Finals Day at Southsea Waverley

The finals of the P&D competitions were all played on Saturday. Most matches were close and exciting, supported by a largish and good-humoured crowd, enjoying the fine weather and bacon rolls. First game to finish was the under 25’s in which Josh Thompson of Lee-on-the-Solent regained a title he’d held before in his match against Calum Page of Leigh Park winning 21-12. Next game to finish was another team to regain a title. Two-time winners Mary and Phil Pinder eventually pulled clear for a victory against Bryan Cherry and Sue Brightman (subbing for Alex Tymon)21-7. Third game home was the big one – the P&D singles final in which Steve Smith beat Bob Scottow 21 – 14 in a repeat of the 2019 final. The fourth game to finish was the mixed triples. Tina Chambers, Phil Drewball and Gary Starks put up fierce resistance before succumbing to Adrian Snook, Andy and Tracy Hibberd 26-19. Finishing at the same time was the men’s pairs which to be honest was the best game of bowls I’ve ever seen within the P&D. Eventually the yellow peril from Purbrook Heath (Nathan Hanley and Lewis Voysey) just kept their noses in front against Jamie Cooke and Steve Stockley to win an epic 17-14. The victory was alive until the final bowl.

The afternoon session commenced at 13.00. Unfortunately, Waverley couldn’t field a side in the fours so Leigh Park (Andy Scott, Calum Page, Ben Cope and Carter Blandford) were called winners. The mixed fours featured a match between Purbrook Heath (Dave Jelley/Maud Clarke/Doreen Richards/Tony Wall) and Purbrook Heath/Milton Park Ladies combination. The latter (Wendy Brown, Sue Brightman, Nathan Hanley and Lewis Voysey) prevailed 18-10 in a closely fought game. A couple of chairs had been provided for the over 60’s final but neither Martin Ellis nor Steve Feilder needed a rest. A quality game finished with Martin grinding out a 21-16 victory. Next to finish was the Ivan Robb (for club secretaries and treasurers). I believe that Paul Hunt was our first first-time winner of the day when he ran out a 21-19 against Mandy Wilde in a pulsating clash in which either player could have won. And finally, the men’s triples title was won 22-13 by the Priory threesome of Roly Bloy, Steve Smith and Adrian Snook against the semi-professional rink of Bryan Cherry, Tony Hall and Dave Brown.

As is the normal outcome, and to silence the critics; the venue was excellent, parking and viewing also not a problem and I’d like to finish by thanking Waverley for their hospitality.