The Gallagher Challenge Cup semi-finals on Saturday offered a compelling mix of composure and class, as Instonians and Waringstown booked their places in what promises to be a thrilling final.
The final, to be played on Friday 8 August at Stormont, promises to be an exciting clash. Waringstown, chasing their 28th title, will face Instonians, who last lifted the trophy in 2012 and are eager to end their 13-year drought.
Woodvale 121 (42.3 overs, H Warke 22, C Robinson 25, D van der Merwe 4-19, R Allen 2-32, J Cameron-Dow 2-17)
Waringstown 124-2 (28 overs, S Topping 27, J McCollum 71*)
Waringstown beat Woodvale by 8 wickets
Gallagher Player of the Match was Waringstown’s Daniel van der Merwe for his 4-19. Thanks to William Sproule from Gallagher for presenting the award
Lisburn 187 (48.5 overs, N Jones 44, D Miller 44, J Manley 47*, S Dadswell 2-37, J Magee 3-12, C Robertson 3-31)
Instonians 189-7 (36 overs, R McKinley 62*, N Smith 37, N Rock 28, S Dadswell 41, J Manley 2-55, A Kennedy 2-34, M Humphreys 2-38)
Instonians beat Lisburn by 3 wickets
Lisburn’s Nigel Jones defends as Neil Rock looks on. Photo by Paul Irwin
Instonians’ Cian Robertson leaps into action. Photo by Paul Irwin
Gallagher Player of the Match was Instonians’ Rob McKinley for his 62*. Thanks to Neil Hunter from Gallagher and NCU Chair Michael Humphreys for presenting the award.