BLI CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010

The President of Crumlin John C. Lee welcomed players officials and spectators to Crumlin and handed the green over to the President of the BLI Eddie Jackson who opened the the Championships at 6.00pm by accepting the green and raising the BLI Flag. Congratulations to the Crumlin Club for the presentation of their premises and green which were in immaculate condition.

St. James's Gate are favorites to pick up quite a few trophies this week having 12 teams in the 19 Semi-Finals.

Wednesday 28th July 2010

Railway Union Cup

The first match took place at 3.00pm between Conor Middleton from ICICYMA Cork and Andrew O'Keefe St. James's Gate. I could not attend this match, but I heard that Conor played exceptionally well, and ran out a winner 21 - 16.

The second match was between last years runner up Shane Leonard St. James's Gate and Mark O'Looney Aer Lingus.

The report on this match and the rest of the triples matches will be posted on Thursday afternoon.

Tuesday 27th July 2010

Tyler Cup

The first match was between Mike Brophy & Aiden Kelly of Greystones and Ultan Daly & Nigel Day of Railway Union. Greystones got off the mark first with a two with Railway equaling that at the next end. At 5 ends the score was 5- 4 to Railway. Over the next few ends shots were exchanged constantly and at 5 ends the score was 5 - 4 to Railway, only 8 shots scored by both teams over the next 5 with Railway creeping ahead to 11 - 6. 11th end very close head with Greystones getting the shot. Next 4 ends Greystones get closer. 13 - 9. Railway then start to take a commanding leading 18 - 12 at 19 ends. Railway get a 2 on the 20th end and lead 20-12. Greystones decide they are not going to get 8 shots on the last end and shake hands.

Second semi was between Bernard Carroll & Richard Newman from the Gate and Declan Byrne & Pat McGonigle of Aer Lingus. The first 2 ends a shot each Aer Lingus ahead 5 - 4 at 5 ends. A very close match this with both teams playing well. 10 ends the gate were 9 - 8 ahead. Over the next 3 ends Aer Lingus came back at them to lead 15 - 11 at 15 ends. The Gate caught up 16 - 14 at 17 ends. 16 all at18 ends. A/L are holding shot, Richard gets it clean out gate back to lead 17 - 16. Bernard was short with his first 3 bowls,  but takes out an A/L bowl with his fourth. A/L end up with 1 17 all. 20th end Aer Lingus lie 1 Richard takes jack back to the ditch 18 - 17 to the gate. Last end head changing constantly, Aer Lingus get the shot on a measure. 18 all EXTRA END Another close head A/L lie then the Gate, eventually after the last bowl is played the Umpire is called to determine shot. Gate win! 19-18

Boyd Cup

Vincent Bolger & Eddie Coogan from Ierne came up against John Leonard and Stephen Millane from St. James's Gate. Ierne scored 1 on the first end then the Gate got going and scored two 3s to lead 6- 1. Next end Eddie is down 4 and knocks up a Gate bowl 5 to the Gate followed by a 2 at the next end. 13 - 1 to the gate at 5 ends. At 10 ends the Gate had moved ahead to 17 - 5. Ierne got the shot on the 12th end 20 - 6. 13th end the gate lie 2 Stephen comes up on the backhand and moves the jack, but still lie 2, such is the luck going with the Gate as well of course good bowling.22 - 6. 14th end Ierne lie 2 Stephen fires with his first 3 bowls and misses but connects with his fourth and burns the end! the next end Ierne lie 2 Eddie draws a third Steve fires and knocks in another Ierne bowl making 4. Steve fires again but drops 3 22 - 9. at 15th end Gate pick up a 2 24 - 9. 16th end Ierne lying 3 again, Steve draws second, Eddie makes no change, Steve moves the jack back - Ierne back to lying three. Eddie draws one close but does not increase the count. Steve plays a few feet of running and wicks off 4 bowls to lie shot. Eddie fires and burns the end. Ierne get the shot on the replayed end, and on the 17th end the Gate pick up 4. 26 - 10 and Ierne shake hands.

The second Semi was between Paul Whitney & Andrew O'Keefe St. James's Gate and Donie Garvey & Derek McCarthy CYM. CYM start off with a shot on the first. gate pick up 3 on the second. 3 - 1 . Gate are lying and Derek plays a yard on shot with his last 2 bowls but misses the head and Andrew draws in 2 more 8 - 1 to the gate. they pick up another at the next end followed by a single to CYM on the 5th 9 - 2 to the Gate at 5 ends. Over the next 5 ends CYM caught up and went ahead 11 - 10 at 10 ends Shot each next 2 ends 12 - 11 to CYM.  At 15 ends the score was 16 - 13 to CYM. at the 16th end with three against Andrew draws the shot 16-14. over the next four end the Gate started to score again and had picked up 6 shots to CYM's 3 and were going into the last end 1 up 20 - 19. Paul draws 2 close bowls, Donie follows drawing close but still 2 the the Gate. Derek fires with his first hits the head, Jack goes into the ditch and Derek's bowl lies just past  a back Gate bowl to lie shot about 2 yards from the ditch., but it is not a toucher. Andrew fires to try and push Derek's bowl into the ditch and misses, Andrew fires again - misses. Derek tries to draw a near bowl but there is a slight fall off into the ditch and once the bowl hits the slope it ends up in the ditch. Andrew fires with his next 2 bowls with his last one narrowly missing the bowl. Derek tries to draw a second but is just short. 20 all EXTRA END. Paul draws two great bowls 7 inches from the jack. Donie is near, By the time the skips go up to bowl the Gate still lie 2. Andrew draws up and brings the jack back, but goes through the head about 6 inches. This has now made the head easier for Derek. He draws the shot to loud applause around the green just in front of the jack. Andrew has 2 bowls left to try and push Derek's bowl on to the jack which would push it to his back bowl. His first attempt is unusually wide, as he has been taking a very good line all evening. It must be catching as Derek does exactly the same. Andrew's last bowl, looks to be dead on line, everyone is holding their breath, it gets closer starts to turn, and is heading straight for Derek's bowl, but just scrapes past it. 21 20 to CYM

Monday 26th July 2010

Bank of Ireland under 18 Competition

John Lynch from Meath came up against the experienced John Byrne form Crumlin, In this match John Byrne was always in command of the match scoring shots early on and going into an early lead. John Lynch fought back bravely, but could not match the experience of Byrne who won comfortably in the end 21 - 11 Byrne will now meet Justin Roux, from St. James Gate in the Final

