YOUNG GUNS BREADY UP AND RUNNING

While most of the Premiership sides had little trouble accounting for their lower ranked opponents in the Senior Cup, Bready had to dig deep into their fighting reserves to overcome the challenge of near neighbours Fox Lodge in the Tyrone derby clash.

The Magheramason side looked to be heading out as they slumped to 88 for 7, but showed all their renowned fighting qualities to fight back to 182, which proved just enough in a tense finale, winning by 12 runs – a result that pleased skipper Ian Young.

“Saturday’s game was certainly a tough match,” said Young. “I suppose it was always going to be a difficult game playing them at Ballymagorry, and it was great to come out the right side of it. The team showed plenty of fight to get over the line which was good to see.”

New overseas player Josh van Heerdon made his debut in the win, and Young was pleased with his contribution. “Josh has settled in very well. He looks like a very good cricketer and hopefully he can have a great season.”

Bready’s reward for making the last eight is an away day trip with Brigade. “We got another very tough draw away to Brigade, with whom we’ve had some good tight matches over the years, and I would say this will be no different, so myself and the team will be looking forward to it.

“Before them we are on Irish Senior Cup duty, with a home tie against CIYMS. Again, it’s certainly another very difficult game against a top side, but I know the boys will be up for it, and hopefully we can come out on top.  Our team hopefully will be unchanged from the weekend and we can build on our win to make it two wins from two in the cups.”