News

Devon start their ICC campaign on Sunday with both the Premier and A team at home to Somerset with both teams looking to make a strong start. The match starts at 10am and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:00. Spectators are invited to come and support the team. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Steve Collins (Christow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads),  Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), John Parnell (Wonford),  Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford),  Malcolm Sheen (Wonford), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Nick Wyatt (Bow), Oliver White (Totnes Creameries)

A Team;  Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Carol Dummett (Bere Alston), Barrie Goodchild (Wonford), Hillary Illey (Christchurch), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston), Andy Kerse (Wick), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Ian Nichols (Christow), Rob Phillps (Wick) Harrison Sheen (Wonford), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Richard White (Loddiswell), Neil Wilkins (Christow),  Richard Williams (Wonford), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

25/08/17 County Registrations Reminder

Just a reminder that membership registration expires on 31st August so can Club Secretaries please return any outstanding registration forms together with fees for members they wish to register by this date. This is very important for anyone playing in League Competitions, County Competitions (which start on 16th September) and members playing for either County Team. Secretaries can still register individual members  during the season. Please contact Malcolm Sheen, County Secretary on 07936 126480 for more information.

25/08/17 Message From John Smith

I should like to give my heartfelt thanks to all of the kind members and clubs who have sent me messages of sympathy by letters and cards on the death of my beloved wife Irene and also for the many donations sent to Hospiscare in her memory. We have always known how much Irene’s organisational skills were appreciated by so many of you but the depth of genuine affection expressed has been very moving both for me and our family. Please let her smile and her friendship live long in your memories.

22/08/17 World Cup & UK Open Review

This weekend saw the start of the SMPT season with the World Cup and the UK open. On Friday James Trott (Musbury) was in the four-man England squad alongside Steve Proctor, Jack Pye and Paul Seaman. England qualified for the semifinals after beating Norway, Wales and Belgium in the group stage. In the semifinals they faced Sweden who they comfortably dispatched 6-0. In the final they faced reigning champions Ireland, however despite James and Stephen wining their games they were defeated 4-2 and Ireland retained the title.

On Saturday James was joined by a host of other players from Devon as they participated in the UK Open. The Sidbury trio of Andy Thompson, Malcolm Sheen and Eric Pavey all failed to qualify for the main knockout stage. Despite this they did qualify for the plate competition after finishing third or fourth in their group, however all three exited the competition in the first two knockout rounds. Harrison Sheen (Wonford) qualified for the Shield competition after finishing bottom of his group. Harrison progressed to round three before he was defeated by James Bucknell 17-5.

James Trott continued his performance from the World Cup where he came second his group and qualified for the main knockout stage. He progressed all the way to the semifinals where he was defeated by Sam Harvey 13-8. The Dorset player went on to beat Dom Reed in the final.  The Short Mat Players Tour next rolls into Ireland for the Irish Masters on the 16th and 17th September.

18/08/17 World Cup & UK Open Preview

The Short Mat Players Tour kick off their season this weekend with The World Cup being held today and the UK Open tomorrow. Both events are being held at the SMPT new venue, The Falcon Bowling Centre in Chelmsford. Today James Trott (Musbury) will join forces with Jack Pye Stephen Proctor and Paul Seaman to represent England.

On Saturday James will be joined by a host of players from Devon in the UK Open. As usual progress throughout the weekend can be followed here and there will be a comprehensive report on the website next week.

10/08/17 New National Over 55's Pairs

At the recent ESMBA AGM it was confirmed that a new National Over 55’s Pairs would be held. The finals will be held at Tamworth on the 8th March. The qualifying day for this is the 4th November and will be at ISCA. Entry forms can be downloaded here.

19/07/17 Irene Smith Sadly Passes Away

It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Irene Smith. Irene who will be known throughout the bowling committee was the previous County Secretary and was a member of the County Squad for many years. A private family funeral will be held next week. No flowers are requested but if people wish to they make donations to Hospicare in memorandum of Irene Smith.

22/05/17 County Mats For Sale

The Devon County Committee have purchased 8 new mats to replace the mats at ISCA that are used for County/National competitions as well as the Inter County Competition. As a result, the DCSMBA are offering 4 of the old county mats for sale to Devon clubs. The Verde mats are being sold at £200 each and will be ready to be collected from ISCA in mid-July. Initially clubs can purchase a maximum of one mat.  The mats are all now sold.

20/05/17 County Trials & County Squad Day

The county is always on the lookout for new players to play for Devon in the Inter County Championship. Initially round robin games take place against Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset and then there may be longer journeys to face other county sides later in the season. If you feel you would like to have a chance to be considered to play, then players can download and fill in a trials form which can be found here.

This season they will be a trials day at ISCA on Sunday July 30th. Once the county managers have received player’s trials forms they will be in touch with each trialist to confirm their attendance and start times. It is envisaged that it will be a full day. Please do not just turn up on the day without sending a trial form in and informing the county managers.

Throughout the day trialists will be assessed on their ability and by the end of the day each player will be informed whether the county managers would like them to attend the County Squad day. The County Squad day is to be held several weeks later on Sunday 13th August and will also be held at ISCA. If players do have any questions, then please do not hesitate to contact either Richard Ivings (Premier Team Manager) or Robert Ivings (A Team Manager). Their details can be found on the committee page.

24/04/17 World Masters Review

This weekend saw the Short Mat Players Tour hold their final Singles event of the season, the World Masters in Belfast with three players from Devon participating. Harrison Sheen and Malcolm Sheen (both Sidbury) struggled in the group stages and both entered the Shield. Harrison was narrowly defeated 10-9 by Diane Bell, whilst Malcolm was beaten 13-5 by Ryan Abraham.

James Trott (Musbury) topped his group with three wins and a draw and proceeded to the main knockout stages. However, James was beaten 9-4 by Sean Conroy in round 2. James will find some solace in qualifying to represent England in the SMPT World Cup in August. The World Masters was won by Joe Beattie who beat Mark Beattie 10-5 in the final. More details about the SMPT and future events can be found here.

10/04/17 National Championships Review

Over the past few days, the National Championships have taken place in Melton Mowbray. On Thursday, the National Singles was held, both Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) and Graham James (Yarnsnscombe) qualified for the knockout stages with Paul coming second in his group was going topped his group. Paul Pomeroy was beaten at the first knockout stage by Gary best (Norfolk), whilst Graham reached the following round where he was beaten by Darren Cookson (West Yorkshire). The National Singles was won by Ryan Knight (Gloucestershire).

On Friday, the National Pairs took place, both Thomas Perris & Maggie Smith (Wonford) and Ann & Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries) qualified for the knockout stages. Both pairs reached the second knockout stage, with Thomas and Maggie been knocked out by Dorset whilst and Dave were knocked out by Norfolk. The National Pairs was won by West Midlands.