NASSAU CUP

Maurice McCarthy from Rosslare, winner of the Junior Pairs last year, was playing against N. O'Meara of Aer Lingus. This was a much closer match with the lead changing constantly. Maurice eventually winning 21 - 18

The second match was between D. Richards of CYM and another Aer Lingus player J. Conway. with Richards eventually winning the match 21 - 10

MARPER CUP

Three Gate Players and one Crumlin player fought out these Semi-Finals. The first match was between Richard Leonard, St. James's Gate and Ian D'Arcy form Crumlin. Richard started well picking up three 2s  to lead 6 - nil the next two ends Ian got two 3s. 6 - 6. To be honest the first half of the match, the players struggled with the pace of the green, and the jack was being delivered to different lengths each end which did not help. Over the next few ends Ian  had a narrow lead. The score reached 15 - 15, and by this time the heads were much closer and both players drawing very well. Richard picked up a three 18 - 15. Next end Richard is lying shot, Ian fires with his last bowl, moves the jack and is now lying three, with his nearest bowl about two feet from the jack. Richard draws the shot to an off centre jack. 19 - 15. The next end Ian draws the shot, Richard is 2 feet short, Ian draws another, about a foot from the jack. Richard's draws around the Ian's bowl to lie shot. They now have their last bowls to play - Ian fires, hits the head, jack goes off to the left - Richard still lies shot, Richard asks the Marker, Brian Morton, who has second shot?. They each have a bowl about four to five feet from the jack, and Brian does not commit himself, but says it looks like two but the bowls are too far away to be certain as it is a long measure. Richard goes back to the mat to bowl his last bowl, and draws the shot to within a foot of the jack to win the game 21 - 15.

The second match was between the two Gate players, Gerry Rutledge and John Leonard. John is hoping to emulate Ian Gillen, who won all four senior titles in 2002 in Aer Lingus. This is the first of John's four Semi-Finals. But first he has to overcome an in form Gerry. It did not look well for John in the beginning with Gerry out bowling John and going into an early lead 14 - 2. Gradually John battled back but Gerry kept him at bay. At each end Gerry's first bowl was always on the jack or within two feet. Gerry had now a fairly comfortable lead 18 - 14 ahead. The next end he scored a 2 now 20 - 14. it looked like it was all over. Gerry lies shot two feet in front of the jack, John's first bowl is a bit heavy and he is three feet through.  Gerry is short to the right of the jack. John draws the shot around Gerry's bowl. Gerry is too wide and through the head. John draws around Gerry's front bowl again but is much tighter, and the bowl swings over to the right. John could be lying two but it is a measure. The back hand is not on for Gerry as he could possibly slice the jack to give John three, so he plays the forehand - he is too tight - goes across the head and catches the jack on the opposite side and slices it over to the right. John is now holding three and draws around Gerry's bowl to pick up 4. Game on! 20 - 18. Gerry has first bowl, but it is two and a half feet short. John draws around it to lie on the jack. Gerry draws a bowl to the left of his first but about a foot short. John draws another. Gerry's next bowl rest on his second. John draws a bowl about two feet through the head. Gerry has a long look at the head, Does he put one behind to prevent John picking up a three for the match, or does he try to draw through the channel that has been created to spilt John's two bowls. He takes the latter option, and plays a yard on shot, goes into the head, and when the dust has settled, John lies the three shots he needs to win the match without having to play his last bowl. 21 - 20. So now we have a fascinating prospect of a father & son competing for the Marper Cup.

 OFFICERS ELECTED AT 2009 AGM                                    

This year there is a brand new look to the officers of the BLI. The only Officer remaining from last year is the Competition Secretary, Ricky Byrne.

NEW FACES

Eddie Jackson takes over from Richard Neilson as President. Eddie is one of the few people in the history of the BLI to hold the office of president twice. He last held the post in 1996.

John O'Sullivan from Dunlaoghaire becomes the Vice President. John has been an active member of his club for a number of years. He is also on the relocation committee for the new premises for Dun Laoghaire B.C.

Ronan Collins Ronan is the new Honorary Secretary he has been the Assistant Honorary Secretary of the BLI since 2004, he takes over from Con O'Driscoll who has retired due to ill health. We would like to pass our best wishes to Con, and hopes he regains full fitness shortly. Ronan has been actively involved in administration at his club Kenilworth, as Honorary Secretary and Competition Secretary for the past number of years, and his experience will no doubt benefit the BLI.

Jim Bradshaw Jim takes over from Ronan as Assistant Honorary Secretary. Jim has been involved in bowls for over 25 years, and has always had something to say about how the BLI should be run. His experience will be invaluable to the BLI, as he has been involved in administration in such prestigious clubs as Clontarf, St. James's Gate, Leinster and presently with Aer Lingus.

John J. Murphy Takes over from David Kavanagh as Honorary League Secretary. John has also been involved in bowls for over 25 years. He is a Senior Coach and Umpire and has umpired at International level. This year he has been appointed Vice Chairman of the Irish Bowls Umpires Association, and he is also on the management committee. He has been involved in the last few years in running the prestigious Leinster-Crumlin Tournament. He will be a worthy successor to Dave.

Brian C. Morton  Brian comes back into the fold as Honorary Treasurer. He has been involved in the BLI since 1993, and has held the offices of Competition Secretary, Honorary Secretary and President. He resigned from the BLI in 2006, but has been working in the background for the last three years, and been involved in the amalgamation process and is the present IBA Anti-Doping Officer. He has been on the IBA Council since 1998. he is also heavily involved in his club Kenilworth and is the current Company Secretary.

Derek Kells. Derek joins us from Railway Union as PRO. This is a position that has been vacant for a number of years, and with Derek's experience in Railway and at National level this is indeed a welcome addition to the BLI. He is currently the Club Captain and the Bowling representative on the Executive Committee, he is on the Grounds committee and last year he was club captain of the hockey section. He is manager of the Railway Union Senior Soccer team, and secretary to the Leinster Athletic Union League. With his vast knowledge of a number of sports, and his ability at administration, we look forward to his new role as PRO.

 BLI CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009


The championships were opened by the President Richard Nielson at 6.00pm in Bray Bowling Club on Monday 27th July. Also present was the Chairman of Bray County Council, who welcomed everybody and congratulated the BLI on winning the Senior Inter-Association Series for the first time.

