Speer spins Ireland Under-19s to dramatic series victory

Ireland Under-19 Women held their nerve to defeat Scotland by six runs in a thrilling Celtic Cup decider, sealing the five-match series 3-2.

Waringstown spinner Penny Speer produced the match-winning performance, claiming four wickets for just 17 runs as Scotland finished on 134 for nine in pursuit of Ireland’s 140 for seven.

Ireland’s innings began badly when Isabelle McLean fell without scoring and Grace Wilson followed for four. Millie Spence made 12 before Genevieve Morrissey steadied the innings with a valuable 28.

Aisling Lawlor added 10, but the decisive contribution came from Niamh Lowry, who remained unbeaten on 31. Lucy Andrews provided vital late momentum with 25, helping Ireland post a competitive total from their 20 overs.

Scotland’s Charlotte Nevard threatened to take the contest away from Ireland with an excellent 54 from 49 balls, hitting six fours.

Rebecca McCrossan became Speer’s first victim for seven before Isabella Watson was trapped leg before wicket by Lawlor for six. Ammy Baldie contributed 18 and helped Nevard maintain Scotland’s challenge.

The match changed when Speer struck repeatedly during the closing stages. She removed Emily Duguid for seven, had Kate Dunk caught by Grace Wilson and then bowled Alex Jardine, completing a superb four-wicket spell.

Andrews also dismissed Baldie, while Ireland’s fielding proved crucial under pressure. Lowry ran out Nevard, Anna Ellerby removed Mariam Akram and Speer completed an excellent all-round display by running out Gabriella Leibenguth.

Scotland still required only seven from the final over, but Ireland refused to buckle. Lily Drummond and Freya Wilcox remained unbeaten on four apiece, yet the Scottish innings closed six runs short.

The narrow victory sparked jubilant Irish celebrations and provided a fitting conclusion to a closely contested series, with Speer’s decisive spell ensuring the Celtic Cup belonged to Ireland.