Friday, 16 June 2023

Season 2022/23 round up

The Carrick & District Pool League (sponsored by SKC Gaming) rose like a phoenix from the ashes of Covid19.

Ninety-six players registered in eight teams, from six venues, within 12 miles from Carrickfergus Castle: Carrick Bowling Club, Whitehead Rangers, Q Club Larne, Greenisland WWMC, Whiteabbey Royal British Legion and Times Bar.

The End Of Season Celebration took place at Greenisland Workingmans Club this weekend. The Guest of honour was councillor Bobby Hadden who kindly presented the trophies.

The first cup of the season ‘The Knock out Cup’ went to The Scorpions pool team from Times Bar, York Road. The final went to the last frame against a star studded team from Greenisland Galacticos. It was a break and dish in the final from Chris Carson to give the glory to Scorpions. Chris also won the league’s player of the year

The Players Memorial Shield was won by Scorpions Pool Team against Tigers 8-7 in a fabulous derby final again in the final frame. Scorpions Darren Haddock took the all-important final frame. Darren also won the Belfast Open Singles title this year.

The Home and Away Cup is one of most challenging cups to win. Scorpions eventually got over the line after a tremendous come back from Larne’s Q Club in another final that went to the wire 15-13. The final frame was on by Darren Whiteside who had more break and dishes than any other player this season.

Open Singles was won by Scorpions Chris Carson beating Q Club’s Ryan McKillop in a deciding frame 6-5 shootout.

The Seniors (Over 40s) title was won by Scorpions Paul Kerr with a solid performance against Whiteabbey Legion’s Davy Blair 6-2.

Paul Kerr also won The Masters (over 50’) singles title beating Alan Johnston 6-0.

The Doubles was lifted by Scorpions’ Chris Carson and Jack Carson from Colts Pool Team in resilient fashion. They came from 5-1 down to win 6-5 over former champions Paul Kerr and Mervyn McIlvenney.

The 3 a Sides was won by ‘Scorpion’s Daddies’: Lee McIlreevy, Darren Whiteside, Paul Kerr and Chris Carson. They overcame the experienced Q Club Masters, Alan Johnston, Robert Hawkins and Kenny English 5-2.

The wooden spoon went to Bowlers Pool Team, who we could all learn a bit from. Its not all about winning. It’s the enjoyment of our sport that counts.

The League Champions were crowned in the final frame of the last league match of the closest season on record. ‘THE SCORPIONS. Scorpions were 6-5 behind and needed to win the final 3 frames. Lee McIlreevy held his nerve and potted the final black to lift the title.

We would like to thank SKC Gaming for their continued support of our league. If any teams want to join us next season please get in touch via email at carrickpool@gmail.com or on any of our social media accounts: www.carrickpool.blogspot.com; www.facebook.com/carrickpoolleague; youtube.com/@carrickdistrictpoolleague3794