Six Counties Championship

On Sunday 11 April the ECCBA Six Counties Championships was held at Braintree Leisure Centre.

The competition involved the six Eastern Counties, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Each county were represented by six rinks (fours), each playing one nine end game against each of the other counties.

Having retained the ECCBA league title last month, Suffolk were the team to beat and they were also looking to retain the Six Counties Championship.

The Suffolk rinks selected were:

Suffolk 1 (S1): Sally Goodrich, Graham Davey, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
Suffolk 2 (S2): Pete Runnacles, Nick Wood, Mick Watkins, Paul Daniels
Suffolk 3 (S3): Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, Steven Cain
Suffolk 4 (S4): Rita Runnacles, Steve Isles, Sam Runnacles, Clint Watling
Suffolk 5 (S5): Jim Goodrich, Paul Leach, Andy Gilder, Tom Runnacles
Suffolk 6 (S6): Sue Davey, Ralph Sadgrove, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

The first session saw a difficult start for Suffolk, with Cambridgeshire the opposition. It was S1 who made the best start, opening up a small lead which they set about protecting. They just managed it and despite a shaky last end, they held on for a slim 8-7 win. Another win was added by S3, a relatively comfortable 11-5, in an incredible game where the jack got knocked off five times. A win for S4 looked unlikely after the first few ends, but a change to a short jack paid dividends and they eased away to another 11-5 win. Two more points were then added by S5 with a routine 13-7 win. However that was the end of the points scoring, with S2 losing 5-16 and S6 going down 6-9 in a tight game. A solid start though, eight points was adequate and overall Suffolk sat two points behind early leaders Hertfordshire.

Next up for Suffolk were Essex and S2 set about bouncing back from their first game defeat, opening up a very healthy lead. It was a good job they did, as that advantage started to reduce quite quickly, but they’d done enough and held on for a 14-11 win. S1 continued where they had left off, a more comfortable win this time though, by 14-4. S3 followed in the same vein, maintaining their good form from the first session, running out 13-6 winners. Meanwhile the games involving S5 and S6 were tight and wins never looked a certainty until the final bowls. However both rinks held their nerve, S5 winning 8-7 and S6 by 8-6. Unfortunately S4 were unable to make it a whitewash, going down by 7-14. However Suffolk were happy with ten points from Essex, but still they trailed Hertfordshire overall by two points.

Bedfordshire provided the next opposition and this time it was S3 who always looked like getting the first winning points. Opening up a decent lead, they kept their foot on the pedal and raced away to a 16-5 win. S1 weren’t far behind them in another game when a win never looked in doubt, finishing up as 11-3 winners. There then following two comfortable wins for Suffolk, S4 hit form again for a 10-5 victory and S6 won by 10-4. The remaining two games were less certain but S2 did well to grind out a 10-7 win and a similar performance from S5 secured a full house with a 9-7 win. That proved to be a crucial twelve points for Suffolk, as Hertfordshire could only beat Norfolk 7-5. At the top Suffolk now held a three point lead over Hertfordshire, in what was already just a two horse race.

Third place Norfolk were next up for Suffolk and it was the unbeaten S1 who set the early pace again. Having gained a lead from the first few ends, they completely dominated the remainder of the game and the shots just kept mounting up, finishing with a fantastic 24-2 win. S2 always looked like adding another two points and without scoring the same volume of shots, it was an equally comfortable 9-2 win for them. The other four games were far closer though and by the end they had been shared, which was probably a fair reflection of the play. S3 secured another win by 11-7 and S5 did particularly well to edge out a slim 6-5 win. Both S4 and S6 stayed in their games but couldn’t quite do enough to add to the points tally, losing 4-9 and 4-7 respectively. Eight points from Norfolk was a good outcome, Hertfordshire had done the same against Essex, so Suffolk had maintained their overall three point lead.

As is so often the case in this event, it would all come down to the final session. This time the top two faced each other, with Suffolk needing five points to win the competition. Two of those points never looked in any doubt, as in one of the performances of the day, S2 were in complete control from start to finish, with an excellent 19-0 win. Unfortunately S1 were unable to repeat the great form they had shown all day, as they slipped to a 4-8 defeat. Then S4 also lost 5-9. It was better news from S6 though, as they dropped just the one end on their way to a one-sided 15-1 win. Suffolk needed one more point though and halfway through the two remaining games, that was by no means a certainty. S5 were involved in a tight low scoring game, which swung one way and then the other. It was always looking like a last bowl decider and it was the Suffolk rink who just held on for a crucial shot to secure an important 7-7 draw. For S3, it was also a see-saw game and again it came down to the last end and bowl. Going into the last end with a two shot lead, they did just enough on a measure to drop a single shot and secure a hard earned 10-9 win.

Suffolk were the Six Counties Championship winners again.

The final scores were:

Pts F A Suffolk 45 302 194 Hertfordshire 40 244 219 Cambridgeshire 28 245 234 Essex 25 231 257 Norfolk 25 192 265 Bedfordshire 17 210 255

Another fantastic day for the Suffolk team, adding the Six Counties Championship trophy to the league title won last month. This team has proven they can win from the front and in this event they showed great composure under pressure to maintain their form and win those crucial games when it really mattered.

A fine all round team performance with every rink contributing and a particular mention to S3, five wins from five and the only rink to do that on the day.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Suffolk v Essex

On Sunday 20 March, Suffolk played their final ECCBA league match of the season, at Needham Market, with Essex the opposition.

Suffolk went into the match with a very healthy lead at the top of the league, needing only seven points to retain their title. However a competitive match was expected, as Essex were one of four counties all vying for the runners up spot.

With four regular bowlers unavailable (including two skips), positional changes were needed and Sue Isles and Peter Elmy came into the team for their first county match.

