MIXED FORTUNES FOR DONEMANA

It was a mixed weekend for Donemana who reached yet another NW Senior Cup final with a convincing win at Brigade to set up a repeat of the 2024 final.

Half centuries from skipper Gary McClintock and overseas professional Anuj Jotin put Donemana firmly in control, and a ruthless bowling display backed it up in a surprisingly one-sided encounter.

The news wasn’t good the next day as without the services of David O’Sullivan (muscle injury) and William McClintock (suspension) they were knocked out of the Irish Senior Cup at Balbriggan. More runs for Jotin took them to 220, but the hosts prevailed by six wickets thanks to half centuries from Cameron Rowe and Chris De Freitas.

“We have a lot to look forward to as a team after that win at Brigade, and it’s great to be returning to Beechgrove,” said McClintock.  

“It was certainly disappointing on Sunday but we were missing two big players in Dave O’Sullivan and William so it was never going to be easy. I think we showed good fight but Balbriggan were just a better team on the day.

“I’d also like to pay thanks to the travelling supporters who provided such a great atmosphere. It was brilliant to have you all there in such numbers and it didn’t go unnoticed. The players certainly appreciate your efforts.”

It’s back to league action this weekend and there’s a top of the table tussle at leaders Coleraine, followed by a trip to Bready.

“We have another massive weekend coming up for us Coleraine, who have been going well in the league this year so we have to be at our best. Also, Bready on Sunday in the rearranged game. Hopefully we can get through it with two wins.”

Victories in those two games would certainly go a long way in their quest for a title defence, and you wouldn’t bet against it.