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Men's Results & Match Reports 2024
Saturday 7th September Merthyr West End A
The last match of the season, with relegation confirmed, the Tyrchs, with stand-in captain, Iain Russell, made the journey north up the A470 to the Wildcats of Merthyr West End. Unfortunately, once again without a full team - well done to Ranjith D for making his Pentyrch debut. Horrendous rain the previous day had cast doubt on the match going ahead but in the end it did.
A good performance, in the circumstances with both full rinks coming out on top. While Pentyrch face next season in Division Six, the home team celebrated retaining their Division 5 status.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Adrian Bevan, Ranjith D, Mike Britton 21-12
Dave Ashmore, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas, Roger Thompson 19-15
Andrew Herbert, Chris Locke, John Beacham 6-30
Iain Russell, Gordon Tucker, Martin Hopkins 12-17.
See you in 2025. Hope you've enjoyed reading. MK x
A good performance, in the circumstances with both full rinks coming out on top. While Pentyrch face next season in Division Six, the home team celebrated retaining their Division 5 status.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Adrian Bevan, Ranjith D, Mike Britton 21-12
Dave Ashmore, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas, Roger Thompson 19-15
Andrew Herbert, Chris Locke, John Beacham 6-30
Iain Russell, Gordon Tucker, Martin Hopkins 12-17.
See you in 2025. Hope you've enjoyed reading. MK x
Beer Drinkers and Hellraisers - ZZ Top
Saturday 31st August Pentyrch 70- 92 Bargoed
The last PG home match of the season was played on a full calendar of sport at Parc y Dwrlyn for the village, with the cricket 1st XI hosting Swansea, the rugby club with two friendly fixtures, the football having to relocate to a neutral ground and us hosting the likely champions-elect, Bargoed. Car park spaces were rare and sometimes double booked.
The visitors quickly made themselves at home lining up a supply of drinks and helpfully began to clear the club's stock for the season end. So, the match began with Bargoed looking to confirm their expected promotion with a convincing win. The Tyrchs, with relegation confirmed were playing for pride and looking for encouragement for next year.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Colin Howson, Martin Hopkins and Adrian Bevan were the only winning rink and congratulations must go to them for their Houdini style escape. There were anxious glances from the other three Pentyrch rinks when they saw 0-7 on their scoreboard after the first end. The worst was feared, as they slumped to 1-10 at the 4th end. HOWEVER, they regained their composure and steadily clawed back shots as the visitors' frustration at being restricted increased. At the 20th end the scores were level 17-17. The home side won the last end by one to finish 18-17. Amazing!
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Chris Cooper (back from shoulder surgery) and Paul Cooper matched their opponents for the first seven ends, then dropped an 8 which is usually fatal and so it proved. The visitors pulled away to lead 17-9 after 13 ends which signalled a positive rally by the Tyrchs to get back to only 16-19, only for Bargoed to score 7 in the last two ends. Final score: 16-26.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Denzil Thomas and Mike Britton started well and at the 10th end were the most successful of the home rinks, at that stage, at 12-4 up. Then they dropped a 7 making the score 12-11. Even then, they continued to win more ends getting to 16-12 at the 15th end. Bargoed then, gathered themselves to score 11 unanswered shots 16-23 at the 20th end. The Tyrchs had the last word with a 3 at the final end to finish 19-23.
Mark Krawiecki, Peter O'Reilly, Ian Davies and Chris Locke also had a tough encounter against a Bargoed four who were consistently accurate and did not allow much room for error. The Tyrchs were resilient in their turn and but for fine margins could have achieved a smaller deficit. When they did win ends it was well, with two 3's and two 4's and they didn't drop a 7 or 8! In the end, Bargoed were too good and won 25-17.
Overall, Pentyrch must be encouraged by the performance. It was not the massacre it could have been. The other very encouraging feature of the day was the performance of the green - much praised by the visitors who had come with preconceived ideas from other teams in the league. The green has had special attention this week in preparation for the Cratchley Bowl, both from Absolute Grasscare and our own volunteers but foundation for that has been steadily built in the last two seasons by everyone's hard work and dedication.
Our best wishes go to the enthusiastic and vociferous Bargoed who are aiming to be promoted as champions next week in a first and second place end of season clash with Bridgend Municipal. We enjoyed their company on and off the green. We have one more PG match, away to Merthyr West End A next Saturday.
Finally, a massive thanks to Jordan Napper having led us as Captain this season. Jordan has taken on the role, as a very recent newcomer to the game with enthusiasm, fairness, great humour and dignity, in often very challenging circumstances. Unfortunately, Jordan will not be available for the last match next week at Merthyr but no doubt, we can all show our sincere thanks to him for his efforts.
The visitors quickly made themselves at home lining up a supply of drinks and helpfully began to clear the club's stock for the season end. So, the match began with Bargoed looking to confirm their expected promotion with a convincing win. The Tyrchs, with relegation confirmed were playing for pride and looking for encouragement for next year.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Colin Howson, Martin Hopkins and Adrian Bevan were the only winning rink and congratulations must go to them for their Houdini style escape. There were anxious glances from the other three Pentyrch rinks when they saw 0-7 on their scoreboard after the first end. The worst was feared, as they slumped to 1-10 at the 4th end. HOWEVER, they regained their composure and steadily clawed back shots as the visitors' frustration at being restricted increased. At the 20th end the scores were level 17-17. The home side won the last end by one to finish 18-17. Amazing!
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Chris Cooper (back from shoulder surgery) and Paul Cooper matched their opponents for the first seven ends, then dropped an 8 which is usually fatal and so it proved. The visitors pulled away to lead 17-9 after 13 ends which signalled a positive rally by the Tyrchs to get back to only 16-19, only for Bargoed to score 7 in the last two ends. Final score: 16-26.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Denzil Thomas and Mike Britton started well and at the 10th end were the most successful of the home rinks, at that stage, at 12-4 up. Then they dropped a 7 making the score 12-11. Even then, they continued to win more ends getting to 16-12 at the 15th end. Bargoed then, gathered themselves to score 11 unanswered shots 16-23 at the 20th end. The Tyrchs had the last word with a 3 at the final end to finish 19-23.
Mark Krawiecki, Peter O'Reilly, Ian Davies and Chris Locke also had a tough encounter against a Bargoed four who were consistently accurate and did not allow much room for error. The Tyrchs were resilient in their turn and but for fine margins could have achieved a smaller deficit. When they did win ends it was well, with two 3's and two 4's and they didn't drop a 7 or 8! In the end, Bargoed were too good and won 25-17.
Overall, Pentyrch must be encouraged by the performance. It was not the massacre it could have been. The other very encouraging feature of the day was the performance of the green - much praised by the visitors who had come with preconceived ideas from other teams in the league. The green has had special attention this week in preparation for the Cratchley Bowl, both from Absolute Grasscare and our own volunteers but foundation for that has been steadily built in the last two seasons by everyone's hard work and dedication.
Our best wishes go to the enthusiastic and vociferous Bargoed who are aiming to be promoted as champions next week in a first and second place end of season clash with Bridgend Municipal. We enjoyed their company on and off the green. We have one more PG match, away to Merthyr West End A next Saturday.
Finally, a massive thanks to Jordan Napper having led us as Captain this season. Jordan has taken on the role, as a very recent newcomer to the game with enthusiasm, fairness, great humour and dignity, in often very challenging circumstances. Unfortunately, Jordan will not be available for the last match next week at Merthyr but no doubt, we can all show our sincere thanks to him for his efforts.
Wednesday 28th August Pentyrch 72 - 61 Taffs Well Garth Cup 2nd Leg
The last midweek match of the season and a fitting way to finish with the second leg and conclusion of the Garth Cup for another season.
The visitors arrived with a formidable 20 shot lead from the first leg the previous week. Could the Wellmen hold on to the Cup? Time would tell. An early start meant that there would just be enough time to finish before the increasingly shorter late August evening drew in. The lower setting sun made it difficult to bowl towards the tennis club end. A very late team change meant Roger Thompson coming to the rescue as a supersub - David Fairclough, if anyone remembers him?
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Barrie Thomas, Mike Britton and Barrie Lewis with a solid and ultimately dominant performance against an experienced Taffs Well rink which included Ian Best, Barrie Thomas's nemesis not to mention Les Hancock. Sweet! Won 22-10.
Colin Howson, Chris Locke, Andy Butler and Roger Thompson had a tough evening and one to forget losing 5-27.
Mark Krawiecki, Adrian Bevan, Denzil Thomas and Ian Davies, on the other hand and on the next rink had a night to remember restricting their opponents to winning only four ends and scoring 7 shots. Some way to redressing the 8 that three of this rink conceded to Lance Timothy at Taffs Well. Score 33-7
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Chris O'Leary and Martin Hopkins had a close match until the final three ends when the visitors scored 4 to 1 and finished 17-12.
A good team win on the night but not quite enough - so confident were Taffs Well that they didn't even bring the trophy with them.
Brian Ilbery, captain for the evening made a fitting speech thanking Paul Cooper for serving drinks and baking the pasties. Thanks to Taffs Well for their company - see them again next year. Thanks to the selectors for the season's work in sorting the midweek teams, especially to Alan Lowndes.
N.B. Last home PG match this Saturday to Bargoed. The next day, Sunday 1st September, the club is hosting the semi-finals and final of the Private Greens Cratchley Bowl from 11:00 am. This is the first time in our relatively short history that we have this privilege, so it would be good for our members to come and watch some great bowling and positively raise the profile of Pentyrch Bowling Club.
