Lisburn kept up the pressure on NCU Women’s Premiership leaders Holywood with a commanding seven-wicket victory over North Down, inspired by another outstanding performance from Taila Hurley.

Hurley claimed superb figures of four for five from four overs, including two maidens, as North Down were dismissed for just 57 in 17.2 overs. The haul took her to 16 league wickets for the season, level with Holywood’s Nina Kerr at the top of the Premiership bowling standings.

North Down were in trouble almost immediately. Hurley bowled captain Gracie Keenan for two before Staci Maxwell was run out and Becky Irvine fell to Imogen Armstrong.

Amy Benson then became Hurley’s second victim as the home side slipped to 10 for four. Kathryn Rogers offered the only significant resistance, striking three boundaries in her 13, but Lucy Humphreys ended her brief counterattack.

Laura Suffern, Skye Ravey and Cherry Geddam also claimed wickets before Hurley removed Steph Butler and Megan Simpson to complete her four-wicket haul.

Lisburn’s chase began badly when Maxwell bowled Suffern and captain Sarah McCallan in successive deliveries, leaving the visitors one for two.

However, Hurley followed her bowling heroics with an unbeaten 31 from only 16 balls, striking five fours. She shared a rapid 54-run partnership with Sophie Orr, who made 22 from 16 deliveries.

Rogers removed Orr with only three runs required, but Lucy Humphreys joined Hurley to complete the chase.

Lisburn reached their target in just 5.4 overs, securing another important victory as they attempt to stay within touching distance of unbeaten leaders Holywood.