Cregagh Cricket Club

Mr & Mrs

2012-01-23T14:09:00.000Z

The Mr & Mrs night being held at the club on Saturday 11th February has now Sold Out.

Thank you for all the support and we now look forward to another great night!!

A message from our European Skipper

2012-01-11T18:38:00.000Z

Lads

Just a gentle reminder that on 30th January, I require a further £120 from all of you, to pay the deposit on the accommodation and transfers. (Thanks, Bob, this does not of course apply to you).

As this will have to be done by bank transfer, please ensure you have given me the money by this date, because I can only book those who paid up at this stage.

So don't be disappointed start saving!

T.D.

Mr & Mrs

2012-01-09T12:28:00.000Z

The news you have all been waiting for Divorce Lawyers at the ready!!!

This year as our main event of our social programme we will be running a night at the club and adopting the well known TV show Mr & Mrs.

Saturday 11th February 2012 starting at 8pm with our hosts Mr. Robert Moore and Mr David McCormick we will have 16 couples testing their knowledge on each other with the three couples with the highest points winning a prize.

1st prize will be a night at a local hotel for two
2nd prize will be a 'Lovers' hamper
3rd prize will be a bottle of champagne

During the night there will also be spot prizes and a ballot. In addition to all this we will be having a light supper and a disco for afterwards.

All this for a fiver, hard to beat!!

To book a ticket please contact David McCormick on 07774 179710 or Robert Moore on 07754 934566

Book early to avoid disappointment as our last event sold out within weeks!!!! You have been warned!

Indoor Nets

2012-01-05T14:54:00.000Z

Our indoor nets continue this month with our last winter session on Friday 13th January starting at 7 pm at Grosvenor Grammar School.

Keep an eye on the website for further announcements on our pre season indoor net session which should be starting in March.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T10:50:00.000Z

We would like to wish all our members a Very Merry Christmas and a Successful 2012.

Keep an eye on the website for some exciting news in 2012 and the continuation of our Winter nets programme.

Christmas Drinks

2011-12-21T12:25:00.000Z

Don't forget this Friday night at 7.30pm at the club we are having our annual Christmas Drinks (you can even bring your WAG along!!)

This has been a regular fixture in our social diary so why not come down and have a drink and a mince pie all courtesy of the Chairman!! Thanks Scol.

3rd XI Fixtures 2012 Season

2011-12-19T12:00:00.000Z

3rd XI fixtures have now been agreed and will be as follows for the 2012 season;

May

13th CSNI (A)
20th Lisburn (H)
26th Cliftonville (A) CUP

June

3rd Cliftonville (H)
17th Academy (H)
26th Victoria (H) 20 Over

July

1st Lisburn (A)
8th CSNI (H)
24th Victoria (A) 20 Over
29th Academy (A)

August

5th Cliftonville (A)

Keep an eye on the website for the Junior fixtures which will be posted on here once they are released.

2nd XI Fixtures for the 2012 Season

2011-12-15T14:07:00.000Z

The fixtures for the 2nd XI will be as follows;

April

28/4 Cliftonville (H)

May

5/5 Laurelvale (A)
19/5 Donaghcloney (H)
26/5 Cliftonville (H) Intermediate Cup

June

2/6 Templepatrick (H)
16/6 Cooke (A)
30/6 Donaghcloney (A)

July

7/7 Armagh (H)
14/7 Cooke (H)
15/7 Academy (H)
21/7 Laurelvale (H)
22/7 Templepatrick (A)
28/7 Cliftonville (A)

August

4/8 Academy (A)
18/8 Armagh (A)

Indoor Nets

2011-12-07T10:14:00.000Z

The last indoor net session of 2011 takes place this Friday at Grosvenor Grammar School starting at 7 pm and running until 9 pm.

Any junior members who may wish to attend are more than welcome.

See you there.

1st XI Fixtures Released

2011-12-02T10:23:00.000Z

Senior League 3

5 May

Cregagh v Victoria

12 May

Cregagh v Dunmurry

19 May

Junior Cup 1st Round No Game

26 May

PSNI v Cregagh

2 June

Larne v Cregagh

9 June

No Game

10 June

Dungannon v Ards

16 June

Clogher v Cregagh

23 June Closed Date

Ireland v Australia (ODI) Stormont

24 June

Cregagh v Dungannon

30 June

Cregagh v Donaghadee

7 July

Ards v Cregagh

14 July

No Game

21 July

Victoria v Cregagh

28 July

Dunmurry v Cregagh

4 August

Cregagh v PSNI

11 August

Cregagh v Larne

18 August

Dungannon v Cregagh

25 August

Cregagh v Clogher

1 September

Donaghadee v Cregagh

8 September

Cregagh v Ards

NCU Trails for Cregagh Lads

2011-11-25T15:40:00.000Z

Once again the NCU have invited 6 of our junior players to attend trials for the NCU Team at under 13 and under 15 level.

The successful candidate's are Mark Johnston, Oliver Fleetham and Adam McCormick at under 15 level and Stuart Nelson, James Hume and Lewis Cunningham at under 13 level.

Well done lads the whole club is proud of you no doubt you will wear the Cregagh shirt with pride. The committee would also like to place on record our thanks to our Youth Director David McCormick for his continuous hard work and commitment to the development of these lads which has continued during the winter with our indoor nets programme.

The hard work is paying off well done everyone.

Stuart Catterson reaches 50, years not runs!

2011-11-16T16:29:00.000Z

On Satruday 26th November Stuart Catterson will have reached the ripe (young) age of 50 and to celebrate the lads have arranged a little get together at the club, a very ladish night out a bit like a typical night on tour, can you read between the lines on that one ;-)

We have arranged to meet at the club for 8 pm and let the night flow from there!!!!

Watch out Maddisons!

Watch out the Turkish Kebab House!

Watch out Granny's!

Cup Draws

2011-11-14T09:57:00.000Z

The NCU made the draw for the Junior Cup, Intermediate Cup and the Minor Qualfying Cup and the details are as follow;

1st XI

1st's received a bye in the first round and will face Bangor II's away on 2nd June 2012.

2nd XI

The 2nd's will play Cliftonville II's at home on the 26th May 2012.

3rd XI

To complete the draw and a double header our 3rd's will travel to Cliftonville to play their 3rds on 26th May 2012.

Good luck to all the teams.

Lest we forget

2011-11-11T10:20:00.001Z

Indoor Nets

2011-11-08T11:42:00.000Z

Our winter indoor nets sessions continue this Friday at Grosvenor Grammar School between 7 and 9 pm.

Any school lads wanting to attend please contact Davie Mac on 07774 179710.

Just incase you forgot what they looked like!!

See you there.

AGM 2011

2011-11-07T15:45:00.000Z

The Cricket section held their AGM on Tuesday 1st November 2011 to vote on the captains and office bearers for the 2012 season the highlights of the meeting are as follows;

1st XI Captain: Peter Kerr
2nd XI Captain: Thompson Dawson
3rd XI Captain: David McCormick

Vice captains will be selected by the respective captains

Chairman: Philip Thompson
Vice Chairman: Graham Watt
Secretary: Philip Walker
Treasurer: Philip Walker
Director of Youth Development: David McCormick
Ground Convener: Stuart Catterson
Executive Reps; Stuart Catterson, Robert Moore & Graham Watt

The Chairman Philip Thompson reviewed the season and congratulated all captains and match secretaries in fulfilling the majority of our fixtures the fact that we had only one fine from the NCU shows how organised they were. In fact our lack of fines over the last number of seasons from the NCU show how organised we are.

Philip took time to thank the committee members for all their hardwork considering the amount of fundraising and great nights that we had as a club this year. He also recapped on the dinner which had to be one of the best dinners we have had in recent years, being capped off by the special awards presented to Ian Kerr, Stuart Catterson and Peter Kerr all very deserving winners.

A special note of thanks was also conveyed to Stuart regarding his hard work on the ground which is now being rewarded with the ground being used for the interpro Under 13 match and the midweek final which earned us rave reviews from Waringstown players and officials alongside officials from the NCU, NWCU and the MCU.

In addition to this David McCormick was thanked for his endless time and effort that he contributes to the youth section in the club which grows from strength to strength each year. What made his achievements even greater considering the injury he sustained during the tail end of the 2010 season. The youth section in true Cregagh tradition embarked upon its first ever tour playing Leinster CC in Dublin. Again a huge thanks was conveyed to David McCormick and Thompson Dawson for making this happen. (footnote how many clubs in the NCU have a senior and junior tour party!!!)

In respect of the captains the committee would like to congratulate Peter Kerr in continuing in his role in the 1st XI and would like to welcome Thompson Dawson as the 2nd XI skipper and David McCormick as the 3rd XI skipper.

At this time the committee would also like to place on record our thanks to Brian Clarke who has been the 3rd XI captain over the last 6 seasons and has now decided to step down. As we all know, the 3rd XI captaincy is not an easy role yet Brian went about his business with dignity (as you would expect from Brian) and a lot of humour (greatly needed at our wee club). Not only this but Brian was never afraid to throw the young lads in and to give them a chance at this level. None was this better demonstrated than recently when the bowling attack of a 3rd XI averaged around 14 years!! Brian could see how vital it was to develop these lads and for that we are grateful to Brian for his hard work and now well deserved rest.

Finally, the members thanked the chairman Philip Thompson for his hard work, commitment and drive throughout the 2011 season a great first year for the chairman the results of which are evidenced in the buzz and togetherness that we all experience around the place at present.

Well done mate!!

The AGM was brought to a close with a short notice about our upcoming tour to Portugal. Tour party stands at 24 at present!!! See you there.

David Harris

2011-10-31T11:22:00.001Z

Unfortunately over the weekend we learnt of the sad news that David Harris's Father passed away on Saturday afternoon.

On behalf of the cricket committee and all our members at Cregagh our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Bob Catterson

2011-10-27T14:38:00.000+01:00

On behalf of the cricket committee and the members of the cricket section we would like to pass our condolences to Stuart Catterson and his family upon the death of Stuart's Father Bob.

The funeral will be held on Saturday 29th October at Cregagh Methodist Church at 9.30 am.

AGM

2011-10-18T16:23:00.002+01:00

The Cricket Club will be holding its AGM on Tuesday 1st November starting at 7.30 pm.

Some big announcements and decisions to be made!!!!! Make sure you are there to voice your opinion!

Indoor Nets

2011-10-13T13:41:00.000+01:00

Indoor nets start on Friday 14th October at Grosvenor between 7pm and 9 pm.

Any junior player wanting to come along please contact David McCormick on 07774 179710 to arrange lifts.

Link below for directions to Grosvenor!

View Larger Map

Annual Dinner and Awards Night

2011-10-05T15:31:00.000+01:00

I think its fair to say that the switch to a Saturday night and starting the event at 7.30 pm ensured that this was one of the best dinners we have had at the club, of course not to mention the Chairman's stand up performance (would be remiss of me to overlook his 3 hour speech), however the punters were in for one hell of a surprise as TD along with Davie Mac brought the presentation to a conclusion with the tour DVD!!! More of that later!

You knew the night was going to be special when the tour veterans were receiving medals from the Club President, and to add to this, we now have a club tie, ssshhhhh keep that quiet as we only have a small supply!

Anyway...Like a well oiled machine (few were still well oiled afterwards) the attendees at a Cregagh Cricket Dinner now know the drill, grub first, then speeches (Bronagh's favourite bit) followed by the award presentation and this year was no different, or so we thought!!!

