Maghera CC Weekend Round-Up: Mixed Fortunes for 1st and 2nd XI

Maghera Cricket Club experienced a weekend of contrasting fortunes across their senior sides. The 1st XI produced a commanding performance to secure a 41 run victory away to Donemana 2nds, while our 2nd XI fought hard in challenging conditions but came up short at home against Bonds Glen 2nds. Both matches highlighted moments of individual excellence and team commitment, giving fans plenty to cheer about.

Maghera 1st XI opening partnership Aaron Stewart and Anu Sanjeewa

Maghera 1st XI vs Donemana 2nd XI - League 1

Saturday 30/5/26 - Donemana

Maghera 1st XI produced an outstanding all-round display on Saturday to secure an impressive 41 run victory away to Donemana 2nds. After being asked to bat first, Maghera posted a commanding total before a disciplined bowling and fielding performance ensured they returned home with the points.

The innings was built around a remarkable opening partnership between Aaron Stewart and Anu Sanjeewa, who gave Maghera what was arguably one of the finest starts in the club's recent history. The pair added 174 for the first wicket, laying the perfect platform for a big total.

Anu Sanjeew 93 (77)

Anu was the first to depart in the 27th over after a superb knock of 93 off 77, having dominated the Donemana attack and placed Maghera firmly in control. Aaron continued to lead the charge and brought up a well-deserved century in the 35th over before eventually departing for a magnificent 110 off 131. Their efforts were complemented by Trevor Dougherty, whose quick-fire 33 in the closing stages helped push the visitors to an imposing 280/5 from their 40 overs on a lightning-fast outfield.

Aaron Stewart 110 (131)

Donemana responded positively and raced to 100 inside 11 overs, keeping themselves in contention during the early stages of the chase. However, Maghera remained patient and disciplined, gradually applying pressure through regular wickets and sharp work in the field.

The bowling effort was a true team performance, with wickets shared throughout the attack. Denton Cant and Anu Sanjeew each claimed three wickets, while Anil Sebastian picked up two. The fielding backed up the bowlers superbly, with several excellent catches helping to halt Donemana's momentum at key moments.

Despite the difficult conditions, Maghera maintained their intensity throughout and were rewarded with a deserved 41 run victory. It was a performance built on two outstanding batting contributions, but equally on the collective effort shown by the entire side in the field.

Donemana 2nd XI – 240 def by Maghera 1st XI – 280/5

Written by Scott Dougherty (Club Captain)

Maghera 2nd XI vs Bonds Glen 2nd XI - League 4

Saturday 30/5/26 - The Rainey

Maghera 2nd XI produced a battling display in challenging conditions against one of the top sides in the league. Batting first, they posted 136, with positive contributions from Graham Love, who scored 30 off 39 balls, and Jamie Reid, who made 28 from 26 deliveries.

In the field, Maghera’s commitment remained high despite the wet and slippery conditions. John Andrews led the bowling attack with an excellent spell of 2–17 from six overs, while Jamie Reid and Charlie Mainwaring held good catches to support the bowlers. Bonds Glen’s strong top order ultimately made the difference, but there were plenty of encouraging signs across the team. Maghera now look ahead positively to their next outing against Ballyspallen.

Maghera 2nd XI – 136 def by Bonds Glen 2nd XI – 139/3

Written by Roger Talbot (2nds Captain)