Only way is up for Gordonvale
GORDONVALE captain Jay Lloyd is already looking ahead to next weekend’s clash with Cairns after another disappointing outing against Mossman in round three of the FNQ Pennants season.
Beaten by his opposite number Wayne Christensen at Atherton on Sunday, Lloyd said he couldn’t wait to avenge the 3-2 loss and hit the course at Half Moon Bay.
Asked why they’ve struggled in the opening rounds of the competition, Lloyd was at a loss to explain his team’s dip in form.
“It’s funny,” he said. “I honestly thought our A grade team is pretty strong.
“Last year we made the finals but we’ve lost our first two rounds after the bye.
“We’ve had pretty good form coming into it.
“Ty Williams has been in pretty good touch.
“We’re probably the two better golfers but I’ve struggled with form.”
After big wins in the opening two rounds of the competition, Mareeba stunned Cairns at the weekend and Lloyd said he backed his team to hand Frank Power’s squad its second loss on the trot.
“I don’t think they’re as strong as they were last year,” Lloyd said. “Max Ford’s moved away and a couple of others aren’t there from last season either.
“I think we’re a pretty good chance. Matt Spilsbury’s lost a couple of games recently too.”
Instead, Lloyd nominated Half Moon Bay Golf Club as the team to beat this year.
“They were terrible last year but won it the year before,” he said. “I think this year they’ve really improved.
“Oliver Duncan is playing again. He had work commitments last season but he makes a big difference.”
After hosting the weekend’s proceedings, Atherton will be keen to upset the in-form Mareeba.
“Our fellas are playing well,” Atherton’s Darren Morey said.
“Playing at Half Moon Bay won’t suit either of us.
“It’s a tighter course and you’ve really got to hit the middle of the fairway.
“I know Mareeba were pretty chuffed (after their win last week).”