First up Brian Clarke ran through the 3rd XI season with the winners as follows;

3rd XI Batsman of the year; Sameer Maishe
3rd XI Bowler of the year; Neil Pinkerton
3rd XI Captains pick; Adam McCormick

Haider Maishe also received a special award for his hattrick.

Following Brian was our 2nd XI skipper William Ross. Possibly the shortest speech ever which went down well with the punters, William announced his award winners of the season;

2nd XI Batsman of the year; Matthew Simpson
2nd XI Bowler of the year; Philip Thompson
2nd XI Captains pick; Thompson Dawson

Then the 1st XI skipper was on deck for his review of the season. Along with a large notepad the members in the room feared a lengthy speech but to his credit (and our delight) his speech was sharp and to the point. the award winners for the 1st XI were;

1st XI Batsman of the year; Peter Kerr
1st XI Bowler of the year; Alan Baker
1st XI Captains Pick; Robert Moore

Then we moved onto the special awards;

The WAGS got their usual wee backhander!!! Well deserved may I add.

Clubman of the year; David McCormick, for smashing his ankle and still playing this year and overseeing a great season in the youth section, a truly great effort

Young Player of the year; Matthew Simpson, won it hands down, well done mate.

Special performance award; Peter Kerr for his 132 against the PSNI. Peter also received a special frame of the scorecard from the match along with a photo of him celebrating his century.

Special award winners

As a special award the club wanted to acknowledge the services of two very special and important people to Cregagh Cricket Club, namely Ian Kerr and Stuart Catterson. A special collection of photographs were collated for Ian showing his service down the years and a specially commissioned water painting effect photograph was presented to Stuart Catterson.

At which time the chairman handed over to Thompson Dawson for his special review and short presentation in relation to our successful tour to Croatia. (Still unbeaten in Europe). In addition to this the most eagerly awaited trophy, namely the canard dore`.

This year a low number would win this prestigious trophy, clearly the Cregagh batsman have upped their game. In fact, this year 2 ducks was enough to win the trophy, (will Bob's record ever be beaten, 12 just in case you had forgotten) however, one person had managed to secure himself a 'European duck' and as we all know the away goals rule in Europe it was decided that this duck counted as double. So step forward Craig Copeland (aka Justin Beiber) to accept your award. Along with his pink cap which was decided that he could keep. Well done mate.

Copey found a bird to go home with

But Thompson wasn't finished here, for the first time ever we had a comfort break in the presentation ceremony in order to set up the DVD player! Step forward Davie Mac in the role of Steven Speilberg as he had put together a short film/recruitment DVD charting our exploits on tour. Needless to say the MAGNIFICENT SEVEN finally made an appearance!!!

Rock the boat

And as the night drew to a conclusion (and what a conclusion) it meant we were free, to have a drink, have a laugh with your mates who you play cricket with during the summer, recall all our glorious wins and defeats, go on a huge recruitment drive for Portugal!, laugh at Copey chatting up our wives, suggest to the riddler that the 4 week drink ban was a bad idea and ask the DJ for one more song to revive our memories of a wonderful tour and a great night.

Well done to our winners, our special award winners, the WAGS (of course, best in the NCU) and all our committee men who punch in the hours to make our wee club the best in the NCU!

Cregagh CC needs you in Portugal, European Skipper on the recruitment drive

Hey mate, any Prodigy?

Cricket Club AGM Change of date

2011-09-26T14:11:00.000+01:00

Please note the AGM will be held at the club on 1st November starting at 7.30 pm sharp.

Good attendance is needed in order to vote on the captains and office bearers for the 2012 season. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A CHANGE OF DATE FROM THE PREVIOUS NOTIFICATION!!

NCU Dinner

2011-09-15T12:09:00.000+01:00

Please see below the list of individuals who have advised that they wish to go to the NCU 125th Anniversary Dinner on Saturday 15th October 2011.

1. Matthew Simpson (Radio, Simpy)
2. Ian Kerr (Vet)
3. Robert Moore (Bob, Rab Dog)
4. Stephen Watt (Greek)
5. Alan Baker (Bunsy)
6. Graham Watt (Watty)
7. Philip Thompson (Scol)
8. Stuart Catterson (Cat)
9. Neil Adams (Gerry)
10. Peter Kerr (Riddler)

11. Davy McCormick (Dee, Davie Mac)

12. Thompson Dawson (TD)

Nicknames included in case people didn't recognise their names!

If your plans have changed and you will not be attending or if you wish to be added to the list let me know NOW (Tel: 07979 481206). Unless I hear from you by close of play Saturday 17th September 2011 I will be assuming this list is final.

Guest Speaker at the NCU Dinner

As advised previously the cost of the dinner is £40 and monies are now due. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Cregagh Sports Club’ and placed in an envelope marked for my attention. Envelopes should either be left with the bar staff or posted to myself (55 Loopland Drive, Belfast, BT6 9DW). Payment is required no later than Saturday 24th September 2011.

Cheers, Pip

Annual Dinner and Presentation Night

2011-09-09T09:53:00.000+01:00

Due to the high demand for tickets this event is now SOLD OUT!

Thank you to everyone who has bought a ticket in what promises to be a great night. Please note the night will start at 7.30 PM SHARP!! on Saturday 1st October

Charity Night

2011-09-05T14:48:00.001+01:00

This year as a first, the committee decided to hold a function with the aim of making a donation to a local charity. This year due to the untimely death of Dennis McNamara the chosen charity was the Chest Heart and Stroke Foundation. We would like to thank everyone who came along to support us on the night with another excellent turn out. Between the bingo and a game of pitch and toss we were able to make a donation of £350.

Stuart Catterson and Philip Walker present the cheque to NI Chest Heart & Stroke Foundation

We would like to thank Philip Walker, Philip Thompson, Stuart Catterson and Robert Moore for all their hard work in organising the night and also a thank you to all our sponsors who made donations and supplied prizes on the night. Without your support these nights would not take place.

Cregagh 3rd XI V Victoria 3rd XI

2011-09-04T17:50:00.002+01:00

In honour of the Ards player Peter Ritchie who tragically lost his life last weekend both teams observe a minutes silence before the start of yesterdays game. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and our colleagues at Ards Cricket Club.

Annual Dinner and Awards Presentation

2011-08-30T14:19:00.001+01:00

Our annual dinner will take place on Saturday 1st October starting at 7.30 PM SHARP!!!! at the club and this year the committee wanted to go for a Saturday night. The food will be provided by the same people we have used for the last number of years who always provides a great meal. After the dinner will be the awards presentation followed by the ballot and the end of season dancing competition (i.e. the disco). Cost will be £20 for an adult and £15 if you are in full time education.

If you wish to book a seat please contact Phil Thompson on 07748 354216 or Philip Walker on 07979 481206 philipwalker@ntlworld.com

Dads V lads (Men v Boys!)

2011-08-23T14:00:00.000+01:00

Its the game everyone has been talking about and finally it is nearly upon us. Bragging rights for the year are up for grabs with this one.

Across the homes of East Belfast and the surrounding areas talk across the dinner table has been about one thing and one thing only. How can I bowl out my aul Da and make him look like a mug!

Bob and Simpy step up their training for the big match

So on Wednesday 24th August at 5.30 all the talking will stop as the first Dads v Lads match will take place. Not one for the faint hearted. The lads will be captained by Robert Moore whilst the Dads will be captained by Davie Mac.

Davie heard about the Lads new training regime and thought he would give it a try

Afterwards the junior prize night will take place in what will be the last act of another successful junior cricket season at Cregagh.

So good luck to all the young lads for the prize giving and COME ON YE DADS!!!

NCU 125th Anniversary Dinner

2011-08-22T13:33:00.000+01:00

The NCU will be holding a special 125th Anniversary Dinner at the City Hall in Belfast on Saturday 15th October with special guest speaker Michael Vaughan. Tickets cost £40.

The Club has booked a table of Ten so far and most seats have been taken. Should you wish to attend please contact Philip Walker on 07979 481206 in order that we can arrange a 2nd table.

Club ties should also be available!!! watch this space!! Sorry Stuart no Cravats!

Waringstown win Midweek League

2011-08-18T14:32:00.001+01:00

The midweek league returned home last night as Cregagh (who originally administrated the midweek league and brought about its formation within the NCU) hosted the midweek league final between Waringstown and Muckamore.

Waringstown won the toss and elected to bat setting Muckamore a total of 107 to win the game with Beattie of Waringstown top scoring with 30 runs. The chase never really got going with Waringstown's opening bowlers of Tahir and Harrison doing the damage and taking the first 6 wickets. Muckamore were eventually bowled out of 48.

Murray Power making the presenation

Congratulations to Waringstown on their success and commiserations to Muckamore.

NCU Midweek Final Waringstown V Muckamore

2011-08-15T16:32:00.005+01:00

On Wednesday 17th August Cregagh CC will be hosting the NCU Midweek final to be contested by Waringstown and Muckamore starting at 6 pm. The bar facilities will be open and complimentary tea and coffee will be provided for supporters of both teams and NCU officials.

Both teams finished top of their respective midweek leagues both winning 7 games apiece and finishing on 28 points, Waringstown's only defeat was at the hands of the Bot! whilst Muckamore's only defeat came against CSNI.

On behalf of Cregagh we would like to wish both teams well for the final, fingers crossed the weather will be kind! As a footnote, the game will be umpired by two Cregagh men, namely Richard Walker and Philip Thompson.

U13 Trip to Dublin-Itinerary

2011-08-14T22:36:00.002+01:00

The itinerary for the trip is:

meet at Cregagh 8.00am
stop for breakfast outside Dundalk (euros required as the cost is not covered by the club)
30 over game v Leinster CC U13s
BBQ at Leinster CC after the game
depart Dublin 7.00pm
arrive Cregagh around 10.00pm

There will be no cost for the trip.

Bingo Night in aid of Chest Heart & Stroke Foundation

2011-08-14T16:49:00.003+01:00

We are proud to announce that this Saturday night (20th August) we will be running a Bingo night.

One of the aims of the committee this year was to nominate a charity each year and run a night with the aim of raising funds for the charity. This year the committee selected the Chest Heart and Stroke charity which had all been in our minds following the untimely death of Dennis McNamara.

The night will start at 8 pm with tickets costing £5 with great prizes to be won along with a supper and a disco to suit all ages. So dobbers at the ready, eyes down look in and who knows you could be shouting HOUSE!!

Tickets can be purchased by contacting Philip Thompson on 07748 354216 or Bob Moore on 07754 934566.

U13 Trip to Dublin-Friday 19th August

2011-08-01T20:01:00.003+01:00

A fixture has been arranged for the U13 team in Dublin on Friday 19th August.

The game is against Leinster Cricket Club U13s and will be played at their ground, Observatory Lane, in Rathmines. See http://www.leinster.cc/ for more details regarding our opponents.

A coach will leave the club early Friday morning returning later that night. At this stage we do anticipate that there will be any charge for the trip.

We will advise further details regarding meeting times etc in due course. All members of the U13 team are asked to confirm their availability to David as soon as possible.

Any parents wishing to travel should also let David or Stuart know.

Footnote:

These arrived today so the lads should look the part in Dublin!!

The Final Countdown!

2011-07-28T14:18:00.000+01:00

As anticipated dawn did come quickly the next morning, as we struggled to get packed up and across the harbour to the ferry for the 7.00am sailing the lads from the Sir William Hoste team had advised us about. However perhaps they managed to extract some little measure of revenge, as the ferry did not actually leave until 7.30am. Miraculously we were all present and correct although it has to be said, in various states of repair, including a now fully illustrated and foreign speaking version of Bob.

