Mick Kunzi fired in an 81 unfinished
Park Gate claim prize scalp of the champs; Zagaroli, Kunzi, Lawrence, Bishop & Lowe end league campaigns with fine efforts.
The league season ended (well, almost) this week with runaway leaders Chandlers Ford losing for only the second time, to their long-time chasers Park Gate.
Paul Lawrence has hit a rich vein of form recently, and a tremendous 75 left current world number seven Ryan Mears unable to get into positive numbers despite runs of 42 and 35. Terry Azor (currently rated eighteen in the world) was similarly dispatched by Steve Boterhoek before Korbin Lowe (56, 31) started to restore some order for the champions in his win over Gary Wilton. Old sparring partners Ian Finch and Dave White went toe-to-toe again, with Finch coming out on top, and not even the traditional Danny Zagaroli fireworks (98, 47, 42) against Chris Christodoulou could rescue the champions, who lost the aggregate for just the fourth time in what has been a phenomenal season for Azor's talented bunch. Park Gate ended the season in the bronze medal position.
The race for second was in St Denys' hands, but they were badly wobbled by Sarisbury early on as John Oldfield put young upstart Malc Willis in his place and Geoff Knapp overcame Derek King. But the home team, strong on their own tables, fired back as talisman Adie Bridger withstood a 34 from Chris Collinson and skipper Mark Emm cruised past Kas Remzi. Chris Bishop completed the comeback with runs of 36 and 61 and, with the aggregate point secured, a 4-2 win was enough to maintain 2nd place in the final table. Sarisbury finished the season in 7th, no mean feat after losing their first five games.
Churchills knew their chances of matching their runners-up finish of 2019-20 were slim, and sure enough a fine 4-2 win at Hamble was only enough for fourth in the final reckoning. Nick Wood's 33 and 36 weren't enough to faze Mike Henstredge, and Mark McLean continued his good form with a solid win over Tony Spridgeon. Home sipper Will Mildenhall saw off Steve Scott and Rob Shattock got the better of Derek Foster to make it interesting before Steve Hulbert's fine win over Wood handed the match to the away team. 2018-19 champions Hamble finished fifth in the final standings.
Totton hosted Curdridge and star of the show was Parkstone's finest, Mick Kunzi, with a cracking 81 unfinished and a 31 as he did a number on Brian Bull. Steve Allen's 44 helped him to a good win over Clive Gamblin, but Derek Fry came out well ahead against John Ransome. Ryan Longhurst was too strong for Richard Marshall, but Tony Aldridge and Rob Smith were involved in a nail-biter with the home man getting there by just three points in the end. Totton finished their campaign in sixth, and Curdridge unfortunately maintained their 100% losing away record and will finish the season in the wooden spoon position. Still, it's good that the club is still there and we await developments over the summer.
It's been a challenging season for many, but it's been great to see everyone back at the baize and playing again. There are many competitions to be decided over the next few weeks, but whatever the results we hope that games continue to be played in the great spirit that they have been played in this season. Chandlers Ford have been dominant again, in the league, and that's great credit to their consistency and level of performance.
This week's Usher Shield Final will see Hamble and Park Gate battle it out at Sarisbury Social, and the Jim Watts Doubles reaches its conclusion the following night at Churchills. The Stuart Hamper, the Challenge Cup and the blue riband Gordon Lewis all conclude soon, and spectators are always welcome. We like to see you there.
A huge thank you to the clubs for hosting not just league matches but providing neutral venues for other competitions. It is much appreciated.
AGM proposals will be welcomed in due course and we hope to see as many of you as possible there in the summer. Venue and date will be confirmed when known.
PARK GATE 4 -2 CHANDLERS FORD
(90) S. Boterhoek 200 - 6 T. Azor (-185)
(-15) P. Lawrence 200 - -7 R. Mears (-250)
(70) G. Wilton 165 - 200 K. Lowe (-25)
(35) I. Finch 200 - 184 D. White (75)
(45) C. Christodoulou 135 - 200 D. Zagaroli (-250)
Aggregate Score 900 - 583
Breaks: PL 75 RM 42, 35 KL 56, 31 DZ 98, 47, 42
ST DENYS 4 - 2 SARISBURY
(40) M. Willis 125 - 200 J. Oldfield (40)
(60) D. King 178 - 200 G. Knapp (45)
(85) A. Bridger 200 - 180 C. Collinson (65)
(30) M. Emm 200 - 165 K. Remzi (75)
(-40) C. Bishop 200 - 152 N. Bradfield (75)
Aggregate Score 903 - 897
Breaks: CB 36, 61 CC 34
HAMBLE 2 - 4 CHURCHILLS
(-45) N. Wood 165 - 200 M. Henstredge (95)
(45) T. Spridgeon 177 - 200 M. McLean (-10)
(100) W. Mildenhall 200 - 181 S. Scott (55)
(105) R. Shattock 200 - 171 D. Foster (15)
(-45) N. Wood 98 - 200 S. Hulbert (85)
Aggregate Score 840 - 952
TOTTON 4-2 CURDRIDGE
(-80) S. Allen 200 - 153 C. Gamblin (40)
(-10) M. Kunzi 200 - 147 B. Bull (65)
(105) J. Ransome 158 - 200 D. Fry (110)
(50) R. Longhurst 200 - 185 R. Marshall (105)
(20) T. Aldridge 200 - 197 R. Smith (90)
Aggregate Score 958 - 882
Breaks: SA 44 MK 31, 81uf
Chris Bishop (67, 51, 31) helped St Deny to a win at Curdridge
Chandlers claim another title in scintillating style!
Finally, it happened...Chandlers Ford have claimed another league title and they did it in style as they hammered Hamble 6-0 at their home fortress.
Their fifth league title in the past eight seasons was celebrated with a host of breaks, with Danny Zagaroli knocking in a 105 and a 75 in his mauling of Rob Shattock. John Mullane dealt out similar punishment to Tony Spridgeon, knocking in runs of 92, 54, 52 and 43. Terry Azor popped in on his way over to Ireland and fired in a 68 as he battered Nick Wood, and he added breaks of 52, 41, 36 and 31 too. Trevor Thorn got in on the act with a 50 and a 34 as he defeated away skipper Will Mildenhall, and then Korbin Lowe threw in a 38 as he cruised past Mark Spridgeon.
WELL DONE TO CHANDLERS FORD, A TRULY BRILLIANT SEASON.
Back in the real world, Churchills' defeat of Park Gate by 5-1 means that St Denys are now favourites to grab second place. Mike Henstredge saw off Ian Finch with something to spare, and Trevor Sanders edged past Steve Boterhoek by just ten points after they played off identical handicaps. Chris Christodoulou hit back for the away team against Steve Hulbert, but that was as good as it got for them as Mark McLean (35 break) defeated Gary Wilton and Derek Foster (33 break) won in style against Paul Lawrence.
Sarisbury's remarkable upturn continued, as they notched an impressive 4-2 home win over Totton. They've now won four of their last seven, following a shocking start to the season. Skipper John Oldfield stroked in a 42 in his comfortable win over Ireland-bound Steve Allen before Tony Aldridge overcame Norman Bradfield with something to spare. Kas Remzi squeaked home against Lee Fitzpatrick before Geoff Knapp beat Mick Kunzi despite the latter running in a 43 break. Brian Cannons' win over Chris Collinson put some respectability on the scoreline for the away side.