                                                                         MONDAY 27TH JULY

MARPER CUP
Richard Darcy (CYM) played Brian Walsh (Bray) This was tight match with the early exchanges being fairly even each player matching scores. On a few occasions Brian had the misfortune to knock up Richard's bowl when Brian was lying shot to give the shot away. The standard of bowls was very good, although the Rink was playing fairly narrow on all four hands. scores were matched at 11 all, when Brian pulled into the lead 15 - 12. Richard came back over the next few ends. Some very close bowls by both players but Richard went into the lead. At 18 - 16 and Richard lying two shots and Brian had third shot less than 8 inches from the jack. The head looked to be in his favour as he had a bowl just behind, but his last bowl just missed the head and sailed passed. Richard had last bowl to win the match but it pulled up short. He had to be very careful as if he was too heavy he could have given the shot away. The next end Brian was short with his first and Richard was long. Richard landed one on the jack, and Brian could not dislodge it. Game to Richard 21 - 16.

The second match was between that veteran campaigner Paul Smyth (Leinster) and the home player Tom Deegan. Tom was on a high having just shared the 1,000 Euro prize the previous day at the Kenilworth Mixed Rinks Tournament. The match started with Paul going into the lead, but Tom came back at him. Some close heads and good bowling between the two, and the score was 15 - 12 to Paul. twice, when Tom was lying three Paul was able to come in and get  the shot. With the score at 20 - 17 to Paul and lying the shot, with a bowl about two and half feet from the jack, Tom had the chance to come in for shot with his last bowl, Unfortunately, as he said himself after the match he held onto his bowl and landed short. Game to Paul 21 - 17

NASSAU CUP

Fred Dignam from Meath got a walk over due to Alan Burke from D.L.G.C. unable to attend due him going on holiday. The other match was between Ricky Byrne (Meath) and Martin Murray of Bray. Ricky went into an early lead, and looked to be walking away with the match, but Martin had other ideas. This was the longest match of the evening, with all the other matches being completed by 8.00pm. Martin pulled level at 14 all and with some good drawing bowls eventually winning 21 - 14

RAILWAY UNION CUP

This Under 25 match pitched Mark O'Looney from Meath against Paul Smyth's youngest son Thomas Smyth (Leinster) Mark went into an early lead, and kept ahead through the whole match. Thomas was forced to drive quite a few times but could not really make any headway. Mark eventually ran out the winner 21 - 13

                                                               TUESDAY 28TH JULY

 
On Monday we had about 10 minutes rain, today was the complete opposite with only about 5 minutes rain free. In spite of the weather there was a good turn out of spectators, who were treated to some very good matches.

BOYD CUP

Tommy Doyle & Roy Savage (Aer Lingus) played Mick Keegan & John O'Sullivan (Blackrock) Aer Lingus got off to the best start with Roy completely out bowling his opposite lead John, First end a single to Aer Lingus followed by a three at the next end 4 - 0.  another single to A/L next end Roy lies shot, with John having three around the jack. Mick fires with his last - misses another single. next end the rock come into the game and score a three followed by a two 6 - 5 to A/L Next end Roy is sticking them on the jack possibly lying 3 or 4, John fires hits the head and cuts it down to 1. Tommy moves one of his bowls up and A/L have a bundle around the jack with only 1 Rock bowl in the head he fires to try and get the Rock bowl out and score a possible 5 but misses. Mick then plays a yard on to get into the head, gets a wick and trails the jack to lie shot, he immediately turns to Tommy and apologises. The rock now are ahead for the first time in the match 7 - 6. Over the next few ends the game is fairly even. Roy then lies three John too heavy. With 10 woods bowled A/L lie 5 - Mick draws second shot. Roy lies two at the next end and the head does not change. We have now reached to 14th end and Rock are ahead 12 - 10. A/L lying two on the 15th end. but Rock score a single. Next end Roy lies two, John gets second shot, A/L have 4 around the jack, Mick's last bowl comes in for shot. 14 - 11 to Rock. A single next end to Rock 15 - 11 at 17 ends. The 18th end saw Rock lying four after the leads had bowled, Tommy draws two shots, but Mick comes in and converts from two down to two up. 17 - 11 A/L score a two on the 20th end and now need a 4 to tie the match. Aer Lingus start well and are lying a few, the head is hit and the jack goes out to the side with the Rock lying to the right. Over on the left hand side the Rock have at least three bowls, and Tommy tries with his three bowls left to trail the jack over to them but was too narrow on each occasion. final score 18 - 13 to Blackrock.

The second match was between Tony Murphy and Wally Doyle of Bray & Aiden Hoey and Dominic Lloyd of St. James's Gate. First end Tony has two on the jack, Aiden comes in for shot, then Wally draws shot by bringing the jack back a few feet, Dominic fires - jack in the ditch - 2 the Gate. If this is the way the match is going to go we are in for a cracker.3 to the Gate next end leading 5 - 0. The match continues with some very good heads constantly changing. 10 - 6 to Gate. Wally draws  to lie 3. Dominic fires and just goes through the head now it is 10 - 9 to the Gate. over the next few ends The Gate score 10 shots to 5 in reply and at 14 ends the score is 20 - 14 to the Gate. 15th end Tony lies shot, Aiden knocks Tony's bowl back, Tony goes through the head with his next, Aiden rests Tony's bowl to lie, Tony brings the jack back to two of his own bowls  - now lying three. there is a gap right down the middle to those three bowls and Dominic fires with his first three, - two going to the left and one to the right, meanwhile Wally has put a bowl round the back, and also clipped one of his own bowls behind the jack, making the head smaller. Dominic plays his last bowl with a yard on, but just goes past the lying shots. 3 to Bray 20 - 17. 2 singles to bray brings the match to 20 - 19 at 17ends.Gate lying three Wally comes in for second, Dominic tries to edge out the Bray bowl to make a count but just misses 21 - 19 at 18ends. the 19th end saw the shot change with nearly every bowl, with the Gate picking up 3, 24 - 19 2 ends to go. Aiden's first wood clips the jack and goes into the ditch, Tony takes advantage and is lying 2, Dominic comes in for second. 24 - 20 playing the last end. Aiden comes in for shot, another bowl is knocked up and the Gate lie 2. With 4 bowls to go it is a measure for shot but Bray have all the back woods. The head does not change and Wally has last bowl. He fires and hits the jack cleanly, and both bowl and jack are heading for the ditch, Wally throws his arms up in triumph, only to suddenly see the jack clip a back bowl and go off the side of the rink - burnt end. The final end, bray appear to be lying but it is difficult to see who has the shot the head is so close, it looks like at least three to Bray, Wally plays a yard on which surprises some of the spectators, as it looks like there may be 4 to Bray, Dominic plays just short, Wally's last bowl is a bit heavy, and when the head is declared it is one to the Gate. So that was why Wally played a bit heavy there was a Gate bowl in among all the Bray bowls. 25 - 20 to the Gate