Bye bye Vis

Once we set off, many went up on deck to enjoy the early morning sun and yarn about our past triumphs and those yet to come. Below deck it looked more like a train wreck, with bodies strewn all over the cabin, as people tried to catch up on some sleep.

Amongst them though, was the Vet who was simply having his customary morning nap, before preparing for his late afternoon nap. As he advised all afterwards you don’t get to the ripe old age of 75 by skimping on your rest periods! Disco Dave meantime had a another beer!

Split Skipper welcomes Cregagh Tour Skipper

It was already warm when we boarded the buses in Split to go to Kastela, where we were staying and playing the Sir Oliver C.C. in the grounds of the Hotel Resnik. By 11.30am we had checked in and were on the way to the game, and by 11.40am Watty had lost our room key. The Sir Oliver team were ready and waiting, and on winning the toss, we decided to bat again, and to continue our family theme we opened with another father/son duo, as Pete and the Vet started our innings off.

Exchange of pennant's!

We had reached 36, when Pete, who hadn’t had as much sleep as his Dad and was clearly struggling in the heat, was run out for 13, as he laboured to make his ground. The Bionic Man, Davy Mac was next in, and he set about the Sir Oliver bowling with an array of shots, as the Vet notched up his 3rd European 50 at the other end. At 124 the Vet was bowled and 5 runs later Davy followed him, as he was unluckily LBW to a shooter, just 3 runs short of another well deserved tour 50. The Ross brothers were in next, and Willy started in confident fashion, with a couple of fine boundaries, before the tall Croatian skipper managed to take a great one handed catch leaping on the boundary to rob Willy of a six and his wicket! As we tried to step up the scoring Wayne went for 16, and Greek Steve went for 2, although on the plus side at least on this occasion he wasn’t stumped. It was left to Watty to marshall the tail with unbeaten 35, to carry us to a final competitive total of 237 off our 30 overs.

Watty marshalling the tail

After our lunch and a well earned drink, Pete had to retire to a darkened room, and sunstroke was a definite possibility as Cregagh took the field. This where our logistics staff came into their own, as Rooster and the guys made sure we were constantly given drinks whilst also dispensing sun tan lotion, and without this we would have really struggled, as temperatures soared.

The TANK!!

The opening bowlers were once again the Thompson twins, and we soon knew were in a game as Mate and Antonio managed a few big hits of their own. In a rare change of fortune the Thompsons were wicketless again, for a second day, when the skipper turned to Wayne Ross, as the openers celebrated a century opening stand. The writing was on the wall for Cregagh unless we got a quick breakthrough, and big Wayne obliged in his third over by bowling Mate, just 4 short of his 50. At the other end Antonio was still carving the ball to all parts, and in rare moment of inspiration the skipper threw the ball to the Ginger Ninja for a spell. After going for 13 in his first over, Copey struck twice in his second, removing the number 3 and 4 batsmen, with Greek Steve getting in on the act taking a well judged gully catch, for one of these. So from 104 for 0, the score rapidly went to 105 for 3. In a telling blow with the score on 119, Antonio launched a delivery from big Wayne into the deep towards the long off boundary, where the Vet, lurking like Victor Meldrew, plagued by hayfever, with one eye partially closed, was sheltering from the heat, barely awake, under the trees. Despite his dilapidated state the Vet atoned for his error of the previous day, and took a fine overhead catch to send Antonio back the hutch, and the Vet started dreaming about his next kip. After that the skipper and Willy Ross came on to tie things up in a miserly spell, taking a further 3 wickets between them. Safe in the knowledge the Sir Oliver team now required 63 runs to win off the last over, the skipper brought back Big Phil, against the current couple of 9 year olds now batting, in a vain attempt to buy him a tour wicket! Cregagh finished off their tour in style then with a 51 run win in their last match.

Sir Oliver CC & Cregagh CC

The Sir Oliver team had arranged a meal for us at their club, a short drive away, and with the exception of the Vet, who by this stage required another sleep, we were happy to go along with another good bunch of lads. Although to refuse, apart from being impolite, may have been dangerous, as two of them were air traffic controllers, both on duty the next day when we were due to fly home! We enjoyed another good meal, and made our customary presentations, including our newest addition, the tour duck, to one of Copey’s victims! The Sir Oliver lads then shuttled us back to the Hotel Resnik at various intervals where we were scheduled to have an early night, before our 7.30am pick-up to take us to the airport for our return to the U.K. the next morning.

Think its the Chairmans round?

Things don’t always go as planned on tour however, as arriving back at the hotel in the last car around 9pm, I anticipated a few quiet (and not quite few) beers before retiring. As it happened, in an unprecedented last tour night scene, when things are traditionally a little more low key, when I arrived at the hotel bar, it was clear everyone was there, and as the saying goes, the joint was rocking! The outdoor area of bar overlooked the bay, and in fact ran down to a shingle beach with the waves lapping onto the shore. As the sun finally sank behind Big Phil, it was picture postcard stuff, and the amber nectar was flowing. As the regular clientele shuffled to their rooms, we enquired what time was closing time, only to be informed it would be whenever we left……..Oh dear, a tour organizer’s nightmare!

Have you any Prodigy??

As we had the bar almost entirely to ourselves, Pete turned DJ, and beers gave way to vodkas, whiskeys and even cocktails, it was mayhem! The Magnificent Seven even made a belated, if somewhat under dressed appearance before the evening finally came to close sometime in the early hours.

Four magical days of cricket and fun had finally ended in “the best last night ever”, which obviously preceeded the roughest next day after!

Fear naught, intrepid tourists however, 2012 planning, has already commenced!

Little ole wine drinker me

2011-07-26T14:52:00.000+01:00

As day dawned on day 3 of our trip, it was very much business as usual a few doors down at our favourite breakfast venue. The locals all scattered as we all gathered for a lot of bellowing and a bite to eat, before being collected for the journey back to the vineyard at Plisko Polje around 11.30am. There was just time after breakfast for a supply run to the local supermarket to stock up on some essentials, i.e. some chocolate bars and 10 pack of toilet rolls, all of which we quickly stuck in the fridge for later. This was to last us through that day and night, and that was only for our room! Then the bus of fear was back in town. After Pip informed Oliver that he had children he would very much like to see again, Oliver promised to use at least one hand to steer this time, whilst stroking his dog, Piko. Pip having been suitably reassured was happy to put his blindfold on and got back in the front seat, clutching his toilet roll.

Simpy on the drive

Match day two, this time for a 30 over game, commenced with Cregagh winning the toss and the skipper having no hesitation in deciding to bat. After that it was very much déjà vu, with Simpo and Pete sharing a healthy opening stand that saw them both pass 50, before Simpo was bowled on 53, and Pete was out for 76. This allowed Pip to blast a quickfire 26, before an even quicker 24 ball, 52 not out from Gibby, and an attractive cameo of 17 not out, from the Wattster, saw us complete our allotted overs with 271 on the board. Another tour first, with three Cregagh fifties and very handy total, which the skipper was extremely confident was a winning score, as we paused to replenish our beer levels, and eat a sandwich or two.

Back (l-r) I. Kerr, C. Copeland, T. Dawson (Cpt) P. Kerr, P. Walker, Willy Ross
Front (l-r) R. Moore, M. Thompson, M. Simpson (wk) G. Watt, S. Gibson

Following up on our family theme, the skipper opened the bowling with the Thompson father and son duo. However the Sir William Hoste openers, Stanko “The Wall” Aleksic and Craig Wear, managed to negotiate this tricky opening spell successfully. As Bob and Pip replaced the Thompsons, whilst the required run rate was steadily climbing, Stanko solidly defended at one end, as Craig began to unfurl a few of his sublime range of shots, and the partnership remained intact at the drinks break. Copey and Willy Ross were then introduced into the attack. Willy finally made the breakthrough, in his first over, bowling Stanko for a resolute 40. However this was the cue for Craig to go on the attack, and it became abundantly clear how fortunate we were get him out so cheaply the previous day, as he pillaged 26 of Willy’s next over.

The required run rate was still over 14 an over, but with Craig at the crease, it was now dropping rapidly and all things were possible. It became a matter of keeping the other batsman in check and on strike now. Copey helped slow the rate by taking 2 wickets, including the chairman Oliver Roki, who had opened up with 2 boundaries and was looking dangerous at the time. Craig was still averaging 2 sixes every over he faced, and heading for his hundred when the Vet uncharacteristically dropped him in the bushes in the deep. It was looking slightly ominous for Cregagh at this stage, as Craig’s run rampage continued. However in the end despite his magnificent undefeated innings of 125, Craig could not get enough of the strike and the Vis team finished 25 runs short of their target. The tour skipper finally was able to breathe a sigh of relief and it was back to Oliver’s patio for a few more well earned beers and lot more banter.

Craig gets his hands on a Cregagh Cap!

Skippers Union

We were kindly invited back later that evening to have a meal and sample some of Oliver’s fine wines, and so were driven back into Vis to shower and change before being collected and returned a couple of hours later. Everyone enjoyed the slow cooked lamb stew, Oliver provided, however some enjoyed his wine even more possibly, naming no names, Bob. As is customary, we presented our club plaque, (to be given pride of place at Olivers’s restaurant beside the MCC plaque), the man of the match trophy, (this time to the young wicketkeeper with the durable head), and our bottle of Bushmills (as revenge for the grappa Oliver plied us with as we arrived). Whilst Craig Wear was presented with what he always wanted…..a coveted Cregagh cap. Oliver then presented us with Vis Tee-shirts, (as modelled by Rory McGrath on T.V.) and some of his wine. We thanked Oliver for all the arrangements, including accommodation, transport and of course, food and drink, he had made for us during our memorable visit to Vis. Then it was time to bid farewell to Oliver and the Vis islanders, as we had a ferry to catch early the next morning to take us to Split, to play our third game against the Sir Oliver C.C. on the mainland.

Vis Wicketkeeper

Back in Vis there was just time to set alarm clocks and get a few hours rest, as we had been advised the ferry was leaving at 7am and not 7.30am, as we had thought. The youngsters meantime, much as they do at home, had decided to go back to Davy Mac’s place. The night was drawing to a close, and so were the youngsters! Apparently they were keen to do some colouring in, unfortunately in the absence of colouring books, they used Bob, as we were all able to read him the next day!

Action photos from Under 13's interpro match at Cregagh

2011-07-08T14:54:00.001+01:00

Good Morning Sunshine (Part 2)

2011-07-06T12:04:00.000+01:00

Disappointment was one word to describe the opening of day two for the Tour Skipper, who had went to bed looking forward to catching up on some well earned rest, after the previous arduous day of travel and stress.

However the sight of Big Scolari, in his birthday suit, at the end of his bed early that morning, clutching only the face cloth the apartment offered as a bath towel, to hide his ample charms, on his way to the shower in the corner of the skipper’s room, was a less than ideal start. Then Phil decreed that after he was finished, everyone in our room would be accompanying him to breakfast!

Never mind, a leisurely stroll along the harbour front, to breakfast, a few doors down from our apartment, was an ideal tonic. Most of the squad were already there, having chased away any of the usual clientele from yachting fraternity, who probably would have prefered a quieter breakfast experience. Mark was tucking into the ham and egg omelette he had ordered, with some relish, before someone enquired what he anticipated an omelette without the egg would be like, and so momentarily Copey was deprived of the pink cap.

Cat finally slips up!!

As breakfast was finishing the call came through from Oliver Roki to say the Vis team would be a little short of bodies for the game at 4, and could we lend them a few, so one of the skipper’s problems was solved at a stroke, everyone would play today. All that remained was to decide how best to spend the afternoon, until we were to be picked up at 3.30pm.