The rinks selected were:

Suffolk 1 (S1): Pete Runnacles, Nick Wood, Mick Watkins, Paul Daniels
Suffolk 2 (S2): Sally Goodrich, Graham Davey, Colin Fellingham, Andy Pooley
Suffolk 3 (S3): Sue Isles, Rita Runnacles, Sam Runnacles, Clint Watling
Suffolk 4 (S4): Don Allum, Paul Leach, John Varden, David Ford
Suffolk 5 (S5): Jim Goodrich, Steve Isles, Andy Gilder, Steven Cain
Suffolk 6 (S6): Sue Davey, Peter Elmy, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

It was a sluggish start in the first session by all of the Suffolk rinks but it was S3 who found better form first. By the fourth end they were looking comfortable at 5-1 ahead, but by the seventh end it wasn’t looking quite so good at 6-5 in front. They maintained their composure though, winning the last two ends and the game 9-5. Meanwhile S5 had got off to a poor start, 0-5 down after three ends and still 5-7 behind after six ends. They had saved their best for last though, winning the last three ends to turn the game around to a fine 10-7 win. Lastly S1 had also found themselves chasing the game, 0-3 down, then 3-6 but back in the game at 5-6. Unfortunately the last two ends were shared and the game lost 6-7. Three tight games, was this a sign of things to come?

It was a far quicker start for the other Suffolk rinks in the second session. The best start was made by S2, three shots on the first end, increased to an 8-1 lead after five ends. They weren’t going to lose from there and whilst they shared the last few ends, it was good enough for a 10-4 win. S6 also scored three shots on their first end but were only ahead by 5-4 after four ends. At that point the game could’ve gone either way, as it was S6 dominated the remainder of the game, winning four of the five ends for a comfortable 12-4 win. Lastly the closest game involved S4, although at 6-1 ahead after four ends, it was looking like another Suffolk win. However the Essex rinks kept closing the gap and with a single shot on the final end, recovered the scoreline to a 6-6 draw. An unbeaten session for Suffolk though and a 9-3 overall lead.

The third session started as the first session had, with none of the Suffolk rinks starting particularly well. This time it was S5 who recovered first and by the fourth end they were 4-2 ahead, which they then increased to 6-3 and 7-5 with an end to play. Unfortunately the jack got knocked off on that final end, resulting in a 7-7 draw. For S1 it wasn’t until the sixth end that they were in front and then it was only a slim 4-3 lead. However five shots on the final three ends saw them to a 9-3 win. If S5 had left it late, S3 left it even later, 1-2 behind, then 2-5 which was calmly recovered to 5-5 with an end to play. Three shots on that final end completed an excellent comeback and a hard earned 8-5 win. Another unbeaten session and a healthy 14-4 lead at the halfway point.

The fourth session saw both S4 and S6 get off to flying starts. S4 prevented their opposition from scoring anything in the first six ends, there were two dead ends but they were still 7-0 up. Despite conceding three shots on the seventh end, that was merely a blip, as they finished the game with five further shots as they eased to a 12-3 win. The S6 game was going pretty much the same way, 4-0 up after two ends was extended to a game winning advantage of 11-1 after seven ends. The last two ends were shared and another 12-3 win was recorded. Meanwhile S2 weren’t having it all their own way, 0-2 behind early but then a purple patch of nine shots in three ends decided the game. Despite losing three of the last four ends, they never looked in any real trouble and the game finished 10-6. A full house of three wins.

Not to be outdone, the other three Suffolk rinks started the penultimate session looking for three wins. At 2-2 after three ends, it was looking like a tight game for S1, however they had other ideas. Six ends and an incredible sixteen shots later, they had raced away to a fantastic 18-2 win in the performance of the day. S5 weren’t too far behind them though, not conceding a shot in the first six ends saw them 9-0 up and the game was over. It finished with a well deserved 12-1 win. Finally at 8-0 ahead after four ends S3 were cruising to another win. Then they started to lose their way a bit and it turned into a nervy last end. However they did just enough, restricting their opposition to two shots to sneak home with a 9-8 win.

In the final session, Suffolk were aiming for thirty points overall and it always looked like S4 were going to contribute two points to the cause. 5-0 up after two ends was extended to 7-3 and further increased to 10-5. That enabled them to share the last two ends for a comfortable 11-6 win. S6 were also 5-0 ahead early on and then 7-2 in a game where they never felt in complete control. It got a bit twitchy at 7-4 but that lead proved to be enough and the game finished with an 8-4 win. Finally, for S2 their first five ends decided the game, everything went against them and they were 0-7 behind. Despite their best efforts, the deficit was just too great to recover from and the game was lost 5-9.

Overall the match finished with a Suffolk win 30-6 (shots: 174 - 90).

What a finish to the season, Suffolk’s best win taking them to their sixth consecutive ECCBA league title. It had been a superb team performance, the new rink combinations gelled quickly and the new bowlers played well.
Particular mention should go to S3 and S6 who won all three of their games.

All of the team should be proud of their efforts, not just in this match but across the five league matches, five wins and unbeaten for the fifth consecutive season, a remarkable record.

Having successfully defended the league title, Suffolk will now be looking to retain the ECCBA Six Counties Tournament at Braintree Leisure Centre on Sunday 10 April.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Cambridgeshire v Suffolk

On Sunday 21 February, Suffolk faced Cambridgeshire in their penultimate ECCBA league match. The venue was Over Community Centre, the first time Suffolk had played there, so they were expecting a challenging day.

Steve Isles came into the team for his first county match, the rinks selected were:

Suffolk 1 (S1): Pete Runnacles, Ralph Sadgrove, Mick Watkins, Paul Daniels
Suffolk 2 (S2): Sally Goodrich, Graham Davey, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
Suffolk 3 (S3): Rita Runnacles, Andy Gilder, Clint Watling, Tom Runnacles
Suffolk 4 (S4): Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, David Ford
Suffolk 5 (S5): Jim Goodrich, Nick Wood, Sam Runnacles, Steven Cain
Suffolk 6 (S6): Sue Davey, Steve Isles, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

The first session of the day was all about getting used to the carpets as soon as possible. It was S1 who picked up the lines on their mat immediately and they quickly earned a 4-0 lead. Despite then losing a couple of shots, they reacted well to further extend their advantage, running out comfortable 11-3 winners. S3 had also got off to a decent start and were 4-0 and then 6-2 ahead. However one bad end saw them go 6-8 and then 6-10 down with an end to play. However they saved their best for last and with the final bowl, gained four shots for a hard earned draw. Lastly S5 were involved in the tightest game and were 0-3 behind early on. However they recovered well to go in front 5-4, with a few ends to play. It went right to the final bowl and the 6-6 outcome was a fair reflection of a closely fought game.

