BIRCHINGTON GIVE A MASTERCLASS

Rochester Blind Bowling Group

  In this, our second match of the season, played in the north-east Thanet townlet of Birchington, Rochester Blind bowling Group (RBBG) were no match for the hosts.

  Sporting brand new shirts which bear the RBBG shield, above, three sets of triples were played. In all three, the visitors struggled all afternoon to gain a foothold, but were well outclassed by some skilful bowling with several ends being won with fine drawing shots.

  There were commendable contributions made by all of our team members, but the home side proved far too consistent with their accuracy.

  In each of the three games, Birchington established a commanding position, by the interval, and hard as our guys battled, we couldn’t break the stranglehold. Marian Russell, Terry Fisher and Chris Prebble put up a valiant effort, losing by 23 points to 7. The trio of Peter Norwood, David Norton and Hans Farley fought back from 11 – 1 down (at the interval) to 11 – 5, but from this stage, Bill Furness’ team mastered their way to a 29 – 5 victory. In the remaining encounter, Doreen Warrington, Bella Williams, Trudy Rowing and Brian Mason (stepping in), there was a similar fate, with Birchington converting a 10 – 2 half-time lead into a final reckoning of 20 points to 6.

  Despite the overwhelming nature of the result, it was recognized that playing against bowlers on good form, that played regularly was an extremely valuable experience. The hosts identified that our members had some good skills and that the ‘score’ was not as important as the playing of the match – thoroughly enjoyed by one and all.

  For the first time, RBBG turned out for a match where the hosts had arranged for perfect weather conditions and, although the sky was overcast at the outset, the clouds soon peeled back, allowing the sun to shine down on a gloriously warm afternoon.

  As the match finished, each of the hosts led his or her opposite number indoors for refreshing drinks and a sumptuous spread. The whole occasion, including the bowls match, the welcome and the delicious spread, were greatly appreciated by us all. A final gesture was the kind donation, made by Birchington Bowls Club, to the RBBG's funds - for which we offer our sincere than ks.

  Thanks, also, to Vicky for the great photos from the day. The selection can be seen in our photo gallery.