Ulster coach Neil scores a century as Lisburn win again

Lisburn Thirds were the only Lisburn playing at the weekend but their game in the Park against Donaghadee produced something very, very special.
I smashed it way over there! Ulster Rugby coach Neil Doak hit a massive six to bring up his hundred in a rare appearance for Lisburn Thirds last week.I smashed it way over there! Ulster Rugby coach Neil Doak hit a massive six to bring up his hundred in a rare appearance for Lisburn Thirds last week.
I smashed it way over there! Ulster Rugby coach Neil Doak hit a massive six to bring up his hundred in a rare appearance for Lisburn Thirds last week.

The Thirds, riding high in their junior league with five wins from seven matches had an ace in their pack in the shape of Neil Doak, ex Irish cricket international and current Ulster Rugby head coach.

Neil has only played a handful of games in the last number of seasons but on Saturday he opened the batting and scored an undefeated 112 taking the 3rds to the imposing total of 173 for 4 in their 35 overs.

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Neil opened the innings with his son Nathan and between the pair they added 43 for the first wicket before the younger partner was out for 10.

Neil, however, continued to dominate the Lisburn innings and the Donaghadee bowling scoring at will all round the wicket.

Doak had telling stands with Cyril Vergese and Thirds captain Allan Darragh before he completed his century with a large six.

Vergese scored 17 while Darragh assisted with 11 as his team reached 173 for 4 with their star player remaining 112 not out.

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Doak’s innings brought back memories of his exploits for Lisburn when he was in his prime; it is just a pity he cannot spare more time to instil his class and natural enthusiasm into the younger players in the club.

The visitors made a reasonable start with Martin scoring a good 47 but they lost a number of wickets in the middle of their innings with Darragh, Vergese, Lightbody and Reddy taking vital wickets. Reddy was the pick of the attack with 4 for 25

A late surge by Murray who scored a quick 37 was not enough to get Donaghadee even close and they were all out for 124 in the 30th over leaving Lisburn comfortable winners by 50 runs.

The Thirds have now won five of their seven league and are in contention for their league; a clash against Academy next week could well decide the title.

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