At Curdridge the home team look booked for the wooden spoon as St Denys won on the road again, this time 5-1. Chris Bishop was in top form as he smashed in breaks of 67, 51 and 31 in a romp against Brian Bull. Andy Carter edged out Richard Marshall, and then the talisman strutted his stuff again as Adie Bridger came from nowhere to sneak home against Rob Smith. Clive Gamblin played well to see off Malc Willis, but the battle of the Dereks was won by King as he beat Fry by a dozen points.
**Please ensure that all teams have played 13 games BEFORE the final league games of the season on 13th April. If individual games can be rearranged in order to make room for league matches that might be a good way to do things if you are struggling for dates. As always, please liaise with Chris Bishop/Andy Carter if you need any help with sorting out fixtures/dates etc**
SARISBURY 4-2 TOTTON
(45) J. Oldfield 200 - 81 S. Allen (-85)
(70) N. Bradfield 144 - 200 T. Aldridge (25)
(80) K. Remzi 200 - 190 L. Fitzpatrick (35)
(50) G. Knapp 200 - 155 M. Kunzi (-15)
(60) C. Collinson 186 - 200 B. Cannons (105)
Aggregate Score 930 - 826
Breaks: JO 42 MK 43
CHURCHILLS 5 - 1 PARK GATE
(105) M. Henstredge 200 - 140 I. Finch (30)
(85) T. Sanders 200 - 190 S. Boterhoek (85)
(75) S. Hulbert 180 - 200 C. Christodoulou (50)
(0) M. McLean 200 - 183 G. Wilton (65)
(20) D. Foster 200 - 110 P. Lawrence (-20)
Aggregate Score 980 - 823
Breaks: MM 35 DF 33
CURDRIDGE 1 - 5 ST DENYS
(45) C. Gamblin 200 - 118 M. Willis (35)
(85) R. Smith 198 - 200 A. Bridger (85)
(-15) R. Marshall 172 - 200 A. Carter (15)
(110) D. Fry 188 - 200 D. King (60)
(60) B. Bull 100 - 200 C. Bishop (-30)
Aggregate Score 858 - 918
Breaks: CB 67, 51, 31
CHANDLERS FORD 6 - 0 HAMBLE
(-245) D. Zagaroli 200 - 182 R. Shattock (100)
(-250) J. Mullane 200 - 179 T. Spridgeon (40)
(-180) T. Azor 200 - 76 N. Wood (-50)
(-60) T. Thorn 200 - 181 W. Mildenhall (95)
(-20) K. Lowe 200 - 134 M. Spridgeon (40)
Aggregate Score 1000 - 788
Breaks: DZ 105, 75 JM 92, 54, 52, 43 TA 52, 36, 68, 41, 31 TT 34, 50 KL 38
Ian Finch knocked in the weeks highest league break of 54
Sarisbury revival continues; Finch and Allen hit half centuries
In a week that saw only two matches go ahead, John Oldfield’s Sarisbury maintained their recent revival at the expense of Hamble.
Nine points from their first five matches has been followed by nineteen from six matches as Curdridge, who didn’t play, now find themselves five points adrift at the bottom. Sarisbury have now joined Totton on 28 points.
Norman Bradfield benefitted from Nick Wood’s non-appearance due to transport issues before Tony Spridgeon beat Chris Collinson by a dozen. Kas Remzi stroked in a 31 break in his convincing win over Paul Knights, and then the rejuvenated Oldfield won the battle of the skippers against Will Mildenhall in comfortable fashion. Rob Shattock in his familiar anchor role then got the better of Geoff Knapp but the damage had been done and the Sarisbury boys have now taken ten points from their last two road trips. Wooden spoons are clearly not to their liking.
Park Gate needed something extraordinary to happen for their league title bid to remain viable, but a home draw with Totton was not what they were after.
Ian Finch knocked in a dazzling 54 as he overcame Tony Aldridge before Steve Boterhoek got the better of Mick Kunzi (34 break) to keep alive the possibility of a big points haul. Gary Wilton’s win over Brian Cannons kept things on track, but Steve Allen (33, 53 breaks) had other ideas as he pipped Paul Lawrence by two points and then Lee Fitzpatrick, making a rare but welcome appearance, hammered Chris Christodoulou by 104 points to give the away team an unlikely aggregate win and ensure that the honours were split. Park Gate jump St Denys and move into second, but with three games to go are seven points behind Chandlers Ford. However, they do meet the champions-elect on the last day of the season and if they’re within striking distance…who knows?
Chandlers Ford v Curdridge and Churchills v St Denys were both postponed.
**Please ensure that all teams have played 13 games BEFORE the final league games of the season on 13th April. If individual games can be rearranged in order to make room for league matches that might be a good way to do things if you are struggling for dates. As always, please liaise with Chris Bishop/Andy Carter if you need any help with sorting out fixtures/dates etc**
PARK GATE 3 - 3 TOTTON
(30) I. Finch 200 - 151 T. Aldridge (25)
(85) S. Boterhoek 200 - 191 M. Kunzi(-25)
(45) G. Wilton 200 - 166 B. Cannons (110)
(-20) P. Lawrence 198 - 200 S. Allen (-85)
(50) C. Christodoulou 96 - 200 L. Fitzpatrick (40)
Aggregate Score 894-908
Breaks: SA 33, 53 IF 54
HAMBLE 2 - 4 SARISBURY
(-50) N. Wood - w/o N. Bradfield (70)
(45) T. Spridgeon 200 - 188 C. Collinson (55)
(55) P. Knights 128 - 200 K. Remzi (85)
(90) W. Mildenhall 177 - 200 J. Oldfield (50)
(105) R. Shattock 200 - 156 G. Knapp (45)
Aggregate Score 705-744
Breaks: KR 31
CHANDLERS FORD 4 - 2 CURDRIDGE
(250) D. Zagaroli 165 - 200 R. Smith (85)
(175) T. Azor 200 - 177 Derek Fry (105)
(-15) K. Lowe 200 - 152 C. Gamblin (40)
(50) O. Scott 200 - 177 R. Smith (85)
(70) D. White 195 - 200 R. Marshall (105)
Aggregate Score 960-906
Breaks: TA 72, 73, 46 DZ 31, 31, 42 KL 32 CG 30
CHURCHILLS 5 - 1 ST DENYS
(100) M. Henstredge 200 - 176 A. Bridger (80)
(80) T. Sanders 200 - 119 D. King (55)
(80) S. Hulbert 194 - 200 C. Bishop (-35)
(-5) M. McLean 200 - 79 M. Emm (25)
(60) S. Scott 200 - 150 A. Carter (10)
Aggregate Score 994-724
Breaks: CB 48, 35
Derek King dealt Nick Wood a rare defeat
Break-fest at Totton, two whitewashes and it's all over, isn't it?
Totton were the latest team to go toe-to-toe with champions-elect Chandlers Ford and end up battered and bruised.
Terry Azor's merry men didn't have it all their own way as Mick Kunzi (32, 43 breaks) eased past Dave White, but Trevor Thorn answered back with a solid display and a 39 break in his win over Steve Allen (45 break). The Chandlers big guns then opened up as John Mullane (34, 31, 53, 51, 83, 39, 58 breaks) pounded Brian Cannons and Danny Zagaroli (67, 67, 56, 52, 55uf breaks) pulverised Mike Thatcher to all but win the match before Tony Aldridge (57 break) overcame away skipper Azor (70 break) in a cracker. Eighteen plus 30 breaks were recorded on the night, with eleven of those being half-centuries. Tremendous stuff.