TYLER CUP

Derek Kells & Fiacra Tierney (Railway Union) played Aiden Kelly & Mike Brophy (Greystones) First end Mike fires with his last bowl to take out a RU bowl but it is a single to RU. Second end with Fiacra drawing shot and Derek another. 3 - 0 to RU. the heads go in favour of RU on the 4th end Mike fires and goes with the jack. Greystones on the board 7 - 1 to RU 5th end Greystones lie 2 mike goes a little heavy and knocks up one of his own bowls 7 - 4 to Grey. next 2 ends 1 to RU and 4 to Grey 8 all at 8 ends. over the next few ends RU pulled away and were 17 - 11 at 15 ends, Greystones scored a single followed by a 2 17 - 14 at 17 ends. Next end Grey are lying 3 but Derek comes in for shot. At the 20th end RU were 20 - 15 ahead. they scored a 3 to win the match 23 - 15.

The second match was between Harry Marshall & Maurice McCarthy (Rosslare) and Brendan Carroll & Tommy Byrne (St. James's Gate) This is the first time Rosslare have players in the Semi-Finals. Rosslare score a 4 in the first end then a 2 6 - 0 to Rosslare. Both Harry and Maurice are playing very well but the heads are very close. At 5 ends it is 8 - 2 to Rosslare. two 2s  to Rosslare and then the Gate get a single on the 8th end 12 - 3, over the next 8 ends Rosslare pick up 10 shot to 3 and are leading 22 - 6 at 16 ends - Game over everyone said, but no - that was the last time Rosslare would score in the match. the Gate came back brilliantly. a 5 on the 17th end  brings them to 22 - 11 19th end gate are lying 5 or 6 but Maurice cuts it down to three 22 - 14 a 2 on the 20th brings it to 22 -16 6 down playing the last, Unfortunately they could only pick up 2 and Rosslare are into their first final winning 22 - 18, but a great come back by the Gate pair.

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP (UNDER 18)

Adam Kells (Railway Union) played Andrew O'Keefe (Leinster). Adam started off the better with 2 in the first 3 in the second followed by a single, 4th end Adam is lying 2 Andrew draws the shot 6 inches behind the jack , but Adam draws a closer shot 7 - 0 to Adam. Adam continues to pick up shots with a single followed by a 2 and is now 10 - 0 ahead. Andrew picks up a 3 followed by a 2 then 2 singles 10 - 7. Singles exchanged over the next 2 ends. Adam lying the shot, Andrew trails the jack and stays with it 11 - 9. the next end was a very loose end the first of the match with Adam picking up a three with not a bowl within a yard of the jack. 14 - 9. Single to Adam in the next end. Andrew gets a2 after he trails the jack into the ditch 15 - 13. Adam picks up a single and Andrew replies with a pair 16 - 15. The next end proved to be the turning pint, Andrew picks up 4 with Adams nearest bowl 2 yards away. Andrew into the lead for the first time. 16 - 19 A single to Andrew 16 - 20. Adam sticks one on the jack Andrew fires and misses 17 - 20. This time Adam keeps the jack and is lying 2 Andrew draws the shot with his third, Adam puts a yard on and trails the jack to lie 1 Andrew fires but misses 18 -20. Adam lies 2 the next end, Andrew draws second, Adam can't improve and Andrew draws the shot 18 - 21 to Andrew. A great match and a credit to two young bowlers.

                                                              WEDNESDAY 29TH JULY

If we thought Tuesday's rain was bad, it was only a light shower compared to today. The reports on some of today's matches are not as detailed as I would like due to having to shelter from the rain and therefore not able to get a good view of all the matches.

BAIRD CUP

Arthur McMullen, Andrew O'Keefe, Pat Whelan (Leinster) played Steve Millane, John and Richard Leonard (St. James's Gate) 2 to Leinster first end followed by a single to Gate Next end Gate lying with 3 Leinster bowls in front of which one is tipped up for shot. 3 - 1 to Leinster. next end Gate lie 1 John trails the jack to lie 3 Andrew gets the shot bowl out and lies 1. Leinster draw 2 more and now lie 3. Richard tries to take shot wood out but only succeeds in moving it a little. Richard's last bowl picks up the jack but it moves sideways he save 2 5 - 1 to Leinster at 5 ends. Arthur lies 3 with Steve' 1 through the head and the other 2 short. Leinster pick up 4 at 7 ends the score is 12 - 1 to Leinster, who are completely outbowling the Gate at this time. Leinster lying shot again Richard trails the jack to lie 3 Pat takes out 1 Richard trails the jack again and picks up three. 12 - 4 to Leinster. 1 to Gate on the ninth end. the 10th end the head is very close, nobody can see who is lying and no one is firing, Richard's last bowl is a perfect weight and falls in. Measure! Andrew starts to take out the bowls 1, 2, 3, 4, umpire is called in to measure 5th shot result 5 to Gate now the score is 12 - 10 at 10 ends and we have a match on. Steve at last is starting to bowl. gate lie 3 but Leinster convert to 2 up 14 - 10. the heads are now very close, but the rain is absolutely bucketing down. Gate pick up 3 after 13 ends the score is all square at 14 all. Leinster have scored 3 shots to the Gate's 13 in the last 6 ends. at 15 ends it is 15 - 16 to the Gate. the next end Richard draws into a very tight head and picks up 4 15 - 20 to the Gate with 2 ends to go 17th end Leinster are lying 2 but Richard knocks up one of his own bowls with controlled weight and gets the shot. 15 - 21 playing the last. The Gate pick up 2 and win the match 23 - 15.

