Saintfield proved far too strong for Derriaghy as they completed a convincing 77-run victory, extending the visitors’ difficult Section One campaign.

Batting first, Saintfield recovered from a mixed start to post 234 for eight from their 50 overs, with Gareth Harrison producing the decisive innings.

Werner Brand began positively with five boundaries in his 26, but Saintfield slipped to 64 for three after Ross Murray and captain Andrew McCavera were also dismissed.

Harrison then took control, anchoring the innings with an excellent 87 from 103 deliveries. His knock contained 12 fours and two sixes and ensured Saintfield remained competitive despite wickets falling around him.

Will McNeilly, Thomas McCavera and Ross Boultwood all departed cheaply as the hosts fell to 123 for six, but Brijesh Krishali provided important support. He struck four fours and a six in a valuable 48 from 54 balls, sharing a 74-run seventh-wicket stand with Harrison.

Adam Sofley added an unbeaten 16 from only eight deliveries to lift the total beyond 230.

Matt Scoble was the pick of the Derriaghy attack with three for 28 from 10 overs, while Callum Weir and Wayne Hughes claimed two wickets apiece.

Derriaghy’s reply was in immediate trouble at 14 for three, with Ryan Beckett, Ross Bailey and David Scott all dismissed inside five overs.

Scoble attempted to repair the damage with a patient 36, while Craig Lewis counterattacked with 39 from 39 balls, including six fours and a six.

Jonathan Bell added 29 and Weir struck a brisk 25, but the visitors continued to lose wickets at regular intervals.

Sofley completed an excellent all-round performance with three for 31, while Ross Boultwood, Ethan Hanna and Krishali collected two wickets each.

Derriaghy were dismissed for 157, leaving Saintfield comfortable winners and adding another disappointment to a testing season for the visitors.