Q Club Retain the Knockagh Cup

 

Q Club Pool team lift the Knockagh for the second time in as many seasons. The Larne men overcame Whiteabbey Legion in the final.

Grange Lift the Castle Cup

Grange pool team won the Castle Cup for the first time with a topsy-turvy playoff win against the Times Bar Scorpions.

The Ballyclare men took control early doors with nice finishes from Stephen Hereon, Richard Kitson and Ryan Scott opening a 3-0 lead, before the experienced duo of Darren Haddock and Paul Kerr brought the Belfast men back to 3-2. Michael Wilson and Robin Blair both won to restore the three-frame advantage at 5-2 to Grange after the first session. Stephen Johnston and Michael Wilson shared the next two to make it 6-3, before Kerr, Johnston and Haddock reeled off the next three to level things at 6-6. The 13th frame was a long tense affair with Kitson eventually punishing an uncharacteristic in-off from Kerr to put Grange on the hill. In the battle of the Blair's, Robin looked like he was about to hand Grange the win, but missed his last yellow and Davy had a tap in to force the decider. With the other two finals finished, a large crowd gathered as Wayne Lewis and Aaron Leslie played out a tense playoff. After a safety battle, a telling snooker from Lewis forced the mistake from Leslie and the Ballyclare man cleared up to secure the Cup for Granges . The final was played in great spirit and unfortunately there had to be a loser but the congratulations and commiserations between the players at end was great to see.

Well done men.

Bay City Bowlers win their first silverware

The Bowlers made the trip to the Grange Bar on Tuesday night to take on the Tigers in the Harbour Cup, sponsored by Amber Castle Entertainment. With the cup very much up for grabs. The Bowlers have shown real improvement this season, although a combination of good opposition play and the occasional “what was I thinking?” shot has sometimes made them their own worst enemy.

With a few loyal travelling supporters along for moral support (and pressure), the Bowlers got off to a dream start. Sammy Miller opened proceedings by taking the first game, before Ricky Rocket and Davie Craig followed suit to race into a 3–0 lead. The Tigers, clearly unimpressed with this plan, decided to fight back and took the next two frames to make it 3–2.

Aaron Reid, carrying on from last week’s good form, steadied the ship with a win, only for the Tigers to spoil the party once again and pull it back to 4–3 at the break.

The second half began well, with Sam getting things going for the Bowlers. True to form, the Tigers refused to lie down and dragged another game back, ensuring the Bowlers had to earn every single point. 

Wins from Davie Craig and Aaron Reid then put the Bowlers within touching distance of the title.

Davie Craig had the chance to finish it in style but kindly left the door open by missing an easy black near the pocket, keeping the Tigers’ hopes alive. Step forward player of the night, Sammy Miller, who played sublimely and finally put the Tigers to bed, earning the Bowlers their first piece of silverware.

The match was played in great spirits throughout, with plenty of laughs, banter, and top-class craic enjoyed by all.

Final score 8-5

Seniors down to last 6. Cinto still standing.

 

The Seniors competition got underway on Tuesday. The reigning Champion, Scorpions Stephen 'Cinto' Johnston is still standing. We had 354 participants and are now down to six. the remaining quarter finals will commence at 7:30 on 11th February on 11th February in Greenisland Club.

Titans Too Tough for Galacticos but a point was a bonus

Whitehead Trojans vs Railway Blues, at the Grange Bar Ballyclare on a chilly Tuesday night, with Storm Chandra brewing outside. The weather was looking pretty rough, with heavy rain and strong winds forecasted, but the Trojans still made the journey.

The teams have had a mixed bag of results recently. Their last meeting ended in a 7-7 draw, so it'll be interesting to see how things play out tonight.

Stephen Hamilton got the Trojans off to a good start winning his first frame of the night after Ryan Stewart went in off on his break. Robin Kerr, Josh McIroy (a magnificent swerve shot after running out of position on the black), Gareth Curlett and Wes Smith won the next four frames convincingly giving the blues a 4-1 lead. Stephen Hamilton then won his second frame of the night before Chris Hobson won the final frame of the session. 4-3 at the break with everything still to play for. 

Second session began with a win for the blues, Craig Laughlin winning his first frame of the night. The Trojans fought back well winning the night two, Stephen Hamilton making it 3/3 on the night and Matthew Thompson, 5-5. Wes Smith produced an incredible shot the get onto the black in the 11th frame then Josh Mcilroy put the blues on the hill after a scrappy frame, 2/2 for McIlroy. The penultimate frame was won by Gordon McKintry. 7-6 to the blues with one frame to play. Craig Laughlin held his nerve to to take out a lovely finish and get the win for the Railway! 

A highly competitive game played in great spirit! Thanks to the Trojans for making the journey and all the best for the rest of the season.

 

Stadium welcomed the Times Tigers to their bar for this weeks league action Tigers looked to start off well with John Fulton winning the break and with a good break he started to clear the table, John being a very capable player it looked inevitable to be a break and dish however a surprising miss stopped that in its tracks and Stadium player Thomas Orr stepped up to the table, cool, calm and collected he punished his opponents mistake with a nicely put together clearance, 1-0 to Stadium. Next game the exact same situation played out with Tigers Stephen Simpson unable to see out his chance at a break and dish, while Bryan Elwood stepped up to the plate and took his opportunity and taking the win to put his team to 2-0. Scott Pettigrew stepped up next to stop the rot and not let stadium continue to build a lead. Sam Sloan then took the next game after a back and forth game to take it back to even at 2-2. Phillip Watson somehow pulled out a win in the next following a turbulent game putting stadium back in the lead 3-2. Both captains stepped up next in a battle to either level the score or extend a lead,  after a great battle on the table it was Stadium captain Chris McCurry who came out victor with a beautiful double on his last ball which was also a combination shot with the white into the black, 4-2 Stadium. John was up again for the Tigers and very much the same as his first game he got a good break and went about clearing the balls this time he got down to the black although a break and dish was not on the cards for John yet again as he missed the black leaving it over the middle pocket, first game for Johnathan Drake of the Stadium and a big task to ask but he stepped up and went about clearing the balls, unfortunately for him though he missed the pot on his last ball although it did find a different pocket so did the white, a simple drop in black for John stopping the rot again and finishing off the first half. Scoreline 4-3 to Stadium

 After a close first half it was all still to fight for, Bryan got his 2nd win of the night edging Stadium closer to some points, 5-3. Yet again though tigers fought back with John winning to get the game back within one, 5-4. Chris then won his 2nd of the night and guaranteeing his team a point, 6-4. Stadium then started to gain momentum taking the next 3 with wins from Johnathan, James Robertson and Phillip, 3 points to Stadium and a bonus point denied to Tigers with the score being 9-4. Scott won the last frame of the night as consolation, match finished 9-5 to Stadium. 

Players of note: Bryan Elwood, Chris McCurry and Phillip Watson all winning 2/2 on the night

Honourable mention to John Fulton and Scott Pettigrew both with 2/3 wins

Colts raced out of the blocks against Times Bar Scorpions with a tidy win for Alan Harris, Joe Patton with a sublime break and dish with a smashing last red to get on the black and Aaron Watters via an in off the black from Stephen Johnston. Sensing danger the scorpions talisman Paul Kerr stopped the rot, Darren Haddock brought the arrears back within one and Davy Blair levelled. Aaron Leslie had a tasty reverse dish to take the a 4-3 lead.  Stephen Johnston made it 5-3 followed by another from Aaron Leslie and another from Stephen Johnston to put Scorpions on the hill at 7-3. Joe Patton was superb 3very tidy finishes in the match but Scorpions ran out 9-5 in a match that was much closer than the score line suggests.

With Scorpions getting three points it was imperative for Titans to do the same... And thats what they did against Galacticos. The bonus point has brought Galacticos level with Scorpions in second place.