Park Gate's challenge for the title looks to have ended at Curdridge, as the home side, victims of a whitewash themselves in their last home game, turned the tables and whitewashed the visitors.
Rob Smith cruised past Chris Christodoulou before Clive Gamblin edged past Paul Lawrence. Derek Fry made use of his handicap in beating Paul Tavender and when Brian Bull nutted Steve Boterhoek by the narrowest of margins the unthinkable suddenly became possible. Richard Marshall held his nerve to overcome Gary Wilton and the maximum victory was complete, with the home team's smiles probably matched only by those on Chandlers Ford faces.
At Sarisbury, Geoff Knapp (34 break) played twice and, as is often the way when a player plays twice, won one and lost one.
Knapp despatched Mike Henstredge, with a 34 break helping his cause, but Steve Hulbert proved too tough a nut to crack later on. John Oldfield routed old pal Derek Foster courtesy of an impressive run of 52, but Trevor Sanders crushed Norman Bradfield to tighten things up before Kas Remzi squared the match with a cosy win over Steve Scott as honours were shared and Sarisbury maintained their mini-revival. Mid-table is where Churchills have been pretty much all season, and that remains the case.
St Denys somehow jumped into second place with an unlikely 6-0 victory over Hamble.
Derek King had just enough in hand to squeeze past current points leader and reigning Stuart Hamper champion Nick Wood (37 break) whilst Malc Willis was impressive with runs of 40 and an unfinished 32 as he defeated Mark Spridgeon. Skipper Mark Emm and opponent Rob Shattock were both well off the boil in a game that home skipper Emm edged by a point after Shattock missed match ball, and then Chris Bishop (33 break) came from well back to beat Will Mildenhall. Adie Bridger played the anchor role to perfection in his defeat of Paul Knights and, somehow, the unlikeliest of whitewashes was complete...and there was still time for two St Denys players to hold inquests into how poorly the other one had played!
Terry Azor has gone back to the top of the rankings ahead of Nick Wood, but team-mate Danny Zagaroli is looming large and John Mullane is now only just outside the top ten with lots of big points hauls quite possibly just ahead of him.
TOTTON 2 - 4 CHANDLERS FORD
(-20) M. Kunzi 200 - 181 D. White (65)
(-90) S. Allen 170 - 200 T. Thorn (-55)
(110) B. Cannons 184 - 200 J. Mullane (-250)
(75) M. Thatcher 122 - 200 D. Zagaroli(-250)
(30) T. Aldridge 200 - 170 T. Azor (-180)
Aggregate Score 876-951
Breaks: MK 32, 43 SA 45 TAld 57 JM 34, 31, 53, 51, 83, 39, 58
DZ 67, 67, 56, 52, 55uf TAz 70 TT 39
CURDRIDGE 6 - 0 PARK GATE
(90) R. Smith 200 - 146 C. Christodoulou(45)
(45) C. Gamblin 200 - 188 P. Lawrence (-25)
(110) D. Fry 200 - 118 P. Tavender(30)
(65) B. Bull 200 - 199 S. Boterhoek (80)
(110) R. Marshall 200 - 155 G. Wilton (40)
Aggregate Score 1000 - 806
SARISBURY 3 - 3 CHURCHILLS
(45) G. Knapp 200 - 166 M. Henstredge (100)
(55) J. Oldfield 200 - 107 D. Foster(15)
(65) N. Bradfield 93 - 200 T. Sanders (90)
(100) K. Remzi 200 - 161 S. Scott (55)
(45) G. Knapp 127 - 200 S. Hulbert (75)
Aggregate Score 820 - 834
Breaks: GK 34 JO 52
ST DENYS 6 - 0 HAMBLE
(65) D. King 200 - 192 N. Wood (-55)
(40) M. Willis 200 - 173 M. Spridgeon (35)
(30) M. Emm 200 - 199 R. Shattock (100)
(-25) C. Bishop 200 - 189 W. Mildenhall (85)
(90) A. Bridger 200 - 147 P. Knights (50)
Aggregate Score 1000 - 900
Breaks: MW 40, 32uf CB 33 NW 37
John Oldfield marshalled his team to a maximum points haul
Sarisbury go wild in the country and, yes, Chandlers win again
Sarisbury Social finally came alive this week, battering fellow strugglers Curdridge in their own backyard and putting pressure on a few others who are suddenly looking over their shoulders.
John Oldfield's men started off with Kas Remzi defeating Brian Bull before skipper Oldfield himself claimed Clive Gamblin's scalp. Wily Norman Bradfield defeated Robin Smith and then Geoff Knapp (31 break) edged out Derek Fry to leave the chance of a first whitewash of the season (by anyone) in the hands of Chris Collinson, who didn't let his side down with an eighteen point win over Richard Marshall. Sarisbury clearly don't like the idea of a wooden spoon this season. However, Curdridge are yet to visit Sarisbury, as the fixture from earlier in the season remains to be played. Revenge will be on a few Curdridge minds!
Elsewhere, Chandlers Ford racked-up another win and this time it was Churchills who went into the lions' den and came off second best. Danny Zagaroli (34, 41, 64, 61, 34 breaks) coasted home against Steve Scott and Terry Azor (31, 41, 32, 46 breaks) did something similar against Trevor Sanders. Trevor Thorn saw off Derek Foster before Korbin Lowe came unstuck against Mark McLean, but the ever-improving Dave White saw his team home by edging past Mike Henstredge and the question still remains: who is going to stop the champions retaining their crown?
At Hamble, Nick Wood was in scintillating form. The current Stuart Hamper champion thumped Ian Finch and ran in breaks of 78 and 48 in doing so. Mark Spridgeon won well against Paul Tavender but Paul Lawrence (42 unfinished) showed some class to get the better of Paul Knights. Steve Boterhoek gave the away team more hope with a win over Will Mildenhall, but Rob Shattock and a revised handicap were too much for Gary Wilton as the home team ran out 4-2 winners. Park Gate's title hopes were seriously dented in the process, but all hope is not yet lost, and they have a game in hand on the champions.
Totton were the last team to lose a home game against dreadful travellers St Denys, and lightning struck twice as the away team strolled to a 5-1 win that no-one saw coming. Talisman Adie Bridger sneaked home against Mick Kunzi (46 and 30 breaks) who was kicking himself after missing game ball, and then Andy Carter secured victory against an out-of-sorts Mike Thatcher in a game no-one will remember. Ryan Longhurst was in fine potting form against Derek King, but King took it on the chin and came back strongly to win the point. Fittingly, skipper Mark Emm (35 break) secured a first away win since dinosaurs roamed the planet, disposing of Tony Aldridge who had a rare off night. Steve Allen kept it respectable for the home team, running in a 45 and a 33 to edge out Malc Willis by five points.
In the player rankings, Nick Wood's massive week sees him leap over Terry Azor to the #1 ranking position.
