Nail-biting derby day victory for Ferguslie

Ferguslie Cricket Club clinched the derby-day bragging rights with a thrilling 12-run victory over Paisley neighbours Kelburne.

- BILL ELLIOT

Both sides had several chances to win Saturday's Western Premiership One showdown but it was Ferguslie who prevailed at Whitehaugh.

Ferguslie batted first and were in serious trouble early as they were reduced to 24/3 in only the sixth over.

However, a partnership of 92 between professional Mo Mayet and Adam Tahir helped repair that damage.

Adam provided critical support to the South African through a difficult period when another wicket loss might easily have led to a collapse.

Indeed, his 21 provided the free-scoring professional Mayet with the steady backup that was required to retrieve a potentially fatal situation.

When Adam was dismissed at 116/4, Mayet continued to send the Kelburne bowlers to all parts of the ground - hitting seven sixes and eight fours - reaching a sublime century in only the 22nd over.

When he was out with 108 to his name, the score had risen to 158/5.

However, with the exception of James McKechnie - who made an excellent 20 on debut - none of the remaining batters stayed very long, and the innings finished at 191 all out.