In other matches Bay city Bowlers 6 Legion 8, Q Club 14 Ladies 0, 

 

No Change At The Top

On Tuesday 20^th January the Whitehead Rangers Trojans welcomed the Carrick’s Bay City Bowlers. The first frame was won by Trojans’ Stephen Hamilton when he doubled his last ball into the centre pocket leaving a straight black into the same pocket, Darren Clifford won the next frame for the Bowlers to level the match. The next frame was a very tight frame with Aaron Reid was very unlucky when he potted the black and the white ball followed the black into the same pocket. Frames 4,5 and 6 were won by Gary Fitzsimmons (Trojans) Richard Topping (Bowlers) and Gary Fitzsimmons (Trojans). The last frame of the first half was won by Matthew Thompson after Bowlers Stuart McBride made a mistake when he was awarded 2 shoot after Matthew missed his ball out of a snooker. Stuart lifted the white ball without asking the referee to lift it which is a foul and frame over.

The second half started with Gary Fitzsimmons with a great black winning his 3rd frame of the night. Bowlers’ Ian McMillan won the next frame. The Trojans then took control of the match winning the next 5 frames wins for Stephen Hamilton, Matthew Thompson, Girvan Fleming and Gordan McKinty.  Players of the night were Trojans Gary Fitzsimmons, Matthew Thompson and Stephen Hamilton all winning 3 out 3 frames.

Pink Ladies hosted Times Bar Scorpions in Greenisland WWMC. Scorpions’ Darren Whiteside got the ball rolling with a swift whitewash. Davy Blair made it 2 and Paul Kerr broke n dished sublimely to make it 3. Aaron Leslie made it 4 and David Blair chipped in his second to make it 0-6. Aaron Leslie nearly potted the cue ball and the black but held on to make it 0-7 at half time.

Darren Whiteside was up against Joan Bustard, who made a fabulous debut, but it was Darren Whiteside who won the frame sealing the 3 points for the Scorpions. Paul Kerr made it 0-9 before Tracey Cooke experienced her second frame without a shot as Aaron Leslie ripped out a lovely break n dish. Lee McIlreevy made it 0-10 followed by Davy Blair and Darren Whiteside. The biggest cheer of the night came from Angela Willis’ fans as she took advantage, mopping up her remaining balls, after Lee McIlreevy went in off, in off to secure the Pink Ladies’ solitary frame. Final score Pink Ladies 1 Scorpions 13.

Times Tigers welcomed the Galacticos to the Shore Road. It was a sobering lesson for the Tigers in the first half with 2 wins each for Roger Smyth and Gee Crawley and a win each for Jack and Chris Carson and only Tom McGurk getting on the scoresheet for the Tigers.

The second half saw more of the same! Roger completed his hat trick of wins on the night and Chris Carson won his second. Tom McGurk grabbed his own second of the night to leave the score at 8-2 at this stage and the win guaranteed for the Galacticos and this sparked a little bit of hope for the Tigers. Scott Pettigrew grabbed another for the Tigers and then Tom McGurk grabbed his third of the night to bring the score to 8-4. Could the Tigers get an unlikely losing bonus point?? Nay said the Galacticos with another double from Jack and Chris to leave the final score 10-4. Special mention to Chris, and Roger for the Galacticos and Tom McGurk of the Tigers for 3/3 wins on the night! And to Gee and Jack with 2/3 wins on the night.

But spare a thought for the poor captain of the reigning champions, Mr Womb Ferret himself who was unlucky in both his games to brilliantly and impressively pot 6 balls and then foul and so go on to lose both!!  A great nights craic as always, with some fine darts thrown in for good measure and the beer was it's usual high standard!!

Tigers 4 Galacticos 10

In other matches: Grange 6 Q Club 8,  Colts 11 Stadium 3, Titans 9 Blues 5, Legion 5 Spartans 9.

The second half of the season is underway

Tuesday 13th January was the start of the second half of the league season.

The Times Tigers came to the Grange bar on Tuesday night to face the Railway Blues. The first time the teams met this season, the Tigers destroyed the Blues by a 10 frame margin! 

The Tigers started well winning the first two frames of the night, Scott and John with the wins! Blues pulled one back through Gareth Curlet with a good black. Johnny put the Tigers 3-2 up with a great finish! The Railway won the next 3 frames, Rambo, Sammy and Matthew taking the wins! Matthew had a fantastic break and finish giving the Blues a 4-3 lead at the break.

John took out a great finish to level the scores at the start of the second session. Robin and Skinny then put the Blues in a commanding 6-4 lead. The Tigers wouldn't lie down, winning frames 11 and 12, Stephen and Johnny getting the wins. 6-6 with everything to play for, Gareth Curlet held his nerve to put the Blues on the hill. The Railways January singing Rambo Crowe showed his class winning the final frame and giving the Blues their third league win on the bounce as Blues leapfrog Tigers in the table. A closely fought contest played in a great manner! Unlucky to the Times Bar Tigers and thanks for a great game.

The Bay City Bowlers welcomed league leaders Q Club Titans to Carrickfergus. It was an encouraging start for the home side, with Davie Craig putting early points on the board. Tight second and third frames followed, where Stuart Kelly first leveled and then Brian Kelly edged the visitors into the lead.

In the fourth, Craig once again demonstrated his quality with another well earned win. The next frame was closely contested, but the visitors began to build momentum. That shift became decisive when Brian Crilly produced a superb break and dish, sparking an onslaught that continued for the remainder of the match.

Despite the Bowlers’ best efforts, it was clear why Q Club Titans sit atop the league standings. The visitors led 5–3 at the break and then powered through the second half, claiming seven of the remaining games to secure a convincing 12–2 victory.

The match was played in great spirit, and the Bowlers wish Q Club Titans every success in their title charge.🎱

Times Bar Scorpions hosted the Grange. Gary Neesan, a seasoned campaigner, ripped out a beautiful reverse dish to get the ball rolling for the Ballyclare men. Lee Mcilreevy broke and dished in the next to level the scores. Johnny Mackay was a fraction off on his last ball for another break and dish letting Stephen Johnston in for an 8 ball clearance. In a more tactical game Darren Whiteside made it 3-1 to the Tigers Bay men. Paul Kerr soon made it 4-1followed by a Aaron Leslie vs former Scorpion Michael Wilson who looked to have played a great containing safety only for Aaron to play a wonder pot and sink the black. Paul Kerr round off the fist half with another for the Scorpions at 6-1. Grange are too strong to just roll over and Johnny Mackay won the first frame of the second half. Paul Kerr chipped in with his 3rd of the night for Scorpions before Michael Wilson added to the Grange's total after Lee McIlreevy snookered himself on his last ball (11) Steak v Hatch - YouTube. Aaron Leslie secured the points for Times Bar Scorpions. Uel Wallace and Thomas Fleming took the next couple for the Grange and the final frame went to Lee McIlreevy. Final Score Scorpions 9 Grange 5. 

In other matches:

Amber Castle Entertainment Harbour cup, Knockagh and Castle Cup results

 

Harbour Cup Sponsored by Amber Castle Entertainment

Happy New Year Everyone.

Tuesday 6th January

The semi-final of the Harbour cup sponsored by Amber Castle Entertainment was played in Whitehead Rangers between the Trojans and Times bar Tigers. The match start with a win for Trojans Stephen Hamilton after Tigers Stephen Simpson potting the black by mistake. The Tigers John Fulton won the next frame to make it 1 each. As usual this was a very close match with the Trojans Gordan McKinty,Christopher Hobson and Stephen Hamilton winning and the Tigers Sam Sloan and Scott Pettigrew taking frame for them. At half time the Trojans were 4- 3 up. The second half started really well for the Trojans with Jared McFadden and Gordan McKinty winning the first two frames. But then the Tigers start a great come back by winning the next 5 frames to take them through to final  winning8 - 6. Congratulations to Tigers and good luck in the final.

Bowlers 8-1 Pink Ladies

Knockagh Cup
The prelim for the Knockagh Cup started well for the Colts winning the first two frames of the session, wins for Joe and Aaron. Bubble pulled one back for the Blues, this was the story of the first session, a very even contest. The Colts went into the break 4-3 up.
Ryan made the score line even with a break and dish to start the second session. But Joe put the Colts back in front with a solid frame. The blues found a bit of momentum winning the next 3 frames, Matthew, new signing Rambo and Robin with the wins, 7-5 blues. The Colts battled on winning the last two frames, Cujo and Dee taking the match to a deciding frame.
The decider was a tough frame with a big cluster of balls in the middle of the table. Ryan Stewart eventually found a shot and took out the clearance giving victory to the Railway blues.
A well contested, tight game which could have went either way. Best performance went to Matthew Hagan 2/2 on the night.
In the other prelim the high flying Galacticos came down to earth with a bump as Whitehead Spartans knocked them out at the first hurdle by a score line of 5-8.
The semis tonight should be crackers too.
Railway Blues at home to Legion and Stadium at home to Q Club.

