It was an evening that required steady nerves both on and off the field. As Merrion were fighting for every point at Malahide, eyes strayed to mobiles to see how Pembroke were faring across the Liffey against Balbriggan.
Going into the final round of matches Merrion were trailing Pembroke by a single point, bringing back memories of having lost the league by such a margin a few years back. Batting first, Merrion never really got on top of the Malahide bowling and were indebted to contributions from Isobel Joyce [36] and Isabel Light [25] to reach what was at best a modest total of 121/7 in 20 overs.
Malahide started well and were 33 before the first wicket fell in the seventh over, when Julianne Morrissey brought about the first wicket. Critically, Malahide never managed to achieve the run rate needed to win the game and a disciplined performance in the field saw all six bowlers keep below six runs per over. Wickets fell to Morrissey [1/18], Bella Armstrong [1/20], Ashwi Manoj [1/18] and Aoife Brennan [1/11]. In the end Malahide finished on 101/5.
With the victory secured, rule books and pocket calculators had to be consulted as the final overs were played out in the gloom at Sydney Parade. Pembroke had posted an excellent score, 157/6, thanks to 87 off 53 balls from former international Clare Shillington. But Balbriggan kept in touch with a 70 run opening stand in eight overs thanks mainly to a half century from Madison Landsman. The Maritz sisters kept up the pressure and brought their side close to the finishing line when time was called for bad light in the final over. The application of DL meant that Pembroke won by four runs, but crucially did not get any bonus points. Just enough for Merrion to squeeze past.
Both teams will no doubt look back on the season and recall numerous occasions when an extra point might have been secured but on the night Pembroke will rue the number of wides they bowled in their game, 26 in all. In their match Merrion only conceded 4 [with no byes or leg byes].
For a full report on the two games go to the Cricket Leinster website –
A total of 23 players took part in the league campaign. The most runs were scored by Bella Armstrong [438 at an average of 31.29], followed by Annabelle Squires [311 at 44.43]. The top wicket spot is jointly held by Niamh Brennan and Julieanne Morrissey who each took 13 wickets at an average of 12.15 and 9.54 respectively.