Celebrating Victory: A Recap of Maghera Cricket Club Women's XI Match Highlights

Maghera Women’s XI produced a thrilling display of determination and skill to secure a narrow but well-earned victory over Ballyspallen at home. In a match that went down to the final over, the team showcased composure under pressure and highlighted the growing strength and cohesion of the side this season.

Maghera Women's XI vs Ballyspallen Women's XI

Wednesday 27/5/26 - The Rainey

Ballyspallen won the toss and elected to bat first. Philippa McClay and Kirsty Stevenson opened the bowling with accurate lines, keeping the scoreboard in check during the opening six overs. The first breakthrough came in the 8th over when Sarah Marshall trapped the opening batter LBW, leaving Ballyspallen 43/1. The innings finished strongly with careful running between the wickets and a final stumping, leaving Ballyspallen at 85/2 from their allocated overs.

Chasing a competitive target, Maghera began positively with quick singles and intent to rotate the strike. Carol Andrews and Zoe Crooks took advantage of early scoring opportunities, but early wickets fell, leaving the side 12/2 after just 2.3 overs. Rebecca Logan joined Zoe and the pair constructed an important partnership of 37, helping to steady the innings and shift momentum in Maghera’s favour. Zoe contributed a well-timed six during this stand.

After Zoe’s dismissal at 59/5, Alana Menary joined Rebecca and added another 11 before Rebecca was caught at midwicket. Further wickets fell, leaving Maghera needing composure in the final stages. Sarah Marshall and Alana responded with confident strokeplay, steadily taking the score to 83 before Sarah was dismissed with one over remaining.

The final over began with three runs required for victory. Alana struck the decisive boundary on the fifth delivery to secure a dramatic win for Maghera. The match highlighted both the resilience and skill of the team, with notable contributions from Zoe, Rebecca, Alana, and Sarah throughout the innings.

The victory moves Maghera Women’s XI into second place in the league table, with a game in hand on the leaders. The team continues to demonstrate strong focus, determination, and ongoing improvement with each match and training session

Maghera Women's XI 89/6 def Ballyspallen Women's XI 85/2

Written by Benji Cathcart (Club Coach)