Tuesday 6th Jan

Railway 7-8 Legion Rab Butler winning the playoff v Ryan Stewart

Stadium 6-8 Q Club


Castle Cup

Monday night prelim

Galacticos 5-8 Spartans


Tuesday 6th Jan

Spartans 6-8 Grange

Scorpions 8-7 Titans
In the Castle Cup the league leaders, Titans travelled to Times Bar to take on second placed Scorpions in a race to 8.
The Titans raced out of the blocks with Brian Crilly and Riley Patterson taking the first two. Scorpions Paul Kerr and Stephen Johnston hit back to draw level. Titans Aaron Wright and Riley Patterson with a break and dish took the two frame advantage once more. Lee McIlreevy secured the last frame of the first half to reduce Scorpions arrears to 3-4. Riley Patterson chipped in his third for the night and Paul Kerr hit back once more. Dean McDonagh put the Larne men 4-6 up. Stephen Johnston and Aron Leslie levelled up the scores at 6-6. Sensing a momentum swing Titan’s Ryan McKillop broke and dished to put the Titans on the hill. Lee McIlreevy dug deep to level at 7-7 and ensure a single frame shoot out.
Titan’s captain, Andy Quinn faced Scorpions Aaron Leslie.
Aaron held his nerve and secured a safe passage into the final for the Times Bar Scorpions drawing on his years of experience and tactical prowess.
Final score Times Bar Scorpions 8 Q Club Titans 7.

Christmas Results

Tuesday 23rd December was our last matches of the first half of the season. What a match was had by the tigers and the bowlers at the bowling club, the tigers raced into a 5 - 1 lead superb start. The bowlers won the last frame before the half time stage to make it 5 - 2. The bowlers had brilliant 2nd half winning the first frame before the tigers won the next 2 which took it to 7 - 3 to the tigers. The bowlers won the next 3 to bring it back to 7 - 6 the bowlers only needed the last frame to make it a draw which would of been a superb comeback but well done to Tom Mcgurk on winning the last frame for the tigers to win the match 8 - 6 brilliant match and wonderful night had by all for the final match before the Xmas break. Best players of the night where Sam Sloan, Tom Mcgurk and Johnny Eccles for the tigers all winning 2 out 3 frames each and David Craig and Sam Millar both winning 2 out of 3 frames each as well for the bowlers. Merry Xmas and a happy new year to all.

In the Times Bar Whiteabbey Legion eased to a 2-0 lead via evergreen 🌲 Andy Arbuthnott and Darren O’Neil.

Scorpions’ Paul Kerr and Darren Whiteside brought it back to 2-2, after Mark Porter went in off a black.

The next four frames were also shared via legion’s star man, Rab Butler and Darren McFarland.

Scorpions’ man of the moment, Stephen Johnston was in scintillating form, taking one before the half time interval and then executing the finish of the night just after the break, inspiring the Scorpions into gear.

Davy Blair broke and dished in the next followed by Paul Kerr, Aaron Leslie and Darren Whiteside with his second to get the Scorpions over the winning line 8-4.

Paul Kerr soon secured his hat trick and Lee McIlreavey made it 7-0 in the second half and a final score of Times Bar Scorpions10 - Legion 4.


Bay City Bowlers 6-8 Times Tigers,  Greenisland Colts 6-8 Grange Ballyclare, Pink Ladies

1-13 Stadium, Q Club Larne 8-6 Whitehead Trojans, Railway Blues 1-13 Greenisland Galacticos, Spartans 7-7 Q Club Titans, Times Bar Scorpions 10-4 Whiteabbey Legion


Merry Christmas 🎅 from the Carrick & District Pool League. We hope you have a fabulous new year.

Last 16 of Open singles results

Lewis Neill 2 vs 4 Richard Kitson

David Robert Blair 4 vs 3Gary Neesan

Stephen Johnston 0 vs 4 Ryan Scott

Rhys Mclaughlin 4 vs 0 Lee Mcilreavy

Denise Esdale 0 vs 4 Stephen Herron

Aaron Watters 4 vs 2 DarrenW

Tom McGurk 4 vs 3 Jim Gilchrist

Paul Kerr vs Robert Hawkins pp

The next round will be redrawn.
Well done everyone.

Big wins, narrow defeats, bonus points, a couple of draws

Big wins, narrow defeats, bonus points, a couple of draws and Tiger moves to the top of the player of the year in the Carrick District Pool League sponsored by SKC Gaming NI Ltd.

Whiteabbey Royal British Legion welcomed the Greenisland Colts and what a great match it was. Colts won the first game and the legion won the second. Legion won the first half 4/3. Colts won the second half 4/3. In all of the tension a draw was a fair result.

The Whitehead Trojans hosted a very strong 5 man team from the Times bar, the Scorpions, in Whitehead Rangers. Scorpions team captain Lee McIlreavy start the night off with a great break and dish. This was to set the standard for the night with next 3 frames won by the Scorpions with some top class pool from Paul Kerr, Aaron Leslie and Stephen Johnston. The next frame was won by Trojans Matthew Thompson, who was put into a great snooker by David Blair, but Matthew played out the shot of the night to get out of it and left himself on the black to win the frame. Frames 6 and 7 were shared with wins for Scorpions Paul Kerr and Trojans Christopher Hobson making it 2- 5 to Scorpions.
The Scorpions then kicked into gear winning the next 5 frames with some great finishing. Trojans Jared McFadden stopped the run, winning the next frame which give the Trojans 3 frames of the night with David Blair winning the last frame of the night giving the Scorpions a well deserved win 3- 11.

In other matches

Q Club Larne came from 2-7 behind to secure a 7-7 draw against the league leaders, Titans.

Galacticos 9 Bowlers 5.

Stadium 6 Blues 8.

Tigers 3 Spartans 11.

Grange 13 Pin Ladies 1.

Q Club Titans go 4 points clear

League leaders, Titans came to Times Bar to face second placed Scorpions in the penultimate league match of the first half of the season sponsored by SKC Gaming NI.
The first half couldn’t have been tighter as the teams went frame for frame. At 3-3 the final frame of the first half went to Scorpions’ Stephen Johnston.
The Titans’ Ryan McKillop levelled again and Brian Crilly gave the visitors the lead for the first time in the match. Rhys McGlaughlin made it 4-6 and Dean McDonagh put the Titans on the hill. Stuart Kelly secured the 3 points and Brian Crilly made his hat trick, taking the score to 4-9 and preventing Scorpions from achieving a bonus point. Rhys McGlaughlin topped off a Titanic second half 0-7 win and an emphatic victory of 4-10 as the Larne men stretched their lead at the top, now 4 points clear ensuring the top spot, as they were last year, for Christmas.

Bowlers welcomed the Railway Blues.
The blues took a commanding lead and kept momentum going, at the break 6 -1 to the blues.
Second half bowlers brought a bit more fight but in the end was the blues that took the victory.
Blues 9. Bowlers 5
Gr8 team of lads and the banter was 💯.

Colt’s v Trojans
The Whitehead Trojans battled through storm Bram & traveled up to Greenisland to play the Colts was a Great atmosphere as both teams got into the Party Theme wearing their Christmas Jumpers along with the Pink Ladies who were also playing at home against Whiteabbey Legion food was put on by the two home teams the Colts & Pink Ladies as they were playing Whiteabbey Legion
Big thanks to Donna for putting the Spread on at short notice
The Trojans Cpt S Hamilton got them of to a flyer winning the first frame of the evening Colts hit back talking the next four with wins for J Patton, A Watters, D Harris & H Warwick
S Hamilton got his second off the evening & Trojans second frame A Mackay took the last frame before the break securing the Colts a 5-2 lead
The Trojans came out fighting in the second half winning the first two frames courtesy of M Thompson & C Hobson closing the gap to within one 5-4
The Colt’s rallied by Winning the Next three frames with wins for A Mackay, A Watters & Cpt H Warwick to secure all three points with two frames left & scores at 8-4 the Trojans still had something to play for with a bonus point still up for grabs but was quickly stubbed out when Colts Vice Cpt Beckinsale took the Next frame Trojans J McFadden won the last frame of the evening Final Score Colt’s 9-5 Trojans
Third placed Galacticos and Spartans were postponed due to adverse weather conditions.


