Balbriggan remained firmly in the slipstream of leaders Pembroke after recording a convincing 50-run victory over Clontarf.

Batting first, Balbriggan recovered from the early loss of Connor Fletcher to post 208, with useful contributions throughout the order.

Ghanim Dara provided the foundation with a patient 38 from 73 deliveries, while Cameron Rowe made 14 before falling with the score on 30. Kai Curran then injected momentum into the innings, striking eight fours in a fluent 34-ball 43.

Although Aaron McGeehan was dismissed without scoring and Jordan Hollard made 15, Seb de Oliveira ensured Balbriggan reached a competitive total. He struck five fours and a six in a valuable 42 from 58 balls, receiving support from Dylan Lues, who made 15.

David Delany was the pick of the Clontarf attack with three for 36, while Ethan Marshall, Fionn Hand and Mitchell Thompson claimed two wickets apiece.

Clontarf’s reply was in immediate trouble as Mitchell Thompson, Sam Morgan and Seamus Lynch departed inside seven overs, leaving the visitors 30 for three.

David Delany attempted to lead the recovery with a brisk 38 from 31 deliveries, hitting seven fours and a six, but his dismissal at 65 proved a major setback.

Fionn Hand battled to 29 from 41 balls, while Andrew Delany and Ethan Marshall both made 17. Marshall briefly threatened to revive the chase with two sixes, but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.

Ruan Strauss and Dylan Lues shared the bowling honours, each taking three wickets. Strauss finished with three for 41, while Lues claimed three for 29. Andrew Darroch added two for 23.

Clontarf were dismissed for 158, allowing Balbriggan to complete a comfortable victory and remain second in the table behind Pembroke.