Greenisland Galacticos lift the 3 a sides in the Carrick District Pool League sponsored by SKC Gaming NI Ltd.
The Trojans welcomed Grange to Whitehead Club for their
latest SKC Gaming NI Ltd League encounter, with the visitors producing a strong
second-half display to secure an impressive 10-4 victory.
The opening frame saw Grange youngster Kai McWhirter get his
side off to a flying start with some excellent potting, before Gary Fitzsimmons
responded immediately for the Trojans to level matters. Grange regained the
advantage through Robin Blair, only for Matthew Thompson to once again bring
the Trojans back on terms.
Grange then began to build momentum as Thomas Fleming and Gary
Fears claimed consecutive frames to move their side ahead. Trojans captain Girvan
Fleming ensured his team remained within touching distance by taking the final
frame of the first half, leaving the score finely poised at 4-3 in Grange's
favour.
The second half belonged almost entirely to the visitors. Gareth
Fears opened proceedings with another frame for Grange before Thomas Fleming, Robin
Blair, Uel Wallace, Richard Kitson, and Kai McWhirter all added to the winning
tally. Gordan McKinty claimed the Trojans' final frame of the evening, but it
was Grange who ran out convincing winners.
Final Score: Trojans 4-10 Grange
Meanwhile in Larne, the Q Sharks endured a difficult night
against the Colts, who got off to the perfect start when Andy Mackey opened the
match with a superb break-and-dish.
The Colts dominated the opening half, sweeping all seven
frames and leaving the Sharks searching for answers. The second half followed a
similar pattern until fan favourite Rachel "Baby Shark" Irvine
provided the highlight of the evening for the home side, securing the Sharks'
only frame against Colts anchorman Colin Beckinsale.
The Colts ultimately completed a comprehensive victory.
Final Score: Q Sharks 1-13 Colts
Elsewhere, the race for top spot remains as tight as ever.
Joint leaders Galacticos and Times Bar Scorpions both recorded emphatic
victories to maintain their positions at the summit of the league table.
Galacticos produced an excellent performance to defeat a
strong Alpha side 11-3, while Times Bar Scorpions proved too strong for Enthusiastic
Amateurs, running out convincing 12-2 winners.
The two sides remain level on points, but Times Bar Scorpions currently hold the advantage at the top of the table by a solitary frame on frame difference, setting up what promises to be a fascinating battle in the weeks ahead.
In other matches, Bowlers suffered a 10-4 defeat at home to
Spartans, while Q Club Larne secured a hard-fought 8-6 away victory over
Railway Blues. Sharp Shooters continued their strong form with a 9-5 win
against Whiteabbey Legion, and Times Bar Tigers recorded a convincing 10-4
success over Kilroot True Blues. The Pink Ladies were left without a fixture
this week after their match was postponed.
At the top of the table, both Galacticos and Times Bar
Scorpions recorded emphatic victories to remain locked together as league
leaders. Galacticos defeated Alpha Breakers 11-3, while Times Bar Scorpions
powered to a 12-2 win over Enthusiastic Amateurs. Although the two sides remain
level on points, Times Bar Scorpions hold a slender advantage at the summit
with a one-frame superiority in frame difference.
At the other end of the table, Kilroot True Blues' defeat to
Times Bar Tigers saw them slip to the bottom of the league standings,
increasing the pressure as the season continues.
Player of the Year Update
While the battle for the Premier Division title remains finely poised between at the top, the race for the individual honours is proving just as competitive. Scorpions' Paul Kerr continues to lead the SKC Gaming NI Ltd Player of the Year standings, with another strong week helping him maintain his advantage at the top. With several players from the league's leading teams in pursuit, every frame will be crucial as the season progresses.
Times Bar Scorpions vs. Railway Blues in the SKC Gaming NI ltd CDPL
The Scorpions jumped to an early lead with wins from Paul Kerr, Michael Wilson. Wes Smyth and Robin Kerr claimed the two frames back for the Blues before Colin Rafferty, Aaron Leslie, and Steven Harrison ensured a 5-2 lead a half time.
Nathan Gray kept the Blues fighting with a brace of wins, while Wes Smyth struck back again later in the half. However, second wins of the night for Paul Kerr and Michael Wilson put the Scorpions on the hill (7–4). After a dramatic moment where the Blues' Robert Craig narrowly missed a long black, Stephen Harrison and Colin Rafferty secured the final frames. Times Bar Scorpions remain joint top of the league table on frame difference.
Grange vs Titans
A high-quality opening saw an unlucky scratch on the black by Dean McDonagh and a hung black by Uel Wallace, which Stuart Kelly capitalised on. Young Kai McWhirter delivered a reverse dish, followed by a fine break and dish from Stephen Herron. Wins for Chris Cork and Andy Quinn, plus a second reverse dish from Stuart Kelly, gave the visiting Titans a narrow lead at the interval.