On Saturday, the National Fours was held and three team from Devon qualified for the knockout stages. The Yarnscombe rink of Graham James, Jay Shaw, Mike Avery and Elliott James were runners-up in their group but were knocked out 9-5 by a West Sussex rink in the first knock out round. The Bow rink of Rita & John Redstone, Dan Escott and Nick Wyatt reached the second knockoput round before being knocked out by Hampshire 12-1. Also, being knocked out at the same stage was Mike Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith where they were beaten 11-1 by the eventual winners the West Midlands.

On Sunday the final event, the National Triples was held and three of the Devon teams made it into the Knockout stages. The Yarnscombe trio of Jay Shaw, Mike Avery and Elliott James made it to the first round where they were beaten 10-7 by Kent. Also, being knocked out at the same stage was Ann & Dave Summers and Rose Morrison who were defeated 12-3 by Norfolk. The final Devon trio of James Trott, Paul Pomeroy and Mike Ivings marched all the way to the final, however they were defeated 12-2 by Cheshire.

03/04/17 Devon Area Challenge Report

On Sunday players from all around the county transcended on to ISCA who hosted the Area Challenge. The event sees each of the Area Representatives pick 1 Singles, 1 Pairs, 1 Triples and 1 Fours from their area, these players are all non-county players. These teams then play all the other areas as well as the Devon County A team.

At the end of the day the East Area finished with 12 point and the West Area had 13 points. However, the Area Challenge was won by the North Area who had 17 points. This was quickly followed by the  Devon County AGM and County Trophy presentation. Details of the new committee can be found here

North Area Representative Mark Allen & The North Area Team

28/03/17 National Mixed Fours & National Under 18's Review

On Saturday Devon had two teams in the National Mixed Fours. The Totnes Creameries rink of Ann & Dave Summers and Mike & Rose Morrison won their first group game against Hertfordshire 11-4. However they suffered two narrow defeats in their remaining games against Norfolk and Oxfordshire which ensured they finished third in the group and did not qualify for the knockout stages. The Wonford quartet of Maggie Smith, Thomas Perris & John and Shirley Parnell lost their first game 13-7 against West Yorkshire, but won their second game 12-8 against North Yorkshire. A defeat in their final game against Essex however ensured they finished third in the group and also do not qualify for the main knockout stages. The national mixed fours was won by a rink from the West Midlands.

On Sunday Devon had four representatives in the national under 18’s. Sean Woodley (Christow) and Harrison Sheen (Sidbury) both failed to finish in the top two of their respective groups and entered the plate competition, however both were sadly knocked out in the first round. Thomas Perris (Wonford) recorded a 25-1 win in his first game against North Yorkshire and proceeded to win his remaining two games ensuring he topped his group. Also joining him in the in the knockout stage was Benny Bass (Uffculme) who also topped his group with five points and on the way recorded a 20-2 win against Surrey. Both Benny and Thomas reached the quarter-final stage however Thomas was beaten 9-5 by Hampshire and Benny suffered a one-shot defeat against North Yorkshire. The national under 18’s was retained by Callum Beale (Northamptonshire) who beat Callum Goodman (Hampshire) in the Final.

21/03/17 County Team Championship Report

On Sunday the 6 clubs that qualified for the County Team Championship final descended on ISCA. The six teams were split into groups of three with the winners of each group contesting the final.

The winners of the first group was Yarnscombe and they faced Wonford who won the second group in the final. This was a repeat of last year’s final and Yarnscombe entered the game looking to avenge that outcome. The singles was won by Wonford’s James Smith who won 9-4 against Graham James. The second game to finish was the pairs with Yarnscombe winning it 10-7. The Triples was dominated by Wonford and they won 13-5. The results of the three disciplines meant that Yarnscombe had to win the Fours and overturn 10 shots. This proved to be fruitless after 9 ends with the scores locked at 7-7 and Yarnscombe conceded the game knowing they could not win the title meaning Wonford retained the title.

County Team Champions Wonford

21/03/17 Brian Medland Mixed Fours Report

On Saturday, ISCA hosted the Brian Medland mixed fours which saw 19 teams fight for the title. The day saw some entertaining bowls and the final was contested between Winkleigh and Bow. Winkleigh skipped by Lorraine Axtell raced into a 6-0 lead, however Bow skipped by Nick Wyatt did fight back and after six ends the score was 6-6. It was nip and tuck and going to the last end the score was 9-8 to Bow. In the last end Winkleigh pulled through by picking up a three and winning 11-9.

Brain Medland Winners Graham James, Lorraine Axtell,  Mark Allen & Jan Ovenden

10/03/17 DCSMBA AGM Details

The annual DCSMBA AGM will be held on the 2nd of April at 4:45pm straight after the Area Challenge has taken place. The AGM will be held at ISCA in Exeter. Details have been sent to all club secretaries and in addition the details of the AGM can be found online here.

02/03/17 February ESMBA Newsletter

The February edition of the ESMBA newsletter has been released. The newsletter is called The Extra End and you can  read the latest issue here.

20/02/17 Devon v Norfolk Review 

On Sunday, the Devon Premier team made the long trek to Daventry where they took on last year’s ICC champions Norfolk. Norfolk had a strong front end and it showed with them flying out of the blocks and putting Devon under intense pressure from the start, with Norfolk winning on all four mats. The Triples and Fours started off brightly in the second session however as the session went on Norfolk grew stronger and in the end Devon only won on one mat and that was thanks to the Triples headed by Eric Pavey who won 12-9.

This left the score at 14-2 to Norfolk. Norfolk completed the win in the third session where they won both Pairs. Devon however did manage to win one of the Singles and drew the remaining Singles match. With Norfolk’s victory confirmed the last session was a dead rudder however it was played with Devon winning one of the Fours 8-7 and drawing one of the Triples.  With Norfolk wining the bonus points in all four disciplines the final score  was Devon 8 (153 shots) Norfolk 32 (225 shots). Norfolk now face West Midlands in the Semi-final, whilst the other Semi-final is between Cornwall and West Sussex.

17/02/17 Team For Brian Medland Mixed Fours Wanted 

Caroline Pavey, the County Competition Secretary is on the lookout for another team to play in the Brian Medland Mixed Fours which is to be held at ISCA on the 18th March. The team must comprise of two men and two women. If you feel you can assist Caroline then please contact her on 01404 811566 or caroline1901@hotmail.co.uk.

14/02/17  Devon v Norfolk Team Announced

The Devon Premier team face another long trip to Daventry on Sunday when they face defending champions Norfolk in the Quarter Final of the ICC. The winners of the tie will face either Kent or West Midlands in the Semi Final. The tie takes place at Daventry Indoor Bowling Club and venue details can be found here. Players are required to be at the venue for 9:45 and the following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Steve Collins (Christow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe), Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury), David Summers (Totnes Creameries), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries),  Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Oliver White (Loddiswell),

09/02/17  Nationals Finals Reminder

With the nationals qualifiers, all completed we would like to remind people who has qualified and in what discipline. All qualifiers can be found in this document. In addition, the document confirms all the venue details and the start times. We would also like to remind participants of the national rules which can be found here. Failure to follow these rules may result in the offending player being asked to leave the mat.

