DISAPPOINTMENT TINGED WITH JOY

This evening at Fleming Park BC, Ric Newson toook on Fareham's Charlie Bailey in the semi final of the County Four Wood Singles. Playing against the 2008 Champion, Ric was very much the underdog but he took an early 4-0 lead, only for Charlie to come back so Ric after just 7 ends trailed 7-9. Charlie then stormed away and by 17 ends had a seemingly impregnable 17-10 lead. To his credit, Ric fought back and after 21 ends led 19-17. His chance to win the game came on the next end but Charlie with his final bowl drew the shot and eventually won 21-19 to secure his place in the County Final and at Leamington. Ric was naturally disappointed to go down at such a late stage but, on leaving the green, he recieved, from his perspective, the good news that his opponent, in the 3rd place play off, was withdrawing from the competition. Ric will, therefore now represent Hampshire at the National Championships at Leamington. Ric has asked that his thanks be conveyed to the many Club members who came down to support him on the night.