Having been told there was a beach on the far side of the harbour, where we could see a few people swimming, that seemed to be our best option. Our old favourite, “a day at the beach” beckoned, trunks were donned, towels acquired and we set off, only to find our beach had more stones than a quarry. Nevertheless the water looked inviting, as the temperature rose and many of the boys ventured in, at this stage blissfully unaware of the dangers that lurked in the depths. Then sea urchins began to claim their victims, as Davy Mac, Pete and Greek Steve, all managed to step or lean on one, resulting in them collecting a number of hedgehog-like spikes. Cue Dr. Rooster with his medical kit to sooth the wounded warriors, although his pronouncement that he had a previous experience of this happening, and the victim had actually died was not so encouraging!

Cregagh 20/20 Team

Oliver was good as his word and arrived at 3.30pm in his recently repaired vintage bus, which proved not to be quite as scary as its driver. He then drove, in the loosest sense of the word, us to the ground at his vineyard in the hills behind Vis town. The journey was thankfully short and we arrived overlooking the small ground prepared in a field, beside an old World War 2 airstrip. Whilst the ground looked pretty from afar, sliding on it proved to be as recommendable as sitting on a sea urchin. Pete found this out later when he tried it out saving a boundary, but losing a shin full of skin, the coarse vineyard grass being a little different from the lush Gibson Park Oval version.

Vis answer to Lords

The Cregagh volunteers for the Sir William Hoste team were, Big Phil, Copey, Pip and Cat, and the match got underway with the hosts batting. Craig Wear and Oliver Roki were the openers for the Vis team, whilst opening the bowling for Cregagh were the Ross brothers, a family theme which was to carry on throughout the tour. Vis opened brightly with Craig and Oliver getting off to a good start, before Willy had Craig smartly taken behind by Watty, the gloveman for the day. What a wicket that was, however we would not know that until the following day! Willy followed that up with Copey’s wicket next ball, again taken by Watty behind the stumps, and he was on for our first ever tour hat-trick. However Ben Heywood, in at number four, just managed to negotiate Willy’s next ball.

Vis team with guests!

After 3 overs each in the heat, the skipper rotated his bowlers. Without the option of Cregagh’s leading spin bowler, or is it 2nd spin bowler, Davy, it was more pace, as Bob replaced Wayne, and then in a surprise move, the skipper asked Matthew Simpson to replace Willy. So far we had used 4 debutant bowlers and none of them was letting us down, as Bob ended Oliver Roki’s stay at the crease and Simpo also notched up 2 tour wickets. The skipper then took out Rob, our host from the previous evening, before he also removed Cat, comprehensively bowling the big hitting dangerman of the lower order.

Pip gave the Vis innings a boost with some lusty blows, before with just 3 balls left Scolari was sent out to the crease to face Davy Mac, in duel to decide who would enjoy the evening more, if at all!

STRIKE ONE, Davy, a swing and a miss from the big man,.

BALL TWO, a little shorter and quicker, and despatched, as Phil larruped it to the boundary, with the fielders all in catching positions…….honours even now.

FINAL BALL, this time a sharp lifter, and guided/edged past Gibby’s ear, as he stood at slip, for another boundary, 2-1 to Phil, so it was going to be earplugs all round tonight now!

131 to chase, after a medicinal beer of course. We opened with Pete and Simpo who put on a fine opening stand of 70, before Copey caught Pete off Craig Wear for 30. Simpo went on to post his 50 and retired to allow Mark Thompson, with a quickfire 33 and Gibby, with a stylish 11 to take us to our target in 13 overs and a 20/20 win. More beers and a presentation to our hosts, the Sir William Hoste team, followed, before Oliver or was it his dog, Piko, drove us back to Vis for the evening.

Phil bowled well the day lads didnt he?

A leisurely (if you weren’t sitting near Phil) meal followed, before we hit the bar on the harbour for just the one nightcap, eagerly anticipating the longer game tomorrow.

Right TD we are off to bed, honest!

Ian Kerr (aka The Vet) 43 Seasons and counting

2011-07-01T12:12:00.001+01:00

Every club across the NCU needs its own fair share of clubmen and certainly at Cregagh we have been extremely lucky in having one of the best in the form of Ian Kerr (The Vet). I’m sure we all have ideas of what makes the ideal clubman, but for Ian, not just happy at his sons playing he will try and recruit any player who he comes across to come down to Cregagh for a game, and is now coaching our junior section passing on his knowledge to the next generation.

Peter Kerr, Ian Kerr & Aaron Kerr

This season is a landmark one for Ian, one that we believe will not be beaten at our club. Ian joined Cregagh in 1968, living close to the Cregagh Road and attending Harding Memorial it was a natural progression to play cricket at Cregagh his local club. What has followed has been incredible as Ian has now played for Cregagh during the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s and now the current decade sees Ian still turning out for his beloved Cregagh as he enters his 43rd season spanning across 6 decades.

But that is only the first unique aspect of a recent trilogy of events. The 2^nd event occurred last season when Ian took the field for the 1^st XI with his two sons Peter Kerr and Aaron Kerr. Most Father’s would like to take to the field with their son at some point, Ian managed to do it with both sons in a 1^st XI match. To complete the trilogy of events Peter’s century against the PSNI now means all three Kerr’s have achieved centuries in the black and gold colours of Cregagh. A feat that I doubt will ever be surpassed.

1st XI Section 4 Winners 2007 Ian, Peter and Aaron in the back row

At a time when we all complain about how cricket can be a time consuming hobbie the example Ian set and continues to set speaks volumes. When Ian took up employment in Scotland he thought nothing of coming back to Belfast to play cricket for Cregagh! Moving the family each weekend to play cricket and turn out for Cregagh, that is the measure of the man, that in our opinion is what makes Cregagh’s clubman the best!

All this time that Ian has invested over the years couldn’t have been managed without the support of his wife Laura. The teas during the mid to late 90s are still remembered and Laura is still there on a Saturday assisting with the teas and supporting Cregagh both on the field and off it.

Ian has won leagues for senior teams throughout his playing career, a Graham Cup winner (the only time Cregagh won the Graham Cup) he has also accumulated 3 half centuries across Europe representing Cregagh on our recent tours. His two sons have followed him to Cregagh with Aaron representing Ireland at under 15 level and now Peter who is the current 1st XI captain yet I suspect his greatest achievement was keeping the club alive in the mid 90s when everyone else had given up. His mantra at the time ‘not on my watch’ ensured we would get through those times with the help of Philip Walker it must be said.

So on behalf of the Committee at Cregagh, the players both senior and junior and most importantly from all your friends a big thank you for the total and absolute commitment that you have shown towards our wee club to ensure Cregagh Cricket Club is still in business.

PS You available on Saturday?

PPS and Sunday?

Cregagh Cubs Summer Cricket Camp

2011-06-27T14:09:00.001+01:00

CREGAGH CUBS SUMMER CAMP

Starting on 18th July through to 11th August

Monday to Friday

10 am to 12 pm

For kids aged 10-15

for further details contact

Simon Johnston 07969 722264 or by e-mail on the address below

cricket@bcsdn.org

If paradise is half as nice

2011-06-27T13:56:00.000+01:00

9th June started early for the Cregagh 2011 Tour Party, with a chilly 4am meet at Belfast International Airport on the Thursday morning. It was our fourth venture into Europe and our largest touring contingent so far, with no less than 7 virgin tourists, (some more virgin than others though, with several youngsters, and few in the first flush of middle age), on board.

Tour packs were distributed, the Cregagh Code of Conduct’s signed, if not completely taken on board, the Tour pink cap unveiled and Simpo, not so ably assisted by Bob, was introduced to his constant companion for the rest of trip, the Tour kit bag. Then it was time to check-in.

Having safely negotiated security, even with Davy’s metal leg, the party split into two distinct groups, the coffee and scone sophisticates led by the Big Phil, and the beer and crisps brigade led by the usual suspects, the Dave twins, eager to challenge previous tour records.

Naturally enough by the time we were boarding the plane, the pink cap, awarded for uttering’s of extreme stupidity, had changed hands a number of times, moving swiftly through the Thompson family, with previous holder of similar awards, Mark, getting an early touch, before coming to rest on its spiritual home…..Copey’s head.

We arrived at Stansted without any hitches, and dug in at the nearest café, for a beer and fry breakfast, to spend some of the 6 hours until our onward flight to Split. Having eaten well and consumed a few beverages, some of the party, led by our most enthusiastic napper, the Vet, for the first, but undoubtedly not the last time, decided to get the head down for a while. Some found the games arcade, a few did a little shopping, whilst others, mindful of the great step into the unknown we were taking, made full use of the airport facilities, and more than once!

It is fair to say that even at this late stage of tour, there were still a few things that were less than clear, i.e. would we get to the harbour in Split in time to catch the last ferry that day to the island of Vis, and if and when we got there, would we have somewhere to stay.

Our opposition on Vis had kindly undertaken to look after the booking of our accommodation on the island, however unfortunately even now the details were a closely guarded secret.

The Stansted flight left on time, and we were even slightly early, when we arrived in Split. It was a pleasant 25°C on arrival, but more importantly we were still on schedule, and happily we were met and led to our air conditioned transport. They had thoughtfully turned the heating up in the bus to make us feel more at home and Watty nestling cosily in the back seat was able to shed a few pounds even before the bus left the airport!

We got to the ferry terminal on time, secured the tickets and boarded the ferry all with half an hour to spare, it was time for the tour skipper to kick back and relax, the sun was shining and the tour party still numbered 20, accommodation worries were another two and quarter hours away.

The bar opened as the boat left Split, the lads rifled through their cases and then we were all up on deck in an array of shorts and tour tee shirts, enjoying the rays, the beers and the ambience, as we sailed into the sunset to Vis. As we negotiated our way into Vis harbour at around 9pm that evening as the sun finally went down, after one of the most pleasant journey on car ferry, I, for one have ever had, it was undoubtedly one of the seminal tour moments of all time.

We had also received a call from Oliver Roki, the Chairman of Vis Cricket Club, with the bonus news that we had in fact somewhere to stay. He told us we would be met by Rob, an Australian/Croat, on the dock, to take us there and after leaving our cases, on to his bar for pizzas, and beer……..ideal. However on arrival, what was even more ideal, was the 50 yard walk from the ferry terminal to our new home, for the next few days, in a series of flats above a bakery/taverna on the sea front, Disco Dave thought he had arrived in heaven.

18 of the party were accommodated here, in varying degrees of luxury, for instance Pete got his own suite with a separate toilet, whereas some of us had one toilet between four, and it was in the corner of our bedroom, which made for few an interesting and challenging mornings. Meanwhile the Donny and Marie of the group, Davy Mac and Copey were taken up the street a few doors to a separate and more private residence in deference to their burgeoning relationship.

Half an hour later and we were on the streets again, as Rob led us to his bar. It is fair to say, that as some of us hadn’t eaten since the plane journey to Split, and we were more than a little hungry by the time we made it to Rob’s bar at the far end of Vis town. We had a few beers though, as Rob fired up the ovens, and the pizzas were quickly scoffed as soon as they appeared. We had a few more beers to wash them down and a bit of banter with Rob about the coming day’s 20/20 match, before retiring after an eventful day’s travel. The match wasn’t scheduled to start until 4pm, so many of us were looking forward to the opportunity to catch up on some sleep, before exploring the town in daylight

Talk on the way home centred on the make-up of the team for tomorrow’s first fixture, and with a large and eager tour party, there would undoubtedly be disappointment for some. The tour skipper had some tough choices to think over that night.

