Today saw the inaugural long mat Etherow IBC Christmas Pairs Knockout competition take place at the centre. The event saw 12 pairs of bowlers battle head to head across eighteen round robin group games, before the top pair from each of the three groups, along with the best overall runner-up, entered the final knockout stages.
The winners and best runner-up from the group stages were Mike Clancy & John Dodd, Sue Banfield & Chris Banfield, Maureen Meek & Steve Bowman and Steve Roberts & George Almond.
The first semi-final saw Sue Banfield & Chris Banfield tie with Mike Clancy & John Dodd on 8 points after 10 ends before securing a win of 9-8 on their 11th tie-break end. Meanwhile, Steve Roberts & George Almond managed an 8-7 win against Maureen Meek & Steve Bowman.
Both semi-finals were played very well and offered a real treat to spectators, but the final was certainly worth the wait and the audience were treated to a battle of skill and perseverance that saw Steve & George crowned 2023 winners after their 12-6 victory against Sue & Chris.
Everyone who attended the day thoroughly enjoyed themselves and we’re already looking forward to the 2024 event to see if Steve & George can defend their title.