Pierce Purcell pipped in play-off

Our Pierce Purcell team were up against Ballinascorney Golf Club in the latest round of matches. Jim Wood’s team had 2 matches away and 2 at home but importantly Ballinascorney had the home draw in the case of a playoff.

At home representing Greystones were Keith McDonnell with Rob Tierney and Henry Gilbert with Dermot Barry who were being looked after by Gerry Browner. Away from home were Robert Clarke with Colm O’Neill and Stephen O’Brien with Shane Power. Jim Wood was looking after things away from home.

On a dull cool evening brightened by Rob Tierney’s colourful golf shoes (see photos) the home team got off to great starts and Keith and Rob were 3 up at the turn and Henry and Dermot were in complete control being 5 up heading to the tenth tee.

Away from home things were much tighter. Colm and Robert were all square after 9 while Stephen and Shane were just the one down.

Henry and Dermot picked up the first point on the 14th soon followed by Rob and Keith winning on 17 after a spirited comeback by their opponents. So 2-0 to Greystones and a wait for results from Ballinascorney. It was looking promising as Rob and Colm were all square heading down 18 needing just a half to progress. However Ballinascorney forced a win on 18. 2-1 now. Stephen and Shane were now dormie 2 down needing two wins to get that vital half point, again Ballinascorney prevailed and won 3&1.

Colm and Robert were our nominated pair for the playoff and took on their opponents on their 19th hole of the day. Again Ballinascorney prevailed on progress to the next round.

Commiserations to Jim and his team on what was a dramatic campaign involving a reinstatement to the competition, a playoff win and defeat.