The North-West and the NCU met in the opening match of the Under-17 Inter-Provincial Series earlier today, with the North-West taking a narrow victory in Drummond.
After a delayed start as the pitch was made fit for play, the NCU were asked to bat as the Warriors won the toss and looked to take advantage of bowler friendly conditions after the delay.
A slow and cautious start saw the NCU edge forward, making just 25 in the first 12 overs before the pressure became too much. He tight bowling and continuous pressure from the North-West bowlers paid off as wickets began to fall and the NCU found themselves 53-5.
Paddy Beverland proved to be the saviour for the NCU as he made a well-earned 57, supported by Jay Hunter (27 not out) as the side struggled to 148 all out.
Charles Power (4-34) and Stuart Nelson (3-37) ensured the NCU took command early on in the second innings, with victory looking unlikely for the North-West.
In the end, valuable contributions from Dougherty (35) and Ryan Brolly (32 not out) were enough to get the North-West over the line for the victory with just two wickets to spare despite the home side celebrating the victory when the scores were in fact just tied!
The North-West will face a Southern XI at Coleraine on Thursday.
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Connaught