The visitors arrived with a formidable 20 shot lead from the first leg the previous week. Could the Wellmen hold on to the Cup? Time would tell. An early start meant that there would just be enough time to finish before the increasingly shorter late August evening drew in. The lower setting sun made it difficult to bowl towards the tennis club end. A very late team change meant Roger Thompson coming to the rescue as a supersub - David Fairclough, if anyone remembers him?
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Barrie Thomas, Mike Britton and Barrie Lewis with a solid and ultimately dominant performance against an experienced Taffs Well rink which included Ian Best, Barrie Thomas's nemesis not to mention Les Hancock. Sweet! Won 22-10.
Colin Howson, Chris Locke, Andy Butler and Roger Thompson had a tough evening and one to forget losing 5-27.
Mark Krawiecki, Adrian Bevan, Denzil Thomas and Ian Davies, on the other hand and on the next rink had a night to remember restricting their opponents to winning only four ends and scoring 7 shots. Some way to redressing the 8 that three of this rink conceded to Lance Timothy at Taffs Well. Score 33-7
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Chris O'Leary and Martin Hopkins had a close match until the final three ends when the visitors scored 4 to 1 and finished 17-12.
A good team win on the night but not quite enough - so confident were Taffs Well that they didn't even bring the trophy with them.
Brian Ilbery, captain for the evening made a fitting speech thanking Paul Cooper for serving drinks and baking the pasties. Thanks to Taffs Well for their company - see them again next year. Thanks to the selectors for the season's work in sorting the midweek teams, especially to Alan Lowndes.
N.B. Last home PG match this Saturday to Bargoed. The next day, Sunday 1st September, the club is hosting the semi-finals and final of the Private Greens Cratchley Bowl from 11:00 am. This is the first time in our relatively short history that we have this privilege, so it would be good for our members to come and watch some great bowling and positively raise the profile of Pentyrch Bowling Club.
Saturday 24th August Pentyrch 46 - 98 Harlequins A 98
The penultimate PG home match of the season and a disappointing result. Only recently, the Tyrchs had played at the Harlequins' Aberdare home, and with a full team had shown some competitiveness. Unfortunately, this was another weekend fixture without a full team against strong visitors.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Peter O'Reilly, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins 11-24
Jordan Napper, Colin Howson, Roger Thompson 12 (16 reduced by 25%) - 19
Brian Ilbery, Alan Lowndes, Ian Davies and Andy Butler 17-24
Barrie Thomas, Adrian Bevan, Chris O'Leary and Mike Britton 6-31
Two PG matches remain - home this Saturday to promotion chasers Bargoed and a week Saturday away to West End Social A, Merthyr.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Peter O'Reilly, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins 11-24
Jordan Napper, Colin Howson, Roger Thompson 12 (16 reduced by 25%) - 19
Brian Ilbery, Alan Lowndes, Ian Davies and Andy Butler 17-24
Barrie Thomas, Adrian Bevan, Chris O'Leary and Mike Britton 6-31
Two PG matches remain - home this Saturday to promotion chasers Bargoed and a week Saturday away to West End Social A, Merthyr.
MIDWEEK LEAGUE FINAL TABLE 2024
The final league table for Group B is shown below. Last year, Pentyrch came fourth but it is not possible to make a like for like comparison because the teams in Groups A and B were reorganised for this season. The play off final was between Penylan from group A and Taffs Well of group B. Penylan won the the final convincingly.
Wednesday 21st August Taffs Well 79 - 59 Pentyrch Garth Cup 1st Leg
This was the first leg of the Garth Cup, the traditional trophy contested with our good friends and 'enemies' from Taffs Well. The Wellmen took the honours in part 1, leaving the Trychs with a 20 shot deficit to make up in the second leg in a week's time.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Ian Davies drew 19-19, despite dropping an 8 along the way.
Colin Howson, Adrian Bevan, Andy Butler and Mike Britton lost 21-12
Barrie Thomas, Chris Locke, Chris O'Leary and Ed Brookman lost 21-9
Congratulations to Dave Ashmore, Gordon Tucker, Barrie Lewis and Martin Hopkins who won 19-18.
All to play for in the second leg.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Ian Davies drew 19-19, despite dropping an 8 along the way.
Colin Howson, Adrian Bevan, Andy Butler and Mike Britton lost 21-12
Barrie Thomas, Chris Locke, Chris O'Leary and Ed Brookman lost 21-9
Congratulations to Dave Ashmore, Gordon Tucker, Barrie Lewis and Martin Hopkins who won 19-18.
All to play for in the second leg.
Wednesday 14th August Harlequins A 82 - 54 Pentyrch
This PG fixture had been rescheduled from earlier in the season at the home of the formidable Harlequins, in a tricky to find location, in the shadow of the Coliseum Theatre in Trecynon. A rare sunny evening made the first half of the match difficult, as a low setting sun shone directly into the players' eyes. This was always going to be a challenging fixture, and so it proved but with the visitors, as at Millwood recently, largely competitive until the latter stages.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Chris O'Leary and Ian Davies going closest at only 14-16 down.
Barrie Thomas, Gordon Tucker, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins did very well to establish a 12-6 lead at the 13th end when the home team established a rhythm scoring 12 unanswered shots to win 18-12.
Mark Krawiecki, Dave Ashmore, Andy Butler and Adrian Bevan managed 10-10 at the 7th end, then only scored at three more ends as the home side gradually pulled away to finish 25-15 up.
Brian Ilbery, Chris Locke, Ed Brookman and Mike Britton had 9-9 parity at the 10th end, with the home team then taking command. Scoring a 6 at the final end, gave the Harlequins a 23-13 win.
Under a waxing moon, the teams headed indoors for sandwiches and drink. Thanks to the hosts for the game and hospitality. An unexpected closure of the A470 on the way home, meant a diversion through the dark and narrow streets of Abercynon and Cilfynydd. The return fixture is only ten days away.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Chris O'Leary and Ian Davies going closest at only 14-16 down.
Barrie Thomas, Gordon Tucker, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins did very well to establish a 12-6 lead at the 13th end when the home team established a rhythm scoring 12 unanswered shots to win 18-12.
Mark Krawiecki, Dave Ashmore, Andy Butler and Adrian Bevan managed 10-10 at the 7th end, then only scored at three more ends as the home side gradually pulled away to finish 25-15 up.
Brian Ilbery, Chris Locke, Ed Brookman and Mike Britton had 9-9 parity at the 10th end, with the home team then taking command. Scoring a 6 at the final end, gave the Harlequins a 23-13 win.
Under a waxing moon, the teams headed indoors for sandwiches and drink. Thanks to the hosts for the game and hospitality. An unexpected closure of the A470 on the way home, meant a diversion through the dark and narrow streets of Abercynon and Cilfynydd. The return fixture is only ten days away.
Stay (Far away, so close) - U2
Saturday 10th August Millwood 83 - 77 Pentyrch
The first visit to Millwood for the men's Pentyrch team and the visitors could have been forgiven for not expecting too much, with the scars still raw from a home (50-124) 'battering' by the day's opponents only five weeks before. In the end, the visitors were deeply disappointed to have lost only by 6 shots to third placed Millwood. This was a positive team performance slowly building on recent wins but also a reminder of some reasons why relegation is almost inevitable.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Keith Davies, Mike Britton and Gordon Tucker started very strongly building up a 12-0 lead after only four ends and continued to lead throughout the match. The home team recovered to an extent getting to 13-18 by the 15th end but the Tyrchs then replied with a 4 at the next end to keep their distance to finish 25-19 winners.
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke also quickly raised hopes on the next rink racing to a 13-2 lead at the 7th end. Millwood then began chipping away at this stunning lead and got to 17-14 at the 15th end. The Tyrchs seemed to have kicked them off the edge of the cliff with a 6 at the next end to get to 23-14. They then conceded 9 unanswered shots to leave the drama of a 'penalty shoot out' at 23-23 at the final end. Millwood won the last end by one shot to win 24-23.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Ian Davies and Peter O'Reilly were positively 5-0 up after two ends but had resilient opponents who replied in kind. There followed a pattern of both sides taking turns to take the lead. With the scores 11-11 at the 16th end, Millwood rallied and pulled away, scoring 8 shots to 1 to win 18-12.
Mark Krawiecki, Dave Ashmore, Chris O'Leary and John Beacham also led 1-0 at the first end, giving Pentyrch a combined team score of 12-0 after the first end - reasons to be cheerful indeed! The Tyrchs worked hard to establish and maintain a lead getting to 17-13 at the 17th end. With the heat of the afternoon increasing, the visitors, after much hard work, began to fade losing the last four ends to finish a frustrating 17-22 down.
A welcome but unusual post match meal of takeaway pizza and chips and cold cider for some, took a slight edge off the defeat. Thanks to our opponents for their hospitality and good company on and off the green and we wish them luck in their quest for promotion. Thanks to Jordan for another entertaining speech summing up the afternoon with humour and a positive outlook. The Tyrchs have to reflect on the result of this match as one that got away. No PG match next Saturday but an important trip to Harlequins this Wednesday for a rearranged fixture.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Keith Davies, Mike Britton and Gordon Tucker started very strongly building up a 12-0 lead after only four ends and continued to lead throughout the match. The home team recovered to an extent getting to 13-18 by the 15th end but the Tyrchs then replied with a 4 at the next end to keep their distance to finish 25-19 winners.
