Six key figures in Menai Bridge and Bangor derby clash

The two title hopefuls will look to lay down an early marker to the crown with regional bragging rights, with Bridge wrestling the championship from Bangor last summer.

Sports reporter Dean Jones picks out six key figures that will have a huge say for their respective sides this weekend.

Dion Holden (Menai Bridge):

The Bridge skipper has long been regarded as one of the best all-rounders anywhere in the region, and he wasted no time in making an impact on the current campaign with a sensational 114 in their opening day victory over Gresford.

Holden is a former Glamorgan Academy prospect who has emerged as the key man within the Bridge set-up, with his contributions with the ball also playing a leading role in their title triumph last term.

Owen Reilly (Bangor):

A Welsh youth international, Reilly was a notable winter signing from Pwllheli that took 3-12 in their opening day success.

His presence within the squad is going to be a massive asset going forward, with the all-rounder highly thought of within the domestic game and seems free of injury this summer after significant work on his conditioning during the off-season.

Jack Gower (Menai Bridge):

The classy batsman might have made only 25 in his opening knock of the season, but his overall quality cannot be underestimated and he has the potential to produce a game-winning knock at every opportunity.

He has an impressive shot selection to call upon provided he gets through the initial stages of the new ball as an opener, and removing Gower at the earliest opportunity will be essential for the away side if they want to get anything from the game.

Robbie Marshall (Bangor):

The wicketkeeper-batsman has amassed an outstanding 8,473 runs during a sensational domestic career to date, and he is sure to have a big role to play during the day both at the crease and in the field.

He is a vastly experienced figure who will not be fazed by what looks to be a formidable Bridge bowling attack, and Marshall’s scoring from the middle order is going to be a major factor in the outcome of the first derby of the season.

Liam Bibby (Menai Bridge):

The pacey bowler made an imposing start to the campaign with three wickets, and he will be tasked with putting the new ball to good use and removing the top order of Bangor’s outstanding batting attack.

The seamer might have conditions in his favour if the weather reports are correct, which would be another massive boost to his side’s chances.

Gareth Edwards (Bangor):

The Bangor skipper will see this game as one that his side can make a huge statement in, and his bowling figures and decision-making will be crucial to any success that comes their way.

With more than 400 wickets over a glittering 17-year career with the club, Edwards has seen and done it all which makes him the perfect choice to lead Bangor’s title tilt this season.