In extremely trying conditions, the U13 lads lost by 42 runs to a Phoenix eleven characterised by a strong opening pair of batters.

Many thanks to Swords CC who kindly allowed us the use of their pitch at Newbridge House.  In somewhat of an Irish cricketing saga, the fixture had been postponed firstly due to the visit of the US vice-president; then, somewhat more happily, delayed due to the Euro 2016 fixture Ire v France and then, not unexpectedly, rained off. On the final permitted day of play, both sides travelled to Donabate and in conditions more akin to the depths of winter, managed to complete the required 20 overs each.

With the retirements of their opening pair, Phoenix hit a not insurmountable 102. Unfortunately, the weather deteriorated, the Phoenix opening bowling was extremely accurate and the lads could not manage more than 60 in total.

Onward to the Plate.