As I write, looking out on a dreich day, it's hard to believe that we travelled to Minto on Tuesday in gorgeous early autumn sunshine. Eager to get back to winning ways after the last two away defeats, and having been held to a draw on our own manor this match was well set up as a strong competition.
Our lead pairing and reunited for the first time this season were last season's top scorers - Brian"Shooter"Robson and David Wright. Once again they got the ball rolling beautifully both physically and metaphorically by securing a hard fought, yet vital opening 2&1 victory.
Roger Scott & Tom"Ace"Litster were next off against what has come to be a very strong Minto line-up. Nip and tuck all the way to the 18th, the frustration of a missed putt to secure the draw was visible to those around. So a loss 1 down balanced the overall scores.
Stevie Mathews and Andy"H"Nelson were teamed for the first time this year, but having played together in other events, appeared a strong partnership. Alas the combination of a very solid Minto crew and our utter inability to read the greens allowed the match run away. Contradicting Scotties famous line - it appears we were able change the laws of physics. So the records will show a 6&5 defeat. Still pars at 17 & 18 were overshadowed by Andy's chip in for birdie at the last hole. Enough to make us believe it's worth returning for another go !
Ken Davey and Vic Roberts formed an excellent partnership, supporting one other perfectly, to maintain the pressure on their opponents, and come home with a 2&1 victory.
Jim Lyle and Sam Walker, though last on paper were back in the clubhouse early, having romped to a stunning 3&2 victory.
So the match score was 3-2 to Peebles as we waited the last pairing on the course to return their score. That fell to Jim"Chariots"Cutler and debutant for this season Geoff Lawson. Their match had gone the distance, finishing for them at the 10th. The result they achieved - match halved - meant Peebles secured the points 3½ - 2½. Boy how your lunch tastes sweeter with a win.
One pair missing for the day "Team Ian's". Once again can I thank them for all their contributions over the season.
Our final challenge is against North Berwick away on 18th October. Selection for this match is via availability, supported by qualifying points accrued throughout our season. Notice for this match will go up super early - this Friday.
