2022 RESULTS & REPORTS

FINALS NIGHT - 21st Oct

SUPPLEMENTARY CUP FINAL

WINNERS: MASONS ARMS 'B'

FOUR-A-SIDE FINAL

WINNERS: THREE PIGEONS

TRIPLES FINAL

WINNERS: THREE PIGEONS

SIXERS CUP FINAL

WINNER: ROGER GOODALL

RUNNER UP (AFTER PLAYOFF): NEIL LYON

SINGLES COMPETITION SEMI FINALS

WINNER: MICK FOREMAN

WINNER: NEIL LYON

KNOCKOUT CUP FINAL

WINNERS: BLACK PRINCE 'B'

PAIRS COMPETITION FINAL

WINNERS: BARRY TOWNSEND & JON TOWNSEND

SINGLES COMPETITION FINAL

WINNER: NEIL LYON

SIXERS

NEIL LYON X 3

ROB BRADFORD X 2

ROGER GOODALL X 2

CHARLIE BUCKINGHAM X 2

REPORT

Well, where do I start? What night of action! Lets just go from the top to the bottom of the scedule. 

It was an excellent opening match of the evening, as the Masons Arms 'B' took on Middle Barton SSC 'B' in the Supplementary Cup Final. After three closely contested legs, with just a few dolls between the teams, the Masons held a narrow 4-2 lead. They then set in the forth leg, and posted a imposing total of 16 dolls. However, the Middle Barton side produced some great throwing to successfully chase this total down to level the match and send it to a deciding leg, which is exactly what the match deserved. The Masons set again in this last leg and quickly shrugged off the disappointment of losing the previous leg, posting a superb total of 18 dolls. Unfortunately for Middle Barton, this proved too big a total to chase as they fell short in their efforts. So, it was the Masons Arms 'B' who secured the victory, and with it completed a league & cup double this season. The two teams were excellent on the night and congratulations go both teams, and it showed the strength in depth of our league after such good performances from sides from the lower sections. It was a great start to the night.

The next match was the Four-a-Side Final, which was betwwen teams from the Black Prince 'A' and the Three Pigeons. On paper, this looked like it was going to be a closely fought contest, but that's not really how it panned out, with the Pigeons four winning 2-0. The Prince set in the opening leg, posting an average total of 12 dolls. The Pigeons successfully chased down with 13 dolls, with anchorman Neil Lyon hit a 4 to win in what was Neil's first action of the evening (his name might be mentioned again in this report!). The Prince set again in the second leg, but could only put up a total of 9 dolls, which never looked to be enough. Sure enough, the Pigeons eased past this and secured their first trophy since coming into the league. Well done to Roger, Ray, Wayne & Neil on claiming this trophy.

Next up was the Triples Final, which was a rematch between teams from the Black Prince 'A' and the Three Pigeons. The Prince team were looking to hit back after their defeat in the Fours Final, and they started strongly by setting and winning the opening leg. However, the Pigeons hit back in the second leg to level the match and take it to a last leg decider. The Prince could only set 8 dolls in this decider, and after the Pigeons lead off man Roger Goodall went off with a 5, the writing was on the wall. It was left to Neil Lyon to clean it up and secure another trophy for his side. Well done to Roger, Wayne & Neil for winning the match and adding to their trophy tally.