07/02/17  Devon County Committee Statement

Irene Smith the Devon County secretary has recently been in hospital. As she recovers we would like to inform county members that she will not be doing any secretarial work and any new registrations will not be processed before the AGM in April. We all wish Irene well and hope that she makes a full recovery soon.

06/02/17  English Masters Review

It was mixed fortunes for Devon bowlers in the English Masters this year that was held in Bromsgrove this weekend. Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Mark Allen (Sidbury) and James Smith (Wonford) all qualified for the main knockout round, however they do not make it through the first round. James Trott (Musbury) also qualified and progressed to the quarter-finals where he was beaten Ireland’s Joe Beattie. Joe Beattie went on to the final where he played England’s Martin Simcock, with Joe winning 16-1.

Despite not making the main Knockout stage there were several other notable performances by Devon players. In the plate competition both John Parnell (Wonford) and Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury) made it to the second round before being knocked out, whilst Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) make the third round before being knocked out 10-9. In the Shield competition Margaret Smith (Wonford), Harrison Sheen (Sidbury) and Benny Bass (Uffculme) all reached the second round before being knocked out. Thomas Perris (Wonford) however reached the quarter-finals of the plate before eventually being beaten by Tom Clough 10-9.

Attention now turns to Wales with the SMPT holding the first Welsh Grand Prix in Cardiff on the 2 April. You can keep up to date with all the information on this and future tournaments on the short mat players tour website.

03/02/17  English Masters Preview

The Short Mat Players Tour takes centre stage this weekend with the English Masters which takes place at Bromsgrove Indoor Bowls Club. Several players from Devon are involved with players from Exeter Nomads, Musbury, Sidbury, Uffculme, Winkleigh, Wonford and Yarnscombe all competing. As usual progress throughout the weekend can be followed here and there will be a brief report  on the website next week.

31/01/17 ICC Rinks Teams Report

This weekend saw both of the Devon County teams travel to Daventry indoor both club to play in the final stages of the ICC rinks final’s. On Saturday Devon A were placed in a group alongside Somerset, Essex and Northamptonshire. The first game was against Essex and Essex quickly took control of the match and with six ends gone on each mat Devon were seven shots down. However Devon did gain some momentum and overturned those shots and eventually won by 11 shots. The second game was against Northamptonshire, it was tight start to the match but Devon slowly pulled away and at the halfway stage Devon led by 13 shots and by the end of the game this was extended to a massive 25 shots. The final group game was against Somerset who Devon had beaten in the preliminary round back in September by one shot. This time however Somerset had a great start and at the halfway stage Somerset led by 13 shots. Devon did slowly cut the deficit however it was not quick enough and by the end the game Somerset won by 12 shots. This ensured that Somerset went through as group winners and played the winners of the other group who were North Yorkshire which was a repeat of last year’s final with North Yorkshire eventually won 55 – 19.

On Sunday, it was the turn of the Premier team, with last year’s champions Devon placed in a group alongside West Midlands, Kent and Surrey. Devon faced West Midlands in the first game and it was a tight start to the match and a at the halfway stage the scores was level. However, Devon slowly pulled away and eventually won by three shots. The next game pitted Devon against Kent, the only team that beat Devon last year. Devon unlike last year had a strong start and by the halfway stage led Kent by six shots, Devon maintained the shots advantage and by the end the match won by nine shots. The final game in the group was against Surrey and Devon flew out of the blocks, with six ends played Devon led by 14 shots. Devon kept control of the match and increase their advantage as the game went on with Devon winning by 29 shots. This ensured that they qualified for the final but they faced the winners of the other group Northamptonshire. In the final Northamptonshire got off to a quick start and by the halfway stage Northamptonshire led by 13 shots. Devon found themselves with too much work to do and Northamptonshire beat last year’s champions by 16 shots.

Devon Premier Team ICC Rinks Runners Up 2017

23/01/17 ICC Rinks Teams Announced

Both the Devon Premier and Devon A team are in the final of the ICC Rinks which takes place this weekend. On Saturday Devon A who beat Somerset and Herefordshire in the qualifiers, play and will face three other counties in a round robin with the winner of the group facing the winner of the other group in the final. On Sunday it is the turn of the Premier team who are defending champions and they qualified thanks to victories over Somerset and Cornwall. The venue for both days is the Daventry indoor Bowling club and details of the venue can be found here. Counties must be registered by 8:45 AM and so players will need to be at the venue before this. The following players have been selected.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe), Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury), David Summers (Totnes Creameries), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries), Oliver White (Loddiswell),

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads) Barrie Goodchild (Hemyock), Hilary Iley (Christ Church Barnstaple), Andy Kerse (Wick), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Steve Perris (Wonford), Harrison Sheen (Sidbury),  David Tarr (West Hill),  Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow),  Richard White (Loddiswell), Richard Williams (Wonford)

16/01/17 Statement From Devon County Committee  

A decision was made regarding a place at the National Pairs because there was a dispute between two teams. The Committee accept full responsibility that there was a mistake made when it was decided to combine the County and National Rules without a full set of rules being established to cover any issues that arose. This has been a lesson learnt. This is now being done and will be sent out with entry forms, posted on the web-site and displayed at all County Competitions for everyone to see. This decision was made in good faith by five members of the Committee who were not involved in the Competition and was unanimous. They felt this was their only solution and did not favour one team or the other. The decision has been made, ESMBA informed and cannot be changed. We now hope everyone will get on with what they like doing best and enjoy playing bowls.

We would also like to say that we feel the Competitions Secretary has done an excellent job this year. She has our full support doing a job that is not easy and where that person is always the first in the line of fire.

16/01/17 Swedish Masters Review 

This weekend saw James Trott (Musbury) travel to Stromstad to take part in the Short Mat Players Tour Swedish Masters. After winning 4 out of the six group games James qualified for the main knockout competition. He progressed all the way to the semifinals where he  was halted by Ireland’s P.J Gallagher who beat him 11-4. In the Bronze medal match James faced fellow Englishman Paul Seaman. Early in the group stage Paul had beaten James 15-9, however James was not to be outdone this time and he secured the bronze medal by winning 14-7. The Swedish Masters was eventually won by P.J Gallagher who beat Belgium Jonathan Payne 10-5 in the final. The next SMPT event is the English Masters in February and details of this and more events can be found on their website.

16/01/17 National Mixed Fours Report 

This Sunday saw ISCA host the national mixed fours qualifiers which saw seven teams fight for one of the two national spots. The two teams were split into two groups with the winners and runners-up of each group proceeding to the semifinals. The first semi-final was a South Devon affair between Totnes Creameries and Bere Alston. The game was nip and tuck throughout with the lead exchanging hands several times however Totnes Creameries eventually came through 17-6 after picking up a seven in the final end. The second semi-final was between Sidbury and Wonford. Wonford took an early lead however Sidbury came back at the halfway stage led 5-4. Wonford picked up three in the six and the seventh end and from there on controlled the match eventually winning 12-6.

