and the foot of the Premier League table as they resume action this weekend.

James Kennedy’s side - who had no game last weekend due to opponents CIYMS being involved in the Challenge Cup semi-final - travel to Middle Road to face Carrikfergus, who currently prop up the table after losing their opening five games of the league campaign.