CHANDLERS FORD 5 - 1 CHURCHILLS
(-250) D. Zagaroli 200 - 123 S. Scott (50)
(-175) T. Azor 200 - 142 T. Sanders (85)
(-50) T. Thorn 200 - 170 D. Foster (10)
(-20) K. Lowe 150 - 200 M. McLean (5)
(70) D. White 200 - 189 M. Henstredge (95)
Aggregate Score 950 - 824
Breaks: DZ 34, 41, 64, 61, 34 TA 31, 41, 32, 46 TT 30
HAMBLE 4 - 2 PARK GATE
(-50) N. Wood 200 - 123 I. Finch (25)
(40) M. Spridgeon 200 - 147 P. Tavender (25)
(45) P. Knights 169 - 200 P. Lawrence (-20)
(80) W. Mildenhall 174 - 200 S. Boterhoek (85)
(105) R. Shattock 200 - 186 G. Wilton (35)
Aggregate Score 943 - 856
Breaks: NW 78, 48 PL 42uf
CURDRIDGE 0 - 6 SARISBURY
(60) B. Bull 172 - 200 K. Remzi (105)
(40) C. Gamblin 134 - 200 J. Oldfield (60)
(85) R. Smith 168 - 200 N. Bradfield (70)
(105) D. Fry 192 - 200 G. Knapp (50)
(110) R. Marshall 182 - 200 C. Collinson (60)
Aggregate Score 848 - 1000
Breaks: GK 31
TOTTON 1 - 5 ST DENYS
(-25) M. Kunzi 198 - 200 A. Bridger (95)
(70) M. Thatcher 168 - 200 A. Carter (20)
(50) R. Longhurst 167 - 200 D. King (70)
(25) T. Aldridge 96 - 200 M. Emm (35)
(-85) S. Allen 200 - 195 M. Willis (35)
Aggregate Score 829 - 995
Breaks: SA 45, 33 MK 46, 30 ME 35
Danny Zagaroli was once again in relentless form and helped Chandlers to another 5 point haul
Chandlers win again but Park Gate and Hamble keep things interesting
Defending champions Chandlers Ford dished out another beating, this time against a woeful St Denys side, as their title juggernaut moved into the fast lane.
Danny Zagaroli was again on form (breaks of 46, 39, 34, 32, 30 and 40) as he butchered Andy Carter without breaking sweat, but Derek King got the better of his old foe Terry Azor (33, 36) on the other table to keep St Denys in the hunt. That was as good as it got for a team who have now lost their last eight away league games. Trevor Thorn (31, 30) took out the away skipper Mark Emm and Dave White maintained his progress with a comfortable win over Chris Bishop (41 break). Malc Willis looked like getting the better of Korbin Lowe in the final match-up, but the home player eventually prevailed by a narrow five-point margin. The 2018 champions are a pale imitation of their former selves, with not even chief cheerleader (in his sparkly cheerleader's outfit) Adie Bridger able to get them going. Chandlers Ford, on the other hand, remain unbeaten and look to be closing in on another league title.
It's starting to look like only two teams can stop Chandlers defending their crown, and one of those is Park Gate. They won their local derby against bottom side Sarisbury with something to spare, as Paul Lawrence thumped Norman Bradfield, Gary Wilton coasted past Kas Remzi, Steve Boterhoek edged John Oldfield and Chris Christodoulou overcame Geoff Knapp, though away skipper Oldfield's 41 - in a losing cause against Boterhoek - and Chris Collinson's comfortable win over Ian Finch gave the basement team some hope to cling to for the rest of the season.
Hamble look like the dark horses, and they cemented those claims with an impressive victory over Totton. Only Tony Spridgeon's three-point defeat to Steve Allen (36 break) stopped a home whitewash, as Nick Wood overcame Mick Kunzi in the marquee game, Will Mildenhall edged Tony Aldridge by a mere two points, Rob Shattock cantered home against Mike Thatcher and Mark Spridgeon (35 break) despatched Brian Cannons. Apart from a spanking by Chandlers on their own patch, Hamble have been ultra consistent and certainly are not out of the reckoning yet.
Churchills swept past Curdridge 4-2 in the remaining match of the week. The early games were close as Mark McLean (34 unfinished) beat Clive Gamblin by 14pts, Derek Foster lost to Robin Smith by the narrowest possible margin, and Steve Scott overcame Richard Marshall by just 11pts. The latter games weren't as close, with Derek Fry easily beating an out-of-sorts Mike Henstredge and Trevor Sanders seeing off Brian Bull with ease. Churchills have played more games than anyone, and the league title looks out of reach for the 2019/20 runners-up barring something truly spectacular in their last five games. Curdridge have spent most of the season vying with Sarisbury at the bottom, but with a home game against St Denys still to come they might soon start eyeing up 6th place or better!
Terry Azor remains top of the rankings despite this week's defeat, but team-mate Trevor Thorn is looming large and Nick Wood isn't far away either. Another team-mate, a Mr D Zagaroli, sneaks into the Top 10 after a couple of sparkling weeks.
CHANDLERS FORD 5 - 1 ST DENYS
(-250) D. Zagaroli 200- 108 A. Carter (20)
(-185) T. Azor 78 - 200 D. King (80)
(-50) T. Thorn 200 - 186 M. Emm (30)
(-15) K. Lowe 200 - 195 M. Willis (35)
(80) D. White 200 - 97 C. Bishop (-35)
Aggregate Score 878 - 786
Breaks: DZ 46, 39, 34, 32, 30, 40 TA 33, 36 TT 31, 30 ME 31 CB 41
CHURCHILLS 4 - 2 CURDRIDGE
(10) M. McLean 200 - 186 C. Gamblin (35)
(5) D. Foster 199 - 200 R. Smith (90)
(55) S. Scott 200 - 189 R. Marshall (110)
(90) M. Henstredge 142 - 200 D. Fry (110)
(90) T. Sanders 200 - 115 B. Bull (55)
Aggregate Score 941 - 890
Breaks: MM 34uf
HAMBLE 5 - 1 TOTTON
(-40) N. Wood 200 - 176 M. Kunzi (-30)
(35) T. Spridgeon 197 - 200 S. Allen (-80)
(85) W. Mildenhall 200 - 198 T. Aldridge (20)
(105) R. Shattock 200 - 152 M. Thatcher (65)
(40) M. Spridgeon 200 - 147 B. Cannons (110)
Aggregate Score 997 - 873
Breaks: SA 36 MS 35
PARK GATE 5 - 1 SARISBURY
(-20) P. Lawrence 200 - 109 N. Bradfield (65)
(75) G. Wilton 200 - 156 K. Remzi (100)
(95) S. Boterhoek 200 - 185 J. Oldfield (55)
(25) I. Finch 112 - 200 C. Collinson (65)
(55) C. Christodoulou 200 - 181 G. Knapp (45)
Aggregate Score 912 - 850
Breaks: JO 41
Tony Aldridge continued his excellent form with a 33 break helping him win his 6th game of the season
Zagaroli goes on a break-building spree as Bridger, Knapp and McLean prevent whitewashes!
Danny Zagaroli was in vengeful mood at Sarisbury, after his battering by Chris Christodoulou last week, as Chandlers Ford went "odds on" to retain their crown.
"Zags" hit a 113 and peppered his play with many other significant contributions (43, 77, 33, 57, 38 & 31) as Kas Remzi was blown away by the Chandlers Ford maestro and, with his team-mates stepping up too, the likes of recent Scottish Open semi-finalist John Mullane and world-ranked #5 Ryan Mears were not required. Terry Azor's men were too good for a Sarisbury team for whom Geoff Knapp (32 break) put up the only resistance. Azor himself (32, 34, 36 breaks) was ably assisted by Korbin Lowe and Dave White as Chandlers had another great "away day" result. It's looking bleak for the rest of the league title pretenders.