Tony Murphy, Tom Murphy, Wally Doyle (Bray) played Ronan Collins Peter Osman, John Kavanagh (Kenilworth) After 2 ends Bray are up 3 - 1 Kenilworth pick up a 4, 3 - 5 to KW. Ronan sticks one on the jack that stays there in spite of Wally touching it 3 - 6 to KW. at 5 ends it was 4 - 6 to KW. bray score 2 singles that Wally picks up a 4 10 - 6 to Bray at 8 ends. KW pick up a single. Next end is very close, this rink appears to have the closest heads of all the rinks tonight. 2 to Bray as Wally decides it was too risky to play his last bowl Bray lead 12 - 7. Tony Murphy is playing excellent leading bowls, where as Ronan is now under pressure each end. a single followed by 2 to Bray and a single to KW brings the score to 15 - 8 1 to KW 15 - 9. at 14 ends. Bray are lying and John has to fire with his three bowls to try and cut it down to no avail 18 - 9 a single to KW 18 - 10. 17th end Bray are lying 4 KW firing and only succeed in moving the head in favour of Bray, John's last wood sails past the head and Bray pick up 5. 23 - 10 final score, But it was actually a closer game that the final score sugests.

BLI CUP

Frank Dignam, Michael Fitzsimmons, Mark O'Looney (Meath) played Fiacra Tierney, Adam Kells, Derek Kells(Railway Union). at 5 ends the score was 5 -2 to Meath then at 10 ends 8 - 12 to RU and at 15 ends 13 - 15 to RU. Playing the last end with the score at 14 - 16 to RU with RU lying at leat 2 shots a yard in front of the Jack. Mark's first bowl is a foot behind the jack  Derek is too long, Mark draws another, Derek is short, Mark draws a third about 2 feet past the jack and to the side. Derek has last bowl and appears to have the right weight this time, but he is just a fraction wide. 3 to Meath who win 17 - 16

Gerry Gibson, Quentin Teggin, John Lee (Bank of Ireland) played John Dixon, Joe Fitzsimmons, John Faulkner (Meath) 7 - 3 to Bank at 5 ends 10 all at 10 ends 13 - 14 to Meath at 15 ends Bank get the shot at the 16th end 16 all Meath get the shot at the 17th end to be  1 ahead. Last end Gerry and Quentin between them have three stitched on the jack with one bowl just out to the side jack high (or jack level if you like) John  F. has 2 attempts to hit the head and misses, where John L. is just trying to cover the back. With his last bowl John F. has perfect connection and burns the end. They decide to play back down again. this time it is a complete reversal of the situation with Meath lying three just in an arc beside the jack. John is near with his first but just is too narrow, his second is perfect, and glides off the shot bowl to lie shot in front of the jack. John F. with his last bowl clips the shot bowl out to lie shot. Now John L. has to try and play the same shot as before, but unfortunately he is too narrow. 16 - 14 to Meath.

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP (UNDER 18)

John Byrne (Crumlin) played Justin Roux (St. James's Gate). Justin got off to a good start leading 6 - 1 John picked up an easy 4 on the next end 6- 5. John is again lying 4 and Justin cuts it down to 3. 6 -8 to John. a 2 to John followed by a single to Justin bring s the 7 - 10, suddenly John stretches in to a convincing lead and leads 19 - 8, he picks up another single and now only needs 1 shot. Justin lies 2 John puts t 3 past the jack and his last is short 20 -10 John lies game next end, but Justin trails the jack to lie 2 and then draws another 20 - 13. John sticks 1 on the jack then draws another, Justin is too short with his first 3 John puts one behind. Justin fires and misses, 21 - 13 to John.

Let us hope the weather is fine for tomorrow, if the forecast is anything to go by it should be. there is some interesting matches in prospect, with the Cork team competing against Bray and the Smyth family with Andrew O'Keefe playing against Pat Coffey of the Gate in the Sixsmith.

                                                                         THURSDAY 30TH JULY

Today we were honoured by the presence of Jim Moore, President of The Irish Bowling Association, who had travelled down from the City of Derry to attend our championships. He was presented to the players, officials and spectators by our President Richard Neilson.  Jim gave a short speech before the matches commenced, saying he was delighted to be in Dublin. and wished all the players well in their matches.

Due to the unavailability of one of the umpires, I ended up marking the Railway Union Cup. So I was unable to keep an eye on the other matches taking place. so will just give a brief synopsis.

RAILWAY UNION CUP

John Byrne & Robert Maher both from Crumlin played this match. John had already qualified for the final of the under 18, so this match was eagerly awaited. John started off the better scoring a pair and a single. Robert came back the next 2 ends with 2 singles 3 - 2 to John, a single from John followed by a 2 from Robert brought the scores level the standard of bowling was very good  a 2 and a single put John back in the lead 7 - 4. The next end Robert scored a 3 scores level again. 2 singles to John 9 - 7, Was Robert ever going to get ahead. The following end, with Robert lying 3 John comes in for 2nd, Robert takes him out and scores a 4. At last Robert is ahead 9 - 11 a 3 to Robert on the next end consolidates his lead 9 - 14. 2 singles each  on the next 4 ends made the score 11 - 16 to Robert. They had now played 17 ends. John scores a 2 13 - 16 to Robert, with both bowlers playing some wonderful shots this match could go on for some time yet. I spoke too soon, a 2 and a single to Robert puts him in the driving seat 19 - 13. Robert only needed one more end to score the 2 he needed to progress to the final against Mark O'Looney from Meath. 13 - 21. John still has one more chance in the under 18 Final against Andrew O'Keefe of Leinster.

SIXSMITH CUP

The first match was between St. James's Gate Pat Coffee, Joe Dunne, David Edwards and Gerry Rutledge, and Leinster, Andrew O'Keefe, Tommy, Nicky, & Paul Smyth. the match started with Leinster surging into an early lead with a 2 , a 4 and a single to lead 0 - 7. The Gate replied with 2 singles and a 3  5 - 7 after 6 ends on the 7th end Leinster scored a 2 5 - 9 to Leinster. Then the Gate started to pull away. With cries of "Come on the Gate" Leinster scored 2 on the 11th end which was their only shots until the 16th end, bring their score to 12, but the Gate had scored 16 shots 21 - 12 after 16 ends. But Leinster did not throw in the towel and over the next  5 ends they picked up  3 pairs and 2 singles the match was now delicately poised at 21 - 19 going into the last end. Leinster where lying 2 in a very tight head, Gerry with his third bowl drew second shot, Paul still had 2 bowls to play, his first bowl was just a bit too narrow, Gerry's last bowl did not change anything, Now all Paul had to do was to play a few feet on, to push Leinster's bowl onto Gerry's and lie 3 for the game - Sounds very easy, but under this pressure it is a different game, Paul releases his bowl, the ground is silent, it looks right on course, but just falls short of the target, A huge sigh of relief from the Gate boys and they win out in the end 21 - 20.

