For Foulkes’ sake! Merrion title dream shattered by Malahide

Merrion’s Premiership title hopes were blown away in the cruellest fashion as Robbie Foulkes inspired Malahide to an emphatic eight-wicket victory.

It really was a case of “for Foulkes’ sake” for Merrion. They went into the contest knowing victory would secure the championship, but instead watched their dream unravel as Foulkes starred with both ball and bat.

Merrion struggled from the outset after being asked to set a target, slipping to 49 for three and then 68 for four. Seb Dijkstra attempted to steady the innings with 58 from 91 balls, while Daniel Forkin made 46, but the Malahide attack kept applying pressure.

Kiwi all-rounder Foulkes was outstanding, returning four for 27 from his 10 overs, removing the 'Big Four' of Stephen Doheny, Swapnil Modgill, Raj Undre and John Anderson.

Jeremy Martins and Andrew Sheridan claimed two wickets apiece as Merrion were dismissed for 191 in 49.4 overs.

If Merrion hoped their bowlers could rescue the title, Foulkes quickly extinguished those hopes. After Matthew Langan fell for one, Foulkes and Adam Doyle added 91 for the second wicket to put Malahide firmly in control. Doyle struck 47 from 45 balls before Peter Forkin trapped him lbw, but there was to be no dramatic comeback.

Foulkes remained unbeaten on 79 from 127 deliveries, striking nine fours and a six, while Martins provided the finishing flourish with an unbeaten 47 from just 36 balls, including three sixes as Malahide raced to the line in only 37.1 overs to complete a crushing victory.

For Merrion, it was the most painful of endings. The title was within touching distance, but as the saying goes, it’s the hope that kills you. Their defeat opened the door for Pembroke who took full advantage on a day of despair at Anglesea Road.