McSorley holds his nerve to win Melaugh Cup

ST Patrick’s Bowling Club annual singles tournament for the Chrissie Melaugh Cup concluded last Friday evening.

The finalists were B Logan (Limavady), L Hamilton (Glendermott), D Robinson (Aughingtober), L Britton (Donemana), W McGeehan (Manor), I McClintock Donoughmore), G McNabb (Fintona), S McSorley (Ardstraw), T Patton (SCC), P Doherty (Inch), J Rutledge (Sixmilecross) and S Brown (Ardstraw).

In the semi-finals L Hamilton played S McSorley and G McNabb played T Patton. The first semi- final between Hamilton and McSorley was a close run affair with SMcSorley taking a two shot lead in the first end. Hamilton chased him right up to the ninth end, needing a shot to draw and two to win.

McSorley though held his nerve and drew his last bowl to win 10-8.

The second semi-final match between Patton and McNabb seemed like a one sided match when McNabb raced into a 5-0 lead after two ends.

Patton though had other ideas and took the sixth end with a shot to lead 6-5 going into the ninth end.

Patton thought he had won it when he was lying three shots with McNabb only one bowl in hand. McNabb played a great shot to make the game all square and an extra end was needed. Gary took the jack into the ditch with his third bowl and won the match.

The final, not the first between McSorley and McNabb, was a very exciting contest. This time Stuart took a five shot lead after three ends leaving McNabb doing the chasing. A very tactical battle ensued and on this occasion it was McSorley who came out on top to beat his old adversary 8-5.

The club would like to thank everyone who took part in the competition, all club members who helped with the running of the tournament and a sincere word of thanks to our sponsors McKinney Plant & Safety, McKinney Crane hire, Fir Trees Hotel and to our club member John Melaugh, who sponsored first and second prizes in memory of his late wife.

The tournament has been running in memory of his wife for the past 15 years.