Leinster Lightning secured the bonus point win that keeps alive their hopes of the interpro double as they chased 129 to beat the NW Warriors by 6 wickets at Sydney Parade.

Stephen Doheny’s even-time 30 had the Warriors at a high point of 60 for 2 inside the powerplay, but in yet another disappointing batting effort that has been the hallmark of their campaign, they slumped to 129 all out.

Scott Macbeth (23) was the only other contributor of note, with Pembroke leg-spinner Gavin Hoey talking four wickets on his home patch, and Sydney Parade team-mate Harry Tector picking up three, as well as two for Fionn Hand including top-scorer Doheny.

Tim Tector hit three boundaries in his 12, sharing an opening stand of 37 with Andy Balbirnie before being trapped lbw to give David O’Sullivan his first interprovincial wicket.

Balbirnie hit 10 fours and a six in his unbeaten 57, adding 81 in 13 overs for the second wicket with Balbriggan left-hander Chris de Freitas, whose 36-ball 44 included 5 fours and a maximum.

De Freitas perished trying to reach his half century with a six, while Harry Tector was run out in the same over having been sent back by Balbirnie.

Lorcan Tucker also fell to Scott Macbeth as he tried to finish the match in style.

The six-wicket margin was flattering to the Warriors who have been totally outplayed this week, and Boyd Rankin’s side will be looking to salvage a bit of pride from what has been a poor season for the North West, finishing bottom of the 50 overs Cup, and third in the T20 campaign.

For Lightning though, they have given themselves a chance at overhauling the Knights at the top of the table with this bonus point win.

It may not be enough as Munster Reds first have the chance to go top if they can record a bonus point win at Bready next week.

Whatever happens, the trophy won’t be decided until the final match at OakHill in two weeks’ time.