It was a mixed beginning to the second session for Suffolk, with S4 making the better start of the away rinks. They controlled the early ends with consistent bowling and were deserved of their 7-0 lead. It was just a case of seeing out the final few ends and they did this comfortably for a 9-5 win. Meanwhile S2 were dominating their game, but this wasn’t reflected by the scoreline. On numerous occasions the opposing skip saved a big shot count, but despite this S2 maintained their early lead and held on for a 6-4 win. S6 were also involved in a close game, 0-3 behind early but they had levelled the game by the middle ends. It was 6-6 going into the final end but they just couldn’t find a way to move the jack and the game was lost 6-8.

The third session saw all of the Suffolk rinks ahead early on. Again it was S1 who set a high standard and they were soon 5-0 up. They didn’t look back from there, bowling well to ease away to an 8-2 win. S3 weren’t far behind them, an early 6-3 advantage gave them the confidence to control the latter ends and a win was never in doubt, finishing 11-4. Early on it was looking like S5 would make it a maximum point session for Suffolk, but a 6-4 lead was gone by the final end, with the match level at 9-9. Unfortunately the last end shoot-out didn’t go their way and the match was lost 9-11.

At the halfway stage Suffolk held a 12-6 lead, having won every session by 4-2. It wasn’t a comfortable advantage, but Suffolk had adjusted to the mats well and generally the team was bowling consistently. The next session would likely be crucial to the outcome of the match.

It was S6 who started the fourth session the better of the Suffolk rinks. Bouncing back well from their first game loss, they were quickly 7-0 in front. After that, apart from one bad end, which they got away with, the early advantage was protected and the game won 10-3. S4 had also secured a lead in the first few ends, not a significant one, but their consistent team bowling kept them ahead from start to finish. The game finished with an S4 9-6 win. That just left S2 who were involved in the closest game of the session, which always looked like going right to the final end. As it was, S2 were 5-6 behind going into that last end. Some good early woods, followed by some tactical short bowls put the opposing skip in difficulty, his last bowl was short and S2 had a hard earned 7-6 win. Finally a maximum six point session for Suffolk, just at the right time and an overall 18-6 lead.

Suffolk were looking to consolidate and hopefully extend their match advantage in the penultimate session. However the session didn’t start well, S3 quickly finding themselves 0-5 and then 3-8 behind. They kept fighting though and even at 4-9 down, playing the last end they nearly manufactured a five shot count for an unlikely draw. It wasn’t to be though and the game was lost 4-11. S1 were also behind after the first half of their game, only by the odd shot at 3-4 which they turned around to lead 6-5. Unfortunately that was the end of their scoring, losing the last couple of ends and the game by 6-8. To avoid a nervy final session, Suffolk needed an S5 win and at 4-1 up, they were in a good position. However that lead was down to a single shot at 6-5 with an end to play. It proved to be enough though, with one shot scored on the final end for an important 7-5 win.

Going into the final session, Suffolk were 20-10 up, the match was won but in the context of the league, some more points could be crucial.

Right from the start of the final session, S4 set about guaranteeing two points from their game. The early ends went their way, the later ends were controlled and a win was always on the cards, a comfortable one by 13-4. The other two Suffolk rinks were involved in far closer games. S6 traded shots with their opposition during the first part of their game, but from the middle ends onwards they opened up a slight advantage. Going into the final end they were 9-6 in front and by simply matching their opponent’s bowls, they were never going to concede more than a two. The game was won 9-8. That just left S2, looking for their third win of the day. As well as S2 were playing, the game always had the feel of going to the final end. It did, S2 were in a strong position until the opposing skips final bowl stole the shot and the game was unfortunately lost by 5-7.

Overall the match finished with a Suffolk win 24-12 (shots: 146 - 111).

Any win away from home is a good win and Suffolk were pleased with the margin of victory, particularly on carpets they had never bowled on before. Consistent early bowls from Suffolk’s lead and twos had put the home team under pressure and they had been ably backed up by the thirds and skips.

All of the Suffolk rinks contributed points to the overall win, but particular mention should go to S4 who won all of their three games and were the best performers on the day.

The win keeps Suffolk at the top of the league with a healthy twenty nine point advantage over second place Norfolk. Cambridgeshire are one point further back and Hertfordshire and Essex two points behind Norfolk.

Suffolk’s final ECCBA league match is against Essex at Needham Market Community Centre on Sunday 20 March, 10.30am start and supporters are welcome.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Hertfordshire v Suffolk

On Sunday 17 January, Suffolk travelled to Ware to play Hertfordshire, the third match in defence of their ECCBA league title. This was a match between the first and second place teams in last season’s league, so Suffolk were expecting a tough day.

The rinks selected were:

Suffolk 1 (S1): Pete Runnacles, Ralph Sadgrove, Mick Watkins, Paul Daniels
Suffolk 2 (S2): Sally Goodrich, Graham Davey, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
Suffolk 3 (S3): Rita Runnacles, Andy Gilder, Clint Watling, Tom Runnacles
Suffolk 4 (S4): Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, David Ford
Suffolk 5 (S5): Jim Goodrich, Nick Wood, Sam Runnacles, Steven Cain
Suffolk 6 (S6): Sue Davey, Ellen Grube, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

The first session of the day saw the opening Suffolk rinks taking a while to adjust to the away carpets. However it wasn’t long before S5 got to grips with their mat, where accurate early bowls would be the key to winning the game. Doing just that and protecting those shots saw an early lead secured and gradually increased as the game progressed. A well deserved 13-3 win was the final score. An important two points as both S1 and S3 found themselves behind early on. S3 were involved in the tighter game but could never get ahead and the game was lost 6-8. S1 faced an uphill struggle at 2-8 down and whilst they fought hard, they simply ran out of ends, losing by the slimmest margin 7-8.

It wasn’t a great start to the second session for Suffolk, as all of the rinks were behind after the opening few ends. S6 made the worst start, 0-6 down after two ends. Despite a rallying effort later on, that deficit proved too much to recover and they lost 7-10. S4 meanwhile were putting up a fight in their game, a tight affair, doing their best to recover from 3-7 down, they came up just short, losing 6-7. Suffolk desperately needed something from the session and S2 delivered. Whilst behind at the start, they hit a purple patch from the middle ends onwards and eased away to a 13-6 win. A valuable two points, but Suffolk were still 4-8 behind overall.