Park Gate might be the team to emerge from the pack to give the champions most to think about. They've got a game in hand and are six points back in joint second. They are one of St Denys' "bogey" teams (there were seven at the last count) and this week was no different as they romped to a 5-1 win at a venue where the home team have traditionally been strong. Doubles mates Chris Christodoulou and Steve Boterhoek got the ball rolling with wins over Malc Willis and Derek King respectively, before home hero and linchpin Adie Bridger overcame Paul Lawrence. New boy Gary Wilton then crushed Andy Carter, and threw in a 41 break for good measure, before one of the season's big improvers, Ian Finch, finally wore down Chris Bishop (35 break) to keep dreams of a league title alive for the current cup holders.
Totton Rec had a fine 5-1 win over Churchills, with Mick Kunzi (38 break) besting Derek Foster and Steve Allen (30 break) getting the better of Mike Henstredge. Tony Aldridge also added to his impressive list of season wins by easily defeating Steve Scott, with a 33 break no doubt helping the cause. Lee Fitzpatrick edged Steve Hulbert in a close one but Mark McLean prevented things going totally haywire for the Eastleigh boys as he strolled past Mike Thatcher. Totton move to within a point of their opponents, and have a game in hand. They'll need to "go big" a few more times in the second half of the season if they are to be contending towards the business end of the season.
Curdridge and Hamble played out a 3-3 draw, with Nick Wood rolling in breaks of 36, 30 and 30 again as he won one and lost one as the "four man rule" came into play for the visitors. Rob Smith hammered the handicap champion before Wood regained his composure and took his frustrations out on Clive Gamblin. Brian Bull's 30 break helped him to cruise past Will Mildenhall, but Tony Spridgeon's win over Richard Marshall and Rob Shattock's close win over Derek Fry saw the spoils shared and Curdridge climb off the bottom of the table and Hamble stay in third place and still in with a shout of the title should the teams above them falter in the second half of the season.
Terry Azor stays top of the player rankings, his lead now extended to over a thousand points.
ST DENYS 1 - 5 PARK GATE
(75) D. King 167 - 200 S. Boterhoek (100)
(30) M. Willis 138 - 200 C. Christodoulou (60)
(95) A. Bridger 200 - 154 P. Lawrence (-25)
(15) A. Carter 114 - 200 G. Wilton (75)
(-40) C. Bishop 183 - 200 I. Finch (30)
Aggregate Score 802 - 954
Breaks: CB 35 GW 41
TOTTON REC 5 - 1 CHURCHILLS
(45) L. Fitzpatrick 200 - 189 S. Hulbert (75)
(-25) M. Kunzi 200 - 154 Derek Foster (0)
(60) M. Thatcher 128 - 200 M. McLean (15)
(25) T. Aldridge 200 - 140 S. Scott (50)
(-75) S. Allen 200 - 150 M. Henstredge (85)
Aggregate Score 928 - 833
Breaks: MK 38 TA 33 SA 30
CURDRIDGE 3 - 3 HAMBLE
(65) B. Bull 200 - 108 W. Mildenhall (80)
(95) R. Smith 200 - 66 N. Wood (-40)
(105) R. Marshall 173 - 200 T. Spridgeon (40)
(110) Derek Fry 190 - 200 R. Shattock (110)
(30) C. Gamblin 166 - 200 N. Wood (-40)
Aggregate Score 929 - 774
Breaks: BB 30 NW 36, 30, 30
SARISBURY 1 - 5 CHANDLERS FORD
(50) G. Knapp 200 - 110 T. Thorn (-55)
(50) J. Oldfield 180 - 200 D. White (85)
(60) C. Collinson 177 - 200 K. Lowe (-10)
(60) N. Bradfield 104 - 200 T. Azor (-180)
(95) K. Remzi 135 - 200 D. Zagaroli (-245)
Aggregate Score 796 - 910
Breaks: GK 32 TA 32, 34, 36 DZ 43, 77, 33, 57, 38, 113, 31
Ian Finch was in outstanding form inflicting Azor's first defeat of the season
The basement boys finally win... and Azor finally doesn't!
Sarisbury and Curdridge both broke their ducks this week, though they still occupy the bottom two places in the league.
Sarisbury capitalised on St Denys' continuing travel sickness as they triumphed 4-2, winning the aggregate by a narrow margin. Kas Remzi and Chris Bishop put a point on the board for each team before Malc Willis overcame Norman Bradfield, despite a 39 from the octogenarian. However Chris Collinson tamed the away skipper Mark Emm before John Oldfield made use of his start, edging out Andy Carter by enough to keep hold of the extra point.
At Curdridge, Tony Aldridge rattled off another victory, this time over Rob Smith. But the home team weren't rolling over, with Clive Gamblin winning his point against Brian Cannons. Mick Kunzi came from the clouds to beat Derek Fry with the help of a 30 break but, again, the home team responded with Brian Bull (30 break) edging Steve Allen (31 & 30) and Richard Marshall leading them home to their maiden victory of the season as he put away Mike Thatcher with the minimum of fuss.
Leaders Chandlers Ford found Park Gate a tough nut to crack. Ian Finch's season continues to sparkle and he despatched Terry Azor with something in hand, despite Azor's tremendous runs of 40, 85 and 86. Azor remains in fine form, despite this loss. Chris Christodoulou's big win over Danny Zagaroli set alarm bells ringing for the unbeaten champions, but they responded through Korbin Lowe (57 break) in his victory over new boy Gary Wilton (welcome to the league Gary) and Trevor Thorn (34 break) who edged out Paul Lawrence (40 break) by just three points. Dave White still needed to beat Steve Boterhoek and he did just that, winning the game 200-185 to secure an unlikely draw for the home team.
Churchills hosted Hamble in what, on paper, looked like a close game. And so it proved. Mark McLean's 38 break wasn't enough against Mark Spridgeon (31 break), but Derek Foster's 37 break helped him edge Rob Shattock by four points. Steve Scott then overcame Tony Spridgeon before the marquee game of the night saw home skipper Paul Adams (31 break) lose out to Stuart Hamper champion Nick Wood (34 unfinished). Mike Henstredge then clocked up yet another win, this time edging Will Mildenhall as the night ended with honours even.
Champions Chandlers Ford stay top, but apart from Churchills no team has completed the first half of the season yet.
Terry Azor remains top of the player rankings, but team-mate Trevor Thorn is closing in fast.
CHANDLERS FORD 3 - 3 PARK GATE
(-185) T. Azor 68 - 200 I. Finch (35)
(-250) D. Zagaroli -167 - 200 C. Christodoulou (65)
(-5) K. Lowe 200 - 172 G. Wilton (75)
(-50) T. Thorn 200 - 197 P. Lawrence (-30)
(90) D. White 200 - 185 S. Boterhoek (95)
Aggregate Score 499 - 954
Breaks: TA 40, 85, 86 KL 57 TT 34 PL 40
CHURCHILLS 3 - 3 HAMBLE SOCIAL
(10) M. McLean 166 - 200 M. Spridgeon (45)
(5) D. Foster 200 - 196 R. Shattock (110)
(55) S. Scott 200 - 162 T. Spridgeon (35)
(-120) P. Adams 93 - 200 N. Wood (-35)
(90) M. Henstredge 200 - 181 W. Mildenhall (75)
Aggregate Score 859 - 939
Breaks: MM 38 MS 31 DF 37 PA 31 NW 34uf
CURDRIDGE 4 - 2 TOTTON REC
(90) R. Smith 168 - 200 T. Aldridge (30)
(35) C. Gamblin 200 - 168 B. Cannons (110)
(105) D. Fry 179 - 200 M. Kunzi (-20)
(70) B. Bull 200 - 182 S. Allen (-80)
(110) R. Marshall 200 - 125 M. Thatcher (55)
Aggregate Score 947 - 875
Breaks: BB 30 SA 31, 30 MK 30
SARISBURY SOCIAL 4 - 2 ST DENYS
(90) K. Remzi 200 - 175 A. Bridger (90)
(45) G. Knapp 135 - 200 C. Bishop (-35)
(65) N. Bradfield 195 - 200 M. Willis (35)
(65) C. Collinson 200 - 163 M. Emm (25)
(55) J. Oldfield 200 - 182 A. Carter (10)
Aggregate Score 930 - 920
Breaks: NB 39 CC 40
Curdridge's Trevor Harris makes a rare appearance
Sarisbury and Curdridge sinking rapidly but the champs just keep on rocking
Chandlers Ford racked-up a second successive 5-1 away win, this time at previously unbeaten Hamble, as their bid to retain their title went into overdrive.
