OAKLEY RUNNERS UP IN COUNTY FOURS

It was always going to be a tough task this morning for Oakley Ladies as they took on Alton Social in the Final of the County Fours. Up against four current Johns Trophy players and with three of the Oakley team having to play in unfamiliar positions. Oakley nonetheless began well scoring singles on the first 2 ends, only to drop a four and a three to find themselves 4-7 down. The next 4 ends were won by Oakley and then a slightly fortuitous three saw them leading 12-7. Fortune on the 11th end favoured Alton Social and picking up a two gave them the opportunity to change the course of the game by moving the mat up the green. Seizing this opportunity Social moved out to a 17-14 lead with just 2 ends to play. Oakley needed a result on the penultimate end and, having set up a 2 shot lie, it looked as if the match would go to the wire. Sadly, however, Oakley gave away the shot and it never looked like Alton Social would concede a big score on the final end. Congratulations to Alton Social on lifting the title and good luck to them and to the Oakley Four of Sue Dixon. Angie Rowe, Shirley Ball and Janie Vickers when they, next weekend, represent Hampshire at the National Championships.