The third session was one Suffolk could not really afford to lose and S3 got them off to a great start. Playing some good team bowls they were quickly 7-1 ahead and they weren’t going to lose from there. A fine performance and a 10-3 win. The game involving S1 was far closer and always seemed destined to go to the final ends. That’s the way it turned out, but they always looked like doing just enough to win and 9-6 was the final score. Unfortunately S5 were unable to repeat the form from their first game, 2-7 down by the middle of the game proved too much to recover from and the game was lost 5-10.

At the halfway stage Suffolk were down 8-10 and the home team were playing their own carpets very well. Suffolk weren’t bowling that badly, but there was certainly room for improvement, which would be needed to avoid a match defeat.

The fourth session saw a shift in momentum, as for the first time all of the Suffolk rinks got off to good starts. Following their earlier win, it was S2 who made the best start and two points never looked in doubt, controlling the game from start to finish on their way to a comfortable 13-3 win. Not to be outdone, S4’s game followed a similar pattern. Accurate early bowls took them into a big lead and despite losing a couple of the later ends, it was a well deserved 16-8 win. That left S6, their game was closer and whilst securing an early advantage, the victory was never a certainty. However they did just enough, holding on to an important 10-6 win.

For the first time in the day, Suffolk held an overall lead, 14-10. Could they improve on that and avoid a nervy final session?

The start of the penultimate session did not start well for Suffolk, as only S5 took an early lead. S3 were 1-7 down fairly quickly but they didn’t give up and gradually worked themselves back into the game. Unfortunately the six shot deficit was just too great and the game was lost 7-9. It was a similar story for S1 as they were 3-9 down, no happy ending there either and another game lost, 6-12. Could S5 grab a crucial two points? Unfortunately not, it was a close game from start to finish. Two shots were needed on the final end for a draw but only one scored despite best efforts and a 7-8 defeat.

Going into the final session, Suffolk were 14-16 down and Hertfordshire had regained the momentum and confidence. Could Suffolk respond again?

It looked promising for Suffolk after the early ends, as all of their rinks had leads, albeit slim ones. Again it was S2 who were playing the better bowls and by the middle ends their game was all but over. Gradually increasing the lead they’d earned and a 12-2 win was fully deserved. S6 were building on their last session win and without hitting top form, they were doing enough to hold off their opponents. Going into the last end four shots up looked like being enough, it got a bit nervy but a tricky situation was averted and the game won 10-4. That left S4, in what always looked like being the closest game and so it turned out. Often games turn on one bowl and at 4-5 behind and four shots down on the end, that bowl happened . A fantastic conversion shot to hold four shots and go 8-5 up was the difference (click here for footage). They still had to complete the job though and S4 held their nerve, doing just enough on the final couple of ends to win 8-7.

Overall the match finished with a Suffolk win 20-16 (shots: 165 - 120).

It had been an incredible day of high quality bowls and both teams had played an equal part in an enjoyable and competitive match. It was a match that had swung one way, then the other and the Suffolk team were relieved and pleased to leave Ware with the slimmest of wins.

All of the Suffolk rinks contributed points but particular mention must be made of S2, unbeaten, three excellent performances and three good wins in a difficult match.

The win maintains Suffolk’s position at the top of the league and actually increases their lead to nineteen points over second place Cambridgeshire.

Suffolk’s fourth and penultimate match is against Cambridgeshire, away again, at Over Community Centre on Sunday 21 February, 10.30am start and supporters are welcome.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Norfolk v Suffolk

On Sunday 13 December, Suffolk travelled to Wortwell for an away match against Norfolk. Suffolk’s first league match of the season saw them beat Bedfordshire 26-10. It wasn’t a great performance though so an improved display would be needed to beat an experienced Norfolk team.

Nick Wood came into the team for his first county match, the rinks selected were:

Suffolk 1 (S1): Pete Runnacles, Paul Leach, Mick Watkins, Paul Daniels
Suffolk 2 (S2): Sally Goodrich, Graham Davey, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
Suffolk 3 (S3): Rita Runnacles, Ralph Sadgrove, Sam Runnacles, Tom Runnacles
Suffolk 4 (S4): Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, David Ford
Suffolk 5 (S5): Jim Goodrich, Nick Wood, Andy Gilder, Steven Cain
Suffolk 6 (S6): Sue Davey, Ellen Grube, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

In the first session of the day it took a few ends for the Suffolk rinks to adjust to the Norfolk carpets. However they all kept their games tight and going into the later ends all of the games were up for grabs. It was S1 who got the first points on the board for Suffolk with a 10-8 win. That was closely followed by S5 who sneaked an even closer 8-7 win. It looked like being a full house for Suffolk when S3 held an 8-6 lead going into the final end but two shots conceded saw the game finish 8-8. A great start for Suffolk though, considering all of the games were so close.

Right from the start of the second session, it was clear the games were going to follow a similar pattern to the first. Again the outcome of every game was in doubt going into the last few ends. The best Suffolk performance came from S4, although it took a great final game saving bowl to win 9-5. S2 were always ahead in their game but could never gain a significant advantage. This time it was the Norfolk skips final bowl which salvaged a draw, 5-5 but a point gained for Suffolk. Lastly S6 were behind early but kept battling away and come the end, they were also happy with a drawn game at 6-6. Another unbeaten session for Suffolk and an overall 9-3 lead.

Following the theme of the first two sessions, S5 were involved in yet another close game in the third session. Neither team could do enough to win the game, and in the end it was another draw, but 8-8 was a fair outcome. Conversely the two other games broke the mould of the match so far. S3 went one better than their first game, putting on a fine display for a convincing 14-6 win. Unfortunately for S1, one poor end dropping six shots when they were leading the match cost them. It went downhill from there and the game was lost 4-16.

At the halfway stage Suffolk held a 12-6 lead and the first half had seen four drawn games from nine played. Suffolk were playing well though and would need to continue doing so to protect and hopefully increase their advantage.

The fourth session saw two of the Suffolk rinks get off to flying starts and their opposition simply didn’t get a look in. Particularly impressive were S2 who after taking an early lead kept pressing on, finishing with a fantastic 17-2 win which reflected how well they’d played. Not far behind them were S4, playing very consistent bowls, they kept the scoreboard ticking over and deserved their 11-1 win. It was not quite so comfortable for S6 though, despite securing an early lead they couldn’t break away. A three shot lead going into the last end nearly wasn’t enough, but the final bowl avoided another draw and the game was won 9-7. A maximum six point session for Suffolk, just at the right time and an 18-6 overall lead.

Could Suffolk build on the previous session success and increase their lead even further?

