It's advantage Brigade after the opening day of the League One Cup final at The Holm, with Nick Gray’s five-wicket haul helping put the visitors firmly in control after the first innings.

Gray claimed 5-19 as Donemana were bowled out for just 102 in 26.5 overs, a total that left the hosts with plenty of work to do.

Ryan McClintock top-scored with 29 and Ricky-Lee Dougherty made 25, but there was little support as Gray ripped through the order, while Callum Crowe returned an excellent 3-18.

Brigade then made steady progress in reply, eventually reaching 173-7 from their 40 overs to establish a useful 71-run advantage heading into the second innings.

There were contributions throughout the order rather than one defining knock, with Chris Dixon leading the way with 29. William Finlay added 27, Jack Hall made 24 and Ewan Wilson finished unbeaten on 24, adding a valuable 42 for the 8th wicket with Jay Scott (23*).

McClintock completed a fine individual day by taking 3-33 for Donemana, with Isaac Black claiming 2-27.

Brigade will undoubtedly sleep the happier of the two sides with a 71-run cushion, but this final is far from over. Donemana are always dangerous on their own ground and it would be a major surprise if they batted as poorly second time around.

There are several dangerous hitters in their ranks capable of changing the complexion of the contest quickly, particularly at The Holm.

LEAGUE ONE CUP FINAL DAY ONE
At The Holm, Brigade II lead Donemana II by 71 runs after the first innings
Donemana 102 (26.5 overs; Ryan McClintock 29, Ricky-Lee Dougherty 25; Nick Gray 5-19, Callum Crowe 3-18, Ewan Wilson 1-30)
Brigade 173-7 (40 overs; Chris Dixon 29, William Finlay 27, Jack Hall 24, Ewan Wilson 24*, Jay Scott 23*; Ryan McClintock 3-33, Isaac Black 2-27, DJ Dougherty 1-26, Roy McGerrigle 1-23)