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke also quickly raised hopes on the next rink racing to a 13-2 lead at the 7th end. Millwood then began chipping away at this stunning lead and got to 17-14 at the 15th end. The Tyrchs seemed to have kicked them off the edge of the cliff with a 6 at the next end to get to 23-14. They then conceded 9 unanswered shots to leave the drama of a 'penalty shoot out' at 23-23 at the final end. Millwood won the last end by one shot to win 24-23.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Ian Davies and Peter O'Reilly were positively 5-0 up after two ends but had resilient opponents who replied in kind. There followed a pattern of both sides taking turns to take the lead. With the scores 11-11 at the 16th end, Millwood rallied and pulled away, scoring 8 shots to 1 to win 18-12.
Mark Krawiecki, Dave Ashmore, Chris O'Leary and John Beacham also led 1-0 at the first end, giving Pentyrch a combined team score of 12-0 after the first end - reasons to be cheerful indeed! The Tyrchs worked hard to establish and maintain a lead getting to 17-13 at the 17th end. With the heat of the afternoon increasing, the visitors, after much hard work, began to fade losing the last four ends to finish a frustrating 17-22 down.
A welcome but unusual post match meal of takeaway pizza and chips and cold cider for some, took a slight edge off the defeat. Thanks to our opponents for their hospitality and good company on and off the green and we wish them luck in their quest for promotion. Thanks to Jordan for another entertaining speech summing up the afternoon with humour and a positive outlook. The Tyrchs have to reflect on the result of this match as one that got away. No PG match next Saturday but an important trip to Harlequins this Wednesday for a rearranged fixture.
Climate change at St Fagans?
Wednesday 31st July St Fagans 78 - 52 Pentyrch
The last Cardiff Midweek League fixture of the season took place at the local neighbours St Fagans. On the third day of a mini heatwave, the visitors were faced with a parched green whose aridity couldn't be attributed to the last few days' hot spell alone. The short dry grass made for a fast surface that proved generally difficult to deal with.
Rink Scores:
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Andy Butler and Adrian Bevan were the only winning rink. Having led throughout, came out 16-11 winners.
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Mike Britton and Barrie Lewis were only 6-8 down at the 10th end, but then scored no more, conceding another 14 shots to finish 22-6 down. A bottle of wine each for Barrie Lewis and Mark Krawiecki in the raffle softened the blow.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Chris Locke were getting swept away 14-1 at the 8th end, then woke up, making a strong fightback to finish 13-18 down.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins started confidently and were 6-1 up in the early exchanges. The home team, then established a lead that the visitors couldn't claw back, despite scoring a 4 and 2 at the 16th and 17th ends. Final score 17-27.
The next match is not until Saturday 10th August with a challenging PG fixture away to Millwood, Barry.
Rink Scores:
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Andy Butler and Adrian Bevan were the only winning rink. Having led throughout, came out 16-11 winners.
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Mike Britton and Barrie Lewis were only 6-8 down at the 10th end, but then scored no more, conceding another 14 shots to finish 22-6 down. A bottle of wine each for Barrie Lewis and Mark Krawiecki in the raffle softened the blow.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Chris Locke were getting swept away 14-1 at the 8th end, then woke up, making a strong fightback to finish 13-18 down.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins started confidently and were 6-1 up in the early exchanges. The home team, then established a lead that the visitors couldn't claw back, despite scoring a 4 and 2 at the 16th and 17th ends. Final score 17-27.
The next match is not until Saturday 10th August with a challenging PG fixture away to Millwood, Barry.
Vertigo - U2 / I Can't Stand Up For Falling Down - Elvis Costello
Saturday 27th July Pentyrch 77 - 70 Sully Sports
Hat-trick - Three wins in a row for the first time in quite a while. With improved availability, the selectors were able to field a stronger team and respond to late withdrawals with the available reserves who stepped in at short notice. An important win for the Tyrchs psychologically if nothing else. In terms of league position and avoiding relegation, very likely in vain, but certainly most welcome and a marker to show that better times are possible. The remaining PG fixtures will be very challenging but can be approached with more optimism and used to gain experience for the future.
Was the improving weather a positive omen as the home side welcomed fellow relegation candidates, Sully Sports to Parc y Dwrlyn? Time would tell...
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Gordon von Tucker were well in control for most of the match going to 18-8 up at 14th end, then let Sully come back with a 4 and couple of single shots but won the last two ends, finishing 22-15 winners.
Colin Howson, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Peter O'Reilly were competitive to the 7th end with the scores level at 8-8 and then only scored two more shots in the match. The visitors found form and comfortably ran out 32-10 winners to gain their team 2 league points from the 14 on offer.
Brain Ilbery, Jordan Napper, Roger Thompson and Chris Locke were evenly matched to the 13th end with the visitors 9-7 up. The home team then roused themselves scoring 16 shots against only 2 in the remaining ends to win 23-11.
Mark Krawiecki, Dave Ashmore, Chris O'Leary and Adrian Bevan led from start to finish with a confident and solid performance. They kept the opponents at arm's length never letting them within more than 6 shots after the 9th end to win 22-12.
Next Wednesday is the last midweek fixture away to St Fagans and the next match then away to promotion chasing Millwood on Saturday 10th August. Currently, next Saturday and a week Wednesday are fixture free - they should be used wisely.
Was the improving weather a positive omen as the home side welcomed fellow relegation candidates, Sully Sports to Parc y Dwrlyn? Time would tell...
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Gordon von Tucker were well in control for most of the match going to 18-8 up at 14th end, then let Sully come back with a 4 and couple of single shots but won the last two ends, finishing 22-15 winners.
Colin Howson, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Peter O'Reilly were competitive to the 7th end with the scores level at 8-8 and then only scored two more shots in the match. The visitors found form and comfortably ran out 32-10 winners to gain their team 2 league points from the 14 on offer.
Brain Ilbery, Jordan Napper, Roger Thompson and Chris Locke were evenly matched to the 13th end with the visitors 9-7 up. The home team then roused themselves scoring 16 shots against only 2 in the remaining ends to win 23-11.
Mark Krawiecki, Dave Ashmore, Chris O'Leary and Adrian Bevan led from start to finish with a confident and solid performance. They kept the opponents at arm's length never letting them within more than 6 shots after the 9th end to win 22-12.
Next Wednesday is the last midweek fixture away to St Fagans and the next match then away to promotion chasing Millwood on Saturday 10th August. Currently, next Saturday and a week Wednesday are fixture free - they should be used wisely.
Singing in the Rain - Gene Kelly
Wednesday 24th July Pentyrch 68 - 56 Roath Park
Another home win, the second in four days for the Tyrchs, today, against visitors Roath Park who, unfortunately for them are propping up our division of the Cardiff Midweek League. A second win in a row in even more unpleasant rainy conditions than last Saturday. Is there something in this? The persistent rain made it difficult with a heavy green and failing light towards the end of the match but the home side prevailed.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Chris O'Leary and Martin Hopkins raced away to a 16-1 lead at the 7th end, as if they wanted be the first to get out of the rain and eat their pasties.
Roath Park had a different plan and in a classic game of two halves got to 19-17 down at the 17th end. The Tyrchs won the last end with 2 shots and finished 21-17 winners. And they still got to the pasties well before everyone else.
Brian Ilbery, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Ed Brookman had a close fight with their opponents, with the lead changing hands several times. At the 16th end the home team were 12-8 up at the 16th, conceding 3 at the last two ends to finish finger nail hanging 12-11 winners.
Andrew Herbert, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Adrian Bevan were mainly in control throughout - the visitors managed to get to within 2 shots at 11-9 at the 12th end, the home team then pulling away. Final score 17-13.
Mark Krawiecki, Jordan Napper, Paul Cooper and Chris Locke, last to finish in the gloom, won 18-15 in another match where the two teams exchanged the lead several times, with a 6 conceded by the Tyrchs early on and, for balance, themselves scoring a 5 at the 16th end. Final score 18-15.
A great achievement for a second win in a row and very positive to have a full team with reserves available as support and security. It is always good when reserves can attend the match as further support - thanks, Andy Butler. The visitors had 3 reserves who had made the journey.
After the match, someone speculated about how these wins compared to performances in the last few years, particularly with Private Greens results. Last season 2023 we won two PG matches - both against Sully Sports. Interestingly, the first win was not until 5th August, an improvement of sorts? Our next opponents are Sully Sports this Saturday - so, that has to be targeted as a home win.
Back in the heady days of 2022 there were the following successes.
Home win v Cowbridge
Home win v Mackintosh
Draw away v Sully Sports
Home win v Cardiff Athletic
Away win at Mackintosh
There was also a home win on a Sunday v Rhiwbina in a rearranged Carruther's Shield group match.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Chris O'Leary and Martin Hopkins raced away to a 16-1 lead at the 7th end, as if they wanted be the first to get out of the rain and eat their pasties.
Roath Park had a different plan and in a classic game of two halves got to 19-17 down at the 17th end. The Tyrchs won the last end with 2 shots and finished 21-17 winners. And they still got to the pasties well before everyone else.
Brian Ilbery, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Ed Brookman had a close fight with their opponents, with the lead changing hands several times. At the 16th end the home team were 12-8 up at the 16th, conceding 3 at the last two ends to finish finger nail hanging 12-11 winners.
Andrew Herbert, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Adrian Bevan were mainly in control throughout - the visitors managed to get to within 2 shots at 11-9 at the 12th end, the home team then pulling away. Final score 17-13.
Mark Krawiecki, Jordan Napper, Paul Cooper and Chris Locke, last to finish in the gloom, won 18-15 in another match where the two teams exchanged the lead several times, with a 6 conceded by the Tyrchs early on and, for balance, themselves scoring a 5 at the 16th end. Final score 18-15.