The final was therefore between Totnes creameries (Ann & Dave Summers and Rose & Mike Morrison) and Wonford (Margaret Smith, Thomas Perris, Shirley & John Parnell). it was tight match, however Wonford took the initiative and at the halfway stage led 6-3. The second half of the match saw Totnes Creameries crawl back at Wonford with Totnes winning four of the remaining five ends which ensured that Totnes won 8-7. With Devon having two spots in the National Mixed Fours both of the finalists qualify for the nationals in March.

09/01/17 Bryan Gooding Funeral Arrangements

As announced last week Bryan Gooding has sadly passed away and our thoughts go out to his family and friends. A thanksgiving service for him will be held on Friday 13th January at Silverton Methodist Church at 11:30 AM.

09/01/17 Devon v Somerset Report

On Sunday Devon hosted Somerset at ISCA in the final ICC group game of the season. The Devon Premier team entered the game knowing that 10 points should be enough to ensure going through as group winners. The first session was split evenly with Devon getting one win in the singles and one in the pairs, however Somerset gained the initiative in the second session with victory on all four mats. This left the half-time score at 12-4 to Somerset. Somerset extended their lead in the third session with Devon only winning one game and lost the other three games, the only victory coming in a 20-6 win in one of the Singles and that win was enough to secure the singles bonus points. The final session was again dominated by Somerset, despite this  Devon did secure a win on one of the mats and this was in one of the triples who won 16-2. With Devon only getting the bonus points in the Singles the final score was Devon 10 points (163 shots) Somerset 30 points (195).

The A team went into the match knowing only a massive victory would be enough to secure qualification into the main knockout draw. The first session was split evenly with Devon winning one of the singles and one of the pairs. Somerset took control of the match with a dominant display in the second session with Devon only gain one point and that was due to a 11-11 draw in one of the triples. This left the half-time score at 11-5 to Somerset. The third session of the day was again evenly split with Devon winning one of the singles and one of the pairs. The final session of the day belonged to Somerset who were able to win on all 4 mats. With Devon winning the bonus points in the pairs the final score was Devon 11 (161 shots) Somerset 29 (196 shots)

The Devon Premier team finished the group level with Cornwall both having one 130 points, but Devon win the group thanks to a superior soft difference. Devon can now look forward to a quarter-final against ICC champions Norfolk in February. The Devon A team finished third in their group and failed to qualify for the main stages. Final group standings can be found here.

09/01/17 National Under 18's Report

On Saturday ISCA hosted the county/national county under 18’s. With six participants involved the format was one group with everyone playing each other with the two top players at the end of the day playing in a final to decide the winner. At the end of the group stage the table was topped by Thomas Perris (Wonford) who won all his group games. In second place was Benny Bass (Uffculme) who only lost one game all day.

The final was going in similar fashion to a good game with Thomas in complete control of the early ends and by the fourth end was six nil up. However Benny turned it around in the fifth end by picking up a four which was the start of a four end winning streak and  Benny eventually won 10- 8. Benny will now go on to represent Devon in the National Under 18s and he will be joined by Jack Gooding (Silverton), Harrison Sheen (Sidbury) and Sean Woodley (Christow). The national under 18’s takes place at Melton Mowbray on the 26th of March.

County Under 18's Winner Benny Bass

06/01/17 Devon v Somerset Team Announced

On Sunday Devon host Somerset in the final ICC group fixture of the season. The Premier team go in to the game knowing that they have secured enough points to qualify for the main knockout stage and need 11 points to secure top spot. The A team go into the match knowing that to qualify they will need to win 32 out of the 40 points available. The match starts at 10am and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:15. Spectators are invited to come and support the team.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Steve Collins (Christow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe), Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury),  John Smith (Exeter Nomads), David Summers (Totnes Creameries), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow),  Rob Bartlett (Upottery),  Barrie Goodchild (Hemyock), John Horsham (Winkleigh), Hilary Iley (Christ Church Barnstaple), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston), Andy Kerse (Wick), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Jim Preston (Christow), Harrison Sheen (Sidbury),  David Tarr (West Hill),  Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow),  Neil Wilkins (Christow), Richard White (Loddiswell), Richard Williams (Wonford) Ray Young (Exeter Nomads), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

04/01/17 ESMBA Release National Allocation

The ESMBA have announced the national allocation that each county will receive. Devon have four places in the Singles, Triples, Fours and the Under 18’s. Whilst we have three places in the Pairs and two in the Mixed Fours. The Nationals take place in March and April.

12/12/16 County/National Triples Final Review

On Sunday sixteen set of Triples descended onto ISCA to take part in the National/County Triples Final Day. In the morning, the sixteen teams were split into groups of four and a round robin took place with the top two teams in each group progressing to the quarter finals and then the semi-finals.

The first semi-final saw the Totnes Creameries trio of Rose Morrison, Anne & Dave Summers face Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy and James Trott.Despite being behind for much of the game, Totnes creameries picked up a four in the last end and that was enough to secure a 9-8 victory.  The second semi-final was an inter-club affair between the two Yarnscombe teams of  Tony Main, George Main & Fraser Bishop and Elliott James, Mike Avery and Jay Shaw. Elliot, Mike and Jay came flying out the blocks and picked up 8 shots in the first two ends. The damage that this caused proved to be terminal and they eventually won 12-3.

In the final the Yarnscombe team so that determination in keeping hold of their title that they won last year and raced into an early lead. Going into the last end they led by two shots. Rose on two occasions got the jack of the mat to replay the end, however eventually they succumbed to a 9-8 loss. The final was filmed and can be found on our Facebook page and the results from the knockout stages can be found here.

County Triples Winners Mike Avery, Jay Shaw & Elliott James

The Yarnscombe team will now go on to the Nationals Triples in April, hoping to join them will be Rose Morrison and Anne & David Summers (2nd), Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy & James Trott (3rd) who beat Tony Main, George Main & Fraser Bishop (4th) in a playoff.

12/12/16 County/National Singles Final Review

On Saturday ISCA hosted the County/National Singles finals. After the previous preliminary rounds it had been whittled down to the last 32 and the day started with the usual round robin with players in groups of four. The top two in each group qualified and proceeded to the last 16 with the winners of this game going into the Quarter Finals.

The first quarter final saw James Smith (Wonford) face Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries). It was a match that was dominated by Rose Morrison with her winning 10-1. The second quarter-final was between Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe) and fellow club member Graham James with Graham coming out on top by winning 10-5. The third quarter final was between John Smith (Exeter Nomads) and Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), with Paul Pomeroy dominating the match and winning 13-2. The final quarter-final was between Yarnscombe’s George Main and Bow’s Nick Wyatt which was a tight affair and after 10 ends the score was tied at 7-7, however the extra end was won by George Main.

