Northants Bar Billiards League

Recap

As the Bees of the Red Lion came to visit, struggling towards the bottom of the table as they are, the Cock ‘C’ were looking to get their show back on the road and return to winning ways having struggled of late. Having been riding high at the top of the Division 2 table for nine of the first fourteen weeks, they have set their sights, quite rightly, on landing some silverware. A mid-season dip in form had left the Cock ‘C’ adrift – so a big result was always going to be important.

The draw put Nick on first against Terry in a match that was far closer than the scoreline suggests. Terry played arguably his very best game and had he kept his scores, notably a 700 break, this would have been a real nail-biter. However, Nick’s experience told and he put the home side ahead.

In the second, Alan was getting an overdue start and he was always too strong for an out of sorts Stuart. The table is playable but tricky being so far uphill – it causes an overhit ball to race back from the bottom of the table to often take a peg, or even travel beyond the baulk line. Add that to the right hand roll and you have something that is difficult to handle – particularly in your first season. With experience will come the skills to navigate the variances from home to away tables.

Leg three saw the league’s rising star, Mark put against the League Secretary. In a game where even the higher ranked player struggled, Mark had a chance with the break back and only a 3k deficit – something he is more than able to recover from. This time he was unable to make the impact his team were driving him on to achieve and Lorin pulled one back for the visitors.

The fourth was very one-sided as again the visitor – Ian is also in his first season – could not get to grips with the unique character of the table. Keith was in his element, looking comfortable all the way in securing the match.

Now for the gloss? Not this time, Andy played a very steady game and despite a late and impressive comeback from Phil, took the game.

Some much needed points for the Bees and back to winning ways for The Cock ‘C’ – all in all, a result both teams will be satisfied with.