From the start of the penultimate session it certainly looked that way. S1 bounced back well from their defeat to earn an early lead and despite one poor end, they did enough to win 12-5. S3 were involved in the closest game and they had to recover from a slow start. However by the middle ends they’d found their form, the latter ends all went their way and they fully deserved their 10-6 win. Meanwhile S5 were having a more comfortable time of it, controlling their game from start to finish and losing only one end in winning well by 10-1. A second maximum point session and suddenly Suffolk were 24-6 ahead.

With the match won, the Suffolk rinks were now looking to extend the overall lead and again it was S2 who set the standard. Another quick start for them put their opposition under pressure from which they couldn’t recover. The outcome was never in doubt and they eased to an 11-3 win. S4 also got off to a good start but could only gain a slender lead. It was enough though as they played a composed final end, dropping the single shot they could afford, to win the game 6-5. Finally it was looking unlikely that S6 would add to the points total, as they were behind from end one. A 2-7 deficit was reduced to 5-8 going into the last end. Then against the run of play they manufactured three shots to salvage an 8-8 draw, an unlikely point gained.

Overall the match finished with a Suffolk win 29-7 (shots: 166 - 107).

It had been a great day for Suffolk, restricting Norfolk to just one win on their own carpets. From what had been a rather flat performance against Bedfordshire, the display against Norfolk had been much improved. Consistent early bowling had been backed up with accurate blocking and some positive conversion shots. A fine all round team performance, the highlight of which was three wins from S4 who were the most consistent rink on the day.

The win maintains Suffolk’s position at the top of the league, with a sixteen point lead over second place Essex but still very early days.

Suffolk’s next match is away again, against Hertfordshire (at the Drill Hall, Ware) on Sunday 17 January 2016, 10.30am start and supporters are welcome.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Suffolk v Bedfordshire

On Sunday 22 November, Suffolk played their first ECCBA league match of the season in defence of their title. At Needham Market, Bedfordshire were the opponents and Suffolk were hoping to get off to a winning start.

Graham Davey came into the team for his first match, the rinks selected were:

Suffolk 1 (S1): Jim Goodrich, Paul Leach, Clint Watling, Paul Daniels
Suffolk 2 (S2): Sally Goodrich, Graham Davey, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
Suffolk 3 (S3): Sam Runnacles, Rita Runnacles, Mick Watkins, Tom Runnacles
Suffolk 4 (S4): Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, David Ford
Suffolk 5 (S5): Pete Runnacles, Ralph Sadgrove, Andy Gilder, Steven Cain
Suffolk 6 (S6): Sue Davey, Ellen Grube, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

In the first session it was S3 who made the best start, despite losing the first end. After five ends they were 6-1 ahead, which they’d improved by the seventh end. However the best was yet to come, an incredible maximum eight shot score on the penultimate end, preceded a convincing 19-2 win. Not far behind them were S1, although they were 1-3 behind after two ends. They recovered well winning the next seven ends, finishing up as deserved 15-3 winners. Meanwhile S5 were involved in a far closer game, they were also 1-3 behind early on. They then took the lead, but going into the last end it was 6-6. On that final end they did just enough, scraping home by 7-6. Overall the ideal start from the Suffolk rinks.

The second session saw S6 make the better start of the other three Suffolk rinks. They were 5-1 up early on and after that they didn’t lose another end, scoring multiple shot counts on their way to a one sided 21-1 win. That was the end of the good news for Suffolk though, as S2 and S4 both slipped to defeats. S2 were ahead in the early part of the game but couldn’t gain complete control. Losing the last two ends resulted in a 7-8 defeat. S4 were involved in the lowest scoring game, 2-1 up after three ends was pulled back to 3-3, followed by 4-4. However also losing the last two ends resulted in a 4-6 defeat. A disappointing session for the home team.

Having finished their previous game well, it was S1 who continued their good form at the start of the third session. 7-0 up after four ends and they didn’t look back. Despite losing a couple of ends, they ran out comfortable 13-4 winners. Meanwhile S3 weren’t having things all their own way in a game of three halves. A good start saw them 4-0 up, then four more ends and they were 4-6 down, but six shots on the last three ends and they were 10-6 winners. Lastly S5 were involved in the best game, which at 4-3 up looked like going to the wire. However S5 had other ideas, winning four consecutive ends on their way to a hard earned 10-4 win.

Another maximum six point session and at the halfway stage, Suffolk had a 14-4 lead. It hadn’t been the most convincing performance so far, so an improved second half would be needed to ensure the match was won well.

The fourth session did not have the improvement Suffolk were looking for and come the end Bedfordshire were back in the match. The only Suffolk rink to win was S2, in a game, bar the first end, that they were always in the lead. 6-1 ahead after five ends proved to be just enough. Whilst they lost three of the last four ends, it was only with single shots, an important 7-4 win. S6 were involved in a real see-saw game, 0-4 behind early, then 6-5 in front but 8-8 going into the last end. That end went against them and the game was lost 8-12. Finally S4 just couldn’t get a foothold in their game, where everything went against them. A bad start just got worse, a game to forget and a 3-14 defeat.

The penultimate session needed to go Suffolk’s way to avoid a nervous final session.
S5 looking for their third consecutive win set about doing just that and at 5-1 up they were comfortable. However a mid-game wobble saw the score go to 5-4, a recovery was needed and duly delivered. Winning the last three ends took them to an important 11-4 victory. As for the other two games, another Suffolk win looked doubtful half way in. S3 were 0-4 and 2-5 behind, but then staged an excellent comeback. They won the final four ends, scoring nine shots in the process, a crucial 11-5 win and also their third of the day. Unfortunately S1 couldn’t make it a full house in a game which they were always chasing. The closest they got was 3-6 down after six ends, but the game ended with a 4-10 loss.

With the match won, the Suffolk rinks were eager to extend the overall lead and both S2 and S6 got off to flying starts. S2 playing their best game of the day eased their way to a 10-1 lead after six ends and they weren’t going to lose from there. They finished with a deserved 11-4 win. Similarly S6 were 11-0 up after six ends, which meant losing the last three ends caused them no concerns, another 11-4 win. S4 were having a far closer game though, an early 3-0 advantage was gone two ends later and they were 3-4 behind. They then bounced back well to be 7-5 ahead with an end to play. However it then took a final bowl miracle shot to avoid defeat, the jack being flicked out to a wide Suffolk bowl, one shot scored and an 8-5 win.