Croatia photos

2011-06-24T11:51:00.003+01:00

Peter Kerr Ulster Bank Trophy

2011-06-20T13:29:00.001+01:00

Once again well done skipper for your century against the PSNI. Peter is pictured receiving his Ulster Bank award from the NCU President Murray Power.

Super weekend

2011-06-19T22:47:00.002+01:00

A great weekend for the club- the 2nds led it off with a hard fought win over Templepatrick at home on Saturday followed up by the 1sts against Donaghadee on Sunday and rounded off by the 3rds with a ruthless win away at Academy where Haider took a hat trick and Neil Pinkerton got his first '5 for' for the club.

On top of this Scolari umpired one of the top Premier League games at North Down. Well done Phil.

Also for those who do not know the club will be hosting an U13 Interprovincial game between Munster and North West on Tuesday 5th July starting 11.00am. Our first representative game for many years. We will be looking for helpers on the day.

All in all a good few days.

Croatia here we come

2011-06-07T14:13:00.012+01:00

On Thursday 9th June 2011 Cregagh Cricket Club will embark upon its 4th European tour with the destination this time being Croatia. This year’s tour sees our largest tour party to date as 20 members make the trip.

Our first port of call will be the Island of Vis to face the Sir William Hoste Cricket Club. Surprisingly, cricket was first played in Croatia on the island of Vis in 1809 when Captain William Hoste, taking a break from sinking French ships in the Napoleonic wars, encouraged his men to play ‘cricket’.

On the Sunday we catch the ferry back to the mainland to plan Sir Oliver Cricket Club in Split, a club formed by two friends whilst serving in the Croatian army in the late 90’s who had stumbled across the game being played in Zagreb. Over the 4 day tour we intend to play three games, two on the island and our last game on the Sunday in Split before returning home on Monday afternoon.

Once again the Cregagh club would like to place on record our gratitude to the Northern Cricket Union for granting our request for a free fixture weekend.

Skipper fantastic hits a ton

2011-06-06T13:12:00.003+01:00

Peter Kerr hit an incredible 132 on Saturday as the captain led from the front against the PSNI in securing another 4 points. Well done from everyone Peter and very well deserved skipper. To cap the day the firsts beat PSNI to record the teams second win on the bounce and now sit joint top of the league.

Kwik Cricket Competition

2011-06-06T13:01:00.006+01:00

They say the sun always shines on The East, and it certainly did last Friday (3rd June) as Cregagh Cricket club in association with Simon Johnston from SportNI hosted a Kwik Cricket competition for East Belfast primary schools.
In what has been the best day of the summer so far, over 60 kids turned up and played in a mini tournament for over 4 hours. The games were all very competitive with some exciting last ball finished as boys and girls from each school battled hard to get to the final.
Best two teams on the day, Orangefield A and Downey House, battled out a hard fought final, with Downey House coming out on top as eventual winners.
But well done to all. Both Simon and Cregagh CC hope that this competition can now be an annual event at the club as all kids really enjoyed the days crack.
Simon & SportNI in association with CCC will also be running a summer cricket school in the last two weeks of July and first week of August (details to be confirmed by end of this month). All ages welcome.

Cregagh under 13s through to the next round

2011-05-25T12:39:00.001+01:00

Cregagh 13's progressed to the 2nd round of the Banoge Cup last night after a convincing 139 run victory over Dundrum under 13's.

Cregagh skipper Ollie Fleetham won the toss and decided to bat first in near perfect conditions.

Openers Mark Johnston and James Hume began cautiously, taking no risks, but all the time putting away the bad ball. The pair who have now opened the batting together for almost 4 years remained at the crease for 17 overs and after completing their half centuries, both retired not out Mark 56 NO and James 51NO (pictured right). They shared an unbroken partnership of 134.

The Cregagh innings finished 153 for 0

M Johnston 56 no
J Hume 51 no

The Drudrum batsmen were under pressure from the off in their run chase and lost wickets steadily, with all the Cregagh bowlers getting in on the action and wickets, apart from our two openers, who were happy to 'graze' at first and second slip for the remainder of the evening.

Innings done Dundrum 14 all out

A McCormick 2 for 4
J White 1 for 0
C Baker 1 for 0
L Moore 1 for 0
J Mahon 1 for 0
S Nelson 1 for 1

Under 15s beat Donaghcloney

2011-05-18T17:16:00.002+01:00

CCC's under 15 team got their season of to a winning start with a 7 wicket win over Donaghcloney on Friday night.

Batting first the visitors were soon under pressure and Mark Johnston got his 2011 wickets tally off and running, bowling one of the 'Cloney' openers in the 4th over. Cregagh's change bowlers David Montgomery and Adam McCormick then set about the middle order taking 3 for 9 and 4 for 11 respectively in an amazing spell of 7 overs.

The visitors were soon 'skittled' for 40 all out.The Cregagh innings began with openers Mark Johnston and skipper Ross White taking easy singles and putting the bad ball away to the ropes. And so in the 7th over we passed the 40 required, to progress to the second round of the Graham Cup.Well done lads a great performance for starters.

MOM. A McCormick 4 for 11 (all bowled)

Poker night

2011-05-17T13:09:00.004+01:00

We will be holding a poker night at the club on Friday 27th May starting at 8.30 pm.

The aim is to raise funds for the forthcoming tour of Croatia therefore we expect a full turnout from our touring party and bring anyone else along who fancies their chances.

See you there.

Watty's lads win by 5 wickets

2011-05-05T13:29:00.003+01:00

Bragging rights for the next 12 months go to Watty's Waster's (thanks Bob) following a 5 wicket win of the aul lads against the young lads (obviously discounting Scol and Davie).

After winning the toss, big Scol (pictured right) decided to bat and in their 35 overs reached a competitive score of 175 the highlights being Simpo hitting 35 and Gerry Adams finishing on 31 not out as both cubs batted well. They were supported by Wayne Ross and Andy Bell who both hit 20's.

However, the highlight of the innings goes to David McCormick who received a guard of honour when reaching the wicket following his unbelievable recovery from his horrific injury at the tale end of the 2010 season. Only one person in our club could have done what he has done in and returned from injury in time for the start of the 2011 season.

However, soon after the niceties we were all in his ear in true Cregagh fashion as Aaron Kerr was focusing on leg stump yorker deliveries just to test out the surgeon's handy work!!!! (WTF Aaron!).

The wickets were shared around the bowlers with Mark, Aaron and Buns all taking wickets. As usual big Angus bowled with the wind with little reward but special mention must go to Mark Johnston taking his first senior wicket. A feat that was matched by young Adam McCormick. THE FUTURES BRIGHT.

In the reply, Watty and Pip (the portly twins) put on 80 for the first wicket before McCormick snaffled Watt behind with his medium paced off spin. Watt did survive an appeal and for the first time in history at Gibson Park the appeal system ensured the skipper a slightly longer stay at the crease.

Aaron came in for a wonderful knock of 0 and a busted knee and when Walker soon departed the comeback was on. However, Marky T and Buns put on 50 odd for the 4th wicket which seen buns take Scol to the cleaners ;-) before holing out off Rab Moore in the covers. *Caught by Davie Mac and I am pleased to confirm that all his bones were still intact!!! quite a feat! Mark T with some support from a new player, who for legal reasons I cant divulge his name just yet and Ian Kerr with one knee took us to the total with a couple of overs to spare.

The BBQ was lit, the beer tasted sweet for some of us and scol was left to reflect on where it all went wrong. Nonetheless things started to look up for the big man when he was presented with a chocolate caterpillar cake to celebrate his birthday, all of a sudden the bitter taste of defeat was drowning in the taste of chocolate caterpillar cake!!

MOM - Bunsy, 3 wickets and 46 runs, well done VC.

Moment of the match - Davie Mac's return to the field!! Awesome son

Comical moment - Bob's A-Level PE video!!! Short and sweet.

Grump aul lad award - Ian Kerr for kicking out the riff raff from the home team changing room

Catch of the match - Close between Greek and TD, (think TD was waving at someone) but goes to Greek for recreating his Slovakian catch for the home fans

Rocket of the day - Cregagh's answer to Justin Beiber. His overthrows and trying to kill people standing behind the stumps!

Scumbag award - Pip Walker you know why!

TEAMS ARE AS FOLLOWS

2011-04-29T10:30:00.002+01:00

Sorry for the delay folks I'm sure everyone is very nervous but I can now announce the teams for Sunday;

Watt XI

G. Watt
M. Thompson
I Kerr
A. Baker
T. Dawson
P. Walker
William Ross
A. Kerr
C. Coates
S. Watt
K. Cunningham

Scol XI

P. Thompson
S. Maishe
N. Thompson
M. Simpson
R. Moore
Wayne Ross
A. Bell
D. McCormick
N. Adams
C. Copeland
A. McCormick

Games starts at 1.30 so be there for 1. 35 over match Scols team has the home changing room the Chairman has requested the game is played in whites.

No teas required there will be a BBQ after the game and a few cold ones for the winners!!!

Scol Select V Watty Select

2011-04-19T14:54:00.006+01:00

We will be having a 36 over game on the 1st May, followed by a BBQ and a few beers to get everyone ready for the new season.

Please confirm your availability by contacting myself Via email philipft@hotmail.co.uk text 07748 354216 or facebook.

Please note this game on Sunday 1st May is instead of the friendly game with Barry Wanderers which was cancelled by the Welsh club and the friendly on May day will not be taking place either.

Night at the Camels

2011-04-11T15:34:00.004+01:00

Some photos from our night at the camels!

TD off and running WAGS race in full flow

Peter Kerr wins the first race of the evening and gets a portable DVD Player

Under starters orders

Pre Race build up

A nervous number 6 leaves behind a number 2!!

A big thank you goes to all our sponsors who donated some very special prizes on the night, to the Camel Committee of Philip Thompson, David McCormick, Thompson Dawson and Robert Moore and to Keith and Sandra Moore on the night who both played the role of the bookmaker.

Night at the Camels - SOLD OUT

2011-03-25T13:18:00.003Z

Due to an unbelieveable demand for the night at the camels tickets I can confirm that all the tickets have now been sold.

Night at the Camels update

2011-03-16T15:06:00.009Z

Night at the camels at Cregagh on 9th April starting at 8 pm, tickets will cost £5 and will include
Camel Racing, Disco and a Light Supper.

Tickets can be purchased from David McCormick on 07774 179710. Camels can be bought from Phil Thompson by calling him on 07748 354216.

The prizes for the winner of each race have yet to be confirmed but to date we have secured the following items;

Digital Camera

£50 voucher for Podium Sports

And in the feature race a 42 INCH PLASMA TV is up for grabs!!!!!

In addition to this we have the following prizes up for grabs

Tescos voucher for £30.00

Co-Op VOUCHER FOR £25.00

Jo –LEE voucher for £25.00 [ Designer shop ]

Basket of fruit form Hagan’s fruit shop

2 x tickets for Ulster V Connaught

Signed autograph bat from Andrew Strauss

Camels are selling fast so contact Phil to purchase one. Further prizes to be announced later so keep an eye out on the website.

Night at the Camels

2011-03-10T13:21:00.002Z

Following on from our hugely successful quiz (cheers Bob) we are now launching our next fundraising event, a Night at the Camels.

Similar to a night at the races, only this time you get to ride the camel! the event will be taking place at our clubrooms on 9th April starting at 8 pm.

Camels can be purchased and races sponsored by contacting Bob Moore on 07754 934566 or Thompson Dawson on 07775 677353.