Kai McWhirter defeated Dean to level the match, but Stuart Kelly answered immediately with his third reverse dish of the night. Wayne Lewis levelled things up again for the hosts before Riley Patterson pulled off another reverse dish for the Titans. Back-to-back wins from Chris Cork and Andy Quinn officially secured the match points for the Titans. The Grange took the final frame after Riley Patterson missed a routine black—humorously attributed to "spilling some curry"—allowing Stephen Herron to step in.
Whitehead Spartans defeated Top Guns 11–3 in their Carrick Pool League fixture on Tuesday 3rd November, keeping the Spartans fourth in the league table. The experienced Spartans took full control early on, romping to a clean sweep before the interval, despite a promising start from the visitors. Top Guns rallied fiercely by taking the first three frames of the second half. However, the Spartans answered in style, dominating the final four frames to close out the match.
in other matches
·
Times
Bar Scorpions share the #1 spot: Their 9–5 victory
over Railway Blues keeps them locked in a perfect tie with the Galacticos at
the top of the table. Both teams have 24 points, 8 wins, and an identical +60
frame difference.
·
Q Club Titans secure 3rd place: By
defeating the Grange 9–5, the Titans moved to 21 points (6 wins, 1 draw, 1
loss), sitting just three points behind the league leaders.
·
Whitehead Spartans hold 4th place: Their
dominant 11–3 win over Top Guns brings them to 20 points with a strong +38
frame difference, keeping them securely in the top four.
·
The Grange stays at 20 points:
Following their loss to the Titans, the Grange remains on 20 points but has
played 9 games, putting them just behind the Spartans on frame difference (+16
vs +38).
·
Railway Blues and Top Guns slide down: Railway
Blues sit in 7th place with 18 points after their loss to the Scorpions, while
Top Guns remain tied near the bottom in 17th place with 7 points.
Carrickfergus Pool League Weekly Round-Up
The Trojans welcomed the Sharpshooters to Whitehead Rangers
Supporters Club this week for another Carrickfergus Pool League match.
The opening frame was a real battle between Trojans’ Gordan McKinty and Sharpshooters’ Lewis Neill. Lewis snookered himself behind the black on his last ball, giving Gordan a chance to win the frame. However, Gordan then did exactly the same thing, snookering himself behind the black on his final ball! Lewis eventually took the frame for the Sharpshooters. Trojans responded in style, winning the next four frames through Stephen Hamilton, Lawrence Armour, Maurice Beattie and Matthew Thompson. It was a special moment for Maurice, a new addition to the league, as he secured his first league win of the season. Frame six saw Trojans captain Girvan Fleming face Sharpshooters captain Chris McCurry. Chris produced a great finish, potting a red into the top-left pocket before sending the black into the middle pocket to take the frame. Christopher Hobson won the final frame of the first half, giving the Trojans a healthy 5–2 lead at the halfway stage. The second half started with Chris McCurry claiming another frame for the Sharpshooters after Maurice Beattie fouled and potted the black ball. The Trojans quickly regained control, with Lawrence Armour, Stephen Hamilton and Matthew Thompson winning the next three frames to secure the match victory. Sharpshooters’ Adam Crossett then claimed another frame for his team, keeping their hopes alive of leaving Whitehead with a point. However, Gordan McKinty put an end to those hopes by winning the next frame and securing the Trojans’ ninth frame of the night. Sharpshooters captain Chris McCurry won the final frame of the evening, but it was the Trojans who came out on top with a convincing 9–5 victory! Congratulations to the Trojans on another great team performance, and well done to Maurice Beattie on picking up his first league win of the season!
League leaders Galacticos continued their remarkable start to the season with a commanding 14-0 victory over Pink Ladies. The result extends their unbeaten record to seven wins from seven matches and strengthens their position at the top of the table with 21 points and a league-best frame difference of +50.
Times Bar Scorpions kept pace with the leading pack thanks to an emphatic 11-3 victory over Bowlers. The win moves the Scorpions onto 18 points from just six fixtures, maintaining one of the strongest records in the division. Paul Kerr shone again with two dishes and a reverse dish.
A crucial contest near the top of the table saw Q Club Titans edge Whiteabbey Legion 8-6. The Titans move onto 18 points and remain firmly in contention for the championship, while Legion remain within touching distance on 16 points.
Massive win for the Blues tonight - 8-6 over the Greenisland Colts
to seal a 4th win of the season, and it went right to the wire.
First Session - Blues take control 5-2
Perfect start from Ryan Stewart with a 1-0 win over Jacob Patton.
Nathan Gray then lost out 0-1 to Joe Patton, but the Blues hit back hard.
Robin Kerr made it 2-1 with a classy 1-0 win over Dee Harris -
your note said it was pure class, an excellent snooker with only two balls left
to get the 2 shots and finish it.
Nathan Gray made amends straight away, 1-0 over Colin Beckinsale -
that tricky clearance with 2 shots you mentioned, taken out with full
confidence. Then Craig Laughlin made it 4-2 with a really tactical frame, 1-0
over Andy Mackey - got his chance on a long tough black and buried it.
