After playing so well to reach the County Trophy semi-final, Sidmouth Bowls Club unfortunately got knocked out last Saturday against a very strong team from Isca.

The home rink of Wilf Radburn, David Butler, John Chew and skip Brian Smith held their own against a much younger team, who were full of high fives and running up the rink to follow their bowls with lots of encouragement for each other.

On the final 21st end, Isca were holding one shot to win, however their skip, who had no need to bowl his last wood, moved the jack very slightly to give the shot away to Sidmouth, who pinched a 17-16 victory.

The second home rink of Andrew Lowe, Kevin Frickey, Paul Irvine and skip Ken Wheeler also did extremely well, going into the final 21st end just one shot down at 16 - 17.

Some great bowls were played but eventually Isca managed to get the shot to win 18 -16. The overall home score was Sidmouth 33 Isca 34. Unfortunately, both away rinks lost, so Isca progress to the final.

Feniton Bowls Club visited for three triple rinks and those that played had a great afternoon with very good company and played in great spirit. Many of the Feniton members also play at Honiton B.C in the winter and that obviously showed, as they beat Sidmouth 52 -43 with some fine bowls on the day. 

However, although losing on two rinks, Sidmouth did enjoy a winning rink, albeit by just one shot, so thanks go to Brian Deam, Jerome Hagen and skip Bert Hague for flying the flag.

Sadly, there are many friendly games being cancelled this season. Unfortunately, several by us and several by others. It's such a pity as these friendlies are the backbone of bowling clubs, and such a great way to meet others and get the experience of playing away on different greens. This can only help to improve your bowling, rather than just playing on your home rinks. Hopefully, more can be played in the summer season.