The second match saw history being created, when the team from the Cork Club I.C.I.C.Y.M.A., took on the home club Bray This is the first time that Cork have reached the Semi- finals of a senior BLI Competition. Cork' s team was made up of father and son Con & Connor Middleton, Keith Shellard (Son of the legendary Ronnie) and skipped by Frank Corkery, Bray's team was lead by Past President Roddy O'Leary, Steve Morris, John Dundon (the green keeper) and our current President Richard Nielson. Bray got off to the mark first scoring 2 singles, this was followed by three singles to Cork. A single to Bray on the 6th end brought the score to 3 all. This looked like it was going to be a tight match. Cork scored 3 on the next end followed by a single and a pair 9 - 3 to Cork. Bray replied with a single on the 10th end 9 - 4 to Cork. Unfortunately Bray did not score another shot. It was not that they were playing badly, they just were out bowled, Connor Middleton was playing very well and Keith Shellard was the man of the match in my opinion, but Frank did his bit as well and was able to turn heads around when it was against him. The final score after 19 ends was 22 - 4. Congratulations to Cork for reaching the final on their first attempt.

MECREDY CUP

The first semi was between Railway Union, A. Kells, F. Tierney, T. Kennelly (Sub) and Derek Kells and the home team Bray, B. Dodd, E. Kelly, J. O'Neill and Finbar O'Sullivan. this match turned out to be very one-sided RU scored 2 in the first end followed by a single to Bray. The next 2 ends RU scored 2 singles and after 7 ends had stormed into  16 - 1 lead Bray scored a single on the 8th end and a 2 on the 10th by this time the score was 19 - 4 in favour of RU. Over the next 3 ends RU scored 2 singles and a 6. 3 to bray on the 14th end followed by a f 4 to RU 15 ends the score was now 31 - 7 Bray scored 2 more singles and in reply RU a 4 and a single. 19 ends they shook hands 36 - 9 to RU.

The second match was between the 2 Meath teams, M. Lynch, M. Fitzsimmons, B. O'Keefe & Ricky Byrne and J. Dixon, J. Faulkner Joe Fitzsimons & Mark O'Looney (Playing in his third Semi) This match was a much tighter match than the other Mecredy. Each team matching each other shot for shot. At 9 ends the score was 8 all the next 4 ends saw Ricky score 6 shots with 4 in reply by Mark. 15 ends 14 - 12Mark followed this up with another 2 14 all. 17th end Ricky scored 1 a 2 which was the last shot they would score with Mark  scoring 2 singles a 3 and a single to win the match 20 - 16

                                                                                      FINALS

                                                                             FRIDAY 31st JULY

 For the first time only 2 matches would be played tonight due to doubling up this means that tomorrow we will see 8 finals 3 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon Tonight we will see the Sixsmith & BLI Cup

SIXSMITH CUP FINAL

St James's Gate v Cork: - Gate Pat Coffee, Joe Dunne, David Edwards and Gerry Rutledge, and Cork Con & Connor Middleton, Keith Shellard and Frank Corkery. the first 2 ends Gate scored a 2 and a 4, in reply Cork score 1 3  6 - 2 to the Gate. 1 to Gate next end. Connor lies 1 and draws another, Keith puts 1 behind Davy draws shot beside the jack Frank trails the jack to lie 3 Gerry fires and goes right through the middle of the head with out touching anything. 7 - 5 to Gate a t 5ends.Gate lie t 3 Connor draws 2nd Joe takes jack back, Keith draws shot, Davy  draws near, Frank puts in a blocker Gerry hits up a bowl, umpire called to measure - shot to Gate. 8 - 5 to Gate. Gate score 2 singles and a 3 13 - 5 to Gate. 9th end Connor trails jack Keith * Frank each draw another. Gerry fires and misses 13 - 8 2 shots to Cork next end sees them move to within 3 shots of the Gate 13 - 8. Are the Gate going to get stuck on the "graveyard"? It is raining quite heavy now. Joe sticks 2 on the jack. With Thursday being the only day without rain the green has got quite heavy and you can see the players have to really push their bowls. Keith comes up heavy and gets the jack back to lie. Davy is 2 yards short, Gerry draws the sot with his first and repeats it with his second 2 more to the Gate. Next end Frank has to fire and gets the shot but Gerry converts it 1 Frank fires and gets second shot 16 - 12 at 12 ends. At 15 ends the Gate have moved out to 19 - 11 ahead. A 3 to the Gate at the next end. 17th End the Gate lying Frank brings the jack back. Now there are 4 Cork bowls just short of the jack but the Gate still lie. The head is too dangerous for the Gate So Gerry declares the head. 23 - 11 on the 18th end Gate score another 24 - 11 and Cork decide to concede. A very brace effort by the Cork team, but the better team won on the night.

BLI CUP FINAL

Two Meath teams compete in this final Frank Dignam, Michael Fitzsimmons, Mark O'Looney against John Dixon, Joe Fitzsimmons, John Faulkner. 3 to mark on the 1st end followed by a single to John, then a single to Mark 4 - 1. another 3 to Mark and at 5 ends the score was 8 - 2 to Mark. The heads are quite loose in this match is probably down to the incessant rain we have had all evening. Mark's team continue to score and go ahead 13 - 2. Next end is a much better head and john gets the shot at 10 ends the score is 13 - 4 to Mark. the next few end are quite even with mark scoring 7 shots to John's 6 20 - 10 at 15 ends. With only three ends to go it is an uphill battle for John's team, Mark scores a single and a 2 in reply John could only manage a single Final score 23 - 11 to Mark.

                                                                      SATURDAY 1st AUGUST

At last we have some sunshine. it is the start of 8 finals today, and the weather forecast is not good, but so far you would think the forecasters have got it wrong, let's hope this stays like this for the rest of the day.