Wes Smith lost 0-1 to Aaron Watters who took a good finish after
getting 2 shots, but Rab Brown closed the half with a 1-0 win over Harry
Warwick - another tactical frame, took his chance when it came. 5-2 Blues at
the turn.
Second Session - Colts fight back, Craig gets us over the line 3-4
Second half was a different story. Ryan played a good snooker to
get 2 shots but missed an easy red and Joe Patton nipped in to win it 1-0.
Nathan got us back to winning ways - 1-0 over Andy Mackey with
that sublime 6-ball clearance under pressure.
Craig then lost a great frame 0-1 to Dee Harris - knuckled a tough
black and Dee took out a superb finish. Rab steadied it again, 1-0 over Colin
Beckinsale to win another tactical frame.
Then the Colts put the pressure on - Josh McIlroy beaten 0-1 by
Aaron Watters who took a great finish, and Robin Kerr beaten 0-1 by Joe Patton
who had a big night for the Colts playing twice.
At 7-6 with one to play, it was Craig Laughlin who held his nerve
- 1-0 over Harry Warwick to get the Blues over the line for the 8-6 win.
8-6 final. Ryan, Nathan x2, Robin, Craig x2, Rab x2 all on the scoresheet - proper team effort to get the 4th win on the board.
The Glen Inn Enthusiastic Amateurs met the Alpha Breakers on home
turf (cloth?) for a great night of pool and a well enjoyed night for all.
Away team drew first blood, with Michael Acheson putting the
visitors ahead v Colin Bell. Jonny Blair made it 2-0 triumphing after some
great pots by Nicola Murray and Alpha’s David Flanagan really put the home team
on the back foot, beating the Glen’s Aidan Bannon to make it 3-0 to the
visitors. Paul Leslie pulled one back for the home team after Don McAteer took
an early lead in the 4th to make it 3-1, but Lee McCord took the next frame to
make it 4-1. Jordan Oliver stepped up to give the home team some hope vs Kye
Robinson, but Michael Acheson won the next frame vs Dean Best to make it 5-2 to
the visiting team going into the break.
The first 2 frames after the break went to the Alpha Breakers with Jonny Blair and David Flanagan winning against Jamie Oliver (not that one!) and Sam Kane, taking it to 7-2 in favour of the visiting team. Paul Leslie won the next for the home team to make it 7-3, but Lee McCord sealed the win for the Alpha in the next frame, beating Jordan Oliver in a closely fought round. With the match decided, Andy Oliver & Dean Best came out fighting to take the next 2 frames vs Don McAteer & David Flanagan respectively and left the score line at 8-5 to the Alpha. Last frame of the evening was won by Angie Carson, beating Aidan Bannon in a game that summed up the evening perfectly: well matched, control of the game flipping each way, but the deserving player won in the end.
The Tigers Tom Mcgurk too the first frame and Robin Blair levelled up. Sam Sloan and Simpsy
put Tigers 3 1 up before the grange took the final 3
games of the half.
John Fulton levelled up in frame 8 at 4 each. Kai McWhirter restored Grange's lead at 5 4 and Simpsy levelled up again. Sam Sloan put the tigers 6 5 In front. Grange's Robin Blair, Gareth Fears and Jackie Murdock all
won there games to make it final score 8 6 the grange bar,
The game was played in great atmosphere as always great bunch off
lads well done on your win and good luck for the rest of the season.
Q Club Larne produced the performance of the night, overwhelming Top Guns 12-2. The impressive victory boosts their points tally to 14 and keeps them firmly in contention for a top-half finish.
The Q Sharks formerly known as the Q Queens welcomed Kilroot Blues to the Q Club. The Sharks started off with a little help from our opponents as they potted the black mid game 3 times in the first 4 games. At the end of the first session the Sharks were leading 5 2. Kilroot Blues secured the next two frames evening the match up to 5 4. But the comeback was not to be as the Sharks stormed ahead winning 4 of the remaining 5 games. Match ended 9 5 to the Q Sharks who are delighted to win 2 weeks in a row. The push is on to make it 3 in a row next week.
It was great to see a new team joining the league and we have no
doubt as the season progresses Kilroot Blues will get better and better. Good
luck guys
The early rounds saw D. Douglas defeat A. Crossett 4-1 and K. McWhirter overcome E. Haire by the same score line. Douglas then continued his impressive run by defeating McWhirter 4-1 to reach the semi-finals.
In the other quarter-finals, Riley Patterson edged past K. Withers in a thrilling 4-3 contest, while R. Laverty advanced following a walkover against P. Martin. J. Robertson completed the semi-final line up with a solid 4-2 victory over L. Neill.
The semi-finals saw Patterson produce a commanding performance to defeat Douglas 5-1, while Robertson secured his place in the final with a 5-2 win over Laverty.
🏆 Riley Patterson 6-3 J. Robertson
Riley Patterson capped off another outstanding tournament by defeating J. Robertson 6-3 in the final to retain his Carrick Pool League Under-23's Singles title. Having successfully defended his crown, Riley once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the league's most promising young players.