They powered to the top of the table with an impressive win, with only Nick Wood (55 & 35 breaks) standing between them and a whitewash as he overcame Korbin Lowe. Dave White, Trevor Thorn (48, 36, 34, 32), Danny Zagaroli (63, 53,, 39, 36) and Terry Azor (81, 53, 49, 37) all won as the breaks piled up, with Azor's 81 proving to be the best of the night. The champions have been in awesome form in recent weeks, and are starting to look like they could do a Man City and run away with things if their current form continues for much longer,
Meanwhile, things are looking less than rosy for both Sarisbury and Curdridge.
Sarisbury were beaten 4-2 at Totton where it was great to see Lee Fitzpatrick back playing again, and he celebrated his return with a cosy win over Norman Bradfield. In the battle of the masters, Mick Kunzi overcame John Oldfield, thanks in no small part to a 55 break which helped him ease home by 18 points. Despite resistance from Kas Remzi and Geoff Knapp, Tony Aldridge (33 break) clocked up yet another win to see the hosts home. The Sarisbury cueists now have the kind of 100% record no-one wants.
Meanwhile, Curdridge's trip to St Denys ended in a 5-1 reverse, with Trevor Harris thankfully stepping in to prevent the dreaded 6-0. Derek King, Mark Emm and Chris Bishop added to the point notched by the evergreen Malc Willis (32 break) as the home team again showed they can be mighty on their own tables. Curdridge now sit bottom after their third 5-1 defeat of the season.
There were long faces at Park Gate as they were beaten 4-2 by visiting Churchills. Paul Lawrence (45 break) and Steve Scott (42 break) kicked things off in style, with Scott coming out on top in the end. Mark McLean and the ever-reliable Mike Henstredge then both struck, before Chris Christodoulou and Paul Tavender made things respectable for the home team, who lost the aggregate point for the first time this season.
PARK GATE 2 - 4 CHURCHILLS
(-35) P. Lawrence 143 - 200 S. Scott (75)
(90) S. Boterhoek 179 - 200 M. McLean (10)
(30) I. Finch 107 - 200 M. Henstredge (95)
(35) P. Tavender 200 - 145 M. McLean (10)
(70) C. Christodoulou 200 - 186 S. Hulbert (75)
Aggregate Score 829 - 931
Breaks: PL 45 SS 42
ST DENYS 5 - 1 CURDRIDGE
(80) D. King 200 - 150 D. Fry (100)
(40) M. Willis 200 - 145 C. Gamblin (30)
(85) A. Bridger 185 - 200 T. Harris (95)
(30) M. Emm 200 - 188 R. Smith (85)
(-30) C. Bishop 200 - 185 B. Bull (65)
Aggregate Score 985 - 868
Breaks: MW 32
TOTTON REC 4 - 2 SARISBURY SOCIAL
(50) M. Thatcher 153 - 200 K. Remzi (95)
(110) B. Cannons 175 - 200 G. Knapp (50)
(50) L. Fitzpatrick 200 - 166 N. Bradfield (55)
(-15) M. Kunzi 200 - 182 J. Oldfield (50)
(35) T. Aldridge 200 - 144 N. Bradfield (55)
Aggregate Score 928 - 892
Breaks: TA 33 MK 55
HAMBLE SOCIAL 1 - 5 CHANDLERS FORD
(35) P. Knights 100 - 200 D. White (95)
(70) W. Mildenhall 184 - 200 T. Thorn (-45)
(-30) N. Wood 200 - 176 K. Lowe (-10)
(110) R. Shattock 195 - 200 D. Zagaroli (-245)
(30) T. Spridgeon 134 - 200 T. Azor (-180)
Aggregate Score 813 - 976
Breaks: TT 48, 36, 34, 32 NW 55, 35 DZ 63, 53, 39, 36 TA 81, 53, 49, 37
Hamble win aggregate again and the current champs go large on their travels
Hamble Social kept their 100% "aggregate" record as they recorded a narrow win at Sarisbury. Stu Hamper champion Nick Wood (42 break) was in action twice, beating Geoff Knapp before wily John Oldfield turned the tables later on. Paul Knights and Mark Spridgeon also recorded wins before Kas Remzi hit back, but Rob Shattock had by then secured the extra point for the visitors, despite losing his match.
Chandlers Ford went smoothly through the gears at Curdridge, and after Rob Smith overcame Dave White in the opener it was all one-way traffic. Korbin Lowe (32), Terry Azor, John Mullane and Trevor Thorn were all on target for the visitors, rattling in a multitude of breaks, with Mullane's 83 taking the prize for best of the evening. It's early days, but it looks like the defending champions are going to take some stopping again this season, as they were able to "rest" the likes of Danny Zagaroli and Ryan Mears for the energy-sapping long-haul trip to Curdridge.
The only other game to be played saw St Denys get the better of Churchills in a match that hung in the balance after Malc Willis and Adie Bridger's wins for the home team were cancelled-out by away victories for Derek Foster (45 & 39 breaks) and Steve Scott. However, Chris Bishop overcame Paul Adams (40) in fine style with runs of 37 & 47 and gave the aggregate points totals a lop-sided look that didn't seem to be likely early on in the match. Nine points from two home games is impressive, but the 2018 champions need to fix their aversion to winning away from their "fortress" if they're going to challenge for the league title this year.
Park Gate's trip to Totton was postponed due to illness.
With player rankings this week being used to determine seedings in the Gordon Lewis, Terry Azor heads the list with fresh-faced youngster Malc Willis jumping in at #10.