Other Results:

Quarter finals of singles draw

The quarter finals of the singles are shaping up nicely. These will be a race to 4 on December 17th at 7:45 start.

In Whiteabbey Legion

Lewis Neill vs Richard Kitson

David Robert Blair vs Gary Neesan

In Carrick Bowling Club

Stephen Johnston vs Ryan Scott

Rhys Mclaughlin vs Lee Mcilreavy

In Times Bar

Aaron Watters vs DarrenW

Denise Esdale vs Stephen Herron

In Greenisland WWMC

Tom McGurk vs Jim Gilchrist

Paul Kerr vs Robert Hawkins

Doubles results

Doubles results
Ryan Scott & Jackie Murdock 4 Simpsy and Fulty 0 (pictured right)
Dirk & Rab w/o v Penfold &Hatch
Gary Neesan &Richard Kitson 4 Paul & Davy 2
Chris Carson & Jack Carson 4 Cinto & Jim 2

CDPL SKC GAMING NI OPEN SINGLES 32>16

1. Ryan Scott 4vs2 Colin Beckinsale
2. Aaron Watters 4vs3 Harry Warwick

3. Hatchet 4vs2Chris Carson
4. Chris McCurry0 vs 4Tom McGurk

5. Paddy Graham 2vs 4Hawk
6. Aaron Leslie 3vs4 Cinto

7. Lewis Neill 4vs2 Thomas Fleming
8. Wayne Lewis 0vs4 Rhys Mclaughlin

9. Jim Gilchrist 4vs1 Joe Patton
10. Andy Quinn 0 vs 4 Stephen Herron

11. Kenny English 3vs4 Gary Neeson
12. Trevor Whiteside 0vs4 Davy Blair

13. Phoenix Martin 0vs4 Richard Kitson
14. Darren Whiteside pp Alan Johnston (to be played on Monday 8th December)

15. Paul Kerr 4vs 0Andy Mackey
16. Denise Esdale 4vs0 Dean McDonagh

Last 16 will be played on December 17th 2025

3 a sides down to last 4

The League's 3 a sides tournament began on Wednesday 26th November. Pictured below are the reigning champions, Aaron Leslie, Lee McIlreavey and Darren Whiteside

In Grange Ballyclare Steven Herron, Johnny Mackay and Wayne Lewis overcame Girvan Fleming, Stephen Hamilton and Christopher Hobson 5-3, to set up a derby clash in the next round against team mates, Jackie Murdoch, Ryan Scott and Thomas Fleming who had beaten Aaron Watters, Harry Warwick and Colin Beckonsale 5-1.In the next round Steven, Jonny and Wayne came from 3-0 down to win 5-3 against Jackie Ryan and Thomas to reach the last 4.

In Whitehead Rangers
In the match between Stephen Simpson, Sam Moore and Kye Robinson vs Wendy Denise & Kathy both teams failed to turn up.
In the All-Scorpion heat Darren Whiteside, David Blair, Stephen Johnston & Paul Kerr came from 3-1 down and 4-3 down to reach the next round winning 5-4 against, Aaron Leslie, Darren Haddock, Lee McIlreavey and Lewis Neill.
Darren, Paul, Stephen and Davy were awarded a walkover in the next round.

In Greenisland Workingmen’s Club
Uel Wallace, Richard Kitson & Gary Neesan were beat 5-0 by Scott Pettigrew, Tom McGurk & Stephen McWhirter.
Aaron Reid, Ian McMillan & Richard Topping went down 0-5 to Ryan Stewart, Robert Craig, Josh McIlroy& Gareth Curlett 0-5.
Scott, Tom and Steven were pipped at the post 4-5 by Ryan, Robert, Gareth and Josh

In the Times Bar Joe Patton, Andy Galloway, Alan Harris and Dee Harris romped to the next round with victory over Sarah-Lou, Donna Louise & Julie-Anne. 5-0.

Semi Finalists in 3 a sides are:

1 Grange’s Steven Herron, Johnny Mackay and Wayne Lewis
2 Scorpions’ Darren Whiteside, David Blair, Stephen Johnston & Paul Kerr
3 Railway Blues’ Ryan Stewart, Robert Craig, Josh McIlroy& Gareth Curlett
4 Colts’ Joe Patton, Andy Galloway, Alan Harris and Dee Harris

Titans and Galacticos Dig Deep

On the tenth league match of the 2025/26 season sponsored by SKC Gaming NI Ltd. the Blues welcomed the Spartans to Granges in Ballyclare.

The Railway started strong with wins from Ryan Stewart and Josh Mcilroy. However the next 4 frames went the Spartans way, all close frames but the Whitehead men were clinical when it mattered. 2 for Trigger, 1 for Billy Pawson and 1 for Kenny English. Rab Brown took the last frame of the session for the blues with an outstanding black.
The second session started well for the Spartans with Billy and Kenny both making it 2/2 for the evening so far. Ryan pulled a frame back for the Blues, leaving the score at 4-6. The Spartans dominated the end of the game winning the last 4 frames. Thomas Fleming getting a frame on the board and Trigger, Kenny and Billy all taking 3/3 for the evening! An enjoyable evening and a competitive game!

 
Times Tigers hosted Times Scorpions in the north Belfast derby in the Christmassy Times Bar.

The match got off to the worst possible start for the Tigers with the Scorpions sprinting off to a 7-0 lead at half time, with 2 wins for Davy Blair and Paul Kerr, and one win each for Darren Haddock, Darren Whiteside and skipper Hatchet!

Could the Tigers at least avoid the embarrassment of a whitewash in the second half??
The answer was looking like a big fat "no", when Scorpions won the first 3 games of the second half to go 10 nil up and secure the points. Davy Blair securing his hat trick of wins and Darren Whiteside and Hatchet winning their second frames on the night!

However a consolation frame for the Tigers Stephen McWhirter arrived in the 11th frame, some good pots and a little bit of fortune giving him the win over Paul Kerr and ruining the big man’s evening!

Normal service resumed though in the next frame as Hatchet also completed his hat trick of wins for the night.
Another consolation win for the Tigers saw Johnny Eccles beat Darren Haddock but the last frame of the evening saw Darren Whiteside complete his own hat trick of the night to leave the final score 12-2 to the Scorpions.

The score line sees the Tigers drop a couple of places in the league table and the Scorpions continue in their title chase!

 
Great banter and craic on the shore road as always but a bit of a hammering handed out in pool terms!!

Whiteabbey Legion went down 3-11 to Grange.
Greenisland Galacticos held of the Q Club Larne, scraping an 8-6 victory.

Titans from Larne held of Greenisland Colts also with an 8-6 win.

Stadium also held on for an 8-6 victory over an improving Bay City Bowlers.

Pink Ladies feel to an 11-3 defeat at the hands of Whitehead Trojans.

Titans go Top after a Titanic Performance

In the ninth league match of the season sponsored by SKC GAMING NI QClub Titans soared to the top of the league with an 11-3 win over Pink Ladies..

Bay City Bowlers travelled to face The Spartans at Whitehead Rangers Club. The Bowlers started strongly, with Ian McMillan calmly taking the first frame. An in-form Robert Hawkins won the next, but the Bowlers took the lead again through Darren Clifford. Trevor Whiteside levelled the match at 2-2 and this was to be the last time the Bowlers would be in a point scoring position. Wins from Billy Pawson, Robert Hawkins and Kenny English put the hosts 5-2 ahead at the break. The second session started the same as the first with Ian McMillan securing the opening frame and bringing the score back to 5-3. The Spartans took the next 6 frames with wins from Billy Pawson, Robert Hawkins, Kenny English (x2), Trevor Whiteside and Paddy Graham. A solid win for The Spartans who had to be clinical due to the noticeable improvement in The Bowlers.

