Champions suffer a title setback

Published on 14th August 2008 in Ents

Reigning Premier Division champions The Verm were sensationally held to a five-all draw this week by a determined display from N.U.R. Neanderthals, who have struggled all season around the bottom of the table.

The Verm started well enough and took an early 3-1 lead but splendid wins by Terry Rockett, Nathan Clayton, Rob Fallon and the very talented Adam Walsh turned the game on its head.

After the game Verm captain Andy Hurson said: "This was a bad result for us. After a bright opening we lost our way a bit. We have been playing catch-up all season, having to give big start to the lesser sides and a result like this is the last thing we need at present.

"All credit to N.U.R., though, they took their chances well and fully deserved to share the points."

With seven games remaining they are now eight points adrift of fifteen-point handicappers Buchanan Badstars who did well to beat Shipmates 6-4.

Yet again Natalie Merrill was the star for Buchanan with two splendid wins and was ably assisted by Mark Whiteley in giving Buchanan their seventh win of the season.

Another team surprising everyone with their fine form is Packet Hasbeens, who move into second spot following a 6-4 win over Peacock Pirates.

Packet have Barry Johnston to thank for this victory. His one-man show obliterated Peacock's early 3-0 lead and set Packet up for their eighth victory from eleven games. Not bad for a twenty-point start side!

Middle House Mavericks were delighted with their spirited 6-4 win over the hard-to-beat Creykes Tigers, who led 3-2 at the interval. Johnny 'Captain' Kidd spurred his lads on with two great wins, while Danny Hudson was Creykes best player.

The five-all draw between Buchanan Badboys and Bottom House Bombers was completely spoiled by bad sportsmanship that overshadowed some brilliant play. Chris White made a satisfactory debut for the Bombers and Dennis Blanchard played the game of his life to beat the talented Dale Masterman. Danny Neal was the top player for Buchanan in a contest that stank of lack of respect between players.

Sean Neal and his delightful wife Liz have done a magnificent job in getting such a highly talented squad together to play for his public house, Board Inn at Howden. This week they blasted Royal Predators 9-1 to retain pole position in Division One, with eleven wins on the bounce. They will be like a breath of fresh air to the Premiership next season. Some fantastic clashes lie ahead. Bring it on, lads!

Colt Woollass celebrated his transfer from Shipmates with a winning debut for Marshland Menaces, who stuttered to a 6-4 win over N.U.R. Clubbers. Woollass is another significant signing for the Old Goole side, who have promotion to the Premiership in mind. A lot of hard work lies ahead, lads!

Viking Wizards have lost sixteen points this season for scorecard infringements but are still plugging away gallantly. They recorded their fifth victory with an unexpectedly easy 7-3 win over Vermuyden Vultures. Chris Nuttall and Wayne Jackson were the players of note for Vikings, who are fighting for survival in this division.

North Eastern Newbies played well but still went down 6-4 to Packet Panthers. Alison Spavin and Kev Rusden starred for the Newbies whereas Emma Longster, Diane Sowden and Adam White were the big hitters for Packet.

Top-drawer wins by Martin Hill and Frank Hoodless Jnr. ensured a good 6-4 win for Shipwrecks of Swinefleet over the battling qualities of Liam Parry's Royal Flush.

In Division Two, Jailhouse Jokers continued their amazing campaign with an outstanding 6-4 beating of Bottom House Brigade, who went 5-1 down at one stage. Matthew Dodson and Paul Simms both won two frames apiece in a cracking match played in a truly sporting atmosphere.

A 7-3 victory over Middle House Lasses ensured Vic Casuals remain top, but the girls pushed them all the way as did the lasses of Charter Cheddars who fought bravely to only lose 7-3 to North Eastern Flyers.

The fact that they were a player short and playing away from home made no difference to Old Goole Club who still trounced Packet Pups 7-3. Cary Dean and Terry Rooke were both excellent for the visitors who really need to show this aggression more often.

Reedness' Half Moon completely overwhelmed Jailhouse Jesters 9-1 in a one-sided contest where only Steven Pitt could withstand the might of Joe Eastwood's young and exciting team.

Pubs or clubs wishing to play in the winter season of the Goole Pool League should apply early to either Norman Whittingham on 07804789898 or Vic Erwin on 07966 263835.

The league will start in October and places will be limited so apply now to avoid disappointment.