A great achievement for a second win in a row and very positive to have a full team with reserves available as support and security. It is always good when reserves can attend the match as further support - thanks, Andy Butler. The visitors had 3 reserves who had made the journey.
After the match, someone speculated about how these wins compared to performances in the last few years, particularly with Private Greens results. Last season 2023 we won two PG matches - both against Sully Sports. Interestingly, the first win was not until 5th August, an improvement of sorts? Our next opponents are Sully Sports this Saturday - so, that has to be targeted as a home win.
Back in the heady days of 2022 there were the following successes.
Home win v Cowbridge
Home win v Mackintosh
Draw away v Sully Sports
Home win v Cardiff Athletic
Away win at Mackintosh
There was also a home win on a Sunday v Rhiwbina in a rearranged Carruther's Shield group match.
All good things to those who wait...
Saturday 20th July Pentyrch 76 - 71 Barry Athletic A
Finally on a day that threatened meteorological doom and gloom and similar dark on fortunes on the green, the Tyrchs came good with a first Private Greens win! Buoyed by fielding a full strength team against a fading Barry Athletic, the home team took their chance to win. The predicted torrential rain never happened but the constant steady drizzle made for a heavy green and slippery woods. Difficult conditions and another variable for the players to get used to.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Mike Britton and Adrian Bevan had a difficult afternoon losing 8-21 against opponents who were comfortable in the conditions.
Keith Davies, Barrie Thomas, Roger Thompson and Chris Locke had a close match and were 15-13 up at the 18th end then lost the last three ends all on a long jack, conceding nine shots to finish 15-22 down.
Brian Ilbery, Colin Howson, Chris O'Leary and Peter O'Reilly were 5-5 at the 6th end, then never looked back, winning almost every end thereafter to finish strong 32-12 winners.
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Andy Butler and John Beacham led from start to finish. The visitors recovered from being 9-1 down at the 6th end to 20-16 down at the 20th end. The overall match score, as MK bowled the final bowl of the match was 75-71 to Pentyrch with the visitors holding 4 shots. MK drew shot to win the rink 21-16 and 76-71 overall. Well done, to the WHOLE team in getting our first Saturday win.
Thanks to Iain Russell for standing in a captain for Jordan
We have Roath Park at home next Wednesday in the CMWL and Sully Sports at home next Saturday. Both matches can be won with the team effort shown today.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Mike Britton and Adrian Bevan had a difficult afternoon losing 8-21 against opponents who were comfortable in the conditions.
Keith Davies, Barrie Thomas, Roger Thompson and Chris Locke had a close match and were 15-13 up at the 18th end then lost the last three ends all on a long jack, conceding nine shots to finish 15-22 down.
Brian Ilbery, Colin Howson, Chris O'Leary and Peter O'Reilly were 5-5 at the 6th end, then never looked back, winning almost every end thereafter to finish strong 32-12 winners.
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Andy Butler and John Beacham led from start to finish. The visitors recovered from being 9-1 down at the 6th end to 20-16 down at the 20th end. The overall match score, as MK bowled the final bowl of the match was 75-71 to Pentyrch with the visitors holding 4 shots. MK drew shot to win the rink 21-16 and 76-71 overall. Well done, to the WHOLE team in getting our first Saturday win.
Thanks to Iain Russell for standing in a captain for Jordan
We have Roath Park at home next Wednesday in the CMWL and Sully Sports at home next Saturday. Both matches can be won with the team effort shown today.
Wednesday 17th July St Alban's 84 - 41 Pentyrch
Back to Rumney Hill Gardens for the second time this season - back in early May the Tyrchs had enjoyed a comfortable win there against Rumney Gardens. Two and a half months later, a return fixture against St Alban's and a heavy defeat. We had beaten St Alban's at Pentyrch by 4 shots at the end of May. This was a disappointing evening, not only from the point of view of the heavy four rink defeat in itself, but from the point of view of only being able to play with one full rink. Thanks to those who did play in difficult circumstances and allowed us to fulfil the fixture. It was decided to play the three rinks with only six woods instead of leads and seconds playing with three woods and losing 25% of the total shots scored. The jury is out as to which approach is best. The certainty that playing with three players instead of four on a rink, is a big handicap, is not in doubt.
Rink scores:
'A bad day at the office', according to Andy Butler. 'A good kicking', according to Mark Krawiecki. Never a truer word... Mark Krawiecki, Adrian Bevan and Andy Butler had a poor match against home opponents who comfortably had the measure of the pace and run of the green throughout, scoring two sixes at the fourth and fifth ends. Final score 32-7.
Darren Lewis, Chris O'Leary and Dave Ashmore lost 19-11 coming back well from 4-12 at the 11th end.
Colin Howson (Captain), Chris Locke, Barrie Lewis and Mike Britton with the best score of the evening, lost 11-14.
Brain Ilbery, Alan Lowndes and Ed Brookman played better in the second half but finished 12-19 down.
That leaves us still looking for our first PG win at home this Saturday to Barry Athletic 'A' and hoping, that at the very least, we can field a full team.
Rink scores:
'A bad day at the office', according to Andy Butler. 'A good kicking', according to Mark Krawiecki. Never a truer word... Mark Krawiecki, Adrian Bevan and Andy Butler had a poor match against home opponents who comfortably had the measure of the pace and run of the green throughout, scoring two sixes at the fourth and fifth ends. Final score 32-7.
Darren Lewis, Chris O'Leary and Dave Ashmore lost 19-11 coming back well from 4-12 at the 11th end.
Colin Howson (Captain), Chris Locke, Barrie Lewis and Mike Britton with the best score of the evening, lost 11-14.
Brain Ilbery, Alan Lowndes and Ed Brookman played better in the second half but finished 12-19 down.
That leaves us still looking for our first PG win at home this Saturday to Barry Athletic 'A' and hoping, that at the very least, we can field a full team.
Saturday 13th July Bridgend Municipal 125 - 44 Pentyrch
A first time visit to Bridgend Municipal Bowls Club for Pentyrch. On the day of the match, Bridgend were second in the division and very strong favourites for promotion and Pentyrch bottom of the division. In that context, unfortunately, a difficult task was made even tougher with the Tyrchs only taking fourteen players, meaning that two rinks would lose 25% of their total shots score. And so, to the background music of hits of the '70s, '80s and '90s the game went ahead...
Rink scores:
Adrian Bevan, Ian Davies and Jordan Napper were up against it all afternoon but gave it a brave go reaching double figures to lose 12-34 reduced to 9-34 for playing a man short.
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Roger Thompson and Alan Lowndes were competitive throughout being 12-11 up at the 14th end then dropped a 6. After that shock, they clawed their way back to to 18-20 at the 20th end to lose the last end by 1 shot finishing 18-21 down.
Brian Ilbery, Dave Ashmore, Chris O'Leary and Mike Britton had an afternoon to forget going down 8-46.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson and John Beacham started well winning the first three ends to be 5-0 up, then were largely overwhelmed until the final few ends and did well to keep the final score to 12-24 reduced to 9-24 for having only three players.
Not an entirely unpleasant trip to Bridgend because the home team were very gracious in their victory and the visitors enjoyed playing on a very good green and were generously hosted at a well appointed clubhouse with bar and kitchen. The post match meal of sausage, chips and beans was very welcome too. Well done to captain Jordan who made an excellent, dignified and appropriately humorous speech, given the heavy defeat. Bridgend Municipal is obviously a club that is ambitious and is 'going places' and it is a pity that it is very unlikely that we will play against them next year.
Rink scores:
Adrian Bevan, Ian Davies and Jordan Napper were up against it all afternoon but gave it a brave go reaching double figures to lose 12-34 reduced to 9-34 for playing a man short.
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Roger Thompson and Alan Lowndes were competitive throughout being 12-11 up at the 14th end then dropped a 6. After that shock, they clawed their way back to to 18-20 at the 20th end to lose the last end by 1 shot finishing 18-21 down.
Brian Ilbery, Dave Ashmore, Chris O'Leary and Mike Britton had an afternoon to forget going down 8-46.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson and John Beacham started well winning the first three ends to be 5-0 up, then were largely overwhelmed until the final few ends and did well to keep the final score to 12-24 reduced to 9-24 for having only three players.
Not an entirely unpleasant trip to Bridgend because the home team were very gracious in their victory and the visitors enjoyed playing on a very good green and were generously hosted at a well appointed clubhouse with bar and kitchen. The post match meal of sausage, chips and beans was very welcome too. Well done to captain Jordan who made an excellent, dignified and appropriately humorous speech, given the heavy defeat. Bridgend Municipal is obviously a club that is ambitious and is 'going places' and it is a pity that it is very unlikely that we will play against them next year.
Wednesday 10th July Taffs Well 69 - 59 Pentyrch
The away fixture to Taffs Well in The Cardiff Midweek League and the Tyrchs made the short journey down the hill looking for revenge after the narrow home defeat in May. Both teams had worked hard to field full teams. The Wellmen prevailed on a very unseasonal evening of weather that would not have been out of place in March or late September. A very tricky green with some quirky runs caused some amusement or annoyance depending on who benefited or suffered.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Roger Thompson and Ed Brookman lost 14-19.
Brian Ilbery (Captain), Darren Lewis, Ian Davies and Barrie Lewis won 17-13
Andrew Herbert, Alan Lowndes, Paul Cooper and Martin Hopkins lost 13-21.
Iain Russell, Gordon Tucker, Chris O'Leary and Mike Britton lost 15-16
Taffs Well bowlers are currently in dispute with Taffs Well RFC, usually the venue for post match hospitality, so the hosts entertained at the Swan Inn.
