It was a tough weekend for Donemana who lost narrowly by 10 runs at Brigade, and then bowed out of the Irish Senior Cup at Carrickfergus.

“I felt we put in a decent enough performance at Brigade,” said Dwayne McGerrigle. “Our spinners were getting nothing out of the wicket so I felt 240 was gettable. We batted well in parts but kept losing wickets at vital times and in fairness Brigade bowled well.

“Sunday was always going to be tough with us having a few players missing but we gave it a good go and didn’t throw in the towel until it was inevitable.

Donemana pulled off something of a coup with a short-term deal to sign Sri Lankan Geeth Kumara and McGerrigle appreciates just what a quality acquisition he is.

“He looks like a real player both with bat and ball. I’m looking forward to seeing him when there’s a bit in the wicket for slow bowlers. His shot selection was immaculate, as was the pace and timing of his innings. He was always aware of the scoreboard and knew when to change gears. Unfortunately we couldn’t really back him up but we’re definitely going to try and put that right in the next few matches.”

McGerrigle was hampered by a hamstring injury that required a runner at Beechgrove, and also meant he missed the Carrick trip. He hopes to be fit for the crucial upcoming clashes.

“The leg is still a bit sore but it isn’t pulled so with a bit of rest and treatment I’ll be grand. Too many birthdays is the biggest issue!”