SARISBURY SOCIAL 2 - 4 HAMBLE SOCIAL
(45) G Knapp 171 - 200 N. Wood (-30)
(50) N. Bradfield 175 - 200 P. Knights (40)
(55) J. Oldfield 200 - 126 N. Wood(-30)
(60) C. Collinson 143 - 200 M. Spridgeon (50)
(100) K. Remzi 200 - 195 R. Shattock(110)
Aggregate Score 889 - 921
Breaks: NW 42
CURDRIDGE 1 - 5 CHANDLERS FORD
(90) R. Smith 200 - 180 D. White (90)
(25) C. Gamblin 126 - 200 K. Lowe (-5)
(95) D. Fry 178 - 200 T. Azor (-175)
(60) B. Bull 168 - 200 J. Mullane (-250)
(105) R. Marshall 184 - 200 T. Thorn (-40)
Aggregate Score 856 - 980
Breaks: TA 53, 31 TT 32, 43 JM 53, 83, 58 KL 32
ST DENYS 4 - 2 CHURCHILLS
(75) D. King 154 - 200 D. Foster (10)
(45) M. Willis 200 - 182 M. Henstredge (90)
(90) A. Bridger 200 - 179 M.McLean (5)
(110) T. Emm 164 - 200 S. Scott (75)
(-25) C. Bishop 200 - 32 P. Adams (-125)
Aggregate Score 918 - 793
Breaks: CB 37, 47 DF 45, 39 PA 40
TOTTON REC 4-2 PARK GATE (played 23/3/22)
(50) R. Longhurst 200 - 175 S. Boterhoek (80)
(110) B. Cannons 200 - 165 P. Tavender (35)
(-90) S. Allen 179 - 200 C. Christodoulou (55)
(-20) M. Kunzi 195 - 200 P. Lawrence (-15)
(30) T. Aldridge 200 - 117 I. Finch (25)
Aggregate Score 974 - 857
Breaks: SA 30, 38, 79 MK 30 TA 41
Park Gate maintain 100% record but champions Chandlers look awesome
Park Gate continue to lead the way in the league, though they secured the aggregate by a slender five points against Curdridge in a 4-2 victory. Chris Christodoulou, Paul Lawrence and Ian Finch all gained wins as the home team overcame the visitors, despite Brian Bull and Derek Fry making things uncomfortably close. The cup holders look in the mood for catching even bigger fish this season, and have made a tremendous start to the campaign.
Elsewhere, it was raining breaks as Chandlers Ford defeated Totton by the same 4-2 score. Tony Aldridge reported it as "another great performance" from the champions, with John Mullane adding another ton and an 87 to his tally. Newcomer Darminder Singh Lilly (welcome to the SDBSA, Darminder) fell short of his ton by three points with a well-constructed 97 and, ultimately, the veteran Aldridge secured his point for the visitors. Mick Kunzi finished like an express train against Trevor Thorn, with runs of 33 and 44, but the damage had been done earlier and Thorn triumphed with a bit to spare in the end. Terry Azor was his usual reliable self, seeing off John Ransome with the minimum of fuss, and new number five ranked player Mike Thatcher edged out Dave White in the other game.
Four-man Churchills won a nip-and-tuck contest against Sarisbury, who remain bottom. Mark McLean won one and lost one whilst debutant Steve Scott (welcome to the SDBSA, Steve) edged out Geoff Knapp. Derek Foster's defeat to Kas Remzi left the Eastleigh boys plenty to do, but Mike Henstredge came through for them again and, with McLean's win over John Oldfield, it was enough for the honours to go to the home team, again 4-2.
Over at Hamble, St Denys were beaten on their travels yet again, also by that familar 4-2 scoreline. It's now six straight away defeats stretching back to a win at Totton in January 2020. Chris Bishop and Nick Wood scored well, with Bishop coming out on top, but after that only Adie Bridger was able to come out ahead for the visitors. St Denys are starting to look like the only team who would actually welcome a Covid travel ban! For Hamble, Paul Knights and Will Mildenhall had comfortable wins, and the battle of the Marks went to Mr Spridgeon who overcame the away skipper, Mr Emm, by 19 points. Hamble lurk ominously in second place, still unbeaten along with Park Gate and Chandlers Ford.
As the player rankings start to take shape, Terry Azor, Ian Finch, Chris Bishop and Norman Bradfield all have perfect records, but they all lag behind current points leader Tony Aldridge.
PARK GATE 4 - 2 CURDRIDGE RBL
(30) P. Tavender 140 - 200 B. Bull (65)
(75) C. Christodoulou 200 - 134 C. Gamblin (20)
(85) S. Boterhoek 165 - 200 D. Fry (100)
(-30) P. Lawrence 200 - 176 R Smith (85)
(35) I. Finch 200 - 190 R. Marshall (110)
Aggregate Score 905 - 900
Breaks: PL 32 IF 33
CHURCHILLS 4 - 2 SARISBURY SOCIAL
(5) M. McLean 151 - 200 N. Bradfield (55)
(75) S.Scott 200 - 181 G. Knapp (40)
(5) D. Foster 177 - 200 K. Remzi (105)
(95) M. Henstredge 200 - 159 C. Collinson (55)
(5) M. McLean 200 - 162 J. Oldfield (50)
Aggregate Score 928 - 902
Breaks: MM 30, 34
CHANDLERS FORD 4 - 2 TOTTON REC
(-250) J. Mullane 200 -5 S Allen (-85)
(-35) T. Thorn 200 - 164 M. Kunzi (-20)
(-250) D S Lilley 72 - 200 T. Aldridge (40)
(85) D. White 190 - 200 M. Thatcher (55)
(-170) T. Azor 200 - 129 J. Ransome 158 (100)
Aggregate Score 862 - 717
Breaks: JM 40, 87, 121, 32uf DSL 36, 97 TT 32 TAz 30, 53, 31 MK 33, 44
HAMBLE SOCIAL 4 - 2 ST DENYS
(-35) N. Wood 166 - 200 C. Bishop (-20)
(50) M. Spridgeon 200 - 181 M. Emm (25)
(45) P. Knights 200 - 137 M. Willis (40)
(75) W. Mildenhall 200 - 157 D. King (70)
(105) R. Shattock 175 - 200 A. Bridger (95)
Aggregate Score 941 - 875
Breaks: NW 36, 32 CB 37, 35
St Denys off the bottom and Henstredge shines for Churchills
With only two games being played due to postponements, St Denys moved themselves off the bottom of the table with a 5-1 home win over Totton.
Tony Aldridge gave the away team early impetus with a solid display against Derek King, but Malc Willis hit back immediately with a commanding win over Mike Thatcher. The Carter v Allen game started fast, but after the early fireworks fizzled out Carter's handicap advantage remained intact until the end. Adie Bridger found some form as Mick Kunzi couldn't find a break, before Chris Bishop came back from the dead against Brian Cannons to edge the final match. It was St Denys' first league victory since January 2020, a run of one draw and eight defeats!
Over at Churchills, both teams were reduced to four players, meaning the aggregate point became the aggregate two points. Things looked to be going well for the defending champions as the battle of the Trevors was won comfortably by Mr Thorn, with Terry Azor then overcoming Derek Foster with some solid play. Dave White's victory over Mark McLean added to the home team's woes, but then along came Mike Henstredge to turn it all around, beating Danny Zagaroli handily and also managing to secure the aggregate for the home team. Henstredge 3 Chandlers 3 was the final score!