Another challenging away fixture this coming Saturday - Bridgend Municipal. Thanks, in advance, to everyone who can make the trip. 'Keep right on to the end of the road!'
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Roger Thompson and Ed Brookman lost 14-19.
Brian Ilbery (Captain), Darren Lewis, Ian Davies and Barrie Lewis won 17-13
Andrew Herbert, Alan Lowndes, Paul Cooper and Martin Hopkins lost 13-21.
Iain Russell, Gordon Tucker, Chris O'Leary and Mike Britton lost 15-16
Taffs Well bowlers are currently in dispute with Taffs Well RFC, usually the venue for post match hospitality, so the hosts entertained at the Swan Inn.
Another challenging away fixture this coming Saturday - Bridgend Municipal. Thanks, in advance, to everyone who can make the trip. 'Keep right on to the end of the road!'
Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) - Kelly Clarkson
Sunday 7th July Ely Valley v Pentyrch 'Top Club'
Eleven players made the short trip to Ely Valley in the first round of this year's Top Club Competition. This competition, organised by East Wales Private Greens is a relatively new addition to the calendar that gives a chance from all clubs in the League to play against teams from outside their division in a 'quick fire' format across all formats of bowls - singles, pairs, triples and rinks. This year, Pentyrch, currently bottom of Division 5 were drawn away to the leaders of Division 1. A team that on the day had two current Welsh internationals and numerous experienced county players.
Nevertheless, the Tyrchs assembled a team that, under the circumstances gave the hosts a run for their money and a few things to think about. Well done to everyone who showed the commitment, team spirit and resilience to play on the day. Playing against players of a higher standard and experience can be tough but is also invaluable in gaining experience and raising individuals' personal games. Practice may not make perfect but certainly will make better. Well done, again, to everyone who went.
2 Wood Singles - Chris Locke
4 Wood Singles - Jordan Napper (Captain)
Pairs - Iain Russell & Mark Krawiecki
Triples - Mike Britton, Martin Hopkins & Peter O'Reilly
Rink - John Beacham, Ed Brookman, Dave Ashmore & Colin Howson
Support - Margaret Krawiecka
Nevertheless, the Tyrchs assembled a team that, under the circumstances gave the hosts a run for their money and a few things to think about. Well done to everyone who showed the commitment, team spirit and resilience to play on the day. Playing against players of a higher standard and experience can be tough but is also invaluable in gaining experience and raising individuals' personal games. Practice may not make perfect but certainly will make better. Well done, again, to everyone who went.
2 Wood Singles - Chris Locke
4 Wood Singles - Jordan Napper (Captain)
Pairs - Iain Russell & Mark Krawiecki
Triples - Mike Britton, Martin Hopkins & Peter O'Reilly
Rink - John Beacham, Ed Brookman, Dave Ashmore & Colin Howson
Support - Margaret Krawiecka
"I have nothing to say." Oliver Hardy
Saturday 6th July Pentyrch 50 - 124 Millwood
The first visit of Millwood to Pentyrch, one they will remember and one for the home side to forget. Millwood travelled back to Barry with all 14 points after a very big win.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins 11-43
Dave Ashmore, Gordon Tucker, Ian Davies and Peter O'Reilly 5-26
Brain Ilbery, Alan Lowndes, Andy Butler and Chris Locke 23-26
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Roger Thompson and John Beacham 11-29
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins 11-43
Dave Ashmore, Gordon Tucker, Ian Davies and Peter O'Reilly 5-26
Brain Ilbery, Alan Lowndes, Andy Butler and Chris Locke 23-26
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Roger Thompson and John Beacham 11-29
Reasons to be Cheerful - Ian Dury
Wednesday 3rd July Pentyrch 76 - 58 Rumney Gardens
A positive evening : at the very basic level of a win (the first since the 3rd June) and the completion of a season double over Rumney Gardens. It's great to see this season's new players making positive contributions to the team and other players stepping up to play at the 'back end' with positive mindsets.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins put in a solid team effort dominating throughout to win 27-6.
Gordon Tucker, Colin Howson, Ian Davies and Mike Britton had a tough evening and didn't recover from dropping a 6 at the 6th end to finish 9-20 down. Well done to Gordon making his debut as a skip.
Brian Ilbery, Adrian Bevan, Paul Cooper and Ed Brookman looked as if they would be swept aside being 13-3 down at the 8th end but then showing resilience, picked themselves up with 9 unanswered shots. Final score 14-18 down.
Barrie Thomas, Chris Locke, Andy Butler and Barrie Lewis started like bats out of hell, racing to a 22-3 lead at the 10th end. The visitors then staged a partial recovery to 24-14 at the 16th end. The Tyrchs signed off with 2 single shots at the 17th and 18th ends to win 26-14.
Thanks to the people who set up the rinks, Paul and Brian for the pasties, bar volunteers, cleaners and Alan for his captaincy. It's also good news to have a full team for next Saturday's home PG fixture against Millwood and a full team for the Top Club match away to Ely Valley. Please, make every effort to reply to availability requests on Spond or team sheets in the Men's cabin or at worst on What's App. You will be making life a lot easier for the selectors if they don't need to chase you with phone calls. Good luck for the weekend fixtures.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Alan Lowndes, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins put in a solid team effort dominating throughout to win 27-6.
Gordon Tucker, Colin Howson, Ian Davies and Mike Britton had a tough evening and didn't recover from dropping a 6 at the 6th end to finish 9-20 down. Well done to Gordon making his debut as a skip.
Brian Ilbery, Adrian Bevan, Paul Cooper and Ed Brookman looked as if they would be swept aside being 13-3 down at the 8th end but then showing resilience, picked themselves up with 9 unanswered shots. Final score 14-18 down.
Barrie Thomas, Chris Locke, Andy Butler and Barrie Lewis started like bats out of hell, racing to a 22-3 lead at the 10th end. The visitors then staged a partial recovery to 24-14 at the 16th end. The Tyrchs signed off with 2 single shots at the 17th and 18th ends to win 26-14.
Thanks to the people who set up the rinks, Paul and Brian for the pasties, bar volunteers, cleaners and Alan for his captaincy. It's also good news to have a full team for next Saturday's home PG fixture against Millwood and a full team for the Top Club match away to Ely Valley. Please, make every effort to reply to availability requests on Spond or team sheets in the Men's cabin or at worst on What's App. You will be making life a lot easier for the selectors if they don't need to chase you with phone calls. Good luck for the weekend fixtures.
'Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose.'
Saturday 29th June Bargoed Welfare 106 - 53 Pentyrch
This was always going to prove to be a tough fixture and so it came to pass. Bargoed must be one of the favourites for promotion and this match may prove to have been the most challenging of the season. Thankfully, the Tyrchs arrived with a full sixteen albeit with three debutants - Chris O'Leary, Roger Thompson and Andy Butler who all acquitted themselves well in challenging circumstances. We saw and expect good things from all three.
Rink scores:
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Peter O'Reilly and Chris Locke came closest to winning a rink finishing 16-18 down and gave the home team a scare with a 3 and 2 at the last two ends. A great team effort.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Chris o'Leary and Mike Britton were 2-11 down at the 10th end then rallied in the middle of the match to get to only 10-13 down at the 15th end but then faded to finish 13-21 down.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Andy Butler and Martin Hopkins were blown away at the start and were 1-12 down at the 5th end. A recovery in the second third of the match got them to 11-18 down at the 15th end but then did not score again to finish 11-31 down.
Mark Krawiecki, Adrian Bevan, Roger Thompson and John Beacham flattered to deceive scoring a 5 at the the 3rd end to go 5-4 up. The trend for the afternoon, however was that the home four players, to a man out-bowled their visiting counterparts consistently building an unassailable lead of 36-9 at the 19th end. Somewhere in that 36, the home team scored a 7. The visitors, though, had the last word winning the last two ends to finish 13-36 down and feeling relieved that they had prevented the home rink reaching 40 shots.
So, a memorable afternoon spent with the vociferous and enthusiastic home team whose company and hospitality was a pleasure.
Mark Krawiecki's rink noticed that as the match ended, for the first time in the afternoon, they could hear birds singing in the trees.
Footnote: In May 2018 Pentyrch played at Bargoed for the first time, in a Carruther's Shield fixture. On that day, Pentyrch also lost all four rinks with the final shots score 105-57 to Bargoed.
Footnote 2: In his post-match speech, the Bargoed Captain addressed his players about players' delayed or lack of response to availability in good time for selectors. It definitely hit a very resonant chord for us too.
Rink scores:
Jordan Napper, Barrie Thomas, Peter O'Reilly and Chris Locke came closest to winning a rink finishing 16-18 down and gave the home team a scare with a 3 and 2 at the last two ends. A great team effort.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Chris o'Leary and Mike Britton were 2-11 down at the 10th end then rallied in the middle of the match to get to only 10-13 down at the 15th end but then faded to finish 13-21 down.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Andy Butler and Martin Hopkins were blown away at the start and were 1-12 down at the 5th end. A recovery in the second third of the match got them to 11-18 down at the 15th end but then did not score again to finish 11-31 down.
Mark Krawiecki, Adrian Bevan, Roger Thompson and John Beacham flattered to deceive scoring a 5 at the the 3rd end to go 5-4 up. The trend for the afternoon, however was that the home four players, to a man out-bowled their visiting counterparts consistently building an unassailable lead of 36-9 at the 19th end. Somewhere in that 36, the home team scored a 7. The visitors, though, had the last word winning the last two ends to finish 13-36 down and feeling relieved that they had prevented the home rink reaching 40 shots.
