Yamba’s Div 2 men’s Pennant side has won its way through to the NSW State Pennant playoffs, after taking out the Zone 1 title at South Tweed last weekend.
It was a gutsy win against the formidable Ballina side in their first game which proved decisive.
With both rinks playing outstanding bowls, Yamba jumped out to a good early lead, catching their opponents (who were fresh off a huge win the game before) by surprise.
Some terrific bowling by the Yamba men withstood the late comeback by Ballina and playing the last of the 42 ends and defending a 4-shot overall lead, Brad Johnson’s side held their nerve and Yamba came away with a 2 shot victory.
After that excitement, Yamba had to gather themselves and face Kingscliff in their final game to secure the title. They did so most convincingly, continuing to display the class that they all possess and came away with a strong win.
Congratulations to the side of Steve Jackson, Tracy Jenner, Des Johnson and Marty Wood in one team and Cliffe Vagg, Dave Beaumont, Ian Parker and Brad Johnson in the other. And of course, Ros Moore capably managed the side, keeping them primed and plied with lollies.
In a total surprise, following the disqualification of Ballina in Div 3 (second placed in the section), Yamba, was informed they had qualified for the Zone playoffs as well.
Very hurried arrangements were made and the side of Paul Plummer, Gary Moose Morehouse, Muttley Millyan and Steve Butler in one team and Dave Atkinson, Bob Ballantyne, Peter Forrester and Jim Johnson in the other represented the club in Div 3.
Again, it was a 2 shot difference in a crucial game, which was decisive, but this time fell the wrong way for Yamba.
Having won a last bowl nail biter against Kingscliff on Saturday, 5-0, they faced home side South Tweed, fresh off a Saturday 5-0 forfeit from Lismore Workers, in their crunch game on Sunday morning. Despite playing extremely well, they went down on the last bowl this time, by 2 shots.
They finished strongly, however, defeating Lismore Workers 4-1 in their final game to finish a commendable second in Zone Div 3.
The Yamba club is proud of the achievements of these and all those who represented our club in this recent Pennant competition and wishes our Div 2 side all the very best at State.
Wendy Ballantyne