Wasson stars as Bready U18 Girls lift cup

Bready U18 Girls lifted the North West Cup after an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Bonds Glen, with Player of the Match Ella Wasson producing the decisive innings in a nerveless chase.

Bonds Glen, batting first, posted 117 for three from their 20 overs, with Rihanna Young top-scoring with 39. Jessica Cooke added 10, while Leah Thompson finished unbeaten on 27 as Bready kept the scoring under control despite 37 extras.

Tiara Mitchell and Sophie Hamilton claimed a wicket apiece, while Wasson was economical with the ball, conceding just 19 from her four overs. Jodie Spence was even tighter, returning figures of 0 for 16.

Bready then made light work of the target as Wasson and Jodie Spence shared an excellent opening stand of 88.

Spence played the supporting role with 20, as Wasson dominated, striking six fours and a six in a superb 69 from 52 deliveries.

Although she was bowled by Cooke with the score on 103, the result was never in doubt as Bready eased to victory in the 18th over.

The victory secured the cup for Bready and booked their place as the North West representatives at next week’s All-Ireland Youth Finals in Belfast.

Wasson’s all-round display, highlighted by her match-winning 69, earned her the Player of the Match award and capped a memorable day for the Magheramason teenagers.

SUMMARY SCORE

Bready Girls U18 beat Bonds Glen Girls U18 by 8 wickets.

Bonds Glen Girls U18 117-3 (20 overs; Rihanna Young 39, Leah Thompson 27*).

Bready Girls U18 118-2 (17.2 overs; Ella Wasson 69, Jodie Spence 20).