Ali takes five for nine in 10 over haul

Larne arrived somewhat short of numbers, and this was a chance for Millpark to go for the jugular.

New signing Saeed Ali, bowling with accuracy and pace from the Gilford end got straight to work. He struck regularly through his 10 over spell, removing the top five Larne batsmen.

In total he conceded only nine runs - just six scoring shots from 60 deliveries is miserly stuff.

After taking his first club wicket last week, he looks to be a terrific signing.

Wicket-keeper Simpson then took a sharp stumping off the bowling of Paul McCart and skipper Maxwell got in on the act having the last man caught behind.

The teams retired to tea, Millpark’s target a modest 48 runs.

Maxwell mixed up the batting order a little, but openers Stu McCart and James Wright missed out on their opportunity, making seven and eight respectively.

Ben Talbot and Ali came to the crease and put the game to bed, Talbot hitting a six and four to conclude proceedings.

You can only beat what is put before you, and Millpark certainly did that. Hopefully they will now kick on and start climbing the table.