Final Score Spartans 11 Bowlers 3.

Other match results

Grange 11 Trojans 3

Q Club 12 Blues 2

The Whiteabbey Royal British Legion welcomed the Shankill’s Stadium Bar. Andrew Arbuthnot got the Legion off to a good start. Phillip Watson levelled before Gareth Robison, Rab Butler, Mark Porter, Dessie McCullough and Stevie Cambell won the next 5 to put the legion 6/1 up at the interval. Brain Elwood won the next for the Stadium. Rab Butler put the legion on the hill. Phillip Watson and Chris McCurry won the next 2. Frankie McDonald got the important frame to take the win for the Legion before the Stadium won the last two frames with wins for Phillip Watson and Chris McCurry to give the Stadium a well deserved point. Final Score Legion 8 Stadium 6.

Times Bar Scorpions (who were one point clear of second placed Titans) welcomed Galacticos (who were 3 points off the top).

Galacticos knew they needed to take points from this match to stay in contention for retaining the league title. The Greenisland men stormed to a 0-3 lead before Paul Kerr put a frame on the board for Scorpions, who had went for early finishes unsuccessfully. Galacticos didn’t take their foot off the gas and romped to a 1-6 lead at half time. with 2 for Ali Wilson, 2 for Chris Carson, one for Gary Wallace and one for Gee Crawley.

Scorpions regrouped and took four of the next five frames with wins for Lee McIlreevy, Paul Kerr, Davy Blair and Darren Whiteside. Jack Carson put Galacticos on 7 with a great last ball and equally good long black. Chris Carson secured the win with a sublime double on the black. Scorpions Lee McIlreevy took out a vital reverse dish to secure the bonus point for Scorpions for reaching 6 frames.

Final score Scorpions 6 Galacticos 8 moving Galacticos to just one point behind the Scorpions.

Scorpions drop to second and Titans go top.

Colts v Tigers 

The visitors took an early lead with a great double on the black from S McWhirter. Colt’s pair A Watters with a Break & Dish & J Patton both winning the next two games. The two game pattern continued with S Simpson & S Pettigrew for the Tigers & C Beckinsale & H Warwick giving the Colts a 4-3 lead at half time. 

This pattern continued with S McWhirter & S Simpson for the Tigers the next two games were shared between both teams J Patton & T McGurk with the score 5-6 & at least a bonus point in the bag for the Tigers. Colt’s H Warwick & D Harris took the next two frames. Score sat at 7-6 and it looked like it was going to end in a 7-7 draw as Tigers S Sloan had total control with both bottom pockets covered but gave away two shots after long deliberation. It was all worth the wait as Colts A Watters delivered a wonder shot, clearing both pockets & went on to win the game and match for the Colt’s. This Match was played in a great spirit and fantastic atmosphere in Greenisland Workingmens Club.

 

Final Score Colt’s 8-6 Tiger’s

Scorpions Find The Gap

In the eighth league match of the season all teams paid respects to two former players who sadly passed away this week. Doagh Dragons' Tyler McConnell aged 37 and Bay City Bowlers' Tommy Hutton aged 91 were remembered in a minutes silence before the matches. 

Whitehead Rangers Trojans vs Whiteabbey Legion 

The Legion got of to a great start with Andrew Buff winning a great tactical match between him and Stephen Hamilton. Darren O'Neil then won the next frame for Legion. The Trojans then won next frame with a grain finish from Christopher Hobson.  The next 3 frames were won by the Legion which give them a great lead 5 frames to 1. Gordon McKinty then won the last frame of the first half 5- 2 to the Legion.  The second half got of to another great start with Andrew Buff and Rab Butler winning their frames. The Trojans start the fight back with Christopher Hobson winning a tight frame against John Rainey. Then Trojans Stephen Hamilton, captain  Girvan Fleming and Matthew Thompson winning the next 3 frames made it 7- 6 to the Legion.  Then the  Trojans  come back was  stop by Legion Rad Butler winning the last frame of the night final score was 8 - 6 to the Legion seeing legion move up to 7th in the league.

Stadium vs Spartans

Spartans got off to a good start with Robert Hawkins punishing Lewis Neill when he failed to complete what was turning out to be a great clearance, 1-0 Spartans, next up Stadium Vice Captain John English was able to make the most of his opportunities and get the game back to an even 1-1, Bryan Elwood was up next against Alan Johnston, the latter of the 2 is the one that would come out on top after Bryan rattled the black and left just enough space for Alan’s last red to pass into the same pocket, 2-1 Spartans, Mark Millar Jnr stepped up next for stadium, very fortunate to get a shot as Thomas Fleming was on fine form and potting them off lampshades, Thomas the player who came away with the win as Mark not able to make the most of his chances, 3-1 Spartans, up stepped Stadium Captain Christopher McCurry next hoping to stopped the rot, unfortunately unable to do so as Kenny English showed his experience to see out the win in what was a back and forth game, Spartans 4-1, still hoping to find some form and a few wins Stadiums William McCullough was next at the table against the very experienced Trevor Whiteside, Trevor able to use that experience to punish William on his missed chances, Spartans 5-1, James Robertson was up last for Stadium in the first half, bit of misfortune at times but ultimately outplayed by Alan, 1st half finishes 6-1 Spartans in a much closer game than what the score line shows.

Galacticos vs Colts was 9-5 keeping Galacticos within touching distance of the leaders.

The second half had unfortunately more of the same from Stadium's perspective as Billy Pawson was able to come out on top after a long gruelling frame filled with many snookers, Spartans 7-1. Lewis Neill was able to get one back for Stadium with a quality performance against the NIPA over 60’s Champion Robert Hawkins, Spartans 7-2, Christopher hoping to be able get on the back of that momentum next however after losing the lag was broke and dished by the top quality Thomas Fleming, Spartans 8-2 and the win now confirmed, with the chances of a bonus point looking slim for Stadium that soon become impossible with Big Kenny winning the next for Spartans and getting them to 9-2, a great battle in the next game between Mark Jnr and Trevor with the latter coming out on top in the end, Spartans 10-2, Alan able to claim the next in a long back and forth frame, Spartans 11-2, Robert able to take out a nice finish and finish off the night well for Spartans. Stadium 2 Spartans 12 in a second half that was very much one sided.

Titans vs Grange was 7-7 seeing the Larne men rescue a vital 2 points to stay within touching distance of the league leaders.

Tigers vs Pink Ladies saw the Tigers move up to eighth in the league with a convincing 12-2 home win.

Bay City Bowlers vs Q Club Larne was a 4-10 away win moving the Larne men into the top half of the table.

Railway Blues vs Times Bar Scorpions. Lee McIlreavy put the Tigers Bay men ahead with some confident potting. Darren Whiteside made it two and Davy Blair soon made it 3. Josh McIlroy stopped the rot with a great finish for Blues. Stephen Johnston soon made it 1-4 before a vintage display from Gareth Curlett as he broke and dished to reduce the arrears to 2-4. Paul Kerr made it 2-5 in favour of the boys from Times Bar at half time. Josh McIlroy took out another fine finish for Railway Blues but Paul Kerr, Stephen Johnston and Darren Haddock got Scorpions over the line and secured all three points. Darren Whiteside took out a well worked out break and dish, cutting a tricky black but inadvertently potted the cue ball too, giving Gareth Curlett and early Christmas present and technically his second break and dish win of the night. Davy Blair soon made it 4-9 and captain fantastic, Lee McIlreavy took out the finish of the night to make it 4-10. This result sees the Times Bar Scorpions finally put a bit of distance between their rivals going into the international break.

 

Carrick & District Pool League sponsored by SKC Gaming NI would like to wish all of our players, officials, carers and managers the best of luck as they head off to foreign lands to represent Northern Ireland in the European Championships next week.

Halloween Massacre for Bowlers

In week 7 of the Carrick & District Pool League sponsored by SKC Gaming NI the Times Bar Scorpions hosted Bay City Bowlers. 

Davy Blair confidently took the first frame, swiftly followed by wins for Lee McIlreavy, Paul Kerr, Darren Whiteside and Stephen Johnston. The Scorpions clinically took their chances and ended the first half 7-0. Davy Blair sealed all three points in frame 8 and the Scorpions continued their dominance on the affairs of the evening and soon it was 13-0. 