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP (UNDER 18) FINAL

Andrew O'Keefe (Leinster) and John Byrne (Crumlin) fought this battle, and what a battle it turned out to be. these two started off very well. exchanging shots, excellent weight, nearly every end ends in a measure. we will move on to the middle of the match with John leading 10 -11 Andrew having won the last end - he gives the jack away - John scores 2  10 - 13 John lies 3 next end Andrew is through the head, John draws a 4th Andrew's fourth bowl just passes the jack and it is 4 to John 10 - 17 Andrew picks up an easy 3 next end 13 - 17. Andrew gives the jack away again John draws 2 Andrew draws shot, John with his last bowl draws a better shot jack high. Andrew fires knocks John's bowl out but moves the jack sideways still 1 to John 13 - 18. next end John picks up 2 13 - 20. Andrew scores a single next end 14 - 20 and decides to keep the jack this time He bowls a long jack. he is 4 feet from the ditch with his first bowl,  John draws 18" from the jack Andrew draws shot 6" past the jack, John's last bowl clips Andrew's bowl but does not move it far enough. 1 to Andrew. 15 - 20. Andrew gives jack away, after 6 bowls have been bowled it looks like Andrew is holding. John's last bowl is definitely the shot now. Andrew draws to the jack and it is very close. It is a measure for shot. John gets it 15 - 21 to John. these two young bowlers are a credit to the game, and John is a very worthy winner who I am sure will do very well up in the National Championships in the City of Derry on the 11th & 12th September.

NASSAU CUP FINAL

Martin Murray (Bray) played Frank Dignam (Meath) Frank pulled into an early lead leading 9 - 1. Martin picks up a single at the next 2 ends to bring the score to 9 - 3. Martin lies the shot next end draws a 2nd, Frank's last bowl comes in for 2nd. 9 - 4 next end a wick from Frank's second bowl comes in for shot and remains there. 10 - 4. a 2 followed by a 3 to Frank puts him 15 - 4 ahead.. Frank picks up 2 the next end 17 - 4. Frank's first bowl is doing all the damage every end. Martin tries to pick it off but fails every time. This end the rolls are reversed Martin sticks one on the jack and holds it 17 - 5. Martin gives the jack away!! you would think that he would hold onto the jack seeing that Frank was winning all the ends before. Martin picks up a 4. Well he was obviously right to give the jack away 17 - 9. Martin is 6" from the jack. Frank takes the jack back and lies. Martin follows suit and draws a second 17 - 11 another pair and a single brings martin to 17 - 14. he also wins the following end 17 - 15 What a comeback! Frank lies 2 next end Martin has best back, fires and misses 19 - 15 1 to Martin next end 19 - 16. However frank scores the 2 he needs on the next end and wins 21 - 16.

MECREDY CUP FINAL

Railway Union A. Kells, F. Tierney, T. Kennelly (Sub) and Derek Kells V Meath J. Dixon, J. Faulkner Joe Fitzsimons & Mark O'Looney. After the 2nd end RU lead 3 - 1 next end 4 against RU Derek fires and burns the end. RU win the replayed and and the next 5 - 1 to RU.  Meat pick up 3  5 - 4.  it then moves on to 5 - 5. All the heads are fairly tight and RU creep ahead, 8 - 5 heads are changing with nearly every bowl. 10 - 7 to RU. I did not see much more of this match, but Meath scored another 7 shots to RU's 6 Winners Railway Union 16 - 14.

                                                        AFTERNOON SESSION

Thankfully the forecast for rain was completely wrong and we have a beautiful afternoon. The ground is filling up for the final with two exciting singles in prospect starting at 3.00pm There are over 200 spectators lining the green, in what should be a feast of bowling.

BOYD CUP FINAL

John O'Sullivan & Mick Keegan (Blackrock) met Aiden Hoey & Dominic Lloyd (St . James' s Gate) in this final Rock score a single in the first end and are lying shot in the second, The Gate have 4 bowls just behind the jack, Dominic draws the shot - another foot on his bowl and he would have trailed the jack for 5, Next end Rock lying 3 but Dominic is wide with his last bowl.. Single to Rock next end. Score moves to 7 - 2 at 5 ends. next 2 ends a single each followed by a 2 for the Rock. 10 - 4 at 10 ends. These heads are very close - Rock pick up another 3 followed by a single to Gate. Aiden brings the mat right out to try and change things, but bowls the jack short, John reverts back to their favourite length. Blackrock go further ahead and it is 15 - 5 at 13 ends. Another 2 to the Rock 17 - 5. Next end Dominic fires twice, knocks the jack back to the Rock bowls 2 to the Rock 19 - 5 15 ends. 2 pairs to the Gate bring the score to 19 - 9 at 17 ends. a single each next 2 ends 20 - 10 2 ends to play. John sticks one on the jack , Mick draws another, Dominic fires with all four bowls and misses 22 - 10 to the Rock at 20 ends and they shake hands.

BAIRD CUP FINAL

Steve Millane, John and Richard Leonard (St. James's Gate) Played Tony Murphy, Tom Murphy, Wally Doyle (Bray) The match starts with Bray lying shot, Richard comes into a very tight head and rests out the Bray bowl 1 to Gate. Gate lie 3 next end Wally is short Richard draws another 4 to Gate. Bray get on the board after 4 ends 7 - 1 to Gate. 2 ends later gate lie 5 Tom, draws the shot Richard comes in with a perfect bowl to trail the jack 4 to Gate. next end gate are down a few Richard fires and gets the jack 1 to gate 13 - 2. the game continues with the Gate dominating the game, and Bray finally concede at 19 - 5

