It's slightly strange, but hugely gratifying to be able to write these words: the 5th XI won.  And, it wasn't just any victory, but a comprehensive and emphatic one.

Merrion chose to bat, but from the outset our bowlers put them under pressure.  The youngsters in particular proved menacing.  Liam Lydon (1 for 24), Danny O'Brien (1 for 16) and Matthew Clarke (3 for 17) could have had even better figures, so often did they beat the bat.  At the death, Mark Deacon took two wickets to have Merrion all out for 133. 

The fielding was uniformly excellent, but special mention must go to Eric Lacey for his two fine catches, Brian Thornes for his athletic keeping and Oliver Jeffrey-Carrick for his pouncing on the ball and saving precious runs.  The most memorable action in the field, though, was a superb pick up and throw by Liam at cover point to hit a single stump leaving their dangerous opener a meter at least short of the crease. 

In previous games the pressure of the run chase had proved too much to handle, but today Malahide's openers went about the task with calm assurance.  When Graeme Tarbox was out for a measured 40, the job was already half-done.  Brian Thornes (30) came in to finish it, while Liam Lydon produced an array of fine strokes to reach 55 not out.

The nine-wicket victory was richly deserved, a reward for the loyalty shown by key players over the course of a difficult season.  The knowledge that we can win - and win well - should inspire us for the remaining fixtures.