Campbell and Steenkamp pile misery on St Johnston

Coleraine almost certainly condemned St Johnston to relegation with a dominant 162-run victory, while simultaneously breathing fresh life into their own battle to avoid the relegation play-off place.

The Bannsiders piled up a formidable 344 for four, built around a magnificent third-wicket partnership of 220 between Scott Campbell and Louren Steenkamp.

Campbell struck 123 from 146 balls, including 13 fours and two sixes, while Steenkamp was even more destructive, finishing unbeaten on 143 from just 85 deliveries with seven fours and a remarkable 12 sixes.

Their stand came from only 26 overs and completely transformed the innings after Coleraine had been 113 for two. Patrick Carson had earlier contributed an important 51.

St Johnston’s reply never seriously threatened the target after Gareth Burns removed Subhan Shirzad and Jack Macbeth early.

Michael Rankin offered resistance with 39, but wickets fell steadily around him as Coleraine maintained complete control.

Campbell completed an outstanding all-round day by taking two for 25, while Steenkamp added three wickets to his century, claiming three for 21. Burns took two wickets, with Archie Block wrapping up the innings.

Scott Devenney’s late 26 only delayed the inevitable as St Johnston were bowled out for 182.

The result leaves the Donegal side staring almost certainly at relegation, while Coleraine can now look upwards with genuine optimism. With Bready faltering, the Bannsiders have given themselves a chance of catching the Magheramason side and escaping the relegation play-off slot.