So, a memorable afternoon spent with the vociferous and enthusiastic home team whose company and hospitality was a pleasure.
Mark Krawiecki's rink noticed that as the match ended, for the first time in the afternoon, they could hear birds singing in the trees.
Footnote: In May 2018 Pentyrch played at Bargoed for the first time, in a Carruther's Shield fixture. On that day, Pentyrch also lost all four rinks with the final shots score 105-57 to Bargoed.
Footnote 2: In his post-match speech, the Bargoed Captain addressed his players about players' delayed or lack of response to availability in good time for selectors. It definitely hit a very resonant chord for us too.
Wednesday 26th June Cardiff (Sophia Gardens) 71 - 50 Pentyrch
Some decent summer weather, at last, for this away Midweek League fixture at Sophia Gardens. The first time for a number of Tyrchs players to play there. The Foo Fighters had rocked the city centre at the nearby Principality Stadium the previous evening - could the visitors do the same? Sadly not, but the match was played in good spirit and it was good to catch up with some old friends (Garry Duffy, Ron Brown).
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Colin Howson and Ed Brookman lost 12-20.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Barrie Lewis and Martin Hopkins lost 10-23.
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Mike Britton and Chris Locke won 16-13.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies, Adrian Bevan lost 12-15.
Thanks to Iain Russell for being captain for the evening.
A tough private greens match away to Bargoed coming up on Saturday.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Colin Howson and Ed Brookman lost 12-20.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Barrie Lewis and Martin Hopkins lost 10-23.
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Mike Britton and Chris Locke won 16-13.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies, Adrian Bevan lost 12-15.
Thanks to Iain Russell for being captain for the evening.
A tough private greens match away to Bargoed coming up on Saturday.
Wednesday 19th June Pentyrch 60 - 61 Rhiwbina
Losing by a single shot is hard to take but that was the outcome of this midweek league home fixture to Rhiwbina. Decent weather was the backdrop with an increasingly quick surface. Brian Ilbery was captain for the evening. Well done to the two winning rinks and for a good total team effort that was just not quite enough.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Darren Lewis, Mike Britton and Martin Hopkins won 18-11.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Ed Brookman won 17-11
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Chris Locke and Adrian Bevan lost 8-19
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Denzil Thomas and Chris Cooper lost 17-20.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Darren Lewis, Mike Britton and Martin Hopkins won 18-11.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Ian Davies and Ed Brookman won 17-11
Iain Russell, Alan Lowndes, Chris Locke and Adrian Bevan lost 8-19
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Denzil Thomas and Chris Cooper lost 17-20.
Slip sliding away - Paul Simon
Wednesday 11th June Sully Sports 83 - 62 Pentyrch
Pentyrch travelled to Sully by the sea for a rearranged PG fixture needing a win to move out of the three relegation slots. Unfortunately, with a make-shift looking team with a number of players having to play out of their normally expected positions. They only came away with 2 points and in the process, moving to bottom place in the division. For a match at Sully, the weather was kind and without the usual onshore breeze.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Chris Locke, Mike Britton and Chris Cooper put in a strong team performance with all players contributing well to the final winning score of 27-11. Special mention for Chris Cooper who had an outstanding first go at lead.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Ian Davies and Martin Hopkins had a difficult evening losing 14-18. They scored a 5 and 1 in the final two ends.
Andrew Herbert (captain for the evening), Colin Howson, Paul Cooper and Ed Brookman lost 18-24 not being able to establish any rhythm. They signed off with a 3 and 2 but had left it too late.
Barrie Thomas, Adrian Bevan, Barrie Lewis and John Beacham lost most heavily 30-3.
This loss leaves us still looking for a PG win and of more concern, an away fixture next Saturday to the Harlequins, potentially without 16 players.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Chris Locke, Mike Britton and Chris Cooper put in a strong team performance with all players contributing well to the final winning score of 27-11. Special mention for Chris Cooper who had an outstanding first go at lead.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Ian Davies and Martin Hopkins had a difficult evening losing 14-18. They scored a 5 and 1 in the final two ends.
Andrew Herbert (captain for the evening), Colin Howson, Paul Cooper and Ed Brookman lost 18-24 not being able to establish any rhythm. They signed off with a 3 and 2 but had left it too late.
Barrie Thomas, Adrian Bevan, Barrie Lewis and John Beacham lost most heavily 30-3.
This loss leaves us still looking for a PG win and of more concern, an away fixture next Saturday to the Harlequins, potentially without 16 players.
'You Can't Always Get What You Want' Jagger & Richards
Saturday 8th June Pentyrch 79 - 91 Bridgend Municipal
Back to PG Saturday business, after a three week break and a first time visit of Bridgend Municipal Bowls Club to Parc y Dwrlyn. Currently at the foot of the division, the home team were hoping to gain some points against what turned out to be a physically imposing, ambitious and fiercely competitive team. The competitiveness led to some verbal sparring on a couple of occasions: sensibly, it came to nothing. Some decent weather at last which made the pace of the green increase as the match progressed.
Rink scores:
Darren Lewis, Barrie Thomas, Mike Britton and John Beacham could do no wrong and were 12-0 up at the 5th end. They continued to largely dominate to be 20-7 up at the 13th end. Thereafter, they only scored two more shots letting the visitors back in. The home rink won 22-20. Well done for the win and hanging on.
Brian Ilbery, Dave Ashmore, Peter O'Reilly and Adrian Bevan were level 11-11 at the 12th end amd looking secure. They then conceded 12 shots in the next 5 ends to be 23-11 down at the 17th end. They then rallied with 8 shots in the last four ends to finish the match 19-23 down having run out of ends.
Mark Krawiecki, Jordan Napper, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke had a dire start and were 12-0 down at the 6th end and feared the worst. A flash in the pan 3 at the 7th end did not help much with Bridgend almost totally in control. At 22-5 down at the 13th, Pentyrch began the fight back. The Tyrchs won every remaining end except one when the visitors socred 1 at the 18th end. At the final end, the Tyrchs were looking to score 2 shots to draw but only managed 1. Too little too late, but great resilience and 'keeping right on the the end of the road.' (Harry Lauder)
Keith Davies, Colin Howson, Ian Davies and Martin Hopkins finished their match 16-25 down and had matched the visitors until the 15th end, at only two shots down at 14-16. The visitors scored two single shots at the 16th and 17th ends followed by a 6 which proved to be a fatal blow.
Overall, a brave performance against a strong team that will probably be in with a good shout for promotion. This result makes the need for a decent haul of points away to fellow strugglers Sully next Tuesday, crucial.
Rink scores:
Darren Lewis, Barrie Thomas, Mike Britton and John Beacham could do no wrong and were 12-0 up at the 5th end. They continued to largely dominate to be 20-7 up at the 13th end. Thereafter, they only scored two more shots letting the visitors back in. The home rink won 22-20. Well done for the win and hanging on.
Brian Ilbery, Dave Ashmore, Peter O'Reilly and Adrian Bevan were level 11-11 at the 12th end amd looking secure. They then conceded 12 shots in the next 5 ends to be 23-11 down at the 17th end. They then rallied with 8 shots in the last four ends to finish the match 19-23 down having run out of ends.
Mark Krawiecki, Jordan Napper, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke had a dire start and were 12-0 down at the 6th end and feared the worst. A flash in the pan 3 at the 7th end did not help much with Bridgend almost totally in control. At 22-5 down at the 13th, Pentyrch began the fight back. The Tyrchs won every remaining end except one when the visitors socred 1 at the 18th end. At the final end, the Tyrchs were looking to score 2 shots to draw but only managed 1. Too little too late, but great resilience and 'keeping right on the the end of the road.' (Harry Lauder)
Keith Davies, Colin Howson, Ian Davies and Martin Hopkins finished their match 16-25 down and had matched the visitors until the 15th end, at only two shots down at 14-16. The visitors scored two single shots at the 16th and 17th ends followed by a 6 which proved to be a fatal blow.
Overall, a brave performance against a strong team that will probably be in with a good shout for promotion. This result makes the need for a decent haul of points away to fellow strugglers Sully next Tuesday, crucial.
A win is a win is a win.
Wednesday 5th June Pentyrch 58 - 56 St Fagans
This was the first time in several years that we had met nearby St Fagans. After reorganisation of the Midweek League, we are now back in the same section again. We also used to meet regularly in the private green fixtures. The match also saw the return of Mike Morgan, a Pentyrch resident and former regular Pentyrch skip. A dry but colder than seasonally normal June evening greeted the opposition.
Under the captaincy for the evening of Adrian Bevan, the Tyrchs squeezed home with a razor thin two shot win - well done! This was our third win out of ten played so far.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Paul Cooper and Ed Brookman played a close contest until the 13th end when they were 14-11 up. They then dropped 4 at the next end and didn't score for the remainder of the match, finishing 14-20 down.
Darren Lewis, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke had a tough evening scoring six single shots to lose 6-20.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Barrie Lewis and Adrian Bevan were looking secure at 14-5 up at the 13th end. The opponents then came back strongly. The Tyrchs hung on to win 15-12.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Ian Davies and Martin Hopkins came up with the performance of the evening with a comprehensive 23-4 win, only losing four ends.
The statistics show that from the 13th end to the 18th end the overall shots scores were Pentyrch 12 St Fagans 26. A lesson there?
Thanks to Paul Cooper for the catering and others' help with serving and cleaning up before going home. Remember, it's EVERY players' responsibility to make sure all the equipment from their rink is put away into the TARDIS when their match has finished. Thank you.