The first semi-final saw Rose Morrison play against Graham James, Graham took an early lead and at the halfway stage led 5-2. However, Rose came back and won the following 5 ends to win the game 7-5. The other semi-final between George Main and Paul Pomeroy and at the halfway stage the game was tight with George winning 3-2. George extended this lead partly thanks to picking up a three in the sixth end and won 9-3. In the final Rose took the early initiative and was winning 5-2 at the halfway stage. George however came back strongly in the second half of the match and won 12-5. It was a game that was filmed and can be seen on our facebook page.

County Singles Winner George Main

George will now represent Devon in the National singles in April. Hoping to join him will be Graham James (2nd), Paul Pomeroy (3rd) and Nick Wyatt who beat Jay Shaw in a playoff for fourth spot. The ESMBA will inform us in due course of the number of places we have in the Nationals. The results of the knockout draw can be found here.

05/12/16 World Fours & Pairs Review

Devon players all return empty-handed after this weekend’s World Pairs and World Fours which was held at Bromsgrove. On Saturday, the World Fours took place with several teams from Devon taking part. The Yarnscombe Rink of Graham & Elliott James and George & Tony Main snatched second place in their group but were knocked out in the first knockout round by Essex rink by one shot. Last year’s champions Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith also qualified to the main knockout draw with two wins in their group. They reached round 2 of the knockouts, but were knocked out by another Essex team after losing a tie-break after drawing 7-7 in the allotted nine ends.

Several Devon teams also had a strong run in the plate competition after not qualifying for the main knockout rounds. The Wonford quartet of Maggie Smith, Marie Toleman, Shirley & John Parnell reached the semi-finals of the plate before they were beaten 13-9. Also, qualifying for the semi-finals of the plate were Benny Bass, Thomas Perris, Mark Allen and Lorraine Axtell but were beaten 12-11 by a Scottish rink. The world fours was won by the Gloucester rink of Ollie Hipkiss, Stephen Holdsworth, Danny Langdon and Ryan Knight.

On Sunday, it was the turn of the World Pairs with several Devon players taking part. Previous champions Michael Ivings and James Smith reached the second round of the main knock-out stage where they were beaten 11-4. Simon Pridham who was playing with fellow tournament director Phil Mills also reached the second round before being beaten 12-6 by G Harvey and V Dornan. Also reaching the second round was Richard Ivings and Trevor Tregillus but they were beaten 10-8 by John Lax and Chris Willies. Finally, Mark Allen and Lorraine Axtell also reached the second knock-out round but were beaten 9-8 by the Dorset pairing of Brian and Lynn Baker.

After coming third in their group Andy Thompson and Malcolm Sheen entered the plate competition. They had a strong run in the Plate where they reached the quarter finals, on their way they won two play-offs, one of which was against the young Devon pairing of Benny Bass and Thomas Perris. However Andy and Malcolm were eventually defeated 14-6 by a Welsh pair. The World Pairs was won by Liam Smith and Peter Roberts of England. The Short mat players tour returns in January with the Swedish Masters.

01/12/16 World Fours & Pairs Preview

This weekend the Short Mat Players Tour host their annual World Pairs & World Fours in Bromsgrove which will see players from several countries face each other. On Saturday the world fours take place and there are seven rinks made up of Devon players with players from Christow, Coylton, Exeter Nomads, Musbury Sidbury, Winkleigh, Wonford and Yarnscombe all involved. The focus however will be on last year’s champions Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith who will be looking to retain their title.

On Sunday the World Pairs takes place with 14 teams from Devon all taking part vying for the coveted title. Action from both days can be followed online here (World Fours) and here (World Pairs) and a brief report will be on the website early next week.

28/11/16 Somerset v Devon Report

Devon travelled to Somerset in their latest ICC fixture on Sunday. The Devon Premier team went into the game knowing that a victory would almost certainly confirm their place in the knockout rounds. In the first session Devon started confidently and won both Pairs and one of the Singles. The second session saw Devon continue their dominance with victory in both of the Triples and one of the Fours, whilst the remaining Fours were held to a 8-8 draw. This left the half-time score at 13-3 to Devon.

The third session after lunch was more even with Devon winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. However, they lost the other two matches, despite this they gained the bonus points in both the Pairs and the Singles. With victory assured Devon went into the last session trying to gain as many points as possible. Devon however struggled and only won on one mat and that was in one of the Fours who won 20-4. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles, the Pairs and the Sours the final score was Somerset 15 (177 shots) Devon 25 (203 shots). With Cornwall beating Dorset 30-10, Devon have secured second spot in the group and will be looking to get the 11 points needed to secure top spot when they face Somerset in January.

Devon A went into the game against Somerset knowing that they needed a victory to give themselves a chance of getting second spot in the group. The first session was evenly matched with Devon winning one of the singles and one of the Pairs, but they lost the other two matches. Somerset grew in confidence in the second session and Devon only won game and that was one of the Fours who won 12-7. This left the half-time score at 10-6 to Somerset.

The third session was evenly split with both counties winning one Singles and one Pairs each. This however left Somerset with a big lead going into the final session. Somerset kept the pressure on Devon in this final session, with Devon only getting a victory in one of the Fours. With Devon only getting the bonus points in the Fours the final score was Somerset 26 (191 shots) Devon 14 (162 shots). With Cornwall A beating Dorset A 29-11 Devon know that only victory by at least 32-8 will be enough to secure second spot form Somerset. The latest group tables can be found here and the final ICC group game against Somerset is at ISCA on January 8th.

24/11/16 Somerset v Devon Team Announced

Devon travel to Donyatt on Sunday where they take on Somerset in their penultimate group game. The Premier team sit third in the table just six points behind group leaders Cornwall. The A team lie fourth in the table but will be aware that just 10 points separate them from Somerset who are second in the table.  The address and link to a map of the venue can be found here and the match starts at 10am and the following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads),  Michael Ivings (Wonford), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries),  Thomas Perris (Wonford), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury),  Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe), Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford),  James Smith (Wonford), David Summers (Totnes Creameries), James Trott (Musbury), Oliver White (Loddiswell),

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow) Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Upottery),  Steve Collins (Christow), Barrie Goodchild (Hemyock), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Steve Perris (Wonford), Jim Preston (Christow), Harrison Sheen (Sidbury), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries), David Tarr (West Hill), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow),  Neil Wilkins (Christow), Richard White (Loddiswell), Richard Williams (Wonford), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

21/11/16 County/National Pairs Report  

On Sunday, the finals of the County and National Pairs were contested at ISCA. With 32 pairs, having qualified for the finals the usual round robin stage took place in the morning. In the afternoon following this, the knockout stages took place, firstly with the last 16 and then the quarter finals. In the first quarter final Dave & Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries) faced Caroline and Eric Pavey and in a tight game Dave and Anne came through 7-5. The Second quarter final saw Paul Pomeroy and James Trott (Musbury) face off against Ken Kelly and Simon Pridham. It was a game that was dominated by the Musbury Pair with them eventually winning 12-2. The third quarter final saw Silverton’s Jack and Danny Gooding face the Great Torrington pair skipped by Fred Niven. Jack and Danny were in control throughout the game and won 11-4. The final quarter final was a matchup between two Wonford teams with Michael Ivings and James Smith facing Margaret Smith and Thomas Perris. Margaret and Thomas raced into a nine-shot lead and despite their efforts Michael and James were not able to reign Margaret and Thomas in. The final score was 11-8 to Margaret and Thomas.