🥇 Champion: Riley Patterson
🥈 Runner-Up: J. Robertson
🥉 Semi-Finalists: D. Douglas & R. Laverty
The Carrick Pool League would like to congratulate all competitors for their excellent performances and sportsmanship throughout the evening. Special thanks must also go to Rack N Reload for their continued support and for hosting another successful Under-23's event.
Congratulations to Riley Patterson on retaining his title and adding another Under-23's championship to his growing list of achievements.
The Blues came flying out of the blocks, taking the opening 4 frames to race into a commanding 4–0 lead. The Breakers were staring down the barrel of a heavy defeat!
Lee McCord finally got the Breakers on the board before Kye Robinson and Jonny Blair stepped up to pull it back to 4–3 at the interval.
The Blues came out swinging again after the break, taking the opening frame to make it 5–3. Up stepped Dee Flanagan, getting the Breakers back on track before Lee McCord and Jonny Blair delivered two massive frames to put the home side ahead for the first time at 6–5! (Thanks to Ryan Stewart potting the white after a very easy black) Railway Blues weren't finished, though, fighting back to take the next frame before David Flanagan stepped up to level the game 7-7. From 4–0 down to leading 7–6, a brilliant fightback from the Breakers. Thanks to Railway Blues for a cracking match, played in good spirits throughout.
Bowler, Sam Millar got his team off to a good start via an unfortunate
black ball potted too soon by John McClean.
Young Colt, Jacob Patton took on David Millar and
despite a good performance, displaying pool playing experience and maturity by
Millar, it would be young Patton advancing his team back to level terms
thanks to a sublime combination shot leaving exquisite position on the
black ball to make sure of his first league win which will surely be the first
of many.
Colt's Dee Harris rapidly potted six reds. Proceedings slowed considerably with
tactical play by both cueists culminating in an excellent long range
Blackball pot by Bowler's
Bowlers' Matthew Millar displaying impressive sportsmanship, calling a foul stroke on himself, that no
one else was aware of, including the referee, was able to notch
up another win for his team.
After an uncharacteristic in off it seemed surely Colwell who also had only one remaining colour would secure the win however he too would foul with an in off cue ball eventually gifting the win to Colt's Andy Mackey. Colt Captain Harry Warwick mistakenly lifted the cue ball causing a frame losing foul giving Ward the win.
Colt's Colin Beckinsale took the final frame of the first half for a 3-4 score line.
Colts Joe Patton levelled things up with a good clearance. John McClean put Cots 5-4 ahead. Andy Mackey fluked the black as momentum few in Colts' favour 6-4. Colin Beckinsale soon made it 7-4 putting Colts on the hill.
Mathew Millar swiftly executed a reverse dish for Bowlers, who hadn't given up hope. Bowlers Ryan Ward secured at least a bonus point.
However finally it was not to be the Bowlers night as Colt John McClean
did well to keep his head and use every ounce of his pool playing experience to
eventually get Colts over the line.
The Colts thanked the Bowlers for a great match and wish them the very best for the remainder of the season. Final result Colts 8 Bowlers 6
Whitehead Spartans' good start to the season continued tonight when they travelled down to face the Q. Club in Larne. After their win the previous night in the Semi Final of the Acorn Blinds KO Cup Spartans once again ground out another 8-6 victory.
A draw may have been the fairer result as the visitors definitely rode their luck at times. Q. Club never gave up the fight, they were 5-1 behind at one stage but deserved the bonus point for reaching six frames on the night. Winning for the hosts were the consistent Ciaran O'Toole with 2/3, Mark Abram 1/2, Eddie Gribben 1/3, Keston Withers 1/2 and Kyzler Todd 1/2
In other matches:
Scorpions and TopGuns were postponed. Trojans had no match and the rest of the scores are to the right:
Although a tight match was expected in the Whitehead Rangers Club, Darren Whiteside's team came flying out of the blocks and remarkably won the first eight frames (including three break and dishes and a reverse dish) to guarantee themselves the maximum three points. Spartans rallied winning five out of the last six as they chased the bonus point but it wasn't to be and Scorpions went back up the road with a well deserved 9-5 success.
Registering for the victors were Paul Kerr 3/3, Aaron Leslie 2/2, Stephen Harrison 2/3, Michael Wilson 1/3 and Jason Heffron 1/3.
For Spartans Kenny English scored 2/2, Jim Gourley 1/2, Trevor Whiteside 1/2 and Mark Millar 1/3
Cue Queens welcomed The Grange to the Q Club and started off well with Phil Watson securing the first game, a few missed pots in the next set of games let in the opposition. First half ended 6 1 to the Grange. Queens were unlucky in a few of those games with Rachel potting a superb long black only to watch the white sink as well. The second half saw Rachel step up and shake off the in-off demons to claim another frame for the Queens. Jean played a great tactical game against Ryan Scott to secure another win. Phil ended the match with a reverse dish against Richard kitson. Tough talented opponents but the Cue Queens still take away a few positives from the match and wish the Grange the best of luck for the rest of the season.