More details to follow closer to the time but put this in your diary a night not to be missed!

ANDY ANDY GIVE US A WAVE!!!!

2011-03-02T16:53:00.003Z

Your boys just took one HELL OF A BEATING.

See you on Friday night at nets ;-)

Annual Cricket Quiz

2011-02-15T09:55:00.004Z

We will be holding our first fund raiser on the form of a quiz at the club on Friday 25th February 2011 starting at 8 pm.

There will be a £5 cost per person which will include a light supper at the end of the night. In addition to this we will be making a special presentation to the Under 11 team who last season successfully retained the Beverland Plate.

Come along and support the club and our Under 11 Plate Champions in our first fund raiser of the 2011 season. For further details contact Philip Thompson on 07748 354216 or David McCormick on 07774 179710.

Director of Youth Coaching

2011-02-01T14:55:00.003Z

The committee our proud to announce that David McCormick will be our new Director of Youth Coaching for the entire club.

David will oversee and arrange all the youth team fixtures this season as our junior squad continues to grow and for the first time in over 15 years Cregagh will have a Colts side entered into the cup.

In addition to this David will be casting his eye over all the age groups as we continue to grow and develop our youth section with the aim of securing more silverware and introducing cricket and Cregagh to the wider community.

The committee would like to place on record our gratitude to David for accepting the role and look forward to the coming season.

Denis McNamara

2011-01-28T13:48:00.002Z

The funeral for Denis McNamara will be held at Cregagh Methodist on Saturday 29th January 2011 at 9 am and then back to the club after the funeral.

Denis McNamara

2011-01-22T19:59:00.002Z

It is with great regret that we have to advise of the sudden death of Denis McNamara.

'Big Den' was a friend to everyone in the cricket section and his presence around the club will be greatly missed.

The officers and players of the cricket section would like to express their sincere condolences to the McNamara family at this very sad time.

Funeral details will follow.

Quiz and Under 11 Presentation night

2011-01-21T11:12:00.003Z

The Cricket section will be holding its annual quiz at the clubroom's on Friday 25th February 2011, starting at 7.30 for 8 with an entry fee of £5 per person, a supper will also be provided.

In addition to this there will be a presentation made to the victorious under 11 squad who retained the Beverland Plate in 2010.

This will be the start of our fund raising efforts for the year so please come along and show your support not only to the club but to the Under 11 Plate Champions

Indoor Nets

2011-01-07T13:43:00.003Z

Indoor nets this season will take place at the new facilities at Grosvenor Grammar School commencing on Friday 4th March with a start time of 7 pm and running through to 9 pm.

Anyone not aware of where the School is (can't think who we mean by this) I have enclosed a link to google maps below;

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=Grosvenor&sll=54.587458,-5.88099&sspn=0,0.05476&ie=UTF8&layer=c&cbll=54.582497,-5.878327&panoid=Ei1Fk9IIe4QZjBZTQ7NZXg&cbp=12,70.53,,0,5&rq=1&ev=zo&radius=1.32&split=1&hq=Grosvenor&hnear=&ll=54.582496,-5.878327&spn=0,0.003422&z=19

Junior Cup Draw

2011-01-06T21:36:00.004Z

The draw for the 2011 Junior Cup was made tonight. The 1sts will face Ballymena II at Eaton Park in May. A tough but winnable draw.

Our 2nd XI in the Intermediate cup will have home advantage in the first round as they face Millpark 2nd XI on 21st May. Good luck to William Ross the new 2nd XI skipper who will be in charge of his first cup match.

Finally, the 3rd XI under the captaincy of Brian Clarke once again received a bye in the first round and will host Cliftonville 3rd XI at Gibson Park on 4th June.

Good luck to all the teams.

2010 Tour

2010-12-13T16:46:00.002Z

Follow the link below for an official review of our 2010 tour which appeared on the NCU website.

http://www.northerncricketunion.org/database/2010/news/articles/article85.shtml

Under 13s

2010-11-26T09:55:00.002Z

Not only did Cregagh have the largest representation at the NCU Under 13 trials, they outshone their rivals both on and off the field as you can see from the above. Well done lads you are a credit to the club and yourselves, keep up the good work.

Pictured (L-R) Lewis Cunningham, Adam McCormick, Stuart Nelson, James Hume and Mark Johnston.

NCU Under 13 Trials

2010-11-24T11:08:00.002Z

The NCU Under 13 trials start today and representing Cregagh will be Adam McCormick, Stuart Nelson, Lewis Cunningham, James Hume and Mark Johnston.

Good luck lads from everyone at Cregagh Cricket Club.

AGM

2010-11-11T09:57:00.005Z

Following on from our AGM last night the following office bearers were agreed at the meeting;

Chairman: Philip Thompson

Vice Chairman: Graham Watt

Secretary: Philip Walker

Treasurer: Philip Walker

1st XI Captain: Peter Kerr

2nd XI Captain: William Ross

3rd XI Captain: Brian Clarke

In addition to this, Stuart Catterson will remain on the committee as an executive representative and grounds convener along with Ian Kerr. Thompson Dawson and Robert Moore have also been added to the committee.

As you will note Stuart Catterson after 5 years as Chairman has stood down. As was conveyed at the meeting last night by numerous members we would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to Stuart for the sheer amount of work that he put into the role and his leadership of the cricket section (a lot of which the normal membership see) throughout a period of expansion which the club had never experienced before with the youth section being the jewel in the crown. Along with the endless amount of hours and effort that he also put into the Centenary celebrations in 2006 the new chairman has serious shoes to fill.

The committee are delighted to announce that he is remaining on the committee and are delighted that Stuart will still be involved in the running of the section.

In addition to this we have a member who has now played in the last 6 decades at our club a feat which was acknowledged by the chairman and members within the club last night. None other than the Vet Ian Kerr, has played in the 60s, 70s, 80, 90, 00s, and the 10s, and is showing no signs of stopping, not only this but he has also filled every committee role possible. Well done Ian and keep an eye out for another article on this soon ;-)

Cregagh Cricket Club has been very lucky to have both these gentlemen as members and certainly we are stronger as a club.

AGM Reminder

2010-11-07T17:35:00.001Z

The 2010 AGM will take place this Wednesday 10th November starting at 7.30pm

Everyone is encouraged to attend.

Cricket Dinner

2010-10-24T22:09:00.011+01:00

Photos from our recent annual cricket dinner.

TD received his Tour Skipper shirt in recognition of his 100% unbeaten record in Europe
Bronagh accepts the gift from the club to the best WAGS in the league!

Simpy collecting his Captain's Pick award for the 2nd XI

Peter Kerr the 2nd XI Batsman of the year 2 years running and also a special award for his Century!

Mrs McCormick accepting a small gift from the players, a wee treat for being married to Davie Mac for so long ;-)

Tourist of the year!!!!

2nd XI Bowler of the year again!! Doesn't he look thrilled!

The one they all don't want, Alan Baker proud winner of the Golden Duck award!!

Bob Moore 1st XI Captains pick winner

Bob also got a special award for setting the record for the most ducks in a season last year, it had to be acknowledged

BC 3rd XI Skipper and never late!

Aaron Kerr, 1st Bowler of the year taking 20 wickets and brokeback mountain fan!

Adam Mac accpeting the award for his Father David as the leading 1st XI Batsman for the 2nd Year

2010 Cricket Club AGM

2010-10-02T11:39:00.004+01:00

The 2010 cricket club AGM will be held on Wednesday 10th November starting at 7.30pm

Anyone interested in standing for the captaincy of one of the teams, to take on one of the officer positions or to join the committee should let one of the current committee know before the AGM.

Annual Dinner reminder

2010-09-22T22:00:00.002+01:00

Just a reminder about the annual dinner on Friday 1st October.

If anyone has still to put their name down for it please let your captain know or contact Stuart Catterson on 07720414155 before next Monday.

The cost is £20 with a reduction to £15 for schoolboys and those not in full time employment.

Also please note that the start time is 7.00 for 7.30.

Bar Opening Change-Friday Afternoons

2010-09-15T21:35:00.002+01:00

Please note that the bar will be open on Friday afternoons from 4.00pm starting this Friday 17th September.

This is on a trial basis and will be reviewed after a number of weeks.

Also it will be open this Sunday for the 1sts last game and also the Liverpool v United game.

Annual Dinner Update

2010-09-05T20:58:00.002+01:00

The cost for the annual dinner on Friday 1/10/2010 will be £20 with a discount to £15 for anyone still at school or not in full time employment.

The ticket prices have not changed from last year and include a quality three course meal,awards distribution,disco and late bar.

Please note the earlier start time this year of 7.00 for 7.30.

Please let your team captain know if you are planning to attend or contact Stuart Catterson on 07720414155 as numbers need to be ascertained.

Under 11 Final Report

2010-08-26T09:40:00.002+01:00

After their 10 wicket victory over North Down in the semis, Cregagh’s U11s took the relatively short journey up to Shawsbridge for their Plate Final against local rivals CIYMS on Monday (23rd) night.

With the early season league meeting between the two Belfast clubs going to Cregagh by the significant 48 run margin, they were favourites going into the game but with the added pressure of defending champions on their shoulders all form was overlooked. Cregagh’s captain Stuart Nelson lost the toss and his side were put into bat and with the outfield soaking due to the downpours the ball would have to be hit with some force to reach the boundary. After their 93 opening partnership against North Down in the Semi Final, Lewis Cunningham and Stuart Nelson put on the pads and strode out to the middle.

The CI Robinson twins opened the bowling and Chris had got his side off to a great start after bowling out both Cunningham and the dangerman Nelson both for 5, 17-2. Nelson’s batting was now finished for the U11 season and with figures of 247 runs at an average of 62, the lad should hold his head very high. James Hume was in at No.3 for Cregagh partnered by Jack White at 4. The pair started to rebuild the innings and White scored the first 4 of the evening with a great pull shot off David Robinson, 28-2 after 6 overs.

Hume was an expert in the running and put pressure on the CI fielders with his quick singles and often turned singles into 2s with his speed. The pair put on a 57 partnership being at the crease together for 12 overs before Hume was given out L.B.W. off the bowling of Mitchell. This very well played 23 off 39 balls was the rock of Cregagh’s innings, 74-3 after 17 overs. Daniel Martin was in and out for a duck as Mitchell had picked up his second wicket, 82-4. Jack White was then out in the last over of the game as Roulston bowled him for 24. White’s knock was off 47 balls and was vital for the Cregagh cause. Staying at the crease for 15 overs in a final is fantastic evidence of the boy’s ability to handle pressure, even more so considering that this is his first year in the sport. Jack Mahon came in at 7 for Cregagh with 4 balls remaining. Mahon hit the last ball to the boundary which was only the third of the innings which gave the defending champions great impetus going into their fielding innings.

CI were set the target of 94 to win from 120 balls. The Ulster representative Nelson had the ball in his hand for the Mighty Ducks and the big crowd were in for a show. This boy does not need any loosners when it comes to bowling which was clear when his second ball Yorker cleaned up Milligan’s stumps and Cregagh were off and running, 1-1 after the first over. Chris Robinson was in for CI at No.3 and Nelson’s second over was impeccable. Robinson out for a duck after Nelson bowled him, then Peden out for a duck after Nelson bowled him too.

