North County proved far too strong for Clontarf in a contest reduced to 42 overs at Balrothery.

Ireland Under 19 international Adam Coughlan set the tone for the game by taking early wickets to claim 3 for 15, while Richie Lawrence (3-35) and Ian Bertram (2-11) kept the pressure on the Castle Avenue side.

Only Australian professional Mitchell Watterson with 55 offered any real resistance to the rampant North County bowlers, as Clontarf stuttered to 141-9.

That was never going to seriously challenge the County line-up, and thus it proved despite an early breakthrough for Joe Morrissey.

Tomas Sheil proved resolute in compiling a match winning 68 not out, while Adam Coughlan completed a fine personal game by making 34.

North County romped to the seven wicket win to open their account for the season, while Clontarf are stuck at the bottom after two defeats.