New England Bowls by RICHIE CLUTTERBUCK
THE final of the district fours at Guyra on Sunday was a real cliff-hanger with the City team of Greg Harrison, Gavin Latham, Dale Smith and Graham Bourke tied at 14-all on the last end against Ex-Services Justin Bullen, Glen Graham, Mick Pennell and Paul Bullen.
The City four managed to score two shots on this end to take the title 16-14 from the Ex-Services four. It was second time lucky for the City team as they were runners-up last year except for Dale Smith who ironically took the place of Glen Graham who transferred from City to Services this year. In earlier matches, Greg’s four defeated last year’s winners Phil Kliendienst, Chris Kliendienst, Braden Sole and Steven Sole 19-16. Braden took the place of Col Stanley who has had knee trouble. On their way to the final, Justin’s four had wins over Dan Kennedy’s Guyra team 29-10 and Todd Fuller 20-14. In his semi-final Greg won on an extra end 23-21 against Peter Doyle’s City for first round matches resulted in wins for Peter Doyle 15-14 over Dean Farrell and Dan Kennedy’s defeated Steve Goodwin’s Walcha team 21-17. It was interesting to see youngster Justin skipping his team. He handled the role very well in all games and his future is assured. The winners will now go to the zone finals later in the year.
Pairs hold fast
WHILE at Guyra we witnessed a close game in their minor pairs with Murray Bourke and Greg Burgess holding on to defeat a fast finish from Cameron Peardon and Robert Walls to win 17-13. Guyra selectors have named their pennant teams for the 2014 season and they appear to be well balanced teams with the experience of skips Dan Kennedy, Phil Kliendienst and Chris Kliendienst to lead the way. Dave Wilcox, Shane Beechey and John McIlwain will share the third positions and all have plenty of experience. Guyra have the flyer out for their major/minor pair’s event on 10-11 May. I noticed that several teams have already entered, so if you would like to play for the $1450 prize money on offer long as they are graded major and minor. Contact details are admin@guyrabowlingclub.com
Diary dates
Dates from the district calendar. 15 February Zone 3 meeting, 22-23 February District triples at Glen Innes.