The young Cregagh starlet’s double wicket maiden had CI 4-3 after 3 overs and the men from Gibson Park were more than on top.Then in stepped Nelson’s partner in crime Lewis Cunningham who also bowled a magnificent wicket maiden as Beattie was bowled for 2 and CI’s top order had been dismissed all through great straight bowling, 4-4 after 4. Nelson then made it the third wicket maiden in succession as Roulston was bowled for a duck and Cregagh had one hand on the Plate, 5-5 from 5. Cunningham then went on to bowl a maiden in the 6th over to show the world class way of how to open the bowling, two faultless spells from the two openers as CI were 5-5 after 6 overs needing 89 to win from 84 balls. David Robinson and Mitchell were grafting CI’s innings into a reasonable score as spells from James Hume, Daniel Larmour, Cameron Lindsay and Lewis Moore were all solid but wicketless with the score 37-5 after 13 overs. After top scoring in the first innings with 24, Jack White was brought on to bowl and was immediately effective as he bowled Mitchell for 6, 38-6.

Lewis Cunningham bowled the 18th over and after it went for only two runs, the young opener finished with fantastic figures of 1-3 from his 4 overs. This was Cunningham’s 11th wicket of the season at the small average of 7.3 which capped a great year for the lad.With figures of 4-1 from his 3 overs, Nelson was brought back on in the 19th over and unsurprisingly bowled his third consecutive wicket maiden and he bowled out the other twin David Robinson for a very well played 24 which turned his sides innings from potentially 20 all out into a good score, 58-7 after 19 overs. This wicket maiden saw Nelson finish with Man of the Match figures of 5-1 from his four allotted overs which included three wicket maidens.

This spell took Nelson’s tally of wickets for the season to 19 with the minuscule, in fact laughable average of 2.84 to cap a remarkable year which saw the star for the future get picked for the special one of match for Ulster in which he took a wicket. He did his club proud and will no doubt play a key part for the seniors in the not too distant future.

The final over of the Final was to be bowled by Jack White with CI needing 36 to win from 6 balls. This however did not come to plan as White bowled a double wicket maiden meaning CI could only manage 58 in their chase as Cregagh defended their Plate by a handsome 35 runs.

UNDER 11s RETAIN THE PLATE

2010-08-24T14:38:00.006+01:00

Cregagh Under 11's retained the Beverland Plate last night beating CIYMS with a man of the match performance from the Skipper Stuart Nelson taking 5 wickets for 1 run!! Full report to follow;Jack White battingHume & Cunningham in discussionThe Plate comes home again!Man of the Match Stuart NelsonSkipper leads the wayChampions again

Nelson on the wicket trail

http://www.northerncricketunion.org/database/2010/news/articles/article73.shtml

U11 Plate Final-Monday 23/8/10

2010-08-22T20:17:00.001+01:00

The U11 plate final,against CIYMS, will be held on Monday 23rd August at Shaws Bridge starting at 5.15pm

Well done Skipper!

2010-08-16T14:19:00.004+01:00

The 2nd XI Skipper certainly led from the front yesterday as his team easily beat Ards 2nd XI by 101 runs.

Peter Kerr opened the batting as usual and at the end of the innings the Skipper was still at the crease scoring a wonderful century (102 to be exact off 107 balls). An outstanding achievement for an opening batsman to carry his bat throughout the innings and to receive a standing ovation from everyone in the ground.

The skipper certainly picked the right day as he was surrounded by his family and friends to congratulate him in his lifetime cricketing ambition. I believe he also enjoyed his ice bath soon after the game!!

Well done mate nobody deserves it as much as you do.

U11 Plate Semi Final

2010-08-13T22:28:00.002+01:00

The U11s will play their Plate semi final on Wednesday 18th August against North Down at Comber starting at 6.00pm..

All support is welcomed.

Reminder-Table Quiz Friday 20th August

2010-08-13T12:04:00.002+01:00

Just a reminder about the table quiz in the club next Friday night, 20th at 7.30 for 8.00pm

This is the last function/fund raiser ahead of the club dinner and will include special presentations to each member of the U11 Plate winning squad.

Cost is £5 ,with members of the youth section admitted free, and supper will be provided.

Youth Section Awards Night & Party

2010-08-07T11:16:00.002+01:00

The 2010 youth section awards night and party will take place,in the club,on Wednesday 25th August starting at 6.30pm.

Parents/relatives are most welcome to attend.

This will end the 2010 season and there will be no outdoor practice that night.

(Don't forget the table quiz on Friday 20th. 7.30pm for 8.00pm).

Cricket Club annual dinner

2010-08-03T19:53:00.003+01:00

Please note that the annual end of season dinner and awards night will take place on Friday 1st October in the clubhouse.

Further details will follow later

NCU U11 selection for Stuart Nelson

2010-08-02T21:11:00.002+01:00

It is with great pleasure that we announce that Stuart Nelson has been selected for the NCU Under 11 representative side to play the Northwest at Bready this Friday 6th August.

Stuart has been in great form with both bat and ball this season and richly deserves this recognition.

Congratulations and good luck Stuart from all at the club.

Also well done to James Hume who made the final trial but unfortunately was not available for the game on Friday.

Sunday Bar Opening

2010-07-29T20:32:00.002+01:00

Note that the club will be open on the following Sundays:

8th August: Community Shield Final
15th August: Arsenal v Liverpool.

Special Table Quiz Friday 20th August

2010-07-19T21:31:00.002+01:00

There will be a special table quiz on Friday 20th August at 7.30 for 8.00pm. The night will include individual awards to each member of the U11 Plate winning squad.

The cost is £5 per person with no charge for members of the youth section and will include supper.

Contact Stuart Catterson on 07720414155 with any enquiries.

Photos from the fun day

2010-07-12T12:14:00.007+01:00

Magic show (with a bunny and a dove!!), 6 bouncy castles, BBQ, 20/20 Cricket, Football match, golf challenge, face painting, sumo wrestling finished off by a boring world cup final, may I recommend FIFA get in touch with Rooster and maybe the world cup final would have been better!! What a great family day out.

Youth Section-July break

2010-07-11T12:57:00.002+01:00

Just a reminder to all members of the youth section that there will be no net practices on Wednesday 14th and Wednesday 21st July.

They will recommence on the 28th at 6.30.

Under 11's Quarter Final Showdown

2010-07-08T09:46:00.002+01:00

The under 11's will be at home to Lurgan on Friday night starting at 6 pm.

Why not come down and show your support for our young lads as they look to secure more silverware!!

No Country For Old Men

2010-07-06T14:02:00.003+01:00

Sunday brought a much earlier start as we were set to travel into Austria to play Vienna Cricket Club. We assembled around 10am for a body count, before the bus arrived at 10.30. Not surprisingly there were one or two injury concerns, not least of which of which were Scolari’s blistered feet, which had deteriorated considerably overnight.

We all knew it would take a big man to fill our spin king’s shoes, and an even bigger one to fill his shirt. Dr. Rooster was called in to affect some running repairs, and we were on the bus and ready to go.

Or were we? The body count was out by one, Beaker wasn’t there, and since he didn’t respond to room calls or door knocking, trepidation mounted. Perhaps body count wasn’t the best phrase to use in the circumstances, and we waited anxiously as again Dr. Rooster was employed, to use a pass key to enter Beaker’s room, clutching his full medical kit and a set of jump leads. However the snores that greeted Rooster’s entry signalled all was well, and 15 minutes later we were on the road again.

Just an hour and half later we arrived at Seebarn, the Vienna C.C. ground, which was both scenic and in immaculate condition. Mark Surridge the V.C.C. captain was kind enough to give us the choice of whether we wanted to bat or bowl first, and we had no hesitation in batting, in our 30 over game. We decided go for class from the off, so the Vet and Watty (t.w.b.) opened the batting. Whilst Dave Stan went off to open the local bar.

The German/Austrian new ball bowlers were quite a lively pairing and both batsmen were given an early opportunity to check out the makers name on the ball at close quarters, as it was fizzed through on the lively strip. However our gutsy openers weathered the storm brilliantly and set the foundation for our innings with a 50 run opening partnership. Unfortunately having seen the new ball bowlers off, the Austrian skipper having brought himself on as first change, struck to remove Watty in his 3rd over, and then again in his next over send Pete Kerr back. With young Simpson-Parker delivering some fine swing bowling at the other end, the run rate had all but stalled, when Davy Mac came to the crease.

Reports had varied as to whether Davy had an early night after drinking water, or a late night clubbing and drinking rocket fuel. So after two previous Sunday tour ducks was it about to be three? The answer was emphatically delivered after a couple of sighters, as Davy went on the rampage on his way to unbeaten 74, whilst at the other end the Vet notched up another tour 50, this time undefeated, except by his breathing difficulties. With 6 overs to go and no oxygen tent available we retired the Vet, to allow Mark, Aaron and Gibby to have cameo performances boosting our final total to a very competitive 185.

We then enjoyed a fine tea provided by our hosts, before resuscitating the Vet, jump starting Beaker, and removing all the remaining food from Scolari’s sight, to allow us to take the field again. Our opening bowlers, Mark and Aaron, then produced a tight opening spell, with an early wicket for Mark Thompson to keep Vienna well behind the run rate from the start. Davy Mac replaced Aaron to keep the run squeeze on. During this time the Austrian skipper, Mark Surridge, continued to bat sensibly to keep his team in the game, after coming at number 3.

However Mark Thompson bowling his 6 overs of magnificent swing bowling straight through, struck twice more in his 5th over to remove the other opening batsman and the number 4 batsman, whilst Davy Mac chipped in to remove Ninja, the number 5, to leave Vienna 48 for 4, after 15 overs. Cue the finisher, Phil Thompson, to trundle in on his blistered plates, to deliver the coup de grace, or so we thought, when, in an attempt to bring down the ever rising run rate, Mark Surridge plastered him to Davy Mac who was lounging at long off.

Unfortunately in the first of series incidents which were about to beset the McCormick family, the curse of the biscuit fingers struck for the first time, as Davy mangled a finger when he went to take the catch. By that time the skipper was hobbling about with a dodgy Achilles, the Vet was out grazing at fine leg, big Phil Scolari would never dance again and Beaker was waiting for his next tablet break. Cregagh were falling apart.

Next ball up though, the Austrian skipper tried to hoist Scolari again and son, Mark at long on, snapped up the chance. This well made 43 represented the end of the Austrian challenge. Phil also accounted for Wolfgang, the big German fast bowler, whilst Pete took 2 late wickets and Gibby, one, as the Austrians fell 60 runs short on the day. Mark Surridge was unsurprisingly awarded our Man of the Match award. We limped off tired, but happy. 2 countries, 2 days, 2 wins, job done.

We returned to Bratislava, and enjoyed a fine last meal in the Old Town square, admiring the architecture and basking in the pall of smoke emanating from the Vet’s big Havana cigar. It so difficult to find a good fire extinguisher in Bratislava.

A wonderful tour had come to a close, it only remains to thank our unsung heroes, specialist fielders; Greek Steve and Beaker, Chief Medical Officer; Rooster, Head of Security;The Bear and Nutritionist; Dave Stan.

Here’s hopefully to Croatia 2011!

Special club function-awards for the U11 plate winning squad

2010-07-04T21:18:00.004+01:00

A note for your diaries. The next club function will take place on Friday 20th August and it will include the presentation of individual awards to each of the U11 plate winning squad.

Further details will follow but please make a note to come along to what will be a special night in the club.

The Big Lebowski

2010-06-28T10:19:00.002+01:00

The scheduled late start on the Saturday gave the tired Cregagh boys a chance for some well earned rest and a leisurely breakfast before the bus to take us to play Vladimir Chudacik’s Slovakian team was due at 12.30.

