The Bangor Barracudas kicked off their 2026 season in serious style on Sunday at North Down Cricket Club, storming to a dominant 23–0 win over Comber Cosmos.
Playing as the away side, the Cudas wasted no time getting the bats going, putting four runs on the board in the first inning. Matthew Turpitt launched a huge home run to set the tone early, giving the Barracudas the perfect start.
Not content with one, Turpitt went again in the second inning, smashing his second home run of the game as the Barracudas piled on another seven runs to take firm control of the contest.
On the defensive side, the Cudas were locked in from the beginning. Will Gilpin started strongly on the mound, striking out three in the opening inning, while sharp fielding across the diamond kept Cosmos from building any momentum.
There were tidy defensive plays throughout the game, including a smooth routine between Matty Connor and Charlene McCartney, two further outs from Charlene later in the game, and a calm fly catch from Adam Norman.
The highlights kept coming in the final inning, as Matt Steenwyk and Ali Steenwyk both smashed their first-ever home runs — a brilliant milestone moment for both players.
Matt Steenwyk then capped off a fantastic all-round performance on the mound, picking up a strikeout before linking up with Johnny Campbell for the final routine play to seal the shutout.
It was a massive team performance from the Barracudas, combining explosive batting, disciplined defence and strong pitching to secure the perfect start to the season.
Male MVP was awarded to Matt Steenwyk, with Female MVP going to Ali Steenwyk after both delivered standout performances.
Final score: Comber Cosmos 0–23 Bangor Barracudas.
What a way to start 2026. Come on the Cudas!
