Premier League – Preview

With the season reaching the halfway stage and all clubs being at least 3 games behind schedule all concerned will be hoping for an improvement in the weather from now until the end of the season.
Due to the traditional demonstrations Saturday is a free Saturday but the action resumes on Sunday when second placed Instonians will be hoping to join North Down at the top with victory over Bangor at Uprichard Park in a rearranged fixture. The Old Boys have lost only one League game and, after a gallant effort in defeat in the Cup quarter final, will expect to pick up full points.

A full programme of matches takes place on Monday when Instonians are again on the road – this time facing Cliftonville with the game being staged at Woodvale’s ground on Ballygomartin Road. The visitors will be looking to make it a good weekend with another 4 points while Cliftonville will be hoping to improve on a dismal record of only 1 League win to date.

League champions and leaders with a perfect 100% record North Down entertain near neighbours Bangor in a local derby which is always closely contested. The Seasiders will be out to gain revenge their heavy defeat on the first day of the season but the Comber side with openers Ryan Haire, right and Joe Montgomery both averaging over 50 carry the favourites tag.

The other main challengers to North Down are CSNI who have 12 points from 5 games and take on Carrick at Stormont. The visitors are acquitting themselves well this season with the talented veteran Barry Cooper among the runs along with club stalwart Ryan Eagleson but CSNI already hold a decision over these rivals this season and, on current form, should complete the double.

By their own very high standards Waringstown’s league form has been disappointing with 3 defeats in 6 games although the availability of their international players has undoubtedly been a contributing factor. They welcome back Kyle McCallan, James Hall and Gary Kidd for their visit to relegation contenders Derriaghy at Queensway. At full strength the Villagers will be expected to add to the home side’s worries and secure a much needed victory. It would indeed be folly to write them off in the League race with so many talented players at their disposal.

The remaining fixture on Monday sees Lisburn hosting CIYMS at Wallace Park. The Belmont side are finding life tough in the top section and must be hoping to find Gerry Strydom, the Lisburn professional, on an off day. Strydom’s form this season has been phenomenal and he heads the NCU averages with an astonishing average of 154!!! The two sides met on the opening day of the season when Lisburn coasted to a comfortable victory by 8 wickets and Styrdom announced his arrival on the local scene with 114 not out.