A must win PG match at home to Bridgend Muni this Saturday.
Under the captaincy for the evening of Adrian Bevan, the Tyrchs squeezed home with a razor thin two shot win - well done! This was our third win out of ten played so far.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Colin Howson, Paul Cooper and Ed Brookman played a close contest until the 13th end when they were 14-11 up. They then dropped 4 at the next end and didn't score for the remainder of the match, finishing 14-20 down.
Darren Lewis, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke had a tough evening scoring six single shots to lose 6-20.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Barrie Lewis and Adrian Bevan were looking secure at 14-5 up at the 13th end. The opponents then came back strongly. The Tyrchs hung on to win 15-12.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Ian Davies and Martin Hopkins came up with the performance of the evening with a comprehensive 23-4 win, only losing four ends.
The statistics show that from the 13th end to the 18th end the overall shots scores were Pentyrch 12 St Fagans 26. A lesson there?
Thanks to Paul Cooper for the catering and others' help with serving and cleaning up before going home. Remember, it's EVERY players' responsibility to make sure all the equipment from their rink is put away into the TARDIS when their match has finished. Thank you.
A must win PG match at home to Bridgend Muni this Saturday.
Wednesday 29th May Roath Park 75 - 51 Pentyrch
Unfortunately, a heavy defeat away to Roath Park in this CMWL fixture. Colin Howson was captain for this match. Three losing rinks and one rink drawn, meaning one point was all the visitors could take back to Pentyrch. One to forget and to move quickly on from.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Ed Brookman and John Beacham 10-16.
Darren Lewis, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke 7-14.
Colin Howson, Alan Lowndes, Barrie Lewis and Martin Hopkins 11-22
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Chris Cooper and Adrian Bevan 23-23.
No PG fixture this weekend, so back to it at home to St Fagans next Wednesday 5th June.
Rink scores:
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Ed Brookman and John Beacham 10-16.
Darren Lewis, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Chris Locke 7-14.
Colin Howson, Alan Lowndes, Barrie Lewis and Martin Hopkins 11-22
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Chris Cooper and Adrian Bevan 23-23.
No PG fixture this weekend, so back to it at home to St Fagans next Wednesday 5th June.
Wednesday 22nd May Pentyrch 62 - 58 St Alban's
A narrow win in this midweek fixture against resilient visitors from St Alban's, Cardiff. This evening, Gordon Tucker took on the role of midweek captain. The narrow win was significantly due to all rinks keeping differences in final shot counts to a respectable level. This evening we won overall with two losing rinks. Contrast this with Barry Athletic A last Saturday when, despite winning two rinks, we lost the match by a wide overall shot difference. This underlines the importance of keeping games 'tight' and restricting opponents as much as possible, even when behind. A solid team effort.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Mike Britton and Chris Locke were involved in a close encounter with the visitors asserting control from 15-10 down at the 11th end to score 5 unanswered ends to be 17-15 up at the 16th end. The home four then equalised at the 17th and scored 2 at the 18th to win 18-17.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Barrie Lewis (late reserve) and Ed Brookman were comfortably in control for most of the evening, finishing 19-8 victors.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins had a 'classic' game of two halves being 10-5 up at the 10th end then lost the following seven ends to be 16-10 down at the 17th. They scored one shot at the last end to finish 11-16.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Chris Cooper and Adrian Bevan recovered well from being 3-12 down at the 7th end to 14-16 at the 17th end conceding one shot at the 18th end to finish 14-17 down.
Thanks to Paul Cooper for looking after the bar and the pasties. No Saturday fixture now until Saturday 8th June because of next Saturday's postponement of the Sully fixture and no scheduled match on Saturday 1st June. Next Wednesday away at Roath Park. A good opportunity to practise and stay match ready. Remember that the green is open seven days a week - on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays usually after 11 am after cutting and maintenance.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Darren Lewis, Mike Britton and Chris Locke were involved in a close encounter with the visitors asserting control from 15-10 down at the 11th end to score 5 unanswered ends to be 17-15 up at the 16th end. The home four then equalised at the 17th and scored 2 at the 18th to win 18-17.
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Barrie Lewis (late reserve) and Ed Brookman were comfortably in control for most of the evening, finishing 19-8 victors.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Denzil Thomas and Martin Hopkins had a 'classic' game of two halves being 10-5 up at the 10th end then lost the following seven ends to be 16-10 down at the 17th. They scored one shot at the last end to finish 11-16.
Brian Ilbery, Gordon Tucker, Chris Cooper and Adrian Bevan recovered well from being 3-12 down at the 7th end to 14-16 at the 17th end conceding one shot at the 18th end to finish 14-17 down.
Thanks to Paul Cooper for looking after the bar and the pasties. No Saturday fixture now until Saturday 8th June because of next Saturday's postponement of the Sully fixture and no scheduled match on Saturday 1st June. Next Wednesday away at Roath Park. A good opportunity to practise and stay match ready. Remember that the green is open seven days a week - on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays usually after 11 am after cutting and maintenance.
Saturday 18th May Barry Athletic A 85 - 66.5 Pentyrch
Three weeks on from the start of the private greens league it was back to business away to Barry Athletic A. located on Barry Island, affectionately known as Barrybados to some. It literally lived up to the moniker by providing a tropical storm halfway through the match. This was always going to be a tough encounter with the home team's tradition of bowling pedigree and a beautiful playing surface to match. This in itself can be an obstacle for teams not accustomed to playing on a surface that requires a higher level of precision. In this context, the visitors did well to win two rinks and make the seasiders work for their post match meal of many pasties, sausage rolls and gaudily coloured sticky doughnuts.
Match statistics:
Brian Ilbery, Colin Howson, Denzil Thomas and Adrian Bevan lost 7-28. It was a 'hard day at the office' not scoring until the 9th end. They rallied for a spell of winning five out of six ends but let the home team have the last word. This has happened to all of us some time.
Barrie Thomas, Jordan Napper, Bryn Owen and Martin Hopkins went down 14 - 21. Their match followed a similar pattern to Brian Ilbery's rink in that they let the home side build a big lead (16-3 at the 12th end). They then scored 10 shots without reply including a 5 at the 17th end to be only 13-16 down. The home team replied immediately with a 4 and went on to finish 21-14 winners.
Mark Krawiecki, Dan Price, Mike Britton and Gordon Tucker put in a solid team performance finishing 23-18 winners. They had a shaky start getting used to the pace and wider swing on the green and were 1-6 down after 4 ends. The match then followed a closed exchange of won ends by both sides with the visitors becoming more confident with the playing conditions. Immediately following the monsoon break they dropped a 4 to give the home team a 13-12 advantage at the 12th end. following that the Tyrchs won seven from the remaining nine ends.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore and John Beacham (one player short) stunned the home side and their team mates with 30 (22.5)-18 win. (reduced by 0.25% for playing one player short). They raced away with the speed of a fairground ride, being 14-1 up at the 5th end. Conceding a 4 and 5 at the 10th and 11th ends didn't deter them and they continued to dominate the home rink winning the last two ends as a comfortable full stop.
So, mixed fortunes on the Island but overall a good performance for the club. It was also a good chance for many of us to reunite with Tim Morgan a former member and true legend of Pentyrch Bowling Club who made the captain's speech on behalf of the home team. Hard to believe it's been nine years. We look forward to welcoming Tim and his team back to Pentyrch for the return fixture. Thanks to Barry Athletic for the hospitality, good company and especially for the chance to play on a wonderful green.
Match statistics:
Brian Ilbery, Colin Howson, Denzil Thomas and Adrian Bevan lost 7-28. It was a 'hard day at the office' not scoring until the 9th end. They rallied for a spell of winning five out of six ends but let the home team have the last word. This has happened to all of us some time.
Barrie Thomas, Jordan Napper, Bryn Owen and Martin Hopkins went down 14 - 21. Their match followed a similar pattern to Brian Ilbery's rink in that they let the home side build a big lead (16-3 at the 12th end). They then scored 10 shots without reply including a 5 at the 17th end to be only 13-16 down. The home team replied immediately with a 4 and went on to finish 21-14 winners.
Mark Krawiecki, Dan Price, Mike Britton and Gordon Tucker put in a solid team performance finishing 23-18 winners. They had a shaky start getting used to the pace and wider swing on the green and were 1-6 down after 4 ends. The match then followed a closed exchange of won ends by both sides with the visitors becoming more confident with the playing conditions. Immediately following the monsoon break they dropped a 4 to give the home team a 13-12 advantage at the 12th end. following that the Tyrchs won seven from the remaining nine ends.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore and John Beacham (one player short) stunned the home side and their team mates with 30 (22.5)-18 win. (reduced by 0.25% for playing one player short). They raced away with the speed of a fairground ride, being 14-1 up at the 5th end. Conceding a 4 and 5 at the 10th and 11th ends didn't deter them and they continued to dominate the home rink winning the last two ends as a comfortable full stop.
So, mixed fortunes on the Island but overall a good performance for the club. It was also a good chance for many of us to reunite with Tim Morgan a former member and true legend of Pentyrch Bowling Club who made the captain's speech on behalf of the home team. Hard to believe it's been nine years. We look forward to welcoming Tim and his team back to Pentyrch for the return fixture. Thanks to Barry Athletic for the hospitality, good company and especially for the chance to play on a wonderful green.
