New skipper for Foxies

FOX LODGE were probably the surprise package of 2009; then under the captaincy of Gary Neely they recovered from an indifferent start to finish in the top four, above even Donemana and they no doubt will feel that they can build on that this time. Neely of course is no longer there and the Ireland paceman has handed over the captain's armband to Brian Allen.

The former North West Development officer is a class act on his day but has been dogged by the odd lapse in concentration when seemingly set in his innings.

To be fair to him the trait was a lot less evident last season and it will be interesting to see how he copes with the added responsibility brought about by the captaincy. In terms of personnel the Foxes have added Dean McCarter and Lee Brolly, two players with limited Senior One experience but who have performed admirably in the lower league. McCarter was in superb form for Killyclooney last time, breaking just about every individual record when hitting 275 in a league game at Sion Mills but will find this an altogether more demanding challenge. Brolly will probably have to be very accurate at the picturesque Ballymagorry venue but will get plenty of advice from fellow spinner Johnny Robinson about how to turn that to his advantage. Andy Britton was in great nick last time, many observers rating the former Donemana man as the quickest in the league and his form brought him to the attention of the Ireland selectors.

He looks sure to have a big part to play again this time, availability permitting should the green sweater beckon. Darryl Brown returns as professional and the South African was superb in the second half of 2009 as the Foxes produced their late charge. Brown may have taken a little time to warm to his new surroundings but there was no doubting his credentials once he did and he looks sure to be a major asset again. Robinson, Stuart Clarke, Richard McCorkell, Andy McGinnis, Jonny Heywood and Jason Milligan are among others who can help the Foxes stay among the front runners in 2010.