Fox Lodge are right in the mix again this season and who would back against the Ballymagorry side gaining more silverware?

Their morale boosting win at table toppers Donemana has further augmented their confidence, with opener Travis Nicholl playing a major role in that success.

He hit 7 sixes in a whirlwind 47 to lay a perfect platform for the win. He has been a revelation in recent years having come to the senior ranks relatively late.

“I was born near Killyclooney’s field and would have gone down there but never played competitively. When we moved to Artigarvan I started with their Under 16s and have been there ever since,” said Nicholl.

“I actually stopped playing when I was 18, only featuring occasionally, and it’s only been the last few seasons that I’ve really got back into it. After Covid I realized just how much I missed the game and opted to commit more to it.”

His aggressive style has paid off, given a free rein by the skipper.

“Aaron just sends me in to do my own thing and take full advantage of the power-play. My role is simply to get as many runs as possible and get us off to a fast start. I’ve never been a guy who worries too much about stats, it’s just a case of doing the best job for the team.”

That was evident on Saturday, and the result means Fox Lodge are right in the title hunt.

“Donemana doesn't hold the same fear factor as before so we travelled there with great confidence anyway. We are playing well, have built up momentum and have great depth and quality in our line-up. That Senior Cup win last year gave everyone such a lift, and we have continued that form into this season. We have beaten Brigade and Donemana in the league now, so we have shown we are more than capable of defeating anyone on our day.”

Fox Lodge got a taste of success last year, and the club is looking to defend their trophy as they prepare for a home semi-final with Glendermott on Saturday.

“That win was amazing and the buzz and lift it gave to the whole club was incredible. We have spoken about it only being the starting point and don’t want to rest on our laurels. We want to go one better this year too and there will be a lot of clubs who feel it could be their year. You only have to look at the table and see Killyclooney on top. Timmy Dougherty has done a great job there and Blayde Capell has revolutionized them. 

"There’s no reason why we can’t collect more silverware. Our aim is to go one step better and win the double this year.”