Hunter century powers Newbuildings to derby demolition

Newbuildings’ wonderful season gathered further momentum as they demolished near neighbours Bready by 212 runs to strengthen their grip on the title.

The champions-elect piled up a formidable 368 for five from their 50 overs before dismissing the Magheramason side for 156, a defeat which leaves Bready nervously looking over their shoulders at Coleraine in the relegation battle.

Ryan Hunter was again at the heart of the Newbuildings batting effort, continuing his superb form with a magnificent 121 from just 91 balls. His innings contained 18 fours and a six as he dominated a huge third-wicket partnership of 177 in 18 overs with Peat Salmon.

Salmon was equally destructive, hammering 90 from only 57 deliveries, including seven fours and five sixes. His latest contribution leaves him needing just 20 more runs to reach the remarkable 1,000-run landmark for the season.

Johnny Thompson had earlier made 61, while Ross Dougherty finished unbeaten on 42 as Newbuildings surged beyond 350.

Bready’s chase was in trouble almost immediately at one for two and never recovered. Ryan Hunter completed an outstanding individual day with two for 27, while Salmon claimed three for 37.

David Rankin made 27, but Bready collapsed to 65 for six before David Scanlon provided the only meaningful resistance.

Scanlon struck seven fours and five sixes in an aggressive 69 from 52 balls, but the result was already beyond doubt.

Jason Dunn took two wickets before Jared Wilson completed proceedings as Bready were dismissed in the 37th over.

Newbuildings continue to look increasingly difficult to stop, while Bready’s concerns are now focused firmly on avoiding the relegation play-off slot.