Upsets at the open
The first two days of the Taranaki men’s open fours have been completed without any disruptions, but a few upsets.
Teams are striving to win six of their eight section play games by the end of tomorrows, with an anticipated number of just over
40 of the 166 teams likely to make it through.
One of the tournament big names, Peter Belliss (Aramoho), suffered his first loss yesterday morning. His side was beaten
25-23 by Ray Glogoski (Kerikeri). But Kevin Smith (Hinuera), the
2014 winner, retained his unbeaten record and is odds-on to qualify.
Last year’s winner Brody Dix (New Lynn) was defeated on Monday afternoon but the team returned to the winner’s circle yesterday. Craig De Faria (West End), after a slip-up on Monday morning, posted comfortable wins thereafter.
After an absence of three seasons, Bruce Stewart’s Havelock North side have made a strong start with three opening wins. They are joined in the same position by Cary Pinker (Aramoho), Glen Newton (Mangere), Dan Delany (Royal Oak), Gerard Slattery (Tui Park) and Dave Selby (Hillcrest). Selby’s side includes Ross McLay, who has returned to the open for the first time in 36 years.
Nigel Drew (Birkenhead) edged past Ian Porteous (Aramoho) in the clash of the unbeaten teams yesterday morning. But it was close – Drew sneaking home 22-20.
Gerry O’Sullivan (Inglewood) skips one of the more popular local teams. They opened with two narrow, one-point wins on Monday and continued on their winning ways yesterday with much more comfort.
Paritutu sides skipped by Mike Walsh, Steve Cottam and Darren Goodin have all put themselves in a strong position, after three opening wins, as has John Sexton (West End).
However, Gary Lilley (West End) lost his unbeaten record to David Hood (Kerikeri) 29-19 yesterday morning. Hood, who learnt the game at the now defunct Kaponga club, was in excellent touch, with his team yet to record a loss.
Bruce Phillips (Tower) skips a good side this week. His third win yesterday morning required plenty of work, though, Phillips prevailing 19-11 over Terry Osment (Johnsonville).
Bowls Taranaki president Brien Bennett said that the tournament was progressing nicely. ‘‘Despite a couple of short showers on Monday and some blustery winds on both days, the atmosphere around the greens is very good. The players are loving being back in Taranaki.’’