Semi-finalists confirmed for Robinson Services Cup

North Down and CIYMS had already guaranteed their spots in the last four before the final weekend of fixtures and Waringstown joined them after their game against CSNI at The Lawn was called off due to a wet outfield.

That result left Instonians needing to beat Carrickfergus at Shaws Bridge and they did so comfortably, running out seven-wicket victors to finish in third positon.

Captain Andrew White has placed an emphasis on youth development this season with seven players under the age of 20 in their side that beat Carrick and he was delighted to achieve their pre-season goal of play-off qualification.

“At the start of the year, that was our goal,” he said.

“We knew what we were trying to do with the players that we had.

“The seconds have won their league as well today which is fantastic and we have manged to get into the top four.

“For next weekend, it’s a case of never knowing what can happen.

“The boys are playing decent cricket. We have been a bit on and off but when we have been on, we have played really well.”

The opportunities for youth players extends into the second XI side that won the Junior One title on Saturday with eight under-18’s involved.

White hailed the effort of his squad and the wider club for the effort that has been put in so far during the shortened 2020 campaign.

“It was our target to see if we could get this team into the top four and we have done that,” he added.

“We have put in a lot of hard work.

“We have had 20+ players at training every night this year and it’s pleasing that the effort that has gone in off the pitch has been rewarded on it.”

North Down will enter as favourites for the semi-final clash at The Green after beating Instonians twice already this season.

With the likes of Getkate in their ranks, you can never write Instonians off and White believes if his men show up, it could be a very competitive contest.

“North Down are a good side and have strength in depth.

“We have played poorly against them both times this year.

“But it’s a one-off game and we are good enough to turn them over if we play well.”

Both semi-finals will be played in Comber on Saturday with one match starting at 10:30am and the second at 2:30pm.

The two winners will then return to the same venue the following day for the Robinson Services Cup, rounding out the 2020 campaign.

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