In other news, Phil has won £50 on the football cards this week whilst supporting the League Charity of the Year - Impact Network NI which helps support people dealing with mental health issues.
BOWLERS 5-9 ALPHA
The Alpha turned up exceptionally away against the bowlers with a 9-5 win. The bowlers ran into a 4-1 lead then Alpha won 8 of the next 9 frames to win 9-5. Superb result. The best performances of the night go to David Flanagan won 3-3 and Jonny Blair won 2-2 for Alpha, David Millar won 2-2 for the bowlers. Great night had by all.
Railways Blues welcomed the league new comers Kilroot True Blues to the Grange.
The blues won 7/0 in the first session, some great clearances. The second session went in a similar fashion, 6/7. Final score 13-1 to the Blues! We have been on the receiving end of results like that ourselves in the past few years! Kilroot are a great bunch of lads who will undoubtedly improve as the weeks go on!
The Tigers welcomed the Sharpshooters to the Times bar tom and Scott got the tigers off to a good start winning the first 2 games the sharpshooters responded well with burger and Thomas Orr both winning the next 2 games to level it up. Davy Mitchell and Johnny Eccles both win there games to restore the 2 nil lead for the tigers score 4 2 Chris McCurry won the final game off the first half making it a respectable score off 4 3 tigers everything to play for in the second half 🎱
Second half under way and it was role reversal the sharpshooters
would take the first 2 games with Lewis and Adam both winning sharpshooters
leading 5 4 the tigers would take the next 2 games with Steven Simpson and Davy
Mitchell getting the wins putting the tigers 6 5 up with 3 games to play it
could all still go either way Thomas Orr and Gordon win the next 2 games for
the sharpshooters putting them 7 6 Infront with one game left to play up
stepped Tom Mcgurk to get the draw for the tigers and so he did with a little
help from Chris final score 7 each
Great atmosphere between all the lads in both teams tonight good
laugh all round,,,
Goodluck to the sharpshooters for the rest of the season.
Defending champions, Titans suffered heartbreak at
the Q Club as Whitehead Spartans edged a thrilling contest in a deciding
play-off frame.
Andy Quinn's Titans were aiming to retain the trophy they
lifted last season, but Kenny English's Spartans once again proved to be
formidable opponents. The match ebbed and flowed throughout the evening, with
neither side able to establish control.
Trailing 7-6 heading into Frame 14, Spartans needed a
victory to keep their cup hopes alive. Billy Pawson delivered under pressure to
level the tie at 7-7 and send the match to a decider.
In the play-off frame, Spartans captain Kenny English showed all his experience and composure to guide his side into the semi-finals, where they will now host Times Bar Scorpions.
Times Bar Scorpions booked their semi-final place in emphatic fashion
with a dominant victory over Sharpshooters. The visitors took an early lead
when Ayoub Kharmouch produced a sensational clearance. Scorpions responded through the Aaron Leslie
and Darren Whiteside in frames where they had to use all of their experience to
win, before Scorpions took complete control of proceedings.
Darren Haddock and Paul Kerr produced a series of
scintillating finishes, while Michael Wilson potted a superb long black as
Scorpions surged into a commanding 6-1 interval lead.
Haddock added another excellent finish in the second half before Kerr completed the victory, sealing an impressive 8-1 success and ensuring safe passage into the semi-finals to meet Spartans. The match can be viewed here.
The Grange produced one of the comebacks of the competition
to defeat Trojans at Rangers Club and secure their place in the last four.
The Trojans made an excellent start, with Lawrence Armour
taking the opening frame before the hosts built a commanding 5-2 lead by
halfway Watch it again here.
However, The Grange demonstrated exactly why they are
regarded as one of the league's strongest sides. Ryan Scott, Thomas Fleming,
Jackie Murdock and Richard Kitson spearheaded a remarkable resurgence, winning
five consecutive frames to turn the tie on its head.
The match eventually went to a deciding play-off frame where
Jackie Murdock held his nerve to defeat Maurice Beattie and complete a superb
comeback victory.
Final Result: The Grange progress after overturning a
significant deficit in a memorable cup encounter where they will play Times Bar
Tigers.
Times Bar Tigers (pictured above) also secured a
semi-final berth with an impressive 8-6 victory over Q Club.
In a closely contested encounter, the Tigers showed their
quality in the key moments to overcome a determined Q Club side and continue
their cup run. Their reward is a place in the last four as the competition
moves ever closer to crowning this season's champions.
The race for the Acorn Blinds Knockout Cup promises
an exciting climax over the coming weeks.
Semi-Final Line-Up To Be Played on Monday 19th
October 2026
The Trojans got off to a great start, with Gary Fitzsimmons and Gordan McKinty winning the opening two frames.
The next frame was a very close affair, with both players playing some great safety shots. Johnny Eccles eventually came out on top to get the Tigers on the scoreboard.
