The 2009 Pennant Triples
at Ickleford on 7 June (A report by Alan Newland)

We woke up to torrential rain. On arrival at Ickleford prospects of play looked bleak. The main pitch was under water and others were heavily puddled. It was decided to wait until 10.00, abandonment seemed almost inevitable. However just before 10.00, the skies lightened to the south and the rain eased. Peter Wright and helpers started to drain the water and we were back on.

All 16 entered teams turned up, showing real commitment to the sport and play got under way only half hour late, all be it on soggy terrains. A 4 round 'snake' decided the qualification for the Main with the top eight teams going through. The remaining 8 qualifying for the Plate. The sun came out and all was set fair for a good afternoon.

Two teams had 4 wins in the morning, Oh So Lucky(Alan N, Adrian, Myra) and The Committee (Denise, Alan B, Chrissie ). Oh So Lucky met last years winners Luton (Mike, Kier, Ian) in the first round of the knockout. Oh So lucky coming out on top. The Committee came up against Chiltern Juniors playing as a 4 man squad (Max, Sam B, Reece,Ross). The Juniors who had shown improving form throughout the day winning a very close match. The Juniors continued their form in their semi final accounting for Rising Sun (Keith, Fred, Andy). Oh So Lucky knocked out White Hart (Nev, Jo, Rob F)in the other semi.

I think it is fair to say that Oh So Lucky were fairly confidant of winning the trophy especially after starting well and leading 6-0. The Juniors however would not be shaken off, pegging away with some good shooting and pointing. With Oh So Lucky leading 10-7, a loose first point enabled the Juniors to point near the coche, two missed shots followed by 3 closing down points. Still the Juniors were holding, but with 3 close boules in the head, Oh So Lucky were not too concerned. Big mistake, five stunning points later and it was all over. Loud cheers from the one sided crowd,(funny that?) A really well deserved win.

In the Plate Dutch Courage (Peter W, Geoffrey, Gordon Ansell) triumphed over Ouse (John, Mo, Steve C).

In the end a cracking day of pétanque was enjoyed by all. My thanks to everyone for their help and support. See you all soon.

Alan Newland