The first game of the season was held on Friday for Saundersfoot first team bowlers. It was a challenge match over two legs between Saundersfoot and Tenby, with the trophy sponsored by Merv Brace.

First leg was held in Saundersfoot on a cloudy but dry evening, both captains made their welcoming speeches, Pat Currie, of Tenby, and Paul Blaney, of Saundersfoot, and then play commenced.

Rink one - Paul Gray, Ken Taylor, Tony Cummins, Dave Poole (lost by nine shots) v Tenby skip Pat Currie: The performance of this rink was slightly below par, dropping a 6, 5 and 4 in three ends. Paul and Ken were steady, Tony was struggling from jetlag and Dave, well, they are still waiting for him to sparkle.

Rink two - Ronnie Brabon, Alan Brace, John Roberts, Donny Poole (lost by one shot) v Tenby skip Davie Morgan: John Roberts, brought the age down on this rink, but the vast experience was on their side. Ronnie was back in the first team - nice to see it, and Alan was also helping them out. John tried to put Donny in his place, but really didn't stand a chance, with Donny showing the selectors he has still got it.

Rink three - Graham Hughes, George Cavell, Paul Blaney, Berwyn Dennis (won by three shots) v Tenby skip Andrew Muskett: This was a solid performance from all four, George and Graham both playing well apart from a few poor ends. Paul Blaney had an OK start to the season, but will have to improve on his concentration a bit and stay on the rink. Berwyn had a solid game to keep them in the fight for the sweep money.

Rink four -Steve Harris, Merv Brace, Myrddin Dennis, Stephen Poole (lost by three shots) v Tenby skip Paul Diment: This rink will have to improve to keep up their record in the league. Steve Harris, called up by the first team to help out, played very well, while Merv Brace played his 50/50 game - and that's that why he is called Duckhams! Myrddin Dennis had a storming first half, but he was struggling from match fitness by the end. Steve Poole did not have his best game, struggling with his weight at the end by bowling short, but I am sure he will shine in the season.

And so Tenby hold a nine shot lead after the first leg, with the second leg being held in Tenby near the end of the season. Well done Tenby.

This Sunday, Saundersfoot play their first league match, their opponents being their own club-mates, the newly-promoted St. Issell's team. As the 'away' team, Saundersfoot will be changing their colours and playing in all white. The match starts at 2.30 pm.

THE FERRET