The next four frames were won by Tigers players Stephen Simpson, Sam Sloan, Davy Mitchell and John Fulton, giving the Tigers a 5–2 lead at the halfway stage.
The second half started much the same as the first, with Trojans' Christopher Hobson and Gary Fitzsimmons winning the opening two frames to bring the Trojans back into the match.The next frame of the night has to be called “the frame neither player wanted to win!” 😂 Both players had chances and somehow managed to miss some very easy blacks before John Fulton finally took the frame.
The final three frames were shared, with Davy Mitchell winning for the Tigers, Lawrence Armour getting one back for the Trojans, before Stephen Simpson won the final frame of the night.
Well done to the Time Tigers on the win, and thanks to everyone for another great night's pool and crack.
Another strong night for the Breakers (pictured right) at home, taking the win 9–5 against a young Top Guns side.
Michael “Atchy” Atcheson got off to the perfect start, clearing up first visit to put the Breakers 1–0 ahead.
Dee Flanagan looked set to double the lead in the next but jawed the black, and Daryl Walker capitalised with a cracking long pot to level things at 1–1.
David “Pads” Flanagan restored the lead at 2–1 before Big Jonny Blair produced one of the shots of the night. After recovering well in the frame, Jonny pulled off a lovely swerve pot on the black to make it 3–1.
Lee McCord took the next after an unfortunate accidental pot on the black from his opponent, before the same fate hit Kye Robinson, who accidentally potted the black to give Top Guns one back.Top Guns then took the longest frame of the match, leaving it 4–3 to the Breakers going into the break.Alpha's player of the year so far, Atchy, who took his second frame of the night to make it 5–3.Top Guns pulled one back, but Pads and Dee responded by taking the next two and putting Alpha on the hill at 7–4, then up stepped big Jonny. With the pressure on and the match there to be won, nerves of steel as he cut in the black to secure the 8th frame and guarantee another Breakers victory!The final two frames were shared, bringing the final score to: ALPHA BREAKERS 9–5 TOP GUNS.
Thanks to Top Guns — a young side, good craic all night and a pleasure to play. All the best for the rest of the season!
Scorpions hosted Q Club Larne in the Times Bar. Steven Johnston won the lag and ripped out the finish of the night. One of the youngest players in the league Keston Withers had a great reverse dish. Paul Kerr had a break and dish and Cinto had another reverse dish. Michael Wilson potted the black of the night, after a sublime reverse dish, from under the baulk cushion pinpoint the length of the table to secure a 5-2 lead at half time. Stephen Johnston had yet another break and dish to start the second half. Paul Kerr put Scorpions on the hill with a fabulous finish. Q Club Larne didn’t roll over though and soon raced back to 7-5 hoping for a draw or even a bonus point but Michael Wilson, also in fine form secured the points with a fine reverse dish. Stephen Harrison mercilessly kept his foot on the gas with a break and dish to ensure a solid 9-5 victory over a very talented side. Man of the match had to be Stephen Johnston with two break and dishes and a reverse dish but a solid team performance from the Times Bar Scorpions against a resilient Q Club Larne.
Galacticos took on the league leaders, Sharpshooters. The Greenisland men started off brilliantly, racing to 2-0 up but then found themselves 3-2 behind without their opponents potting a black
Galacticos dusted themselves down to win the match 10-4.
Last year's League Bronze medalists The Spartans travelled up as favourites to play the Colts in the Greenisland Working Men's Club. But it was anything but routine as Colts pushed the visitors right to the last frame of the match.
Jacob Patton led the way for the hosts in Frame 1 and was unfortunate to lose out to Robert Hawkins before James Gourley and Mark Millar (break & dish) increased the lead to 3-0. The remaining four racks before the interval were shared, Millar and Hawkins again for Spartans and Joe Patton and Aaron Watters registering for the hosts.
The first four of the second half were also shared, Watters winning again for Colts along with Andy Mackey and Stephen McLaughlin and James Gourley on the mark for the away team to give Spartans a 7-4 lead in this fourteen frame match. Colts then upped the anti putting the pressure on by winning the next two courtesy of Colin Beckonsale and another for Joe Patton. 7-6 now with one to play and Colts John McLean can consider himself unlucky not to reverse dish of a dry break from Hawkins but it was the latter who went on to edge the frame and secure a narrow 8-6 win and 3 points for the Whitehead team. Colts can be proud of their performance securing a bonus point by winning 6 frames on the night.
Big thanks to the GWMC for the refreshments on the night much enjoyed.
All of the leagues other match results are below:
Enthusiastic Amateurs from Glen Inn in Glengormley travelled down to Whitehead Rangers Supporters Club to play their first fixture in the seaside venue since joining this year's Carrick & District Pool League.
It was a Last Sixteen Knockout Cup match sponsored by Acorn Blinds NI and it
was a straight race to eight frames to decide who progressed into the Quarter
Finals of the competition.
Spartans started well with the in form Mark Millar winning the first rack and Paddy Graham doubled the gap with a fine break and dish in the next. It was soon a one frame deficit again as Jordan Oliver finished well in Frame Three for the Glengormley team.