It was then time for the Sixers Cup, which was made up of some serious big hitters. Before the action began, you could have made a case for each of the players to come out on top, and there is a buzz of anticipation in the room. But no one could have predicted what actually happened. It was an absolute feast of unbelievable throwing, and I think the only thing missing from it was live commentary from the great Sid Waddell. Throughout the final, there were a staggering 7 sixes hit as the crowd were treated to what I believe was the greatest example of throwing at any finals night I have ever been to. At one stage, there was an incredible four consecutive maximums, which was just unreal. Like heavyweight boxers, the players just kept throwing haymakers at each other. It really was outstanding. Going into the final leg, it was all to play for. Neil was holding the lead with 20, Roger was just behind on 19 and Rob was lurking in third with 16 dolls. Rob went first in this last leg, and crashed off his second six of this final to set the clubhouse marker at 22 dolls. When it came to Roger's turn, he backed up the sixes which he had hit in the third & fourth legs by hitting a four to take over the lead with 23 dolls. Neil was left with the final throw, needing a four to win. Just like Rob & Roger, he had also previously hit two maximums in this final, so looked odds on to claim the win. However, he could only hit a two, meaning that Roger claimed the win for the second time (his previous win being back in 2013). Rob & Neil had a playoff to see who claimed the runners up spot, which Neil came out on top in. It was a pleasure to watch this, and the argument that the Wychwood League is the strongest league around gathers strength. Congratulations to Roger for the win, Neil for claiming second and well done to all the players who made this such an awesome final.

It was always going to be difficult to follow that, but we had to move on. It was time for the two Singles Competition Semi Finals. First up was defending champion Mick Foreman, who took on outsider Darren Grant. It turned out to be a stress free victory for Mick, who won in two straight legs to advance to the final. His scores of 4 & 3 proved to be enough to take the win and keep alive his hopes of retaining the trophy. The second semi was between Charlie Buckingham & Neil Lyon, which had the feeling of being a classic. Neil's love of chasing was on show, as Charlie was asked to set in all three legs. Neil comfortably took the opening leg to take an early lead, before the drama really started. Charlie produced a magnificent throw in the second leg by posting a maximum as he looked to level the match. The crowd were thinking that the match would now be all square, but how foolish they were! Neil produced another piece of magic to also hit a maximum to tie the leg, in a moment that again deserved commentary from Sid. Onto the last leg, and Charlie knew that only a win would keep his hopes alive. He set again, and under this pressure he posted an excellent 5 dolls. Knowing that a draw would be good enough, Neil could only hit a 4, meaning that the match went to a 3 stick playoff. With the standard so high, Charlie's set of 1 doll looked like it wouldn't be enough, and this was proved correct as Neil hit a 2 to win this high quality match and advance to the final.

Next on was the Knockout Cup Final, which was between the Black Prince 'B' and Enstone SSC 'B'. Both teams had been excellent throughout the season, winning the Premier & Section One titles, so they were hoping to complete the double. As predicted, it was a very tight match, with very little between the two teams. Enstone took the opening leg, before the Prince hit back to take the next two legs and grab the advantage in the match after chasing down consecutive totals of 17 dolls. With their backs up against the wall, Enstone produced their best leg of the match to post 21 dolls in the fourth leg, which proved to just be enough as the Prince fell just a single doll short with 20 dolls. So, another last leg decider was required to see who the victor would be. Enstone set in this final leg and posted a score of 19 dolls, which was a total that would certainly test the Prince side. However, they passed that test with flying colours. Nigel King got them off to a fantastic start in this chase by hitting a 5 from his lead off position, which was backed up by Henry Johnson hitting a 4. Dave Trim, Mick Foreman & Chris Price kept the scoreboard ticking along, leaving anchorman Mark Poulter requiring just a single doll to take the match, which he hit with his first stick. It was another great final, played between arguably the two best performing teams this year. Congratulations go to the Black Prince 'B', who after claiming the Premier title for their first time, added their first Knockout Cup trophy to finish off was has been a great season for them.

With the clock ticking along, it was now time for the Pairs Final. It was an all Black Prince 'A' affair, with Darren Grant & Dick Walsh taking on Barry & Jon Townsend. The little kip the Townsend brothers had taken between the fours final and this final seemed to do the trick for them, as they secured a straight sets victory. They set 8 dolls between them in the opening leg, which was too many for their opponents to get near. Darren & Dick then set in the second leg, and could only put up a total of 5 dolls, which never looked enough. However, Barry & Jon only just passed it, with Jon hitting his final stick to take the leg and the match. They secured the the title for the first time and they added it to a long list of trophies won by both of them it what have been great careers. Well done to Barry & Jon.