In the final frame Bowlers Ryan Ward took out a sublime 8 ball finish to save the whitewash. 

In all fairness some of the frames could have went either way but Scorpions will be delighted to stretch their lead at the top of the league. Davy Blair, Paul Kerr and Stephen Johnston had hat tricks and Darren Whiteside had 2/2.

Colts hosted the Railway Blues as it was Halloween, The Colts dressed accordingly. 

The first four frames were shared, with wins for G Burns & H Warwick for the he side & R Craig & R Brown for the visitors. J Patton won the fifth frame before the Blues hit back taking the next two frames, courtesy of R Kerr & R Stewart, giving the visitors a halftime lead 3-4.

H Warwick won his second frame of the night to level up the match. The  the next four frames where shared, two from Josh McIlroy for the Railway & JP & A Watters in-between. With the score at 6-6 it was all in the balance giving both teams at least a Bonus Point but wins for the Colt’s pair A Watters & J Patton (his third of the night) secured the win for the Colts with an 8-6 victory. 

All three Greenisland Teams were at home so we had a Halloween party with halftime food & refreshments. Many thanks go to Julie-Anne for taking the time to make food and put on a great spread. 

The Whitehead Rangers' Trojans hosted the newest team in the league, Stadium. The young team got of to a great start with two great finishes from Bryan Elwood and Lewis Neill. 

The next frame was another great game with both players showing some great skills with Stephen Hamilton potting the black to give the Trojans the frame. 

The next 3 frames were won by the Stadium with some great finishing from Chris  McCurry and William  McCullough. The last frame of the first half was won by Trojans man of the match Stephen Hamilton. 

The beginning of the second half Lewis Neill won his second frame of the night. Gary Fitzsimmons won the next frame to give the Trojans their 3rd frame of the night. The next 3 frames were won by the Stadium taking them to 9 frames with 2 frames left which were won by the Trojans . Making the final score 5- 9 the the Stadium. Some great finishing from the Stadium

The Pink Ladies had a home derby against stablemates, The Galacticos.

The Pink Ladies also in party mode got off to a great start, winning the first two frames with wins for Tracey Cook & Kathleen Wilson. Tracey’s win came after P Harris unintentionally sunk the black ball mid frame. Kathleen doubled the lead with a great finish.

Galacticos soon kicked into gear and took the next eight frames in a row with  2 wins each for P Harris & J Carson 3 for G Wallace & 1 from Dk Whiteside.

Marion King was gifted a third frame for the pink ladies as Derek went in off after potting the black. Kathleen took her second of the night getting the ladies their fourth frame. With two frames left and a chance of their first bonus points pink ladies dreams were quickly stubbed out when Jack Carson won his third frame of the night and Chris Carson took the last frame to complete a 4-10 Victory for the Galacticos to keep them writhing touching distance of the top two teams.

In other matches

Grange 8 Tigers 6

Q Club 6 Spartans 8

Legion 4 Titans 10

Week six round up

In the Carrick District Pool League sponsored by SKC Gaming NI Ltd we had some great matches in the sixth league match of the season.

Carrick Bowlers hosted Greenisland Colts. 

A fixture that both teams always look forward to once again delivered in a nip-and-tuck battle that went all the way to frame 14.
Frame 1 set the tone for the night, with a frame filled with drama right to the end, but it was eventually won for Bowler David Craig after Colt Colin Beckinsale rattled a black. Frame 2 followed suit, but this time Bowler Ian McMillan would jaw a black in the middle to leave a tap-in black for Colt Alan Harris to level it at 1-1. The Colts then went on to win the next three frames, with wins for Joe Patton, Andy Mackey, and John McClean, to lead 4-1. The Bowlers stopped the rot in Frame 6, with Ryan Ward stepping up and sinking a fine long black to seal his victory (2-4). The last frame of the first half was a tense affair, but Ian McMillan would seal the win with a brilliant black down the rail to make it 3-4 at the break. The second half began with a repeat of Frame 1, with Bowler David Craig securing a win over Beckinsale again. This time, Craig pounced on an error to take out a superb clearance that ended with a good cut black into the middle.
At 4-4, it was all to play for, and Bowler Darren Clifford was in no mood to be denied, with a fantastic penultimate doubled red to make it 5-4 to the hosts.
The Colts weren't done yet, but in what was quickly becoming a topsy-turvy match of consecutive frames won on the bounce, the Colts stepped up to take the next three frames in determined fashion. Wins by Joe Patton, Alan Harris, and Dee Harris put them on the hill at 7-5. However, this game wasn't done yet, and Bowler captain Richard Topping stepped up for the Bowlers after a highly unfortunate in-off in his first frame to shake that off and secure the Bowlers at least a bonus point with one frame remaining.
Frame 14 would decide it all, and it saw the reliable and ultimately Player of the Match, Joe Patton, take on Bowler Ryan Ward to decide the outcome of a competitive match. In a frame where both had their chances, Patton's experience shone through, and he would deny the Bowlers a draw and secure the Colts a hard-fought victory.
The Bowlers would like to thank Captain Harry Warwick and all of his team for making this fixture go ahead after a delayed start and wish them every success going forward.

Stadium hosted Q Club and the Shankill men got off to a good start with a great performance for Lewis Neill for his first win of the night, Q club would fight back in the next making it 1-1, Jason Vorhees punishing Mark Millar Jnr after he missed his black for a B&D, Q club would then go ahead 2-1 with William Irvine taking out a lovely B&D not allowing Bryan Elwood to the table, Stadium captain Chris McCurry stepped up next and put his team back on an even playing field 2-2, a back and forth battle happened next between William McCullough and Ciaran O’Toole unfortunately for William his last shot to get onto the black left him with only a nasty bank shot to try and pot the black, Ciaran then punished him when he missed, Q Club back in the lead 3-2, Adam Crossett would then keep the stadiums hopes alive getting them back to level again 3-3, neck and neck going into the last game of the first half both teams both teams wanting to be the one going into the second half with the lead, it would be the Q club that achieved this with Jason stepping up and winning his second of the night in what was quite a long and technical frame, an inexperienced James Robertson failing to call full ball and fouling as a result give his opponent 2 shots and the advantage he needed to make a clearance and take the frame, Q club go into the break 4-3 ahead.
Back for the second half and Lewis would yet again get stadium back level with his 2nd win of the night, before Q club yet again firing back and retaking the lead, Mark Abram would win the next to extend Q clubs lead to 6-4 and claim at least a point, Mark Millar Jnr stepped up next taking out a nice finish to get Stadium back within 1, Chris up next got off to a flyer with what should’ve been a reverse clearance but unfortunately fouled on his last ball, with a lot of work for Marty Kane to do he chose the sensible option to snooker his opponent however Chris tried a ballsy shot and got probably the fluke of the century (sorry Marty!) getting his team back level and also making sure of a point 6-6, Bryan would step up next and put Stadium in the lead for the first time since frame 1 and securing at least the draw, with the everything to play for Lewis stepped up next for Stadium and looking like he was going to B&D to finish off a great quality come back and win for league new comers Stadium he unfortunately left himself horrible on his last ball and trying to pot it ended up potting the black instead ending the night 7-7, a well contended match and one that could’ve went either way ended up in a well deserved draw between the teams
Players of mention: Chris McCurry 2/2 and Lewis Neill with 2/3 for Stadium. Jason Voorhees with 3/3 and William Irvine with 2/3 for Q Club.

Times Tigers v Whiteabbey Legion
Legion started off like a house on fire, racing to a 6 nil lead with wins for Andy Arbuthnot, Tristan Scott-Heyes, Gareth Robinson, Rab Butler, Darren ONeill and Dessie Robinson. Sam Sloan won the last frame of the first half to give the Tigers a little bit of hope! Andy Arbuthnot soon quenched those hopes winning against John Fulton to put the legion 7-1 up. A little bit of Tigers fight back continued with fine wind for Stephen Simpson and Johnny Eccles, before man of the match Rab Butler won his second of the night to secure the win for the Legion. Score at this stage 8-3. Wins for Tom McGurk and John Fulton have the Tigers hope of a losing bonus point bringing the score to 8-5 but that man again Rab Butler won the last, his third of the night, to leave the score 9-5 to the legion.
A great night, a great performance from the Legion and especially that hallion Butler! He was already in great form given Man Utd’s win on Sunday, tonight’s hat trick might just put him on the beer again for another few days!!

