RED CAPS FLYING HIGH AT TOP OF PREMIERSHIP

It may come as no surprise that a Tyrone side is top of the Premiership table, but many will be scratching their heads that it's Strabane rather than Donemana who sit proudly at the summit after the first month of the season.

Their three impressive victories have propelled them to the top of the table and many pundits tip for relegation are turning into unlikely title contenders.

Wins over traditional heavyweights Donemana and Bready were enough to catch attention early on, but Saturday’s emphatic nine-wicket demolition of Fox Lodge in a Tyrone derby further reinforced the belief that Strabane could be building something special this season.

The manner of their performances has perhaps been the most impressive aspect. Strabane have combined strong batting displays with disciplined bowling and an energy in the field that has made them difficult opponents in every department. And all this without the services of John Mooney who is on IPL duty. There is also a growing sense within the camp that the side still has another level to reach.

Captain Kevin Gallagher has been delighted with the opening weeks of the campaign but insists there is no danger of complacency creeping in.

“It’s been a pretty good start to the league for us and something we’ve been working hard on,” Gallagher said. “We know it’s only getting started and every game is massive for us. We don’t take any team lightly, and we also know that if we click, we can give any team a run for their money.”

Despite sitting at the summit, Gallagher believes there is still more to come from his side over the coming weeks.

“I feel like we still have more to give and hopefully we can show that over the next couple of weeks ahead. Every team, in my opinion, can beat anyone on their day, so we are taking it one game at a time.”

A major factor behind Strabane’s early success has been contributions throughout the squad. Rhys Logue and Aaron Gillespie have both started the season strongly with the bat, while the club’s professional - Mohammad Mohsin - is beginning to settle into life at the club and could yet become a major force in the league.

With the ball, Ryan Gallagher and Andrew Mullen have impressed, helping Strabane consistently apply pressure and back up competitive totals.

Gallagher also pointed to the togetherness within the dressing room as a key strength.

“One thing we do is stick together and believe no matter what situation or team we are up against,” he added. “The lads are up for every game and challenge, so it’s going to be very interesting to see how the season unfolds.”

Attention now turns to the NW Senior Cup this weekend, where Strabane travel to Ballyspallen. The in-form Championship side will provide another stern examination, and Strabane know there will be no room for complacency if their excellent momentum is to continue.

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