After three hours of compelling action, we finally reached the last match of the night, which as always would be the Singles Final. The question was could Mick Foreman become the first player to successfully defend the trophy, or would Neil Lyon's exceptional form on the night lead him to claiming his maiden Wychwood singles title. It was the predicted tight affair and didn't disappoint. Neil took the opening leg after chasing down Mick's set of 2 dolls to take the lead in the match. Mick set again in the second leg, posting 4 dolls, which Neil matched to take the match into a deciding leg. Mick again went first in this last leg and again set 4 dolls, and again Neil managed to match this score, meaning that he took the title. It was a valiant defence of his title, but Mick came up just short and handed over the crown to Neil.

And that is that! What a night it was.

The list of thanks is always long, so here goes:
- The very hard working staff at Eynsham SSC

- Callers & Sticker Up individuals (Phil Austin, Rob Bradford, Mick Foreman, Henry Johnson, Dan Reading, Roger Goodall, Wayne Townsend & Dick Walsh) And especially Keith Powell, who showed what great spirit there is in our league by requesting to call the Single final.

- Lee Thompson for his mic & projector skills

- The legend Chuck Berry for assisting with the presentation of the trophies

- Witney Trophy Centre, for going above and beyond this year (If you know, then you know!)

- Everyone who donated a raffle prize and took part in the raffle

- Dick Walsh for pestering everyone to have a go on the raffle

- The Oxford Yeoman for delivering me a lovely little gift of thanks for my efforts this year (hic)

- All competition venues ( Middle Barton SSC, Three Pigeons, Masons Arms,  Black Prince, Eynsham SSC, Enstone SSC & Stonesfield SSC

- Every venue, supporter, captain & player from each team 

And that's my lot!
We are so proud of our league, and the standard is improving every season. We don't claim to be perfect, but we think we are pretty good at what we do and have provided a competitive league which was fair to all and fun to play in. There are always some issues that we have to deal with, but as a rule the spirit of the game is maintained by all. If anyone has any ideas for improving things then they are more than welcome to join us at our AGM, which will be held in February 2023. A few new faces would be great to see. I can't say my job is easy, and it's certainly frustrating at times when faced with unnecessary complications, but I'm pleased to have been involved in things again this year. I hope everyone enjoys any winter action that they are taking part in, and I'll see you all again next year.

Finals night pictures will be uploaded in due course.
Stay safe everyone.

Over and out

WEEK 25 - 12th OCT - SIXERS CUP PLAYOFF

I'm back! Go on, admit it, you missed me really!

So, since the last time that I was logged in here, there has been some interesting action. 

Week 24 was the Semi Final night of the team cups. In the Knockout Cup, Enstone SSC 'B' defeated the Masons Arms 'A' in straight legs, and they were joined in the final by the Black Prince 'B', who scraped through their semi final by defeating the Three Pigeons in a three stick playoff. These two results mean that either Enstone SSC 'B' or the Black Prince 'B' will complete a league & cup double this season. It should be a very interesting final!

In the Supplementary Cup, the Masons Arms 'B' defeated an understrength Oxford Yeoman in straight legs to ease their way into the final, which keeps their hopes of retaining the trophy and completing the double this year very much alive. In the other match, Middle Barton SSC 'B' were taken to a last leg decider by Stonesfield SSC 'B'. Dispite losing the opening leg, the Middle Barton side hit back and went on to take their place in the final in what again looks like it will be a great match.

As for the Sixers Cup Playoff, it was the expected high quality night of action, with some 'big guns' on show. The six highest scorers over five legs would move on to play at finals it what is always a mighty tough trophy to win. After the five legs had been thrown, Rob Bradford (21), Neil Lyon (20), Nigel King & Roger Goodall (Both 19) had taken their places. There was a tie for the final two places, with Charlie Buckingham, Phil Austin & Alan Major all scoring 17 dolls after their five throws, meaning that a further leg was required. It was Charlie & Phil who advanced to the final after this playoff, with Alan being the unlucky player to just be squeezed out. It looked like a great night, and I predict that whoever is sticking up for this final will have a busy time!