Spartans then took control winning three on the bounce courtesy of Mark Millar, Paddy Graham and Robert Hawkins. Paul Leslie gave Amateurs hope winning the last rack of the First Session, Spartans now leading 5-2. Robert Hawkins and Paddy Graham increased the lead to put Spartans on the hill at 7-2 but Kenny English potted the black mid frame to gift Dean Best the win and bring it back to 7-3. Alas for the visitors it was game over in the next, Trevor Whiteside taking out a fine finish to ensure Spartans a Quarter Final berth.
TIMES TIGERS 8 RAILWAY BLUES 5 KNOCKOUT CUP RESULT
The times tigers welcomed the railway blues to the times bar for our knockout cup encounter,the blues got off to a good start taking the first 2 games thanks to Ryan Stewart and Gareth curlett,Scott pettigrew would win the next one for the tigers with a fine finish to make it 2 1 the tigers would take the next 2 games with Davy Mitchell and Sam Sloan both winning having the tigers leading 3 2 however next game Nathan gray would get the blues back on track with a beautiful break and dish to make the score level at 3 each John Fulton would get his revenge for his earlier loss against Gareth curlett to make it 4 3 to the tigers everything still to play for,Scott Pettigrew stepped up next for the tigers getting the win to make it 5 3 John Fulton was up next for the tigers and got his second win off the night to make it 6 3 to the tigers the next two games went go the blues with Nathan gray and Gareth Curlett winning there games to make it 6 5,, next game Stephen Mcwhriter got the win for the tigers to put them on the hill winning 7 5. Up stepped Stephen Simpson for the tigers he got the win with a nice finish in the final game to make it 8 5 on the night to the tigers 🎱 Tigers will face Q Club in the next round.
Bowlers vs Grange
Grange started the match of brilliantly, running into a 3-0 lead, with the first half ending 5-2. The Bowlers started
the 2nd half well with Sammy Millar pulling it back to 5-3 but the Grange won
the next three frames to win 8-3 superb performance from the Grange on the
night… Stephen Herron, Johnny Mackay and Uel Wallace won 2 out of 2 for the
grange and Sammy Millar won 2 out of 3 for the bowlers… Great night had by all….
Other teams reaching the last 8 were, Titans, Times Bar Scorpions, Sharp Shooters, Trojans, Q Club Larne. Railway Blues and Tigers match was postponed. Quarter Finals fixtures and dates are below:
Representing the Carrickfergus Pool League, sponsored by SKC Gaming NI Ltd, CDPL Vice Chairperson Darren Whiteside attended the launch event and is pictured with Órlaithí Flynn MLA, Chairperson of the All-Party Group on Suicide Prevention, which led the inquiry behind the A Shared Responsibility report.
The report highlights the vital role that communities, organisations, sporting groups, and individuals can play in creating hope, supporting wellbeing, and helping those who may be struggling.
At Carrickfergus Pool League, we know our league is about much more than what happens around the table. It's about friendship, community, and looking out for one another, both on and off the baize.
That is why we are encouraging members and the wider community to attend our safeTALK Suicide Awareness Training next Tuesday evening. This important training opportunity is funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) through Impact Network NI and will equip participants with the skills to recognise when someone may be struggling, start supportive conversations, and help connect them to the support they need.
You do not need to be a counsellor or mental health professional to make a difference. Sometimes, simply noticing, listening, and being there for someone can be the first step towards getting someone the help they need.
As a league, we are proud to support the principles set out in A Shared Responsibility and to play our part in building a community where nobody feels they have to face difficult times alone.
Together, we can help create a culture where it's okay to talk, okay to ask for help, and okay to look out for each other.
The Carrickfergus Pool League would like to thank Impact Network NI and the Public Health Agency for supporting the delivery of this important training opportunity for our members and the wider community.
#CarrickfergusPoolLeague #SKCGamingNILtd #safeTALK #SuicidePrevention #ASharedResponsibility #CommunityMatters #MentalHealthAwareness #ItsOKToTalk #ImpactNetworkNI #PHA #CarrickfergusCommunity
The strongest teams aren't just built on winning matches. They're built on supporting each other when it matters most.
Kenny English's Spartans came flying out of the blocks racing into a 6-0 lead before Alpha took the last rack of the first session. It was soon 8-1 but a spirited fight back by the visitors reduced the arrears to 8-3 with three to play. Spartans went on to take two of those remaining frames but the biggest cheer of the night was in Frame 13 for Jonny Blair defeating Trevor Whiteside with a great finish in a 9 Ball re-rack, winning team mate Mark Kitson a Rangers cue towel, as a side bet in the process.
It was great craic with the Alpha guys and great to see them back in the league which they last played in, in the 2019 / 2020 season. Also great to see new talented younger players being blooded into the team which bodes well for the future under the guidance of Angie Carson, Davy Flanagan, Mark Kitson and Jonny Blair.
