KILLYCLOONEY KEENAN ANOTHER SHOCK

Killyclooney captain Timmy Dougherty says his side will relish being underdogs when they face Premiership opposition Brigade in Friday’s Sammy Jeffrey final.

Few would have tipped the Championship side to be preparing for a major final while still remaining firmly in the promotion and title picture at this stage of the season, but Killyclooney have repeatedly defied expectations.

For Dougherty, that outsider status is something to embrace rather than fear.

“We are all ready and up for the occasion on Saturday, players and supporters,” he said. “We are loving the underdog status and looking forward to proving our worth on a big stage. On our day we know we can beat anyone.”

Standing between them and the trophy is a Brigade side accustomed to competing at the highest level of North West cricket, but Killyclooney will travel to The Rectory with belief after a campaign which has exceeded most pre-season expectations.

Central to their success has been the form of overseas player Keenan Vieira, who Dougherty believes has developed into a major influence after taking time to adjust to local conditions. The South African reached the 1000-run landmark during Saturday's win over Burndennett - the first local player to do so this year.

“Keenan has been a massive part in our success this summer,” he said. “After having his time to adapt to the conditions, he has never looked back. He is a real top-quality player with bat and ball, and we’ll be hoping he can get us across the line this weekend.”

Dougherty, however, is keen to stress that Killyclooney’s progress has been built on much more than one individual.

“Although Keenan has definitely been a huge help to us this year with his performances, we are all playing our bit,” he added. “Our batters are scoring runs and our bowlers are taking wickets. We find ourselves in a really good place heading into the final.”

That collective contribution has carried Killyclooney into contention on two fronts, with the club still battling for league honours as well as preparing for the two-day showpiece.

“Still competing for a league and being in a two-day final this weekend, I don’t think many would have put us here in April,” admitted Dougherty.

That sense of having already upset the odds should ensure there is little fear when they take on Brigade. The Premiership side will start as favourites, but Killyclooney have spent much of the summer showing that predictions count for little once play begins.

“We’ll be ready for the challenge,” said Dougherty. And after a season of defying the doubters, Killyclooney will believe there is room for one more surprise.