Bangor 2nd XI produced a clinical all-round display to secure a convincing seven-wicket victory over CI 3rd XI at Upritchard Park on Saturday, after dismissing the visitors for just 63 before comfortably chasing down the target in only 14.3 overs.
Having won the toss, CI elected to bat first, but were immediately put under pressure by an excellent Bangor bowling attack that never allowed the visitors to settle. Max Walker was the chief destroyer, claiming outstanding figures of 4-22 from seven overs, very nearly following up last weeks first senior cricket fifer with another one! Fast bowler Michael Skelly provided the perfect support from the other end, finishing with 2-17 from six overs, while George Prince continued the squeeze with an economical spell of 2-8 from five overs, conceding just eight runs and removing two key batsmen. William Simpson also chipped in with 2-15 to wrap up the innings with an athletic catch from Max Escott claiming the final wicket. CI all bowled out for just 63 inside 21 overs.
The chase suffered an early wobble as Felix McMillan fresh from his back to back tons for the NCU U16s and Joshua McMillan both fell cheaply, leaving Bangor 8-2. Angus Farrell against his former club then counter-attacked with an entertaining 25 from just 26 deliveries, striking three fours and a six to wrestle back control of the innings.
When Farrell departed with just six runs required, Jonathan Keenan calmly guided Bangor home with an unbeaten 26, showing patience and composure throughout his 50-ball innings. Vishnu Jayakumar finished unbeaten on five as the hosts reached 64-3 in 14.3 overs, sealing victory with over 20 overs to spare.
It was a dominant performance from Bangor, built on disciplined bowling and backed up by a controlled run chase, as the 2nd XI continued their strong run of form with another impressive league victory. Next up is a big match at Templepatrick this Saturday, victory in that will place the side in a great position for a go at winning the league title.
CI 3 63 (20.5 overs, M Skelly 2-17, M Walker 4-22, W Simpson 2-15, G Prince 2-8)
Bangor 2 64-3 (14.3 overs, J Keenan 26*, A Farrell 25, N Carson 2-6)
Bangor 2 beat CI 3 by 7 wickets
