By Garry Lewis
Two high-standard victories out of three Pennant games against quality oppositions this week highlighted the steady improvement all Warburton sides are making during the season.
Warburton’s Number 1 side continued their resurgence with an impressive win at home over Monbulk 1, 94 shots to 62, to start the second half of the season and avenge the first-round loss. The standard of play continues to rise, and two rinks had dominant wins. The Burras now sit fifth on the ladder after this and face an important match away this week against Lilydale 2. Rink scores were T. Appleton 14/ 21, C. Neale 29/ 15, P. McConachy 20/ 18 and S. Lord 31/ 8.
Warburton 2 journeyed to Boronia to play on their grass green and start the second half of the season, hoping to avenge the home green defeat at the start of the season. But, alas, this was not to be against the second team on the ladder. Once again, with several players unavailable across both Saturday Pennant sides, the team was unsettled leading into the game. In the first few ends, Boronia 2 got the jump early on all rinks as the Burras seemed to play catch up for the rest of the game. Strong play from everyone on Matt Van Meurs’ team saw a well-deserved win. Graham Wynd’s rink also fought back well to end with a draw. The Burras certainly tried their best overall and are determined to keep improving, going down 83 shots to 67. Rink scores were D. McConachy 17/ 23, D. Fahy 13/ 24, M. Van Meurs 18/ 17 and G. Wynd 19/ 19. The Burras now play Bennettswood 1 at home this week with several regular players returning to add some strength to the seconds.
The Tuesday Midweek side played Heathmont 2 at home in windy and humid conditions. Heathmont are the team to beat this season sitting on top of the ladder. The day saw fluctuating results for our teams. First time skipper this season, Chris Boland, dominated with his rink winning 31 shots to 9. Terry Heyward’s team played very good consistent bowling to win their rink, 21 shots to 13. Rod McKail’s team played one of the best teams in the competition before going down, 13 shots to 26. Warburton 1 won overall 65 shots to 48.
The Burras are now sitting comfortably in second position on the ladder. With the season halfway through, they are looking a good chance to make the finals. They play Healesville 1 at home this week.
Pennant Training continues Thursdays from 4pm at the club. It is always great to have new and beginning players coming along and joining in the fun. Coaching is available.
The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Competition continued last week in superb conditions for bowling. A Double Header was held for Rounds 4 and 5 of eight ends each. There were several extremely close games throughout the evening with Belinda Nicolandos from the La La’s Team winning the prize for being the first person to touch the jack.
This week will be another Double Header (Rounds 6 and 7) before the Christmas Holiday Break. A Christmas Theme will be held, and participants are encouraged to dress up in Christmas gear.
During the holiday break, the club will be holding the Tradge Woods Triples Tournament on Saturday 11 January 2025, in memory of the highly esteemed past member of the club. All 16 Team positions are filled.
The Annual Pink Ribbon Day Triples Tournament, sponsored by Professionals Real Estate, will be held on Sunday 9 February 2025, with all funds raised going towards Breast Cancer research. Food, refreshments, raffles and prizes available during the day. Female and Male Entries accepted of all abilities, including Beginners. Entries in by January 30. Interested people or teams of 3 are encouraged to contact Michelle 0437 566 238 for further details.
Intra Club Competitions are continuing with participants keen to achieve bragging rights over their fellow club members and Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with everyone including new and beginning players encouraged to attend.