ST DENYS 5 - 1 TOTTON REC
(65) D. King 177 - 200 T. Aldridge (45)
(45) M. Willis 200 - 144 M. Thatcher (50)
(100) A. Bridger 200 - 124 M. Kunzi (-25)
(15) A. Carter 200 - 91 S Allen (-90)
(-15) C. Bishop 200 - 191 B. Cannons (110)
Aggregate Score 977 - 750
Breaks: AC 49 SA 30
CHURCHILLS 3 - 3 CHANDLERS FORD
(75) T. Sanders 136 - 200 T. Thorn (-30)
(0) D. Foster 175 - 200 T. Azor (-165)
(0) M.McLean 164 - 200 D. White (90)
(100) M. Henstredge 200 - 4 D. Zagaroli (-250)
Aggregate Score 675 - 604
Breaks: DF 40, 31 TT 34 TA 39, 40, 49
SARISBURY SOCIAL 2 - 4 CURDRIDGE (played 20/4/22)
(80) K. Remzi 165 - 200 C. Gamblin (45)
(60) C. Collinson 200 - 191 R. Smith (95)
(80) N. Bradfield 200 - 161 R. Marshall (110)
(40) G. Knapp 102 - 200 D. Fry(105)
(35) J. Oldfield 169 - 200 B. Bull (70)
Aggregate Score 952 - 836
PARK GATE 5 - 1 HAMBLE SOCIAL (played 16/2/22)
(90) S. Boterhoek 200 - 141 T. Spridgeon (40)
(50) C. Christodoulou 200 - 125 P. Knights (40)
(30) P. Tavender 200 - 154 M. Spridgeon (35)
(30) I. Finch 200 - 168 R. Shattock(100)
(-25) P. Lawrence 158 - 200 N. Wood (-45)
Aggregate Score 958 - 746
Breaks: CC 44 PT 37 IF 30
Park Gate take advantage of the other tight matches to jump clear with a 5-1 win
Park Gate have made the most of their short trip Sarisbury Social taking away 5 points with wins for Ian Finch, Paul Tavender, Steve Boterhoek and Chris Christodoulou. Norman Bradfield's win over Paul Lawrence saved the whitewash and in the process dropped Paul 7 places in the Player Rankings to 8th.
Totton Rec's game at home to Hamble Social was a tense affair with the aggregate point being settled on the last visit of the match! Mick Kunzi and Mike Thatcher both winning for the home side with Nick Wood and Mark Spridgeon countering for Hamble. Going into the last game with around 10mins to go the aggregate scores looked vulnerable, Tony Aldridge built a commanding lead putting in 4 useful visits at the table, with the scores at 874-878 and Tony only needing 9 points for the bonus point Will Mildenhall made a timely 24 break to narrow the gap and seal the aggregate point although Tony hung on to win his game.
Curdridge RBL and last years runners up Churchills also shared the points in another tight encounter, the away side coming away with a 3-2 win but losing the aggregate point to Clive Gamblin's impressive 142 point win. Dave Fry was the other home winner beating Trevor Sanders by 16 and the away wins came courtesy of Derek Foster, Mark McLean and Mike Henstredge.
Chandlers trip to St Denys had to be called off due to a number of absentees from St Denys.
TOTTON REC 3 - 3 HAMBLE SOCIAL
(105) B. Cannons 166 - 200 N. Wood (-30)
(-20) M. Kunzi 200 - 186 W. Hayden-Fox (85)
(55) M. Thatcher 200 - 193 R. Shattock (100)
(-95) S. Allen 108 - 200 M. Spridgeon (55)
(50) T. Aldridge 200 - 123 W. Mildenhall (70)
Aggregate Score 874 - 902
Breaks: TA 32
CURDRIDGE 3 - 3 CHURCHILLS
(105) Dave Fry 200 - 184 T. Sanders (75)
(105) R. Marshall 189 - 200 D. Foster (5)
(25) C. Gamblin 200 - 58 P. Adams (-130)
(80) R. Smith 196 - 200 Mark McLean (5)
(95) Derek Fry 173 - 200 M. Henstredge (105)
Aggregate Score 958 - 842
SARISBURY SOCIAL 1 - 5 PARK GATE
(35) G. Knapp 94 - 200 S. Boterhoek (90)
(45) J. Oldfield 164 - 200 P. Tavender (35)
(60) N. Bradfield 200 - 165 P. Lawrence (-35)
(100) K. Remzi 157 - 200 I. Finch (40)
(90) J. Collinson 197 - 200 C. Christodoulou (80)
Aggregate Score 812 - 965
ST DENYS 4 - 2 CHANDLERS FORD (played 16/2/22)
(40) M. Willis 200 - 177 T. Thorn (-55)
(90) A. Bridger 195 - 200 R. Mears (-250)
(-30) C. Bishop 185 - 200 D. White (75)
(75) D. King 200 - 171 D. Zagaroli(-250)
(25) A. Carter 200 - 18 T. Azor (-180)
Aggregate Score 980 - 766
Breaks: CB 51 MW 31 TA 34 TT 34, 31 DZ 55, 36, 32 RM 54, 48, 49, 30, 31
Deposed champions Hamble go top of the table with just thirteen games to go!
And it's a good week for the handicap system as eight of twenty games are won by no more than 10 points. Hamble Social made a fast start to the new season against Curdridge RBL hoping to regain the league title they won back in 2019. It started ok for Curdridge as Rob Smith won the first game against Mark Spridgeon, however Paul Knights and an in form Nick Wood (38 and 36 breaks) fresh from the Stuart Hamper title put Hamble in the driving seat. Rob Shattock added the next and newcomer Wayne Hayden-Fox completed the rout for the home side.
Churchills suffered a 2-4 defeat on their own tables against Totton Rec thanks to Mike Thatcher and an impressive win by Mick Kunzi which pretty much helped to seal the aggregate point early on. Derek Foster and newcomer Trevor Sanders had given Churchills some hope by bringing it back to 2-2, but Brian Cannons completed the win with a nail biting 1 point victory over Simon Green.
Last season's champions Chandlers Ford started with a 4-2 win against Sarisbury Social, the squad rotation from their previous win had little effect as the depth of talent seems endless as both Daniel Zagaroli (41, 54, 64 breaks) and Terry Azor (61, 52, 56, 44 breaks) got them off to a flier, scoring a massive 810 points between them. Sarisbury hit back through Norman Bradfield and Chris Collinson, taking the match to 2-2, before a crushing win by the ever improving Dave White sealed the deal in Chandlers favour.
Paul Lawrence is hoping to rival Chandlers in this season's title race, and with a 4-2 home win in the first game against St Denys they are on track to do just that. They are certainly capable with a bunch of serial trophy winners to aid them. It started as a very even match with Chris Bishop overcoming one of Park Gate's super duo Steve Boterhoek (fresh from winning last week's doubles title for the 3rd consecutive year) and Paul Lawrence snatching a 1 point victory over St Denys' Andy Carter leaving the match nicely poised and all to play for. The 1 point win also ensured Paul spent the first week as the no. 1 ranked SDBSA player. The next 2 matches were shared also with wins from Malc Willis and Paul Tavender. Park Gate stole the aggregate and final point through Ian Finch, which leaves them level in second.
HAMBLE SOCIAL 5 - 1 CURDRIDGE RBL
(50) M. Spridgeon 180 - 200 R. Smith (85)
(50) P. Knights 200 - 138 B. Bull (60)
(-25) N. Wood 200 - 118 C. Gamblin (20)
(105) R. Shattock 200 - 193 D. Fry (90)
(110) W. Hayden-Fox 200 - 174 R. Marshall (100)
Aggregate Score 980 - 823
Breaks: NW 38, 36
CHURCHILLS 2 - 4 TOTTON REC
(100) M. Henstredge 170 - 200 M. Thatcher (60)
(0) M. McLean 106 - 200 M. Kunzi (-15)
(10) D. Foster 200 - 171 S. Allen (-100)
(75) T. Sanders 200 - 149 T. Aldridge (45)
(65) S. Green 199 - 200 B. Cannons (110)
Aggregate Score 875 - 920
Breaks: SA 36
CHANDLERS FORD 4 - 2 SARISBURY SOCIAL
(-250)