Times Bar Scorpions travelled down to Whitehead Glasgow Rangers Club to face the Spartans hoping for a win to keep their title challenge on track. They did just that, comfortably winning both sessions 5-2 for a 10-4 victory.

Lee McIlreavy set the tone breaking and dishing against Robert Hawkins followed by wins for David Blair, Paul Kerr and Stephen Johnston (another break and dish) as Scorpions raced into a 4-0 lead. Thomas Fleming and Kenny English steadied the ship for the hosts but Paul Kerr won the last frame in the first session for the visitors. David Blair took out a reverse dish against the unfortunate Billy Pawson who only got one shot (break shot) in his two racks played. Spartans won two more frames courtesy of the experienced yet fortunate Alan Johnston and Robert Hawkins, but wins by Darren Whiteside, Paul Kerr, Aaron Leslie and Stephen Johnston with another break n dish kept Scorpions top of the League table on frame difference from Andy Quinn's Q.Club Titans.

Titans v Trojans

First up to the table was Aaron Wright for the titans with a great battle against Chris Hobson which some would say was tighter than a star table's pockets which seen Aaron first on the black only to miss and leave chris a great opportunity to take the frame only to play a great cut on the black and run the white into the corner pocket making the score line 1-0 Titans quickly followed was wins from current top of stats Stuart kelly and northern ireland seniors champion brian crilly /riley patterson and dean mcdonagh making score line 5-0 but it was the crafty pensioner stephen hamilton that would kick the Trojans off with their first frame with a win over Alan Corrigan, 5-1 with the Seniors champion (Crilly) take the next in fine fashion also stuart/riley and dean making score 9-1 but yet again stephen hamilton pulled out the stop sign with a strong performance and win over Aaron wright 9-2 again wins for stuart kelly and riley patterson 11-2 with last frame still to play seen gary fitzsimmons take the last of the night making score line 11-3 Titans.


Galacticos hosted Granges and it was the Ballyclare men who took first blood with Gary Neeson edging out a scrappy frame but Gary Wallace equalised for the home team with a pinpoint clearance.
Gee Crawley put the Galacticos 2-1 up with a nice clearance before Jackie Murdock levelled after another tactical frame.
Jack Carson regained the lead for the Greenisland men, capitalising on a hung black but Uel Wallace equalised again for the Ballyclare men but Gary Wallace gave the home team a 4-3 half time advantage with a patient frame.
Paul Harris put the defending champions two frames ahead with a delectable positional shot on the black before Chris Carson put the Galacticos 6-3 up.
Jack Carson and Wallace guaranteed the three points for the Greenisland men with the next two frames.
Paul Harris furnished us with finish of the week next ripping out a magnificent reverse dish.
The Carsons rounded off an 11-3 win with a couple of crispy finishes.


Railway Blues had a convincing 13-1 over Pink Ladies.

SKC Open Singles down to last 32

One of our most prestigious singles tournaments began this week. The SKC GAMING NI open championship had a record number of entrants (59). 

On Wednesday they were reduced to 32 with some great fixtures being played across virtually all of the venues in our league.

The last 32 of the SKC Gaming NI Ltd open singles will take place on 2nd December at 8pm.

Greenisland table 2
1. Ryan Scott vs Colin Beckinsale
2. Aaron Watters vs Harry Warwick

Whitehead 1
3. Hatchet vs Chris Carson
4. Chris McCurry vs Tom McGurk

Legion 
5. Paddy Graham vs Hawk
6. Aaron Leslie vs Cinto

Whitehead 2

7. Lewis Neill vs Thomas Fleming
8. Wayne Lewis vs Rhys Mclaughlin 

Times Bar
9. Jim Gilchrist vs Joe Patton
10. Andy Quinn vs Stephen Herron

Grange 1
11. Kenny English vs Gary Neeson
12. Trevor Whiteside vs Davy Blair

Grange2
13. Phoenix Martin vs Richard Kitson
14. Darren Whiteside vs Alan Jonston

Greenisland 1
15. Paul Kerr vs Andy Mackey
16. Denise Esdale vs Dean McDonagh

Titans close the gap on Scorpions at the top of the league

Times Bar Scorpions welcomed the Q Club. Captain Lee McIlreavy led from the front with a lovely finish.Aaron Leslie’s pool brain doubled the Scorpions lead and Stephen Johnston made it 3. The next four frames were shared. Jason Voorhees and Ciaran OToole chipping in for Q Club and David Blair and another from Stephen Johnston gave the Scorpions a commanding lead at half time. Two captains met in the 8th frame and what looked like a blistering break and dish from Lee McIlreavey before the white dropped in the pocket after the black to give William Irvine the frame. Jason Vorhees took his second of the night as did David Blair. Mark Abram brought the arrears to 6-5 before, man of the match, Stephen Johnston put the Scorpions on the hill with his hat trick. Lee McIlreavy ensured the points before Paul Kerr finished the night with a cool break and dish. Times Bar Scorpions 9 -5 This result sees the Scorpions remain at the top of the league for another week.

Titans had a massive win of 13-1 v Stadium and reduced their frame difference with Scorpions at the top.

Galacticos had a hard fought victory against legion and are still within touching distance of the top two.

Spartans won 9-5 over Colts.

Grange and Railway Blues had an epic 7-7 draw.

Bay City Bowlers took the points with an 11-3 win over pink ladies.

Tigers had 11-3 win over Trojans

Acorn Blinds NI Ltd. KO Cup Prelims

One of our biggest and most prestigious cup competitions began on Wednesday 1st October. The Acorn Blinds NI Ltd. had some fabulous preliminary matches.

The reigning champions, Railway Blues were up against Whiteabbey Legion.

Blues captain, Ryan Stewart won the first frame after Andy Arbuthnot left his last ball in the jaws. Rab Butler and Darren O'Neil won the next two for the legion. Robert Craig and Ryan Stewart took the next two for the Blues giving them a slender lead at half time. Second half was also close with the legion winning it 4/3 to the legion to take it to a decider.  Captain, Mark Porter eventually won it for the legion to secure safe passage for his team into the next round. This was a great advertisement for the fun and competitive league that we have.

Legion will play Grange Bar, who defeated Greenisland Colts 8-4.

Scorpions hosted Stadium in the prelims of the Acorn Blinds Knock Out Cup. Brian Elwood potted a great doubled black to give Stadium the lead. The Times Bar Scorpions reeled of five frames on the trot before Lewis Neill had a great reverse dish to keep the Stadium in the match. 5-2 at the interval. Scorpions came out with all guns blazing as Stephen Johnston secured made it 6 and Darren Whiteside had a well taken break and dish to put the Times Bar Scorpions on the hill. Stephen Johnston secured safe passage to the next round with his second hat trick in two days. Final score Times Bar Scorpions 8 Stadium 2.

Scorpions will play Bay City Bowlers next week after an 8-2 victory over Pink Ladies.

Q Club Larne won 8-3 at Trojans and will face Greenisland Galacticos who defeated Times Tigers 8-2.

Quarter Finals:

Times Bar Scorpions progressed with a convincing victory at Bowling Club of 8-2 to reach the semis.

Scorpions meet Grange, who came from behind and won a play off frame 8-7 over Legion.

Q Club Larne beat Galacticos by 8-7 in a playoff frame and will meet their stablemates Titans. They disposed of Spartans in rapid fashion.

