Mixed start for Country Teams
Posted on: 30 September
The first round of matches of the 2024 Country Teams Event was played at The Sands Torquay on Monday 30 September. There was mixed blessings for the GMGA teams
Sonya Hill (Shepp) was first off for the women and returned with a great 5/3 win. Nacole Horneman (RR) followed and recorded a 1 up win. Rhylee Chapman (RR) and Julie Daniel (Num) were the next order and both lost to make it 2 each against Murray Darling. Tracey Clouston could not recover from a bad start and lost her match giving Murray Darling a lead. However, should managers worry when Casey Chandler, the baby of the team (Cob-Bar) and team Captain Kim Morris (Shepp) playing in the top two positions returned with 4/3 and 5/4 wins respectively. Therefore the team result of 4/3 win.
This result was a reversal of the 2023 contest between these two teams and set up a good base to play Western District in the afternoon.
The men were not nearly as fortunate. Matches of what could have been. But it is hard to compete against eagles and birdies. Aaron Dale (Toc) and Chris Tomlinson (Cob-Bar) both lost 1 down. Mitch Grandell was soundly defeated by Murray Darling stalwart Greg Rhodes. Followed by losses to the three Shepp men, Jeremey Rath (-2/1), Danial Adem(-5/4) and Luke Dixon (1down). Team captain and number one player Brett Kellow (Moo) scored the only win 2/1. You have to be very good to compete at this level. A 6/1 defeat not a great way to start. The bye in the afternoon may help heal the mental wounds.