FOX LODGE ON CUSP OF PREMIERSHIP RETURN

Fox Lodge have been the dominant force in the Championship this year sweeping aside the challenge of their main rivals.

After yet another convincing victory at the weekend, they now just require one more win to rubber-stamp their elevation back to the Premiership. Indeed, such is their lead that even bonus points in three losses would probably be enough for Johnny Robinson’s side, and the skipper is naturally delighted with how the season has progressed for the Ballymagorry side.

“It was another really strong performance from the lads and I couldn’t be happier with the way we went about things,” said Robinson. 

“We set the tone early with the ball as Adam Walker bowled brilliantly up front and Aaron Heywood backed him up superbly for the second week in a row. With Jamie McIntyre away on holiday, Aaron has stepped in to take the new ball and has done a fantastic job.

“Levi Kerr then came on and picked up some key wickets, and it was great to see us keep the pressure on throughout. I also managed to get a few overs in myself. I’ve been carrying a shoulder injury for the past couple of seasons but it finally feels like it is getting back to normal. Hopefully I can bowl for the rest of this season and be fully ready to go next year,” the all-rounder added.

While it's been a real team effort for Fox Lodge, the powerful batting of Ali Doherty as an opener, and the sheer volume of runs from Gayan Maneeshan have really helped them in their title quest, and Robinson paid tribute to the dominant duo.

“With the bat it was brilliant to see Ali Doherty and Gayan Maneeshan continue their fine form at the top of the order. Ali batted with great intent, clearing the ropes a few times and putting Killyclooney under real pressure, while Gayan once again showed his class with another unbeaten knock to steer us home comfortably. Their partnership completely took the game away from the opposition and gave us full control.

“That win edges us another step closer to the title and it looks like just one more victory will be enough to get us over the line. When I took on the captaincy my main goal was to win the league and get Fox Lodge back into the Premiership, where I believe we belong. Hopefully we can get the job done this weekend against St Johnston at home and then enjoy the final few games knowing the hard work has paid off.”