LBIOM

In the men’s final it was always going to be a tough challenge for Phil Connolly making his debut in a national singles final to take on the in-form Mark McGreal, defending champion having won the title for the previous 3 years and fresh from his impressive singles campaign at the recent Commonwealth Games. Phil got off to a good start finding his line and length very early with some nice exchanges and with the scoreline of 3-2 in Mark’s favour after the opening few ends the match seemed to be heading for a close contest. Alas it was not to be for Phil as Mark soon mastered the rink and green conditions as he dominated play to which Phil had no response with Mark claiming his 5th Singles title by a scoreline of 21 shots to 2. A vote of thanks to the marker, Adrian Slater and scorer Pam Makin for their assistance.

In the Ladies Singles final it was again a matter of dejavu for Barbara Reed, playing in her first major singles final, coming up against the in form Dee Lewis fresh from her pairs victory the previous day. Barbara can be proud of her performance and displayed an air of confidence and composure as she battled a very tough and consistent opponent on the day. Whilst many of the ends were tight and closely fought the experience and game management of Dee proved a decisive factor in her victory picking up her 3rd National Ladies Singles title and with it the opportunity to participate in the World Champion of Champions tournament next season which will be held in Australia.

It was also a pleasure to see past President, Pam Makin, make the presentation to Mark following on from her role as one of the lawn bowls managers at the Commonwealth Games.