Bangor 3rd XI produced an excellent all-round performance to secure an impressive victory over Ballymena 2nd XI, chasing down a target of 148 in just 21 overs to finish on 148 for 3.
Ballymena, batting first, posted 147 for 7 from their 30 overs, but were consistently kept in check by a disciplined Bangor bowling attack and outstanding fielding display. Matthew Pitts was the standout performer with the ball, claiming four crucial wickets and leading the effort superbly, well supported by his fellow bowlers who maintained pressure throughout the innings.
In the field, Bangor were exceptional, with several standout moments that lifted the side. Steven Cumper, captain Adam Purce, and Ben Pitts each took superb catches, while wicketkeeper Patrick McMillan delivered a top-class performance behind the stumps, highlighted by two sharp stumpings. Ben Pitts also added to the fielding highlights with a brilliant long-range run out.
A particularly memorable moment came in the final over of the Ballymena innings, when the father-and-son combination of Matthew and Ben Pitts combined to take two wickets – one a dismissal bowled by Matthew and caught by Ben, and another run out finished by Ben after sharp work off Matthew’s bowling.
Bangor’s reply was built on a strong opening partnership. Iain Chapman set the tone with an aggressive 40 from just 35 balls, while Mark English played a superb innings, finishing unbeaten on 56 in a composed and commanding display.
With the chase progressing smoothly, Josh Donnelly ensured there were no late nerves, striking a quickfire 29 off 23 deliveries to guide Bangor home comfortably with nine overs to spare.
The match also marked a special occasion for Teddy McIlwaine and Theo Wardley, who both made their Third XI debuts and contributed to a memorable team performance.
Played in excellent spirit, this was a thoroughly entertaining contest that showcased Bangor’s strength in all departments and their growing depth as a squad.
Ballymena 2 147-7 (30 overs, A Frazer 48, S Watt 29, P Moon 25, M Pitts 4-32)
Bangor 3 148-3 (21.2 overs, I Chapman 40, M English 56*, J Donnelly 29, J Scott 2-45)
Bangor 3 beat Ballymena 2 by 7 wickets