That's it for now. The Order of play for Finals Night will be done over the weekend, so keep an eye on the home page.

Cheers all

WEEK 24 - 6th OCT - TEAM CUP SEMI FINALS

SIXER

NORMAN TORR - ENSTONE SSC 'B'

WEEK 23 - 29th SEPT - TEAM CUP QUARTER FINALS

SIXERS

MICK FOREMAN - BLACK PRINCE 'B'

KEVIN JOHNSON - MASONS ARMS 'A'

WEEK 22 - 22nd SEPT - FOURS COMPETITION

I've just about managed to find time to squeeze in a short report on last week's Fours action.
Eynsham hosted Venue One, and it looked like a very entertaining evening. The opening match of the night looked on paper to be a cracker, with a strong looking Black Prince 'B' four taking on the four from the Three Pigeons. It wasn't quite the close match which I would have expected as the Pigeons side hit the ground running and closed off a comfortable 2-0 win. The only Quarter Final which went to a deciding leg was the match between the Masons A and the Black Prince A. Chasing a set of 10 dolls in this decider, it was the Prince anchorman Mick Phipps who got them when he needed to, hitting a four to take the leg and the match. In the Semi Finals, and there was arguably the match of the week between the Three Pigeons and Enstone SSC B. A set of 14 dolls was put on the board in the opening leg by Enstone, which was matched after Pigeons anchorman Neil Lyon knocked off the four required to tie the leg. Enstone set again in the second leg, posting 11 dolls. The Pigeons side looked in deep trouble before Neil stepped up again, hitting a five to once again tie the leg. In the final leg, Enstone set once more and posted 13 dolls. At risk of repeating myself, the Pigeons side again looked like they were in big trouble before, you guessed it, Neil performed some more magical throwing to tie the leg with another five. The three stick playoff was thankfully more straight forwards, with the Pigeons side finally giving Neil a break as their top three throwers went past Enstone's set of 5 dolls. Outstanding throwing Neil, very well done. The Pigeons went on to claim the venue victory after easing to a 2-0 win over the Black Prince A and take their place at Finals Night.
At Venue Two, hosted by Enstone SSC, where there was slightly less drama but still some compelling action. The Black Prince B and Black Prince A both eased through their Quarter Final matches, beating Enstones SSC A and the Queens Head respectively, but there was a much closer match between the other Queens Head side and the Masons Arms. This match required a deciding leg, which the Masons managed to win after chasing and passing the Queens set of 7 dolls. The first Semi Final was a cracker, which was played between the Black Prince B and Eynsham SSC. After a tied first leg, Eynsham set in the second and could only post a score of 8 dolls, which surprisingly the Prince failed to match, putting Eynsham ahead in the match. Eynsham set again in the decider, posting a good score of 12 dolls, but the Prince B came out fighting and knocked of 13 dolls to make things all square. Unfortunately for them, this was as good as things got as they failed to chase down Eynsham's set of 6 dolls in the three sticker, meaning that Eynsham moved through to the venue final. They were joined in the final by the Black Prince A, who defeated the Masons A in their Semi Final. The venue final saw some great scoring from both sides. Eynsham posted 11 dolls in the first leg, to which the Prince replied with 13 dolls from just three players. The Prince then set a big 16 dolls in the second leg, which Eynsham fell just short in chasing with 14 dolls, meaning that the Prince side claimed the venue victory.

Overall, another great night of action and well done to everyone who took part.

