29-05-2025
Why the Senior Cup is the one trophy Donemana's Billy Dougherty is so desperate to win
They lost the Final last year to Newbuildings, but are the favourites to lift the famous trophy for the 24th time. Wicket-keeper Billy Dougherty was part of the last Donemana team to win the silverware in 2020 and, along with younger siblings DJ and Levi, has been a major part of their success this season.
'It couldn't have gone any better for us so far, as we are unbeaten in the League and still in all the Cups,' said Dougherty.
"We've been playing good, attacking cricket, and the results have been great and hopefully will continue.
'We always look forward to the Cup and it's certainly the one trophy I want to get every year. I'm sure it won't be an easy game but if we play to our capability, we will hopefully get through to the next round.'
Donemana make the short journey to Ardmore, who currently lead the Premiership, but their recent form has seen confidence dip, losing last week against Strabane and Ballyspallen.
It would take something special for the Bleachgreen side to pull off a shock.
Holders Newbuildings have a tricky looking encounter away at Strabane, and it could well depend on the X-factor provided by West Indian international Peat Salmon that decides the outcome between two evenly matched teams.
There's not much to choose either between Brigade and Bready, who meet at Beechgrove.
Scott Macbeth has been a revelation since his switch between the clubs, and the Donegal youngster might not be too far from an international call-up if he continues his form of the past few years. Former team-mate Gavin Roulston is another young player destined for higher honours and the game could well depend on who comes out top of their own personal battle.
Eglinton opener Liam Doherty is another exciting player who topped 1,000 runs last season.
The hard-hitting batsman could well hold the key to improving the village side's fortunes against a Coleraine outfit who are playing with great confidence under new captain Rory Knox.
The Bannsiders look to have a good blend of youth and experience in their ranks and when overseas professional Louren Steenkamp settles, they will be an even tougher proposition in the top flight.
