YOUNG GUNS GO FOR IT

Strabane Academy's remarkable underage success story continued in style as their Under-15 side completed a clean sweep of Ulster Schools silverware with a convincing victory over local rivals Lisneal College in the Shirlow Cup Final at Beechgrove.

Having already secured the Derriaghy Cup (Under-14), Slemish Cup (Under-13) and Centenary Cup (Under-12), the Strabane youngsters added the final piece of the puzzle with a polished all-round display in front of a large crowd basking in the summer sunshine.

Beechgrove provided a picture-perfect backdrop for the occasion, with hundreds of supporters creating a carnival atmosphere as Lisneal, benefiting from the venue's close proximity, enjoyed strong local backing.

After winning the toss, Lisneal captain Lewis Pearson opted to bat first, but his side quickly found themselves under pressure. Strabane skipper Roy McGerrigle led from the front with a superb opening spell that included three consecutive maiden overs. Combined with excellent support from Boyd and some sharp fielding, Strabane squeezed the life out of the Lisneal innings during the early stages.

A determined recovery came through a third-wicket partnership between Ella Wasson and Pearson. The pair rebuilt steadily before Pearson accelerated impressively late on, helping Lisneal reach a respectable 117 for 3 from their 25 overs.

The left-arm spin duo of Alfie Moan and Ben Heywood proved crucial in the middle overs, bowling with excellent control and variation to keep the scoring rate below five an over and ensure Strabane remained firmly on top.

If Lisneal had hopes of defending their total, they were quickly extinguished by a batting masterclass from opening pair Alfie Moan and Ollie Britton. The duo shared a magnificent opening stand of 110, combining classical technique with aggressive intent. Anything loose was dispatched to the boundary as they steadily batted their side towards victory.

Moan made a stylish 42 before falling to a smart catch behind the wicket, but with only eight runs required the outcome was already beyond doubt. Britton remained unbeaten on 59 as Strabane cruised home.

Fittingly, McGerrigle was at the crease alongside his Donemana teammate Britton when victory was secured before later lifting the trophy amid jubilant celebrations.

Next up is a trip to Cheshire to represent Cricket Ireland in the Knight-Stokes Trophy. On current form, few would bet against this talented group adding yet another chapter to their growing legacy.