3rd XI

Thirds off to a winning start at Comber

Waringstown Thirds got off to a winning start on Saturday against North Down at the Green. Winning the toss and electing to bat, captain Andrew Beattie and 13 year old Adam Denison took advantage of some loose bowling and move along at over 5 per over for the first 11 overs until Beattie was bowled for 23 playing an uncharacteristic slog across the line. Dennison who was looking very much at ease at the crease was joined by Fitzpatrick who also was looking set for a bit score until being run out on 18. Paddy Allen (32) continued to add to the total at a good rate with Dennison all the while building a fine innings. With Giles Parris (26 no) hitting some fine blows towards the end Waringstown finished with a daunting 210 off their 35 overs. It was of course young Adam how took the applause as he carried his bat with an unbeaten 52 that was as an accomplished an innings from a 13 year old at this level in a long time.

Requiring 6 an over from the start it was always going to be tough for North Down and although they made a go from the start, dispatching any bad balls for boundaries it was no long until Nathan Heyburn (1-24) and Kris Lyness (1-34) made the break through into their top order. Heyburn was shaping the ball very nicely and caused considerable problems for the batsmen, aided by the raw pace from Lyness the opening pair worked well for the first 12 overs. It was with the introduction of Paddy Allen and Robyn McClimond (1-10) that really ended any chance with Allen finishing an unplayable spell with 3-7 off 4 overs. The tail was wrapped up by another young duo in the guise of Sam Matthews (2-17) and Ryan Calvert (1-23), restricting North Down to 126 and completing an 84 run win
 
“It was a great way to start the season” said captain Beattie after the game. “Last year we had 5 straight loses at the start and ruined any hope of the league. There is no reason why we should not be challenging in both League and Cup this year. With the experienced players and some of the new talent coming along, we are looking forward to a great season.” Their next match is against Bangor at home on the 15th May.