Semi Finals

Q Club vs Titans

Scorpions vs Granges

League week 4 sees no change at the top

In week 4 of the Carrick & District Pool League, Sponsored by SKC Gaming NI, The Reigning champions, Galacticos were wanting to avenge last week's defeat against the Trojans. They got off to a great start with a swift reverse dish from Aaron Rolston. Jack Carson put the hosts 2-0 ahead with a pinpoint clearance after a short tactical exchange before Rolston capitalised on two visits to make it 3-0.
Derek Whiteside and Gee Crawley took the next two to give the hosts a healthy 5-0 lead.
Stevie Hamilton and Jared McFadden pulled two back before half time to give the visitors hope at 5-2.
But the Galacticos were in no mood for another gripping finish and ran out the second session 7-0 with Crawley, Jack and Chris Carson scoring doubles and Whiteside scoring one. Final score Galacticos 12 - 2 Trojans

Bay City Bowlers hosted Grange Bar
Kyle Robertson took the bad look off the scoreline with a well taken finish before Darren Whiteside wrapped up a 3-11 win for the Times bar Scorpions. MVP’s Scorpions’ Paul Kerr with 3/3 (including a fine dish) Stephen Johnston with a hat trick and Aaron Leslie 2/2.Match Report: The Grange 10 – 4 Bowlers

A tightly contested opening frame saw captain Ricky lead the Bowlers into battle, but it was Johnny Mackay who held his nerve with a classy cut on the black to give The Grange the early lead. Frame 2 was more straightforward as Gary Neeson capitalised on a dry break to produce a slick reverse dish, doubling the advantage.

Ryan Ward stopped the early slide for the Bowlers in Frame 3 with solid potting and a superb doubled black. However, Richard Kitson edged a scrappy fourth to restore The Grange’s cushion, before an unfortunate in-off on the black from Stephen Herron in Frame 5 handed the Bowlers another lifeline.

A tactical masterclass in Frame 6 saw Jackie Murdock outlast Robert Loughlin, and Mackay returned in Frame 7 to claim a vital black-ball decider, giving The Grange a strong 5–2 lead at the break.

The second half began with David Craig missing a crucial black, gifting Neeson his second win. Lightning struck twice in Frame 9 as Herron suffered another in-off on the black, allowing the Bowlers to claw one back. But The Grange weren’t to be denied – Kitson and Herron (finally getting his reward) closed out Frames 10 and 11 to all but seal the result.

Aaron Reid’s long-potting brilliance gave the Bowlers a consolation in Frame 12, but The Grange finished strong: Mackay completed a superb 3-from-3 night and Murdock edged the final frame to round off a dominant 10–4 away win moving the Ballyclare men up to 5th

The current league leaders, Times Bar Scorpions travelled to Stadium Bar. Darren Haddock got the visitors in front with a pin point finish. Paul Kerr doubled the lead and Stephen Johnston made it 0-3. William McCullough stopped the rot with a great finish before Aaron Leslie played the positional shot of the evening landing plumb on the black through 7 yellows. Stand in captain, John English held his nerve to take a great long black and Paul Kerr got a bit fortunate to take the seventh frame. 2-5 at the interval. Stephen Johnston and Aaron Leslie put Times bar on the hill and Stephen Johnston reeled off another fabulous finish to reach the magic 8. Paul Kerr Broke and dished the next and David Blair chipped in to make it a flattering 2-10 score line to secure top spot for at least a fortnight as the Acorn Blinds NI Knock Out Cup is occurring next week.

In other matches:

Tigers 5 Titans 9.

Q Club 9 Colts 5.

Spartans 12 Pink Ladies 2.

Titanic Victories for Larne Men and Greenisland teams falter

In the third week of the Carrick and District Pool League, sponsored by SKC Gaming NI  Greenisland Colts hosted Times Bar Scorpions.

Colts had chances in the opening couple of frames however Davy Blair put the visitors 0-1 up. Colt’s John McClean was on a reverse dish to level the match at 1-1 taking out all seven reds only to see the final black hang in the jaws of the pocket and let his opponent in. The Scorpions’ Darren Haddock rose to the challenge and potted all seven yellows and a tap in black that was over the corner pocket.

L McIlreavy and P Kerr extended the lead before Colt’s A Watters pulled one back to 1-4. Scorpions won the last two frames of the first half giving them a 1-6 lead at the break. Once again missed chances from the Colts in the next two frames saw the Scorpions increase their lead 1-8 to secure all three points, 

J McClean got the Colt’s Second frame 2/8 beating Scorpions Paul Kerr. The eleventh frame went to Darren Haddock, his third of the evening. Joe Patton got the Colts third frame of the night. Scorpions won the last two frames of the evening to complete a convincing 3-11 victory.

Best on the night were D Haddock & D Blair both with hat tricks of wins. Times Bar Scorpions remain top of the table.

Q Club Titans hosted Greenisland Galcaticos in a battle for second place in this week's table

The new world masters champion, Rhys McLaughlin, faced Aaron Rolston. It was Rolston who kept his cool and took the first frame of the night for the visitors. Brian Crilly showed his class and levelled up for the Titans. Riley Patterson and Dean McDonagh added to the home side’s scores.  Aaron Rolston stopped the rot with a clinical break and dish in the sixth frame giving hope of getting some momentum back for the champions. Stuart Kelly, Brian Crilly and Ryan McKillopp took the score to 7-2. Ryan Marcus took the next frame with a great finish and a superb long red. Crilly and Harris had a great tactical battle in the 11th frame for Crilly to pull out the finish of the year to take the match and frame 8-3. Kelly, with a clinical break and dish, saw the match reach 9-3 before Ryan Marcus and Chris Carson took the last two frames.

Players of the night: Crilly 3/3 Kelly 2/2. This home victory moves Titans to second place in the league table.

Times Tigers vs Stadium

The Tigers welcomed league new boys, Stadium to the Times Bar. Lewis Neill got the visitors off to the perfect start with a win over Stephen McWhirter, but wins for Tigers’ Johnny Eccles, Scotty Pettigrew and Kye Robinson put the hosts 3-1 up. The Stadium responded with wins for Blain Jordan, Willy McCullough and John English to leave the score 4-3 at halftime.

The second half started just like the first! Lewis Neill got his second victory over McWhirter and Kye Robinson got his second win of the night for the Tigers. Score at this stage 5-4 to the Stadium. Captain for the evening John English then hit his second win to extend the Stadium lead before Scotty Pettigrew once more beat Bryan Joseph to reduce the deficit, and leave the Stadium winning 6-5 with 3 frames to go. Tom McGurk edged a win to get the sides level. Both sides hoping for a win or at least a draw at this stage but knowing at least a bonus point was secure! Frame 13 saw 2 unbeaten players on the night go head to head, with Kye Robinson and John English meeting, both having won 2 out of 2.  A great finish from John put the Stadium on the hill. Last frame between Scotty Pettigrew and Kyle Robertson was an edgy affair with both players having chances on the black. Ultimately Kyle held his nerve and came out on top to secure the win for Stadium moving them into the top half of the table. Final Score Tigers 6 Stadium 8

Players of note, John English with 3/3, Lewis Neill with 2/2 for the Stadium.

Trojans vs Railway Blues 

The Trojans welcomed the Railway Blues to Whitehead with both teams looking for their first win of the season with the Trojans drawing their first 2 league games and Blues losing their first two games. The Blues got off to great start with Ryan Stewart winning the first of the night.  The next frame was won by Trojans’ Stephen Hamilton with a great 8 ball clearance and frame 3 was also won by the Trojans Gordan McKinty. Railway Blues then kick into gear and took the next 3 frames via Josh McIlroy, Matthew Hagan and Rab Brown. Last frame of the first half was won by Matt Thompson of the Trojans to make it 3- 4 to Blues at half time. 

The second half started with the Blues taking the first two frames  (Ryan Stewart,  Wes Smith) to take a commanding lead 3 - 6 but the Trojans were not prepared to lay down and won next two frames (Stephen Hamilton, Maroof Balogun). The 12 frame was a very close game with Blues Robert Craig winning it for the Blues taking them one frame away from their first win of the season. Game 13 was one of the quickest games of the night with Rab Brown put the black ball into the middle pocket far too early and losing the match. So the Trojans need to win the last frame for another draw and the Blues for their first win of the season. After some great pool by both players (Trojans’ Gordon McKinty and Blues Gareth Curlett) Gordon took out a great finish to win and give the Trojans another draw. Top players for Trojans Stephen Hamilton 2/2 and Gordan McKinty 2/2. Top player for Blues Ryan Stewart 2/2.

In other matches, where home team captains chose not to send in reports...

The Pink Ladies remain at the foot of the table after a 1-13 tanking from Q Club Larne.

Grange continue their rise up the table with a 9-5 victory of a decent Spartans team.