PREMIER LEAGUE

MATCH REPORT FOR TURTON V BRITISH PLATE 21ST APRIL

Conditions : Green wet, starting dry with very heavy rain mid way through.

The waterlogged green did not do Turton any favours and this told as they could only manage one winner from the first four. John Ashcroft started with an impressive 21-8 win over Ken Shaw. Mike Page fought tooth and nail with Anthony Gartside, just coming out on top for an excellent 21-20 and well earned win. Lee Bleakley never got to grips with the conditions and was dispatched easily by Danny Eustace 21-4. Plate who were slightly under strength then produced their "Ace in the pack" Billy Forbar, ex County star, who doesn't play much these days, rolled back the years to pip D Allen 21-20, the roar from the Plate lads could be heard back in St Helens!

The middle four was a similar story with only John Mort, coming back from 17-13 behind to manage a win 21-18 against the luckless Ian Manchester. Mark Leonard, Neil Ditchfield and Mark Bradshaw all played solidly under the worsening conditions for their wins. Turton salvaged some pride with the last two winners, David Hoyle beating Lee Stringfellow 21-10 and Kevan Shaw slamming Jim Harrison 21-2.

From my point of view I had an excellent night and it was nice to see some familiar faces, I was impressed with the team ship of the Plate lads, I always enjoy chatting with Mark Leonard and would like to thank him for his genuine concern and words of encouragement.

CONCLUSION

A well deserved win for the Plate and sympathy for the Turton lads who had no green advantage. Turton battled hard and on this evidence will win at home under better conditions.

21UP'S MAN OF THE MATCH

A difficult decision as many played well but I give it to Mike Page (Turton) who battled really hard against a top class player in Anthony Gartside.

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