Overall the match finished with a Suffolk win 26-10 (shots: 180 - 102).

It shows how high Suffolk have set their standards over the past few seasons, that they were disappointed with the margin of victory. Whilst it hadn’t been the best performance, credit must go to Bedfordshire for their positive play and they fully deserved the games they won.

Particular mention should go to S3 and S5 who won all three of their games.

The win took Suffolk straight to the top of the league but they will be looking to play better in their next match. That is away to second place Norfolk (at Wortwell Community Centre) on Sunday 13 December, 10.30am start and supporters are welcome.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

National County Championships 2015

Over the weekend of 14 and 15 November the Suffolk team and their supporters were at the Potters Leisure Resort, Hopton-on-sea for the 2015 National County Championships.

Suffolk were hoping to retain the trophy and in doing so, win the event for the third consecutive year.

They were up against eight other counties, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Durham, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk, Northumberland and Sunderland. Each county were represented by six rinks (fours), each rink playing one nine end game against all of the other counties, over a weekend of bowling.

The team selected to represent Suffolk was:

A: Jim Goodrich, Paul Leach, Clint Watling, Paul Daniels
B: Sally Goodrich, Ally Hobbs, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
C: Sam Runnacles, Rita Runnacles, Mick Watkins, Tom Runnacles
D: Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, David Ford
E: Pete Runnacles, Ralph Sadgrove, Andy Gilder, Steven Cain
F: Sue Davey, Ellen Grube, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

It was an early 9am start on the Saturday morning and Suffolk rinks A, B and C faced Sunderland. C got off to a flyer and quickly secured a healthy lead which they were never going to relinquish, running out 14-3 winners. It wasn’t such good news on the other mats though, with A losing 4-10 and B just coming out on the wrong end of a close game, losing 4-6. Not the start that Suffolk were hoping for, but a long way to go.

In the second session rinks D, E and F had Hertfordshire as their first opposition. This time it was E who made the best start and they eased away to a comfortable 15-6 win. F also had a good start, but losing the middle ends made the game close, but they bounced back to take the final ends, winning 9-5. Unfortunately D could not make it a full house, as they lost 5-9.

The next session saw rinks A, B and C’s play Bedfordshire. As with the first session C flew out of the blocks and didn’t look back on their way to a one-sided 17-1 win. A weren’t far behind them, also hitting a double-figure score in winning 12-6. It wasn’t as comfortable for B though, but they battled well to win 7-4 and secure Suffolk’s first maximum six point session. That took Suffolk top of the standings overall, with Essex just behind.

The fourth session saw the top two play each other, three tough games were expected. It didn’t turn out that way for D and F who both controlled their games. Two wins always looked on the cards and the final scores were D winning by 14-4 and F by 14-6. The other game was far closer and unfortunately E came out on the wrong side of the 5-8 scoreline.

It was fifth place Durham, who Suffolk faced next and right from the outset two of the Suffolk rinks were in trouble. A were behind early and were unable to recover, losing 4-12. Whilst in a tighter game, C were unable to repeat their early form and went down by 5-8. The only shining light were B, playing their best game so far and deservedly winning well by 11-4. Suffolk were now down to second place overall, just a point behind Norfolk.

After a session break for Suffolk, it was top versus second again as A, B and C faced Norfolk. Playing confident bowls it was B who started the better and they soon had their game wrapped up by 12-5. It was completely the opposite for C though, again struggling to find form, they lost 5-12. It also wasn’t looking good for A, as they were 9-4 down with an end to play. They didn’t give up though and building a superb head of bowls just at the right time earned them five shots and a valuable 9-9 draw. Overall Norfolk now held a healthy five point lead over Suffolk.

In the penultimate session of the day, D, E and F returned to play Cambridgeshire. As usual all of the games started off as tight affairs but as the ends went by the Suffolk rinks exerted more control and slowly began to dominate. D had the closest game but did just enough to sneak home by 8-4. It was more comfortable for E and F as the latter ends all went their way, E winning 13-6 and F by 12-3. Only Suffolk’s second maximum point session of the day and it moved them to within three points of leaders Norfolk.

The final session on Saturday saw A, B and C face Northumberland in what turned out to be three completely different games. C rediscovered their early competition form and handed out a 23-3 trouncing. B were made to battle again, but held their nerve to scrape home by 8-7. Unfortunately A were unable to make it three wins in the session, as they lost to a strong opposition rink by 3-12.

It had been an average first day for Suffolk, they hadn’t bowled badly but had just not done enough to win some of the tight games. However, all the teams were taking points off each other and somehow Suffolk were in top spot on thirty one points. Norfolk were on thirty points, with Cambridgeshire, Durham and Sunderland all on twenty six. Sunday was looking like it would be an interesting day.

As with the first day, Suffolk faced Sunderland first, with rinks D, E and F on the mats. The games all followed a similar pattern, Suffolk up early and then holding on to their advantages. A good start was needed and was duly delivered, three wins and maximum points, D by 9-3, E by 14-4 and F by 12-2. With Norfolk sitting out the session, Suffolk now had a seven point lead over them and six points over Cambridgeshire and Essex.

Hertfordshire were Sunday’s first opponents for A, B and C. Generally the Suffolk rinks started well again and B were the first to secure a healthy lead, going on to win 10-2. Meanwhile A and C weren’t having all their own way. For C it wasn’t until the latter ends when they gained control of the game, finishing off as 11-6 winners. A were battling hard, staying in the game but reflecting their weekend so far, the last end didn’t go their way and it was a 5-8 defeat.

The third session of the day saw D, E and F face Bedfordshire. From end one D and E dominated their games, piling on the shots. Only one outcome, two wins, D by 14-2 and E by 18-1. In the other game F were always ahead but far from comfortable. It took a five shot count on the penultimate end to break the game and secure a hard earned 12-5 win. Suddenly Suffolk held an overall eleven point lead over Norfolk and Cambridgeshire.

Suffolk now needed to maintain the momentum but A, B and C had tricky games against fourth place Essex. It was B who settled first, they were having a good weekend and bowling confidently as a team, they eased to a 13-5 win. A were involved in a close game and showed real character and composed bowling to gain an important 6-4 win. Lastly C, they were in real trouble early on and the game looked lost. However they hung in there and with an end to play, had reduced the deficit to one. A great last end and the tightest of measures saw them get two shots and an improbable 10-9 win. Suffolk’s third maximum point session of the day, pushed them twelve ahead of Norfolk and fourteen in front of Cambridgeshire.