The first big crisis then arose, as the curse of the dodgy flip flop had struck “The Dude”, our own Big Lebowski, Phil Thompson. Crippled by blisters but reluctant to suffer in silence, the self styled greatest Cregagh bowler ever, was clearly a doubt for the big game. Nevertheless the big man, after a consultation with our medical staff, decided to travel.

Despite this potentially serious setback, we set off on our journey to the home of Slovakian cricket in the village of Hajske, in good heart. The trip was largely uneventful, but took a little longer than anticipated, due to the frequent refuelling stops……for Dave Standley.

So to the village of Hajske, population 1135, home to a library, 2 pubs, and F.C. Hajske, where the game was to be played. We arrived in time to see the plastic flicx pitch being unrolled and nailed to the grass. After warm greetings were exchanged in temperatures rising to the high 30’s, the teams were announced. With big Phil passing a late fitness test, feeling considerably better after consuming several filled rolls and a vat of crisps on the bus, the Cregagh team named was as expected, and we played our joker, in the form of Greek Steve. We then presented our Cregagh plaque and flag, as a momento of our visit.

The tour skipper then won the toss. After consultation with the senior professionals, inserted the opposition curious to find out how the wicket would play, in our 20/20 challenge. Slow and low was the answer, as Mark Thompson and Davy Mac opened the bowling, and very soon the Slovaks were 4 for 1, as Davy removed one of the openers. In the stifling heat, in order to conserve the bowlers, 2 over spells were the order of the day. 1st change bowler, Aaron Kerr then struck first ball to make it 13 for 2, but with Gibby bowling his unorthodox range at the other end, the Slovak run rate was steady, if unspectacular. With 4 bowlers now employed and Pete Kerr next in line to bowl, the noise level from fine leg, was cranked up another notch, as Phil Thompson, the human vuvuzela, (definition: persistant, loud and very aggravating), inquired incessantly when he would be possibly be employed.
Next was the answer, as the skipper, in face of the constant barracking, put aside any concerns for the big man’s feet, in favour of some personal relief from earache. As Pete and Phil both picked up further wickets the score had reached 42 for 4. Opener Chris Moorhouse, who had remained unmoved as his partners departed, was joined by Vladimir the Slovak skipper. This was to prove the best Slovak partnership of the match, and after a laboured 2 over spell from the tour skipper, which he somehow survived, it was time to turn to the openers again. As is frequently the case on tour, Mark Thompson stepped up to the plate and removed the opener, Moorhouse, for a well made 37. Davy Mac then struck twice to remove two more batsmen, including skipper Vlad, for a fine 24. That left us chasing a target of 95 to win.

Special mention must go to our stand-in wicket keeper Watty, who performed heroically, to only concede 3 byes on a difficult wicket. No mention of Aaron’s comedy run out attempt and Greek Steve’s dropped catch, though.

For our run chase, we started with Gibby and the Vet, and things went largely according to plan, until Gibby was bowled unfortunately off his legs, with the introduction of Vladimir into the attack with 30 on the board. The Vet was then out, caught in the same over for 19, and Cregagh momentarily wobbled. However with Pete and Davy Mac batting and the extras mounting as the bowlers were rotated, there were no further alarms, as we eased home with 5 overs to spare. Pete finished with 22 and Davy with 18.

Following the game the Slovaks took us to one of the local pubs, where we were treated to local delicacies, of beer and spicy sausage, which lived long in the memory, but travelled quickly through the system. Chris Moorhouse was awarded our Man of the Match trophy, and his son a coveted Cregagh jersey, and it was time to bid farewell to our Slovakian hosts. The first leg of our quest had been successfully negotiated.

We returned to Bratislava buoyed by further European success, but hopefully more importantly having introduced the Cregagh brand to another part of Europe and made some new friends. We were back in time to watch the England game in a restaurant with no food, in a thunderstorm.
The big questions still remained though. How would Phil’s feet stand up, or more importantly would he (hopefully) be hoarse in the morning, could Davy Mac avoid a third successive tour duck, could Greek Steve afford another night on the town, and what would Dave Stan have for breakfast next morning?

Another day, another country, as we were set for Austria the next day.

Club open Sunday 27/6/10

2010-06-25T19:28:00.002+01:00

Please note that the club is open all day on Sunday 27/6 for the England V Germany World Cup game plus the evening game Argentina v Mexico

The Long Good Friday!!

2010-06-22T15:38:00.001+01:00

The Long Good Friday, paradoxically began late on the Thursday evening, as the intrepid Cregagh tour party began to gather from around 10pm at Tour Headquarters in Gibson Park Avenue, to await our transport to Dublin. A few beverages were consumed to steady the frayed nerves of our less keen aviators, as cases were weighed and weight redistributed accordingly to comply with Ryanair baggage restrictions.

By 1.45am the bus had arrived, and we were finally on our way. Those who opted to travel without jackets or jumpers, quickly discovered sleep would not be an option, as our driver was obviously of Eskimo extraction.

Nevertheless we arrived on schedule at Dublin Airport, for the 4am Big Mac breakfast, (as opposed to the Davy Mac breakfast, as the bar wasn’t open yet), a mere 6 hours into the longest day.

Our Ryanair flight arrived on time in Bratislava, and having met up with the Giblar, who flew in from Stansted to join the group, by 11.30am we were at our hotel, and not for the first time that weekend a quick turn around was called for. Just time for a quick change then, the Vet swapped his post-war demob suit, for a tee shirt, first worn for Queen’s coronation (and Victoria was highly amused), whilst Malibu man went for the Muscle Beach look, and Scolari favoured the orthopaedic flip flops, that we were to hear so much more of later. So noon saw us on the sun drenched streets of the Slovakian capital, watching the temperatures rise to the mid-30’s. By lunchtime we had caught up with the vanguard of our party, led by the Wattster (forever to be known as t.w.b.), who had been unable to wait on the main group and hit the streets early.

Acclimatisation was clearly the name of the game now, and after a leisurely lunch, we sat down in the Old Town to talk tactics, and all sorts of other stuff, now 16 hours into the Long Good Friday. Another hour in and we were ordering helicopters with increasing regularity. Davy Mac’s glasses were permanently down and Cregagh’s best ever bowler was in full flow, but was the skipper listening? Only tomorrow would tell…

By 6 or was it 9 o’clock, the tour skipper had heard enough. The time for talking was over, it was time to go back the hotel and finalise tomorrow’s team, whilst still fresh, before taking an early night. So certainly for the skipper and the t.w.b. that was the end of the longest day, however others opted for a tea-time nap before venturing out again for an evening constitutional. Ah, if only Phil had changed his footwear.

As we moved from Saturday night to Sunday morning the Slovak challenge awaited us the next day.

Under 11 Cup Quarter Final Date

2010-06-21T21:46:00.003+01:00

The Under 11 Quoile Cup quarter final against Lurgan will take place at Cregagh on Monday 28th June.Start time 6.00pm

Please make every effort to come along and support our young players in this important game.

What a week for the club !!!

2010-06-20T22:18:00.003+01:00

What a week it has just been for the club with the youth sections and senior sections both enjoying three victories out of three.

It all started on Tuesday evening when the U13s defeated Instonians by 6 wickets at Gibson Park in the League and was followed the next night by what was probably the performance of the season (and many seasons). In the Quoile Cup our U11s went to the Lawn and thumped Waringstown by 114 runs scoring a magnificent 180 (off 20 overs) then dismissing the 'Town for 66: Stuart Nelson 78 and 3 for 8, James Hume 48 and 3-13. The final youth game on Friday night at home saw the U15s defeat Woodvale by 10 wickets (the second consecutive season that we have won by 10 wickets).

Not to be outdone the senior side of the club then put together three straight victories. On Saturday the 1sts scored 237 at home in defeating Templepatrick by 20 runs and followed this up on the Sunday, also at Gibson Park, by again scoring 200+ in winning against Dungannon by 70 runs. Not be to be outdone the 2nds won a league nail-biter at Templepatrick by 1 wicket.

A magnificent effort by all the captains, coaches and players. The U11s are now into the quarter final of the Quoile Cup where they will play Lurgan at Gibson Park on a date to be confirmed. The date will be posted on this site. Please make every effort to come along and support the future of the club.

Good luck also to the 2nds who face Saintfield 2nds in the Intermediate Cup Quarter Final next Saturday.

PS: The consecutive wins increases to 8 if you include the two 'European' away wins last weekend.

Under 13's off to a flyer!

2010-06-18T11:58:00.001+01:00

Cregagh under 13's got their league campaign off to a winning start on Tuesday night with an emphatic win over Instonians.

Skipper Daryl Larmour lost the toss for the first time this season and the CCC lads were asked to field first. Opening bowlers Stuart Nelson and Callum Byers kept it nice and tight in the opening 6 overs with the 'Inst' batsmen finding runs hard to come by. Regular 1st & 2nd change bowlers Adam McCormick and Mark Johnston also kept it tight before Adam made the break through with three quick wickets in his 4 overs.

All rounder James Hume then entered the fray with his 'Golden Arm' and demolished the tail end. As is now the norm with the Cregagh lads, if a batsman hits the ball in the air he should start walking. Every catch was held and every single was a potential run out. The Instonians innings was finished in the 20th over. 63 all out. J Hume 4 for 4 A McCormick 3 for 10, C Byers 2 for 14.

Cregagh's answer to Lumb and Kieswetter. James Hume and Mark Johnston then set about the 63 total with their usual form, and after a succession of powerful fours and well ran singles the pair had us almost home before Hume was out going for another big dig. A couple of silly wickets fell before Tom Campbell and Adam McCormick saw us home in the 12th over.

Another great performance lads with new boys Callum Byers and Daniel Mayhew settling in very well. Great catches from Stuart, Tom & Adam. Keep up the hard work lads and you will get all you deserve, and more. Next game against CSNI 25th June.

Voluntary Cricket Section Levy

2010-06-13T20:22:00.002+01:00

The £10 senior cricket section levy will be running again this season.

It is a voluntary payment (in addition to the Cregagh Sports Club sub) and the committee would encourage all members to consider giving. Payment can be made to any of the captains, Philip Walker or Stuart Catterson.

All monies received go directly to the section to cover expenses.

Slovakia here we come!!

2010-06-08T16:46:00.003+01:00

Following on from our successful tours to Monaco and Hungary we have our sets sight on Slovakia and Austria as we plan to play two matches in consecutive days across two Countries!

As with previous tours we have looked to go to another far flung destination where cricket is in its infancy and where often the locals are extremely keen to play against touring teams. As with previous trips we will bring along some gifts to donate to the ‘cricket effort’ as a thank you to our hosts.

Our trip begins at 1.30am on Friday morning as we meet at Gibson Park to hop onto our bus to Dublin to catch our early morning flight to Bratislava. We have arranged to play against a Slovakian select team on the Saturday and then on Sunday we catch the train to Vienna to play the Vienna Cricket Club who only in 1998 hosted the MCC.

Once again the Cregagh club would like to place on record our gratitude to the Northern Cricket Union for granting our request for a free fixture weekend. For further information along with match reports go to;

http://www.cregaghcricketclub.co.uk/

http://www.kriket.sk/

http://www.viennacricketclub.at/

Over to you TD!!

Subscriptions

2010-05-30T21:20:00.002+01:00

The 2010 subscriptions are now due and can be paid to Richard Walker (club Treasurer) Philip Walker, Stuart Catterson or any of the captains.

The amounts due are detailed on this home page. They remain one of the lowest in the NCU.

Please note that with the new dual pricing system being introduced from 1/6/10 it is in each members interest to pay their subs following which they will receive their new swipe card which will give them members discounts at the bar.

Remember, the club relies on this income to provide the facilities that we all use each week.