Garfield bowl over top side in semi

Garfield has progressed directly into the midweek division three grand final after a 23-shot win on Tuesday.

Division three: Garfield defeated Traralgon (3) 59/36.

Garfield, who finished second on the ladder, was up against season-rival Traralgon who finished on top. However, the season tally for the two sides showed home wins for each side, thus setting up a crackerjack semi-final on a neutral green.

Played at Trafalgar, the green was grass and thus seemingly favoured the grass-based Traralgon. However, two of Garfield’s three teams got away to a good start and were never headed.

Maureen Lamport’s team of Malcolm Newham, Bob Lamport and Jan Johnson rushed out to a handsome lead and were most convincing winners, 26/12.

The team of Adrian Helmuth, John Majkut, Lex Taylor and blossoming skip Sue Stansfield edged away from their opponents, building a steady lead and ultimately winning 19/9.

The third side of Wes Goodman, Damian Brick, Jill Rouse and skip Judy Pocklington started slowly and were down 4/11 at one point.

They staged a splendid comeback to be 14/15 when the game was closed off after 19 ends. It was closed as there was only two ends left and Traralgon could not score enough shots to catch up overall. This also robbed Garfield of the opportunity for a clean sweep.

This victory sends Garfield directly to the grand final on Tuesday, March 5. Traralgon must play first semi-final winner Newborough in the preliminary final to see if they get another shot at Garfield in the big dance.