Durham were up next for D, E and F in what turned out to be a high quality session of bowls. Only one thing looked certain early on and that was a win for E, bowling well and ahead from the start, they protected that lead to win 11-6. F were involved in a real see-saw battle and it wasn’t until they scored a crucial five shot end that they could think about winning. In the end they just held on for a nervy 10-9 victory. Lastly D were always playing catch-up and at 3-10 down, the game was over, or was it? The final bowl on the penultimate end earned them a six and suddenly it was all to play for. On the last end they then held match winning position, only for the opposition’s final bowl to reduce it to one shot. However a 10-10 draw was a point gained and increased Suffolk’s overall lead at the top.

After a session break, next up were three crucial games against Norfolk, who still had hopes of winning the event. D started well and always looked like getting two points, edging further ahead as the game went on, to win 11-3. The other games were far closer, the Suffolk rinks looking in control, but just unable to get healthy leads. It didn’t matter though as composed tactical play saw both E and F to important 8-5 wins. Another maximum six points, took Suffolk to an overall sixteen point lead over Norfolk. However it was now Cambridgeshire in second place, but they were still ten points behind.

It was Suffolk versus Cambridgeshire next in the penultimate session, Suffolk knowing just one win would be enough to retain the National title. Right from the first end, A seemed intent on being the rink to get that win. They were ahead early, forcing their opposition into making mistakes and their lead kept growing, running out well deserved 15-3 winners. B weren’t far behind them, playing accurate drawing bowls and their best game of the weekend, another Suffolk win by 12-4. Not to be left out and whilst involved in a far closer game, C made it yet another maximum point session with an 8-5 win.

The final games of the weekend saw Northumberland as the opposition and D, E and F were in no mood to take their foot off the pedal. As they had done all weekend, D played composed and consistent bowls to record a 12-7 win. Both E and F’s games followed a similar pattern, ahead early, leads extended and two big wins followed, E by 15-4 and F by 17-3.

Overall the finishing positions were:

PTS Shots+ Shots- 1st Suffolk 76 504 268 2nd Cambridgeshire 58 410 335 3rd Norfolk 55 390 352 4th Sunderland 50 375 410 5th Essex 47 386 357 6th Hertfordshire 43 391 387 7th Durham 41 346 420 8th Northumberland 41 342 443 9th Bedfordshire 21 291 463

Suffolk were National County champions for the third consecutive year.

Saturday had been slightly disappointing, but the team performance on Sunday, when the pressure was on, was quite unbelievable. Twenty four games played and only one defeat, six maximum point sessions (out of eight) and forty five points from forty eight. Whilst all of the other teams were taking points off each other, Suffolk just kept pulling further ahead.

Every bowler contributed to the win, the team spirit within the rinks and team as a whole was terrific and everyone did Suffolk proud.

The Suffolk team thank everyone who travelled to Potters and supported them during this long weekend of bowls, it was greatly appreciated.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Inter County League Play-Off Match 2015

On the evening of Friday 13 November at Potters, the 2015 Inter County League Play-Off match saw Suffolk face Durham.

This match precedes the National County Championship and is between the Eastern Counties League winners and the Northern Counties League winners, Suffolk having won this match for the past four years.

Each county were represented by six rinks (fours), each playing one nine end game.
The team selected to represent Suffolk was:

A: Jim Goodrich, Paul Leach, Clint Watling, Paul Daniels
B: Sally Goodrich, Ally Hobbs, Andy Pooley, Sue Gilder
C: Sam Runnacles, Rita Runnacles, Mick Watkins, Tom Runnacles
D: Don Allum, John Varden, Colin Fellingham, David Ford
E: Pete Runnacles, Ralph Sadgrove, Andy Gilder, Steven Cain
F: Sue Savey, Ellen Grube, Peter Fellingham, Neil Jolly

It was a mixed start for Suffolk, as bowlers from both counties took a few ends to adjust to the slightly slow carpets.

As the ends progressed, it was always looking like two certain wins for Suffolk.

D had made the best start and never looked in any trouble as they eased away to a very comfortable 15-1 win.

Not far behind them was F, gradually increasing their early advantage to record a 16-3 win.

With some good shots in the bag, could Suffolk find one more win to retain the trophy?

Both A and E had found themselves behind early on and despite their best efforts to reduce the deficit, neither were able to. A losing 6-9 and E by 6-11.

Meanwhile B were involved in a tight game, with neither rink able to secure a healthy advantage. It went right down to the last end, but unfortunately it wasn’t the outcome Suffolk wanted, a 7-8 defeat.

That left C as the last rink to finish, they were involved in another close game. It could have gone either way, but a dropped shot on the last end saw the match finish as a 6-6 draw and not the win Suffolk needed.

Suffolk were disappointed to lose the match 7-5 and it wasn’t the start to the weekend they had hoped for.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)

Suffolk Squad 2015-16

The Suffolk squad trials took place on Sunday 1 November at Needham Market Community Centre.

Each bowler played six rinks games during the day, with every bowl scored on its accuracy.

The Selection Committee thanks Michael Ashman, Andrew English, Jane and Richard Sago and Keith Jolly who assisted and scored all of the games.

There was very little to choose between a number of bowlers on the day, but after careful consideration of all who trialled, the players selected for the 2015/16 season are:

Neil Jolly - Brockley – captain
Sally Goodrich - Claydon – selector
Steven Cain - Great Blakenham – selector
Don Allum – Great Blakenham
Paul Daniels – Kelsale/ Belstead
Graham Davey – Cockfield
Sue Davey - Cockfield
Colin Fellingham - Cockfield
Peter Fellingham – Cockfield
David Ford – Great Blakenham
Andy Gilder - Barking
Sue Gilder - Barking
Jim Goodrich – Claydon
Ellen Grube – Hundon
Steve Isles – Claydon
Paul Leach – Thurston/ Stanningfield
Andy Pooley – Great Blakenham
Peter Runnacles – Barking
Rita Runnacles – Barking
Sam Runnacles – Barking
Tom Runnacles – Barking
Ralph Sadgrove – Hundon
John Varden – Old Felixstowe
Mick Watkins – Barking
Clint Watling – Claydon
Nick Wood - Hundon

The squad’s first challenge is to try and successfully defend their first Eastern Counties league title. The first match is at home against Bedfordshire on Sunday 22 November 2015 at Needham Market Community Centre. Supporters are more than welcome, the match starts at 10.30am and refreshments are available.

