Bowlers guide Seconds to dramatic win

Ballymena Academy schoolboy Jackson and student Gordon shared nine wickets as Neil Fullerton's side completed a comfortable 58 runs success over their visitors from Shaw's Bridge - although that doesn't tell the full, dramatic story.

After 34 overs Inst were still in the game at 117 for six. Then Gordon struck. He bowled Johnson with the third ball of his eighth over, followed up by repeating the feat to Hewlett next ball and then completed his hat trick when he had Hawthorn trapped in front.

Just for good measure he then bowled Jacques to complete the match by taking four wickets in four balls and finishing with figures of four for 14 off eight.

Debutant Jackson had an equally impressive game, claiming two wickets in his first over at this level. Not scared to give the ball some air and showing great confidence by throwing in the odd variation he finished with five for 33 off 10.

Earlier in the day, Ballymena managed to get themselves up to 175 thanks in no small part to 40 from experienced left hander Jeff Martin and 32 from impressive all rounder David Thompson, who claimed one for 22 off eight overs with the ball.

James Carmichael (13), David Montgomery (18) and Peter Gregg (13) all got starts before being dismissed and from 89 for six it was a great effort by the tail end to add another 86 runs to set what proved a winning total.

A good start for Fullerton's side who aren't in action again until May Day Monday when they entertain Woodvale II at Eaton Park.

Ballymena II 175 (J Martin 40, D Thompson 32, D Montgomery 18), Instonians II 117 (A Jackson 5-33, D Gordon 4-14). Ballymena won by 58 runs