Division 10 review + 41 action photos

Winter League

A review of the results from the first round of matches in Division 10 when the action turned to the new host green at Skel Central on Monday

The sky was cloudy and rain was in the air but the only evidence of the passing of the back-to-back Storms Austen and Beolo was a covering of leaves searching for a safe place to recuperate after being bashed around over the previous 48 hours. As the bowlers emerged from the covered areas for a pre-match photo (above) the rain regained momentum to remind us all that this is Winter bowling. But, with only a couple wearing gloves, we all know that worse is to come and this opening day of the Division 10 season was mild enough for one brave soul to wear his shorts.

On the green it was a surprise that Holmfirth B should be the only 8-0 winners of the day to go clear at the top of the first table. It was a surprise to the Forecast Game punters who had made them the favourites to be relegated and probably a surprise to the Holmfirth team as they have never won a Winter League match by the maximum winning score before. Add to that the fact that if the League had managed to secure another host green, then the Holmfirth team would have been playing in Division 11 this season. So surprises all round but probably not to their opponents, Almondbury BC C, who only won one match last season and credit to them for their efforts and approach in staying the distance. Well done.

Behind the leaders sit three teams all on 6 points with Brockholes C leading the parade with the better 'Aggregate For' total after seeing off Marsh Lib C. The first photo on the carousel below shows a rainbow emerging from behind the Emley TV mast as the sun made a brief appearance as the second round of games got into full throttle. After stuttering starts the two home teams from Skel Central came good to clock up 6-2 wins over Brockholes D and E.

We all know that the social side of Winter bowling is a key factor in the success of the League and the host club were well prepared to milk that avenue. A wonderfully received Corn Beef Hash kept the spirits high, stomachs full and the catering team busy. The post-matchday opinions on the Division 10 WhatsApp message board were in high praise of everything about the first day of the season.

I say 'everything' but there was one thing that gnawed at one bowler enough to tell the home team that they may have a full range of wooden seating but that can provide an unwelcome numbness and that a few cushions would be welcome. Knowing how keen the hosts are to provide a good all-round experience, I would be surprised if that matter isn't addressed before next week's fixtures.

Well done to Kevin and the team, an excellent start and proving to be a great addition to the Winter League's cast of host clubs. Even if the day didn't start as well as Kevin would have hoped, as his wife had to remind him that the day was not all about bowling, as it was also their wedding anniversary! He had forgotten.

Use the side arrows to scroll through all 41 action photos

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