Outsiders storm into contention

The one day of action possible over the weekend in the Manx Petroleum sponsored Outdoor Winter Bowling League saw three teams capable of being crowned champions come next March, battle it out just hours after storm Brian had abated.

Not featured in our first report as being one of the favourites, Outsiders were the afternoon’s biggest benefactors, dropping just two points and one game, promoting their average up to 122 from the four fixtures they have played so far.

Although it is still early days, I firmly believe we can add this outfit to the list of title contenders, also remembering they have been champions in the past. Back in 2011 they were successful under the name New Found Glory, although the players have changed a little, with only four of the winning team still competing for Outsiders.

So what off two of the other contenders, with eight-time champs, Jacks Off not competing – Seven-Up slipped to third on 119 after they suffered their first defeat, but still came away from the session with a healthy tally of 231 points, which included a maximum.

Champions Mooragh Lakers were up against both Outsiders and Seven-Up, they struggled a little by their own standards, but will be reasonably content with one win, achieved from one of those occasions when they lost 4-2 on games, but were successful in the all-important battle for points, sneaking home by the closest of margins.

Also in action were basement side Bits n Bobs, they had three new winter league players on the scorecards and consequently slipped further behind in the standings after two 6-0 defeats.

As you’ve probably worked out for yourselves, Saturday’s fixtures fell foul of the weather and have been rescheduled for Saturday, November 4.

A fantastic entry of 51 was welcomed to the latest midweek round robin, which was held between the two storms that battered the Island.

From three sets of triples, the winners were Ken Karran, Helen Martin and Doug Allan; Steve Parker, Rita Callister and Shirley Whelan; Allan Kennaugh, Bryan Masterson and Peter Kelly.

Perhaps this is an opportune moment to remind all members that round robin entries close at 1pm prompt in order to get proceedings completed