RAILWAY UNION CUP FINAL

Robert Maher (Crumlin) played Mark O'Looney (Meath) Mark is in his 3rd final of the weekend having won 1 and lost 1, Robert is hoping to repeat last year's win when he won the under 25 for the first time. At 3 all Robert comes in for 3rd shot Mark draws another 6 - 3 to Mark. 2 to Robert next end 6 - 5 Mark gets a 2 8 - 5.Mark holds 3 at the next end and Robert's last bowl sails past the head another 3 to Mark 11 - 6 Mark lying shot Robert 3 yards short with his first Mark draws another, Robert short and wide with his second, but draws shot with his 3rd and adds a 2nd the score moves on to 12 - 8 to Mark. Next end Robert has three around the jack, Mark draws in and rests just inside the shot bowl to get the shot 13 - 8. Robert short with his first 2 Mark lies 2 Robert draws shot, but Mark again draws inside Robert's bowl for shot 14 - 8 Next end was a very loose head and Mark picks up an easy single 15 - 8 Next end Robert is lying 2 Mark glides off Robert's bowl and lies shot 16 - 8. Robert is 2 down next end and draws up short with his last. 18 - 8 to Mark. Mark throws a long jack Robert is first on the jack and Mark can't improve 18 - 9. Robert is long with his first, Mark is Jack high Robert is short Mark draws another Robert comes in for 2nd 19 - 9 Mark stitches one on the jack, Robert touches the jack but slips past 2 feet. Robert has now got 2 close seconds, but Mark draws another, and is lying game, Robert's last bowl rests out the shot bowl. 19 - 10 Robert gives the jack away, in a close head Robert is lying 2 and draws a 3rd 19 - 13. He gives the jack away again, Mark draws 3" behind the jack, Robert's first 2 bowls are short, Mark draws 2 more shots to lie 3, Robert draws in for shot. 19 - 14 That's twice Mark has been lying game. Mark picks up a single next end 20 - 14 Mark 1 foot behind jack Robert draws shot 20 - 15next end mark is 2 feet short, Robert 2 yards through, Mark draws 1 jack high, Robert knocks up Mark's wood, Mark now lies 2 Mark needs to put 1 behind because it is wide head to hit, Which he does. Robert fires and misses but takes out mark's back wood. Mark puts one a yard behind. Robert fires and gets the 2 bowls out clean to lie 1. 20 - 16. a single to Robert next end 20 - 17 next end Robert is lying 2 but short with his 3rd, Mark's last bowl draws second but Robert beats that to pick up 2. 20 - 19 Mark is a yard short, Robert has a toucher beside the jack, Mark is a foot through, Mark draws shot with his third and is lying game for the fourth time, Robert fires with his third and the jack ends up a foot from the ditch, with the nearest bowl being Robert's 3 yards from the jack. Mark needs to get at least second shot here as Robert still has a bowl to come. he bowls, But calamity! he is short. Robert now has at least 5 yards to draw a second. He bowls and his bowl rolls down the green, with everyone watching, including Mark with bated breath,, it reaches the head, passes the head, and still it rolls on, past his own bowl heading now for the jack or ditch! will it stop in time. YES! it does, 3 inches from the jack Game to Robert. 20 - 21 It took 27 ends to find the winner of this match. One must feel sorry for Mark who bowled very well throughout the whole match as indeed did Robert but you have to admire the competitive and fighting spirit of Robert to come back and win.

TYLER CUP FINAL

This match was between Derek Kells & Fiacra Tierney (Railway Union) and for the first time in a BLI championship Rosslare have a team in the finals Harry Marshall & Maurice McCarthy. Derek and Fiacra, had already won the Mecredy in the morning which did not finish until 1.45pm, so this match was late starting. I only saw a few of the early ends in this match. it was close to start off with and at 5 ends it was 4 - 2 to RU. Rosslare pick up a 2 in the 6th end 4 all The match moves on with RU picking up 5 shots to 1. 9 - 5 to RU. At 13 ends it was getting closer 12 - 10 to RU. a single each to bring the score to 13 - 11 at 15 ends. Rosslare lie 2 Derek takes out the shot bowls to lie 1 16 - 11. over the next few ends Rosslare come back into it and at the 19th end 17 - 16 to RU and with some very good bowling by both teams Rosslare are lying 2 Maurice decides to put one behind but he is far too wide and heavy, and is yards away from the head. Derek fires, and when the dust has settled the jack ends up with Maurice's back bowl that everyone thought was no use at all! that's bowls for you! 17 all playing the last. Harry bowls 2 very good bowls to lie 2 Fiacra comes in and lies second just to the right and lying on Harry's bowl, a lot of discussion now takes place between the RU pair, they have to be careful as RU have a bowl to the left but Rosslare have three bowls to the right behind the jack, if they are too heavy they could give away a count. eventually Derek bowls but he is  a bit short but has blocked up the hand that Maurice wanted to play - more discussion, about 3 minutes with Maurice changing his mind half a dozen times. In the end he puts one round the back. this isn't going to be a repeat of the last end is it? Derek fires, but is too narrow and misses the head, Maurice and Harry jump for joy - Winners at their first appearance at the finals 18 - 17

MARPER CUP FINAL

Now we come to the blue riband of the BLI Championships The Senior Singles. Richard Darcy (CYM) and Paul Smyth (Leinster) twice a winner of this before in 1976 and 1981. 1st end 3 to Paul, Paul lies 2 Richard comes in for shot. 3 -1 Paul lie 2 with a measure for shot 5 - 1 to Paul. a single to Richard in the next end. Richard picks up a 4 at the next to bring the scores to 5 - 6. Paul lies 2 Richard brings jack back to lie shot Paul takes out the shot bowl to lie 3 8 - 6 to Paul. Next end Richard lies Paul takes him out, Richard is too heavy with his next bowl and it is Paul's turn to pick up a 4. He follows this with a single now it is 13 - 6 to Paul. Paul sticks one on the jack, adds another, Richard draws shot Paul knocks up one of Richard's bowls 13 - 8 to Paul. Richard draws 3 shots Paul is short with his first three, but draws shot with his last. 14 - 8 Moving on with the score now 15 - 9 to Paul Richard is lying 2 - Paul draws the shot. Richard takes out Paul's bowl and picks up 2 15 - 11. 1 to Paul next end. Paul draws shot , Richard rests out shot bowl and lies 2 16 - 13 Next end Richard picks up another 4 - most unusual in a match of this high standard for 3 fours to be scored. that puts Richard ahead for the first time 16 - 17. With the shot against him Paul brings the jack into the ditch 17 all. a single each over the next 2 ends 18 - 18. Paul lies 1 then draws a 2nd and 3rd Richard plays heavy and splits them to lie shot 18 - 19 single to Paul next end 19 all. Paul is lying game next end with 2 on the jack, Richard plays a yard on, but misses the head 21 - 19 to Paul who has waited 28 years for his third success at this title.

So finishes the 2009 Championships I would like to wish every success to the senior winners who will be competing in the National Championships along with our Under 18 and under 25 winners. I would also like to thank the President Richard Nielson and all the players of Bray bowling club who helped to run the championships and of course the ladies who provided the tea and sandwiches (and cakes baked by Richard's wife. Fran) every day, and for the meal on Saturday night. I hope you have enjoyed this amateur report on the matches, if I have made mistakes, I apologise, as it is difficult to follow each and every match.

B. C. M. 3rd August 2009

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