The first semi-final was between Jack & Dan Gooding and Paul Pomeroy & James Trott. It was a tight game but Jack and Danny won through 8-6. The other semi-final was a more one sided between Anne & Dave Summers and Margaret Smith & Thomas Perris, with Margaret and Thomas winning 11-1. Margaret and Thomas maintained their rich vein of form in the final and won through against Jack and Danny Gooding 8-3. It was a game that was filmed and can be seen on our facebook page.

County Pairs Winners Thomas Perris & Margaret Smith

Margaret and Thomas can now look forward to playing in the Nationals in April. Hoping to join them will be Paul Pomeroy & James Trott (2nd), Anne & Dave Summers (3rd) and Michael Ivings & James Smith (4th). The results of the knockout draw can be found here.

14/11/16 Devon v Cornwall Review  

Devon faced Cornwall at ISCA in the latest ICC fixture on Sunday. The Premier team entered the game on a high after winning the first three group games however Cornwall started strongly and won both Singles and one of the Pairs in the first session. Cornwall turned the screw in the second session and took away 7 out of the 8 available points. The sole point coming thanks to an 11-11 draw in one of the Fours. This left the half time score at 3-13 to Cornwall.

Devon did stir into life in the third session and won one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. In doing so they also won the bonus points available in both disciplines. However, the fight back was snuffed out in the final session with Devon only managing one victory which came in one of the Fours. With Devon only getting the bonus points in the Singles and Pairs the final score was Devon 13 (167 shots) Cornwall 27 (192 shots) and Devon suffered their first defeat of the season.

The Devon A team had a very similar match and in the first session against Cornwall A, Devon only won two points thanks to a victory in one of the Pairs. The second session followed a similar pattern with Devon again only winning one match and that was a 10-4 win in one of the Fours. This left the half time score at 4-12 to Cornwall.

In the third session Devon, did win one of the Singles and one of the Pairs, but the victories were not enough to secure the bonus points in either discipline. In the last session Devon won both Triples and drew one of the Fours. With Cornwall winning the bonus points in both disciplines the final score was Devon 13 (157 shots) Cornwall 27 (202 shots).

The Devon Premier team drop down to third spot behind leaders Cornwall and Dorset. Cornwall are ahead by 6 points but have played a game more than Devon. The Devon A team are bottom of the group. With Cornwall stretching their lead at the top of the table all eyes are on second spot. Somerset who are second are 10 points ahead of Devon. The latest group standings can be found here. Devon next game is against Somerset at Donyatt on Sunday 27th November.

10/11/16 Devon v Cornwall Teams Announced
 

Cornwall are the visitors to ISCA on Sunday in Devon's latest ICC fixture. The premier sit on top of the group after having played 3 games and will be looking to maintain their unbeaten run. The A team is 3rd but with only one point separating Devon and Somerset another strong performance could completely change the group. The match will start at 10am and spectators are welcome to come, watch and support the teams. The following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Steve Collins (Christow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads),  Michael Ivings (Wonford), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Margaret Smith (Wonford),  Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries),  Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury),  Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe), Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), David Summers (Totnes Creameries), James Trott (Musbury), Oliver White (Loddiswell),

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow), Tom Archer (Christow), Rob Bartlett (Upottery),  Barrie Goodchild (Hemyock), Hilary Iley (Christ Church Barnstaple),  Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Steve Perris (Wonford), Jim Preston (Christow), Harrison Sheen (Sidbury), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries), David Tarr (West Hill), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow),  Neil Wilkins (Christow), Richard White (Loddiswell), Richard Williams (Wonford), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

02/11/16 Margaret Elliot Pairs Review
 

On Sunday 31 pairs from around Devon descended onto ISCA to compete in the Margaret Elliot Pairs. The event, which is run yearly, is open to any player who was not in the County Squad the previous season as well as anyone who has not won a county title in the previous season. The pairs were randomly drawn into one of eight groups and the top two in each group progressed to the last 16.

Margaret Elliot Pairs Winners Andy Kerse & Sue Young

This was soon whittled down to a final which this year was between Alan & Carol Turner and Sue Young & Andy Kerse. It was a game that was filmed and shown on our facebook page and a recording of the game can be found on the page. It was a dominant display by Sue and Andy and they confidently won 13-0.

31/10/16 Norwegian Open Review
 

Both Andy Thompson (Sidbury) and James Trott (Musbury) were in Norway last weekend for the first ever Short Mat Players Tour Norwegian Open which was held in Skien. In the knock-out stages Andy Thompson won two of his group games and drew one, whilst Andy lost the remaining two games. This left Andy in fourth spot in his group and he entered the plate competition. However in the first round he faced Irish supremo Joe Beattie and was defeated 11-0.

James Trott was in a group of 5 and won 2 of his 4 games and finished third meaning he also entered the Plate competition. James marched through the knock-out stages and reached the final. In the final he faced Joel Hager of Sweden with James coming through and winning 12-9. The Norwegian Open was won by Mark Beattie who beat Jonathon Payne 14-7 in the final. The Short Mat Players Tour returns to England in December for the World Pairs and Fours.

28/10/16 Norwegian Open Preview
 

James Trott (Musbury) and Andy Thompson (Sidbury) both travel to Norway this weekend to take part in the Short Mat Players Tour Norwegian Open. This is the first time the Short Mat Players Tour have hosted an event in Norway with the competition being held at Skien. You can follow James and Andy's progress throughout the weekend here and  there will be a report on the website next week.

27/10/16 Margaret Elliot Pairs Preview
 

All eyes return to ISCA on Sunday with the venue hosting the Margaret Elliot Pairs. This Pairs competition is held annually and is for players who did not play for the County Squad last season. Players are reminded that they need to be at ISCA for 9am. In addition players are also reminded to bring their registration cards as these will be checked.