SCORERS ON THE NIGHT: Spartans - Mark Millar 2/2, James Gourley 2/2, Robert Hawkins 2/2, Alan Johnston 1/2, Trevor Whiteside 1/2, Kenny English 1/2, Billy Pawson 1/2. Alpha - Michael Atcheson 2/3, Don McAteer 1/2, Jonny Blair 1/2
Bowlers played at home to Pink Ladies, starting the first set with David Craig against Pink Ladies' Marion King. After a back-and-forth frame, David came out on top, which led to Bowlers taking the next two frames. Pink Ladies were able to stop the Bowlers' run, with Kerry Brown taking to the table to win the 4th frame. Bowlers were able to continue to add to their lead, picking up the next three frames and finishing the first set 6-1 to Bowlers.
Set 2 commenced with Pink Ladies starting strong, with Angela Willis and Marion King taking two of the first three frames, still holding onto the chance to push for a draw and bringing the score line to 7-3. Bowlers were able to extend the lead to a final score of 11-3.
Players of the night were Kerry Brown, who took a win in the first set and was unfortunate not to win her second match with a in-off on the black ball, and William Millar from Bowlers. Great effort from Kora Mawhinney, who only started in the league this season and is showing great potential.
Final score 11-3 to Bowlers.
The Times Bar Tigers welcomed the current champions, Titans, who got off to a great start taking the first 5 games with some clinical finishes. However it wouldn't go all there way with Stephen Simpson and John Fulton winning the last 2 games of the first half to make it 5 2 going into break. Titans took the first 2 games with some lovely finishes. John Fulton got another one on the board for the Tigers, but that was it as the Titian's win the remaining games to win the match 11 3.
Railway Blues took on high flying Granges in the local derby.
The Blues started brightly with Ryan Stewart taking a tough, cagey opener. He had to be patient and wait for his chance but finished it well. That was quickly cancelled out as Curly was desperately unlucky - going in-off on his second last yellow to lose his first frame.
Josh McIlroy then put the Blues back ahead, getting a win with a bit of luck on his side, but Wes Smith was then on the wrong end of one - an outstanding clearance from Jonny McKay that there was just nothing he could do about.
Curly bounced back in style though, grinding out a long frame to get a great win for his second game, but Granges took the session with Bubble and Skinny both losing out, Skinny to a great finish against him. 3-4 at the halfway point.
The second half started with Andrew Carmichael losing out 0-1 to
Johnny Mackay, but the Blues middle order then put together a real run.
Ryan made it two wins on the night beating Uel Wallace 1-0, Josh McIlroy also made it two from two with a 1-0 win over Ryan Scott, and Curly completed his own double with a 1-0 win over Wayne Lewis - making it 3 wins on the bounce for the Blues.
Matthew Hagan kept the momentum going, beating Stephen Herron 1-0 to put the Blues 4-1 up in the session and 7-5 up on the night.
Granges weren't done though and showed why it's a derby - Richard Kitson beat Wes Smith and Johnny Mackay playing his second frame of the night beat Robin Kerr to pull the session back to 4-3.Railway Blues 7-7 Granges
A fair result in the end. Curly, Ryan and Josh all ending the night with two wins each which was the backbone of the performance, with Matthew adding the other. Plenty of unlucky frames and some top finishing from both sides - exactly what you'd expect from a Railway vs Granges derby.
Q Club came away with a 10–4 victory over Colts, although the score line doesn’t quite reflect a match with plenty of competitive pool along the way. Q Club put together a strong team performance, with wins coming throughout the line-up. Mark Abram, Rorie McAllister, Keston Withers, Ian McCalmont, Kyzler Todd, Ciaran Otoole and Jay Young all played their part as Q Club steadily built towards the 8 frames needed. Colts certainly had their moments and kept battling throughout. Andy Mackey had an excellent night with three wins, while John McClean added their other frame. They continued to compete right to the end and made Q Club earn the result.
Overall, it was a solid team performance from Q Club, with contributions across the board helping secure the 10–4 win. A good competitive match played in the right spirit. Thanks to Colts for the game and all the best to them for the rest of the season.
Topguns vs Kilroot True Blues
Great night of pool as Topguns ease to 7 up at half time.
Killroot's Wayne Crozier came out in the first game of the second half with a nice clearance. The Top Guns pushed on later in the match to finish the night of with a 12-2 win. This result sends True Blues to the foot of the league table.
Topguns- Phoenixx Martin 3/3 Reuben Laverty 2/2 Dee Irwin 1/2 James Robertson snr 2/2 William McCullough 3/3 Jim Watterson 1/1
In other matches:
Last week's league leaders, Times Bar Scorpions drop an astonishing 7 league positions due to it being their week for no match.
Sharpshooters move top of the table with 4 emphatic wins from 4 by pumping of Q Queens 12-2.
Galacticos remain unbeaten as they cruised to a 9-5 win over Trojans, which can be viewed here.
Whiteabbey Legion move up the table with another solid 10-4 victory against Enthusiastic Amateurs.