Wednesday 15th May Pentyrch 56 - 58 Taffs Well
So Near, Yet So Far
A second encounter with Taffs Well within two weeks ended in very close defeat to our rivals from down the hill. We have become much more competitive over the Wellmen in recent seasons and it was disappointing to have won three rinks but still lost overall. It must be noted, however that all results are team results and must not be attributed to individual rinks - we have all been there. It was great to see supporters from both sides on the bank watching and encouraging from the banks and helps to add to the occasion and team spirit. It was also great to see the new shirts on display - we need to try and get some sort of uniformity with below the waist to complete the look.
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Steven Bollschweiler, Mike Britton and Gordon Tucker won 17-15 in a closely fought match with the lead changing several times after exchanging heavy blows and recovering from them. Fortunately, the home rink picked themselves up from dropping a 5 at the 15th end to go down 14-15 to recover with three single shot wins to finish winning by 2.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Barrie Lewis and John Beacham won 16-14 in another closely contested match: 11-12 down at the 13th end, finishing strongly with 5 shots against 2 in the remaining 5 ends.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Chris Locke and Jordan Napper lost 6-18 finding it difficult to get established and were unfortunate with a couple of ends were there were big turnarounds.
Brain Ilbery, Darren Lewis, Chris Cooper and Martin Hopkins had the 'easiest' ride of the evening winning 17-11 but showed resilience in getting there from 1-6 at the 7th end with some consistent scores.
Thanks to Taffs Well for the match and company after the match.
Thanks to Barrie Thomas for his hard work in getting a team together.
Good luck to those available going to Barry on Saturday for an important PG fixture - we do like to be beside the seaside!
Rink scores:
Mark Krawiecki, Steven Bollschweiler, Mike Britton and Gordon Tucker won 17-15 in a closely fought match with the lead changing several times after exchanging heavy blows and recovering from them. Fortunately, the home rink picked themselves up from dropping a 5 at the 15th end to go down 14-15 to recover with three single shot wins to finish winning by 2.
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Barrie Lewis and John Beacham won 16-14 in another closely contested match: 11-12 down at the 13th end, finishing strongly with 5 shots against 2 in the remaining 5 ends.
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Chris Locke and Jordan Napper lost 6-18 finding it difficult to get established and were unfortunate with a couple of ends were there were big turnarounds.
Brain Ilbery, Darren Lewis, Chris Cooper and Martin Hopkins had the 'easiest' ride of the evening winning 17-11 but showed resilience in getting there from 1-6 at the 7th end with some consistent scores.
Thanks to Taffs Well for the match and company after the match.
Thanks to Barrie Thomas for his hard work in getting a team together.
Good luck to those available going to Barry on Saturday for an important PG fixture - we do like to be beside the seaside!
Wednesday 8th May Rumney Gardens 55 - 75 Pentyrch
First away midweek match at Rumney Gardens and the good weather continued. The Tyrchs were looking for their first competitive win of the season and succeeded in good style with a 3 rink victory: two players, Andy Butler and Chris Cooper making their debuts and Barrie Lewis only playing his second match. All three on winning rinks - a positive omen. You are most welcome and we look forward to you playing much more for the club.
Rink scores:
Colin Howson, Gordon Tucker, Ed Brookman, Adrian Bevan 12-18
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Andy Butler, Chris Locke 18-12
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Barrie Lewis, John Beacham 24-14
Brian Ilbery, Darren Lewis, Chris Cooper, Martin Hopkins 21-11
Thanks to Brian Ilbery for match stats.
Rink scores:
Colin Howson, Gordon Tucker, Ed Brookman, Adrian Bevan 12-18
Andrew Herbert, Barrie Thomas, Andy Butler, Chris Locke 18-12
Iain Russell, Dave Ashmore, Barrie Lewis, John Beacham 24-14
Brian Ilbery, Darren Lewis, Chris Cooper, Martin Hopkins 21-11
Thanks to Brian Ilbery for match stats.
Saturday 4th May Pentyrch 63 - 82 Taffs Well
Finally, there was some decent weather for a bowls match. Appropriately, the sun shone to help show off the new club kit as the men took to the green for a home Carruther's Shield fixture against local friends and traditional rivals, Taffs Well. This was a welcome return to the Carruther's Shield competition after a year's absence. The format has now changed and is down to a straight knockout competition in place of the previous 4 team round robin format. There was a quiet optimism amongst the home team, having beaten Taffs Well twice out of three times last season. Unfortunately, that optimism was ill-founded with a three rink and total score defeat. About halfway through, the Tyrchs were mainly holding their own overall but by the finish the deficit had become too big.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Jordan Napper, Peter O'Reilly, John Beacham 18-11
Barrie Thomas, Keith Davies, Gavin Davidson, Dan Price 19-20
Mark Krawiecki, Alan Lowndes, Mike Britton, Adrian Bevan 13-31
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Gordon Tucker, Chris Locke 13 - 20
Best wishes to Taffs Well in the next round.
Rink scores:
Brian Ilbery, Jordan Napper, Peter O'Reilly, John Beacham 18-11
Barrie Thomas, Keith Davies, Gavin Davidson, Dan Price 19-20
Mark Krawiecki, Alan Lowndes, Mike Britton, Adrian Bevan 13-31
Iain Russell, Colin Howson, Gordon Tucker, Chris Locke 13 - 20
Best wishes to Taffs Well in the next round.
Wednesday 1st May Pentyrch 27 - 80 Cardiff (Sophia Gardens)
Things Can Only Get Better?
Unseasonal rain and a cold temperature was the background to the first home midweek league fixture. Unfortunately, the result for the home side was a heavy defeat to the visitors from the city. It was good to see many helping with setting up the rinks before the match and doing the domestics and clearing up afterwards so efficiently under the guidance of Jordan. On the green, despite the defeat there was a good team spirit that will develop and encourage better results.
Match statistics:
Brian Ilbery, Alan Lowndes, Barrie Lewis and Adrian Bevan started very confidently being 8-1 up after five ends, dropped a 6 at the next end and never recovered finishing 11-27 down. Well done to Barrie Lewis stepping in to make his Pentyrch debut.
Iain Russell, Jordan Napper Gavin Davidson and Mike Britton were competitive for the first 7 ends and then faded finishing 6-15 down.
Barrie Thomas, Andrew Herbert, Dave Ashmore and John Beacham had the 'best' result of the evening losing 6-11.
Mark Krawiecki, Gordon Tucker, Chris Locke and Martin Hopkins were swept aside and were stunned to be 1-17 down by the 10th end and felt 'pretty good' getting back 4-19 at the 13th end only to be floored with a 6 at the next end followed by a 2 at the last for good measure. 4- 27 down at the end.
Good to share a drink, pasty (or two) and chat with Cardiff captain Ron Brown and his team after the match.
Next up - Taffs Well at home in the Carruther's Shield.
Match statistics:
Brian Ilbery, Alan Lowndes, Barrie Lewis and Adrian Bevan started very confidently being 8-1 up after five ends, dropped a 6 at the next end and never recovered finishing 11-27 down. Well done to Barrie Lewis stepping in to make his Pentyrch debut.
Iain Russell, Jordan Napper Gavin Davidson and Mike Britton were competitive for the first 7 ends and then faded finishing 6-15 down.
Barrie Thomas, Andrew Herbert, Dave Ashmore and John Beacham had the 'best' result of the evening losing 6-11.
Mark Krawiecki, Gordon Tucker, Chris Locke and Martin Hopkins were swept aside and were stunned to be 1-17 down by the 10th end and felt 'pretty good' getting back 4-19 at the 13th end only to be floored with a 6 at the next end followed by a 2 at the last for good measure. 4- 27 down at the end.
Good to share a drink, pasty (or two) and chat with Cardiff captain Ron Brown and his team after the match.
Next up - Taffs Well at home in the Carruther's Shield.
Saturday 27th April Pentyrch 65 - 96 Merthyr West End 'A'
The Tyrchs first Private Greens fixture of the season and new Captain Jordan Napper's first match leading the team. This is our first season in Division 5 following relegation last year. The team selectors did an amazing job of fielding a team of 15 players with a number of players unavailable originally or becoming unavailable at very late stages. In the circumstances, it was an achievement to earn two points. There is added pressure to perform well this season with three teams instead of two now due to be relegated. Every shot will count and it will be vital to support the selectors in firstly being available to play and secondly, in giving them plenty of notice of availability. There are a number of ways to do this - teamsheets in the pavilion, the Spond App, What's App Group, text, email, phone etc. Otherwise, selectors have to spend considerable personal time 'phoning round or leaving messages.
So, a home defeat - well done to everyone who played and congratulations to Iain Russell and his rink on winning and getting us 2 league points. Photos courtesy of Merthyr West End.
You can follow East Wales Private Greens Bowls Association results and league standing HERE.
Two home fixtures next - Cardiff Sophia Gardens on Wednesday and next Saturday our return after a one year absence to the prestigious Carruther's Shield which is now a straight knockout format. Home to local 'friends' and traditional foe - Taffs Well.
So, a home defeat - well done to everyone who played and congratulations to Iain Russell and his rink on winning and getting us 2 league points. Photos courtesy of Merthyr West End.
You can follow East Wales Private Greens Bowls Association results and league standing HERE.
Two home fixtures next - Cardiff Sophia Gardens on Wednesday and next Saturday our return after a one year absence to the prestigious Carruther's Shield which is now a straight knockout format. Home to local 'friends' and traditional foe - Taffs Well.
Wednesday 24th April Rhiwbina - Pentyrch
First league fixture of the season was away to Rhiwbina in the Cardiff Midweek League. Iain Russell was captain for this away fixture. Unfortunately, all 4 rinks lost with Iain Russell's and Barrie Thomas's rinks only losing by one shot.