WEEK 21 - 15th SEPT - TRIPLES COMPETITION

As promised, here is my short report regarding the action from last week's Triples competition.
Starting off at Venue One, held at the Masons Arms, there was some great scoring and tight matches throughout the evening to keep everyone just about warm enough to battle the chill in the air. It was the trio of Roger Goodall, Wayne Townsend & Neil Lyon from the Three Pigeons who made it through to finals night, but it wasn't without a scare. On paper they were the venue favourites, and after coming through a Prelim match they faced potential spoilers the Black Prince A in the first round. After being put in, the Prince trio of Darren Grant, Ian Grant & Dick Walsh hit 11 dolls between them, which the Pigeons side failed to chase down. With the Pigeons only setting 8 in the second leg it looked like an upset was on the cards, but the Prince fell one doll short in their chase to let the Pigeons off the hook. And after a poor set of only 5 dolls by the Prince in the deciding leg, the Pigeons advanced to the Semi Finals.They managed to dispatch the Queens Head in this Semi Final, helped by chasing and passing the Queen's set of 10 dolls in the opening leg to get to the final. In that final, they came up against the evening's surprise package of Middle Barton SSC B. More on them in a moment. The Pigeons took that final 2-0, with Roger hitting the only six of the night as he continues his quest to chase down Rob Bradford for the Six Hitter Trophy. It nearly went wrong in the second leg though! With the Pigeons chasing only 4 dolls, Roger & Wayne only managed one doll each, and with last man missing his first three sticks things were getting tense, but Neil composed himself and knocked off his final three sticks to claim the leg, and the match, to ensure the Pigeons won the venue. As the Middle Barton SSC, they were fantastic all night long. Being the only side from the Lower Sections, they more than held their own and fully deserved their place in the Venue final. The highlight was their Semi Final match against the other Black Prince A side. This was the venues only match which went to a 3 stick playoff. The Prince set a more than solid 5 dolls, helped by 3 out of 3 from Mick Phipps. However, whatever Mick could do, Lucy Davies for Barton could also do as she recorded a maximum to set her side on the way. With Mark Lacey hitting a 2, it was left to anchor man Steve Rogers to hit the winning doll and record a memorable victory. It was a great night enjoyed by all.
At Venue Two, played at the Black Prince, it was the trio of Barry Townsend, Phil Austin & Jon Townsend who took the honours to set up a mouth watering final against the Pigeons. It was also a night of great matches, with half of the games played going to a deciding leg. Like the Pigeons at venue one, it wasn't all plain sailing for the trio from the Prince, no more so in the actual final. They were up against the trio of Nigel King, Henry Johnson & Mick Foreman from the Prince B, and set a modest total of 7 dolls, which was a score that the Prince B had scored between them in every leg that they had played in the evening. However, funny old game that it is, the set of 7 proved to be enough to see them get through by the skin on their teeth. Mick Foreman was the venues only maximum hitter to take his tally to four for the season. It looked on paper to be another great night.
Well done and thanks to those to took part and helped on the evenings. And as the Middle Barton side proved, anything is possible, so maybe we might get a few more teams enter next season.
Cheers all

WEEK 20 - 8th SEPT - PAIRS COMPETITION

There's no real need for a full report on this week's action, but I will just pick out a few things which I've noticed.
At Venue One, played in tricky conditions in the garden at the Pigeons that could maybe do with a little tlc, the Black Prince 'A' pair of Darren Grant & Dick Walsh made it through to take their place at Finals Night. They 'did enough' to get through their matches, but can count themselves fortunate to win the venue final. In the deciding leg, opponent Jeff Glensiter surprisingly came up short when needing 4 to win to allow the Prince pair to take the win. Jeff had been on fine form earlier in the night, hitting 12 out of 13 sticks thrown in the first round (including the venues only 6), so will no doubt be disappointed to come up short in the final. 
At Venue Two, Barry Townsend & Jon Townsend, also from the Black Prince 'A', caused a shock by defeating favourites Roger Goodall & Neil Lyon to make it an all Prince final. The Townsend brothers played well all night long and had some tough matches, no more so than their first round match against Charlie Buckingham & Neil Pratley from The Masons Arms. This match went all the way down to a 1 stick shootout, in which both Barry & Jon both hit the target. Charlie also hit in reply, but Neil narrowly missed meaning that the Townsend's made it through. The final went to a last leg decider after being tied on one leg each, and it was Barry & Jon who chased down the set of 6 dolls to win the venue. Rob Bradford hit the venue's only maximums to move onto 13 for the season in the race for the Six Hitter trophy.
Thanks to all that took part. Triples this week, good luck to all.