STRABANE WOMEN SET THE PACE

It's not just Strabane Men who are top the table, with the Women's side sitting proudly in pole position after an impressive May in Division Two.

"There was huge disappointment about being relegated last season but the women never lost their enthusiasm for the game," said a club spokesperson.

"Indeed, they used the close season to have a bit of a reset and change of structure. Ryan Gallagher and Conor Graham have planned meticulously and concentrated on their basic skills. The group trained hard pre-season in an attempt to hit the ground running. As the league table reflects, the approach has been a huge success, and the hard work has been rewarded with three wins.

"However, the coaching group and players are under no illusions about the toughness of the task ahead. There are quite a few good teams in Division Two and quite a few players who would walk into most teams.

"Chloe Deans and Kylie McGarrigle-Mongan have retained their roles as captain and vice, and remain very important players within the team. In addition to that, the team has been bolstered by the return of a few senior players as well as some newcomers. Ryan and Conor are to be commended on their endeavours, especially tweaking and honing the skills of the young guns - Abaigh Gillespie, Abbie-Gaile McGarrigle and Alisa Vutha.

"Everyone at the club is excited at how the season has gone, playing an attractive brand of cricket that has been great to witness."

Long may it continue.