Pembroke ended a 23 year spell as they beat Clontarf to capture the League Cup at Sydney Parade.

The home side impressed in a potentially tricky chase of 249, winning by five wickets with seven balls to spare.

They were given an excellent platform with a second wicket stand of 87 between Diarmaid Tucker (51) and JJ Garth (44).

Skipper Theo Lawson (42) and Poonish Mehta (45) kept the momentum going with an impressive fourth wicket partnership of 70 in 15 overs to take their side to the brink.

Former Irish U19 international Robin Kelly’s contribution shouldn’t be underestimated either as he cleared the ropes twice in his unbeaten 33 from just 20 balls, when the pressure was on.

Clontarf’s innings saw Ruan Cronje top scoring with 65, while opener Aaron McGeehan hit a solid 41.

Andrew Poynter’s quickfire 39 looked as if it would take Clontarf to 275 and beyond, but his dismissal – one of four lbw verdicts – saw the Castle Avenue side lose their way somewhat, and it took an unbeaten 48 from Robert Forrest to salvage a competitive total.

Both sides should be congratulated for a fine display despite the absences of so many regulars.

Both will surely be in the pack chasing more trophies later in the year.