Saintfield II’s travelled to Upritchard on Sunday where, having won the toss, they adopted the same tactic as in the reverse fixture and opted to bat.
Given how well Saintfield batted in the prior meeting it was important for Bangor to make a good start which was duly served up by the opening bowling pair of Andy Beech and Michael Skelly. Michael struck in his first over and with Andy finally getting an LBW decision with his left are over action Saintfield got 20 runs off 6 overs for the loss of 2 wickets. As Bangor went through the bowling changes only Saintfield captain Jack Telford put up any real resistance on his way to 32 as Peter McIlwaine (4-1-7-2) and Stephen Cumper (4-0-21-2) took regular wickets to keep the run rate in check. Aided by a strong fielding performance and good final over from the returning Michal Skelly (4-1-9-2) Saintfield were restricted to 86-7 off their 20 overs.
With a low score all that should have been needed was a solid start. Against the script Bangor lost their opening batsmen (he who shall not be named) with the opening delivery after a trademark attempt at an early cut, off a short ball too close to off stump, giving the keeper some early catching practice. Adam Hill joined Peter McIlwaine at the crease and having read the script the pair looked to steadily progress the innings reaching 31 before Adam was out for 18.
Saintfield II then caused a stir amongst the faithfull spectators as they took 3 quick wickets to leave Bangor rocking on 40 for 5 wickets off 9 overs.
Jack Irwin, making his first appearance of the season after injury, joined the unflappable Peter McIlwaine at the crease and looked to add a bit of resistance to the innings. The two batsmen rode out the next 6 overs as Saintfield continued to bowl tightly with their tails up to reach 58 after 15 overs. Any concern on getting the remaining 29 runs to win was put aside as the pair took 14 off the 16th over and then reached the target with 2 overs to spare. Peter carried his bat for 35 in a man of the match performance whilst Jack ended up on 19 not out.