24/10/16 Devon v Dorset Report
 

Devon welcomed Dorset to ISCA on Sunday in the latest ICC fixture. Devon Premier were looking to prolong their winning start to the season, whilst the A team were looking to build on the solid draw they gained away at Dorset in the previous game. It was a poor start by the Devon Premier team in the first session where they only recorded an 18-13 win in one of the Singles, but lost on the other three mats. The second session of the day was evenly split with both counties winning one of the Triples and one of the Fours. This left Dorset with a clear advantage at half-time with the score at 6-10. However, Devon moved through the gears in the afternoon and in the third session recorded victories in both Singles as well as one of the Pairs. With Devon also securing the bonus points in the Singles the score was level going into the final session. Devon dominated the final session with victories in one of the Fours and one the Triples, whilst the remaining two mats were drawn. With Devon securing the bonus points in the Singles, Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 24 (199 shots) Dorset 16 (178 shots).

The A team were dominant from the start against Dorset. In the first session there were victories on three of the four mats with both Singles and one of the Pairs winning. In the second session Devon secured 5 out of the available 8 points with victories in both Triples and drawing one of the Fours 12-12. This ensured Devon led at the half way stage 11-5. Devon increased their stranglehold on Dorset and secured victory in the third session with another three more wins. The singles completed a clean sweep and one of the Pairs was also victorious. The final session of the day was split evenly between the two counties with both teams winning one of the Triples and one of the Fours. With Devon securing the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Triples the final score was Devon 27 (204 shots) Dorset 13 (171 shots).

County squad that faced Dorset.

At the half way stage in the group the Devon Premier are top of the table with a game in hand to Dorset (2nd in group) and Cornwall (3rd in group). The Devon A team are back in contention following their win and are third in the group. They are one point behind Somerset and twenty points behind Cornwall, although Cornwall have played one more game. The latest group standings can be found here. Devon next face Cornwall at ISCA on Sunday 13th November.

20/10/16 Devon v Dorset Preview 12/10/16 County/National Singles & Pairs

10/10/16 Devon v Dorset Report

On Sunday Devon travelled to Bere Regis to face Dorset in the latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team went into the game on the back of a convincing 27-13 victory at Cornwall. The first session was even with both teams winning one Singles and one of the Pairs. However, Devon moved up a gear in the second session and enjoyed a clean sweep winning both of the Triples and both of the Fours. This left Devon with a healthy 12-4 lead at half time. Devon maintained the pressure in the third session, with both Singles winning as well as one of the Pairs being victorious. With the match won Devon went into the final session looking to maximise their points total. It was another strong performance in the final session with Devon winning one of the Fours and one of the Triples as well as drawing the other Fours.  With Devon winning the bonus in the Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours the final score was Dorset 9 (170 shots) Devon 31 (217 shots).

The Devon A team were looking to bounce back after a narrow 22-18 defeat in their last match against Cornwall and like the Premier team they also started of very confidently in the first session, with victories in both of the Singles as well as one of the Pairs. However Dorset fought back and Devon only recorded one victory in the second session thanks to a 13-6 victory in one of the Triples. This left the half time score level at 8-8. The third session of the day was a tight affair with Devon winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs, whilst Dorset won on the other two mats. This ensured that Devon went in the final level. It was another close session with Devon winning one of the Triples and one of the Fours. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles and Fours the final score was Dorset 20 (179 shots) Devon 20 (193 shots).

In the other ICC group game Cornwall Premier beat Somerset 29-11, whilst Somerset A beat Cornwall A 22-18. The latest group standings can be found here. Devon next face Dorset on home on the 22nd October. The teams for this game will be announced in due course.

04/10/16 Devon v Dorset Team Announced

Issue number 2 of the ESMBA new newsletter has now been released. The newsletter which is titled The Extra End Is out on the first of every month. You can read the latest issue here. Issue number one which came out last month can be seen here.

29/09/16 County/Nationals Fours Report

 Last Saturday saw 19 teams arrive at ISCA to take part in this season’s County/National Fours. Like last year there was no need to hold a qualifying day and teams were drawn into five groups with groups winners and the 3 highest runners up all progressing to the quarter finals.

The first quarter final saw the Bow rink skipped by Nick Wyatt face Martin Sexton and his Wick rink. It was a tight affair with both teams trading shots regularly, but it was the Bow rink who finally edged the game 10-8. The second quarter final was between the Diptford rink skipped by Ham Sampford and the Fremington rink skipped by Sharon Simmons. It was another tight game in which Diptford took an early lead, however Sharon Simmons rink won the last four ends which ensured an 8-7 victory. The third quarter final was between Sidbury’s Eric Pavey’s rink and the Yarnscombe quarter skipped by Elliott James. Like the previous two quarter finals it was another tight game.  The Yarnscombe rink took an early lead and despite a late charge by Sidbury they were able to hold on for a 12-10 win. The final quarter final was between Christow’s Geoff Cleave’s rink and the reigning champions Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith. The reigning champion showed how they did not want to relinquish their crown by securing a dominant 11-4 win.

The first semi-final saw Nick Wyatt’s Bow rink produce a confident performance against Sharon Simmons rink. Bow took an early lead and were 14-1 up after 5 end. Bow were able to maintain their dominance and eventually won 16-6. The other semi-final was a repeat of one of last year’s semi-final and saw James Smith rink face the Yarnscombe quartet skipped by Elliott James. Despite Yarnscombe’s effort it was the same result as last year with James Smith’s rink winning 14-5.

The final proved to be a step to far for who sadly failed to find the form that got them to that stage. However, Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith were in scintillating form and won 16-0. The knockout chart from the Fours can be viewed here.

County Fours Winners James Smith, James Trott, Paul Pomeroy & Michael Ivings

James Smith’s rink have now guaranteed themselves a spot in next year’s National Fours which will be held in April. Hoping to join them will be the Bow rink of John & Rita Redstone, Dan Escott and Nick Wyatt (2nd), the Yarnscombe rink of Jay Shaw, Mike Avery, Graham & Elliott James (3rd) and also the Sidbury rink of Carol Osbourne, Malcolm Sheen, Caroline & Eric Pavey (4th). The ESMBA will inform us at a later date of the number of places we will receive in the Nationals.

26/09/16 Devon v Cornwall Report

Both County teams started their ICC campaign on Sunday with a trip down to Carnmoggas Holiday Park where they took on Cornwall. Both teams arrived in good form with both teams having qualified for the ICC Rink final day a few weeks earlier. Devon Premier started off very confidently in the first session where they secured seven out of the eight points available with three wins and a draw in one of the Singles. Devon continued the onslaught in the second session where they gained three more victories with one of the Fours winning as well as both Triples securing substantial victories. This left the half time score at Devon 13 Cornwall 3.

However, Cornwall stirred into life in the third session and it was much more even with Devon winning both the Singles and Cornwall winning the Pairs. Cornwall also snatched the bonus points from the Pairs due to their positive shot difference. Devon were in control of the last session with wins in one of the Fours and one of the Triples, whilst the other Triples came away with a draw.  Despite the remaining Fours being defeated the shots were all square in that discipline with the bonus points being shared equally. With Devon winning the Bonus points in the Singles, triples and sharing the bonus points in the Fours the final score was Cornwall 13 (174 shots) Devon 27 (208 shots)

It was a different story for Devon A who were on the back foot at the start of the game. In the first session they only won 2 points and that was thanks to a 17-8 win in one of the Pairs. The second session was a more even affair with Devon winning one of the Triples and one of the Pairs, however they did lose on the remaining two mats. This left Cornwall with the advantage at the half way stage and they led Devon 10-6.

