The 2010 renewal of The Ring Cup continues to throw up intriguing clashes and one such score paired James Devlin against the former All-Ireland Novice Champion Niall Smith. It really was a case of youth and against experience in this Grade 1 contest at the Navan Road. Perfect bowling conditions produced almost the perfect performance from young Devlin as he quickly raced into an early advantage at the Ring Gates. However Smith, who has been dogged with injury since his All-Ireland triumph in 2008, certainly was not going to be intimidated by his younger rivals speed, agility and accuracy. Indeed it was Smith who raced back into the lead at the "Bull Track" when lining one from before "Cross's Lane". However, from here the young Armagh Student played four devastating bowls to almost reach Loughrans. Unfortunately, the party was almost spoiled with a misplaced effort at the line but with Smith not taking advantage, the score was effectively over. Young James' win here certainly lays down a marker in the Grade 1 and he appears to be the man to beat in the Grade!
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