MAGNIFICENT SEVEN FOR MC COMBE

Nathan McCombe admits everything simply "clicked" as he produced the bowling performance of his career to inspire Bready to a crucial North West Premiership victory over Strabane.

The 21-year-old off-spinner claimed a remarkable seven wickets, including the prized scalps of Strabane professional Mohammed Mohson with the first ball he faced, as well as Bready nemesis Aaron Gillespie, as Bready's youthful side continued their impressive climb up the table.

While McCombe has enjoyed five-wicket hauls before, he believes Saturday's display stands above them all.

"I've had a few five-wicket hauls in the past, but it's definitely my first this year and probably the best bowling figures of my life," he said.

"It was just one of those days where everything seemed to go right."

The dismissal of Gillespie proved especially significant after the former Ireland A international had punished Bready with a century earlier in the season.

"Aaron Gillespie had a hundred against us in the first game of the season and I got him and the pro in two consecutive balls. That was a very, very big momentum swing for us and a massive help."

McCombe also played his part with the bat, helping Travis Faulkner with a valuable late-order partnership that added precious runs after Bready had looked in danger of falling well short.

"Me and Travis were able to provide another 30 or 40 runs after the collapse. That definitely gave the team a good boost and high hopes going into the second innings."

Bready have become renowned for giving young players opportunities, and McCombe believes the club's philosophy is paying dividends this season.

"Youth always gets a chance at Bready. If you show your worth and your capability, you'll always get your shot here.

"We're a very young side, but the determination, grit, fight and quality have shown in a lot of games. A few haven't gone our way, but the fight has always been there."

He also praised signing Kenzie Hall for making an immediate impact.

"He's been an absolute boost over the last couple of games and the young lads are doing their part every week too."

McCombe credits much of his development to former Ireland international David Rankin and Bready's overseas professional Josh van Heerden.

"They've both helped me improve my bowling. Since Josh came over last season and ever since I broke into the first team, Davey Rankin has always been helping me where he can. The hard work is paying off."

Now under the captaincy of Ryan Clark, McCombe believes the future is bright.

"Clarkie has been fantastic. Every team talk before and after games is positive. It's always about how we can improve and helping the lads wherever he can. Hopefully we can keep this momentum going, keep the fight up and finish the season as strongly as we can."