Northants Bar Billiards League

Recap

With the result never really a doubt – this match, for the Cons, was really about giving themselves further clear blue water in the Division 1 title race and piling on the pressure to the chasing pack. The only element of jeopardy for the draw was to find out who was to draw home captain Lorin where Masters averages would be impacted. That pleasure fell to Chas in the final leg.

Terry kicked things off for the home side but never really settled – he gave Damo several early chances. Not his customary assured self, Damo was always in control of the leg, if not his own game.

Rushden’s captain Andy, fresh from individual success on this table which will have done much to boost his confidence, settled into his break well – starting with over 4k. He looked very comfortable on the table, which is fast becoming a popular board. Stuart had nothing to offer by way competition in the leg and Andy ran out a very easy winner with nearly 10k notched up.

Stew, on the other hand, was wrestling with his game throughout. Never quite getting comfortable with the difference in pace of the table compared to that of Rushden. That said, Andy J’s efforts were not convincing either and so a tense game ensued. The result could have gone either way but Andy could never quite get the break back. Stew rather fell over the line as opposed to bursting through the tape – but a win is a win. 3-0 to the table toppers!

Ian started leg 4 for the home side and played calmly and with great control. Despite being up against Damo – who was playing again under the 4-man rule – Ian put in a solid performance. Damo was always ahead in the game and had other gears if needed, but they were not. Nevertheless a notable and Player of the Match performance from Ian.

On to the final leg and could Rushden make it another clean sweep and their fourth 5-0 victory of the season? Chas left his first one-up short giving Lorin an early opportunity which was squandered. A few hundred later and another chance for Lorin – which went the same way as the first. A third bite of the cherry for Chas and he started to look settled – back on the break and scoring – however another wayward shot put him in trouble and gave Lorin a further opportunity to salvage something for his team and protect his Masters average. 1400 down, Lorin knew that he needed to ‘do the business’ this time and he duly delivered. He was in control for most of his 9k+ break, banking his score as soon as his average was reached.

It’s always a great night when you get to welcome the Rushden team and they were very complimentary of the Red Lion team, table and hospitality – thanks boys for a great evening!