Neil Jolly

2015 Six Counties Charity Teambowl

On Sunday 27 September, the Hertfordshire CBA hosted the ECCBA Six Counties Charity Teambowl at Littleport Leisure Centre.

The competition involved the six Eastern Counties, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
Each county were represented by four singles bowlers, four pairs and four triples, each playing one seven end game against each of the other counties.

Suffolk were looking to win the Teambowl for the third consecutive year and add it to the league title and Six Counties already won in 2015.
The team selected to represent Suffolk was:

S1: Steven Cain (single), Pete Runnacles & Andy Gilder (pair), Sue Davey, Ann Hathaway & Sue Gilder (triple);

S2: Mick Watkins (single), John Varden & Colin Fellingham (pair), Ally Hobbs, Ellen Grube & Neil Jolly (triple);

S3: Paul Daniels (single), Don Allum & David Ford (pair), Rita Runnacles, Peter Fellingham & Tom Runnacles (triple);

S4: Jim Goodrich (single), Sally Goodrich & Sam Runnacles (pair), Paul Leach, Ralph Sadgrove & Andy Pooley (triple);

The first session of the day saw Suffolk face Norfolk. The four singles matches all started tightly but by the middle ends Steven and Mick had gained control and went on to win 8-3 and 8-2 respectively. Jim battled well to gain a point with a 5-5 draw, with Paul slipping to 5-9 defeat. Next on were the pairs and with Sally/Sam and John/Colin both making fine starts, those two matches were never in doubt, winning 10-3 and 11-2. Don/David added two more points with a good 8-4 win, but Pete/Andy were unable to make it a full house, losing 5-9. Last on were the triples and in four tricky matches, Suffolk were happy to share the spoils, the Suffolk points coming from S3 winning 6-4 and S4 by 10-6. Overall it was a decent start from Suffolk, taking fifteen points off an experienced Norfolk team.

Next up for Suffolk were Hertfordshire, a team who’d had an excellent league campaign. Again the singles got Suffolk off to a good start, Paul bounced back well to sneak a close match 5-3, Jim went one better than last time to win 8-6 and Steven got his second consecutive win, by 6-4. A maximum session was just missed, when Mick was edged out 6-7. In the pairs, Pete/Andy responded well to their first match defeat by holding their nerve to win 7-6. Don/David were involved in an equally close match, but also secured a one shot win, by 5-4. The other two pairs matches were more comfortable, John/Colin and Sally/Sam continuing where they left off to win comfortably 9-3 and 12-2. The triples session started badly and by halfway Suffolk didn’t look like getting anything. The picture changed though in the latter ends as firstly S2’s form picked up and they won a final end decider by 5-4. Then S4 won their last two ends to turn a 2-4 deficit into an excellent 8-4 win. In the other matches, S1 were again on the wrong end of a one shot defeat (5-6) and S3 simply never got into their match, losing 5-10. However eighteen points from Hertfordshire was a great outcome and took Suffolk into first place overall, two points ahead of Cambridgeshire.

Bedfordshire were up next and in the singles Steven again led the way with a comfortable 12-2 win. That was followed up by Mick winning 8-5 and Paul 6-5. The confident pairs were on next and this time it was Don/David who settled the quickest and they eased away to a 10-4 win. The other three matches were far tighter but Peter/Andy played well again to win 7-5 and a superb last bowl saw John/Colin turn a loss into a hard earned 6-5 win. Lastly Sally/Sam who were always behind had manufactured a last end match holding position, which unfortunately the opposing skip spoiled and the match was lost 3-5. In the triples matches it always looked like being a Suffolk dominated session, but could they get maximum points? Three wins were in the bag early, S1 deservedly getting a win by 9-5, S2 and S4 comfortably by 11-1 and 11-2 respectively. Four wins were secured by S3, but only just with a 7-6 victory. Overall Suffolk were delighted with twenty points from Bedfordshire and suddenly they had a healthy advantage at the top, nine points ahead of both Cambridgeshire and Norfolk.

The penultimate session and Essex were the opponents. Four difficult singles matches were first up and two wins each was a fair reflection on the play. Steven maintained his fantastic form to win 7-3 and the other win came from Mick by 5-4. The pairs then scored Suffolk’s third maximum points session, with their best displays of the day. John/Colin were involved in another close match but did just enough to win 5-4. Meanwhile the other games were a little more comfortable, Pete/Andy winning 8-3, Don/David by 9-5 and Sally/Sam back to winning ways by 7-4. In the triples, S4 were on a roll and controlled their match from the start to win 10-1 and two more points were added by S3 with a slim 6-5 win. In a very low scoring encounter S1 got a valuable point with a 3-3 draw but unfortunately S2 were edged out by the odd shot, 8-9. Seventeen points from Essex was a great return though and increased Suffolk’s overall lead to eleven points over second place Cambridgeshire.

The final session saw first against second and it was Suffolk’s competition to lose. In the singles Steven led from the front, racing away to a one-sided 13-1 win, Jim deservedly secured two more points with a 9-2 win and Mick played well again to win 6-3. Suffolk now only needed one point from the pairs and triples matches to retain the trophy and that was quickly done by Pete/Andy with a 6-3 win. Sally/Sam added two more points winning 7-6, with both John/Colin and Don/David unbeaten day disappointingly ended on the last bowl of their matches, losing 7-8 and 4-5 respectively. Finally in the triples, S4 hit top form again to win 9-6 and S3 held on for a 6-6 draw. Overall Suffolk had taken thirteen points off Cambridgeshire.

The final points and standings were:

	PTS
Suffolk	83
Cambridgeshire	70
Norfolk	70
Essex	52
Hertfordshire	52
Bedfordshire	33

It had been a fantastic all round team performance from Suffolk with everyone contributing to a healthy final points total. Particular mention should go to Steven Cain who dominated all of his singles matches for five straight wins and the S4 triple of Paul Leach, Ralph Sadgrove and Andy Pooley who all played well and deserved their five wins.

The Suffolk team are now looking forward to defending two trophies at the National Championships at Potters in the middle of November.

Neil Jolly (County Captain)