Cornwall again ramped up the pressure in the third session and won three out of the four games. The sole Devon victory being a 15-7 win in one of the Singles. With their backs against the wall Devon rallied and it looked like at one stage they would get the four wins that they needed to get victory. However, they were only able to win three out of the games with going down by four shots. With Devon getting the bonus points in the Singles and Triples the final score was Cornwall 22 (190 shots) Devon 18 (186 shots).

In the other ICC group game Dorset Premier beat Somerset 27-13, whilst Dorset A drew against Somerset A 20-20. The latest group standings can be found here. Devon next face Dorset on the 9th October. The teams for this game will be announced in due course. 

The County/National Fours takes place this Saturday with a 9am sign in. Please be aware there is limited food at ISCA with chips and soup only available. On this occasion players are allowed to bring and consume their own food.

It was a disappointing weekend Devon bowlers last weekend at the Irish Open. James Trott (Musbury) came second in his group behind Sweden's Jonas Hager and qualified for the main knockout draw. However he was defeated 12-7 by Don McNamara. Eric Pavey (Sidbury) and Mark Allen (Winkleigh) both missed out on the top two group spots and entered the Plate knockout stage. Eric made it to the second stage where he was beaten by Katrine McDermott 11-6, whilst Mark Allen got knocked out in the first knockout stage and was knocked out 11-4 by Damian McAllister.

Both Andy Thompson and Malcolm Sheen (both Sidbury) qualified for the shield after finished 5th and 6th in the group stage respectively. Malcolm was knocked out in the first knockout round 12-3 by Shauna O'Neil. Andy made it all the way to the quarter finals before he was knocked out by Jordan Rankin 10-9. The Short Mat Player Tour returns at the end of October with the Norwegian Open.

This weekend Several Devon players are in the Irish Open, the second Short Mat Players Tour event of the season. James Trott (Musbury), Mark Allen (Winkleigh) and Sidbury trio Andy Thompson, Eric Pavey and Malcom Sheen all travel to Belfast in the search of glory. Throughout the weekend their progress can be followed online here and there will be a report on the website later next week.

Both Devon teams travelled to Dorset on Sunday to take part in the qualifying stage of the ICC rinks. The Premier team who defeated Essex in the final last year started their title defence against Cornwall.  The game was nip and tuck throughout but Devon pulled through with a shot difference of plus six with two rinks winning and two wins losing.  In the second game Devon faced  Somerset and produced a confident performance with wins on all four mats and secured victory by 27 shots.

The A team faced Herefordshire in their first group game. Devon A raced out of the blocks and quickly went into the lead. By the end of the game Devon secured wins on three out of the fours mats and the 2 points were secured with a 24 shot win.  Devon A had a much tougher game against Somerset. With half the game gone Somerset were 6 shots ahead, however Devon slowly pulled back and with a final push in the last few ends secured victory by 2 shots.

With both teams winning all their games they both finished top in their group and they can now look forward to final day

This Sunday sees both the Devon Premier and A team return to action with the qualifying stage of the ICC Rink. The Premier team will be looking to defend their title after beating Essex in the final last year. Whilst the A team will be looking to improve on their performance last year when they went out at the group stage. The Premier team will be facing Somerset and Cornwall, whilst the A team face Herefordshire and Somerset. The venue for both teams is The Dorset Golf & Country Club and details can be found here. There will be food available and selected players are requested to be at the venue at 9:15. The following players have been selected.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Winkleigh), Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe),  Michael Ivings (Wonford), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Ken Kelly (Wonford), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Malcolm Sheen (Sidbury), James Smith (Wonford), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Barrie Goodchild (Hemyock), John Horsham (Winkleigh), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Steve Perris (Wonford), Jay Shaw (Yarnscombe), Margaret Smith (Wonford),   David Tarr (West Hill), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

03/09/16 County/National Competition Draw Now Online

The County/National competition draw is now online and can be found here. Please note that the reserve day for the Singles on the 29th October has now been cancelled. Players that were due to play on the reserve day will now play on the 15th October and effected players have been informed whether they are playing in the morning or afternoon session.

28/08/16 Frank Hewer Sadly Passes Away

It is with great sadness we report the death of Frank Hewer in July 2016. He loved to play bowls and many new friends through the sport. He was a founder member of the Bridgestowe & Sourton Short Mat Bowls Club (1995) and was club captain for many years. He will be greatly missed for his enthusiasm and promotion of the game.

23/08/16 Registration Reminder

Just a reminder that membership registration expires on 31st August so can Club Secretaries please return any outstanding registration forms together with fees for members they wish to register by this date. This is very important for anyone playing in League Competitions, County Competitions (which start on 24th September) and members playing for either County Team. Secretaries can still register individual members  during the season. Please contact Irene Smith, County Secretary on 01392 874416 or e-mail jandismith@talktalk.net.

22/08/16 World Cup and UK Open Review

Both Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) and Ken Kelly (Wonford) were in action on Friday in the Short Mat Players Tour World Cup. Paul was one of the four players who represented England, whilst Ken represented the Rest of the World. Both England and the Rest of the World were drawn in Group A alongside Belgium and the Isle of Man. At the end of the group stage England sat at the table and qualified for the Semi Finals above Belgium who finished second. The Rest of the World exited the competition after finishing bottom of the table.

In the Semi-finals England faced Ireland who finished second in their group.  However, England only secured one win thanks to Lee Toleman who beat P.J. Gallagher 10-5. The other three matches were all narrow wins to Ireland with Paul Pomeroy going down 9-6 to Pauline Beattie. In the final Ireland faced reigning champions Sweden who had comfortable dispatched Belgium in the other semi Final. Despite tight scores on all four mats, Ireland were able to win on three out of the four mats to comfortably secure their first SMPT World Cup title.

On the Saturday the SMPT UK Open took place and it was a weekend of mixed results for the Devon players who participated. Wonford’s Thomas Perris took 2nd spot in his group and made it through to the second round of the main knockout stage before being knocked out by Ryan Abraham 12-7. Going one step further and reaching the third round was Ken Kelly, who on his way also beat Devonian Paul Pomeroy 12-5. Ken was eventually beaten by eventual finalist Chris Mann 17-3. Chris Man went on to face Scotland’s Lawrence Moffatt in the final with Lawrence winning 12-4.

Despite not qualifying for the main cup competition, James Trott (Musbury) did finish 3rd in his group and so qualified for the plate competition. James progressed all the way to the final and won against Belgium’s Jonathon Payne 13-9. The Short Mat Players Tour next rolls into Belfast on the 17th/18th September for the Irish Open.

20/08/16 World Cup and UK Open Preview