Look back at last year’s KGJ Insurance County Cup Final

Ifton won their first ever KGJ Insurance County Cup by defeating Wrockwardine Wood by 29 in the final. They had to come back from behind, trailing by 6 after the first four despite player of the match Ian Jones winning 9, as Mark Jones led three winners for the Wrockites. It was the middle four where the Miners took control, Craig Griffiths winning 9 and Joey Williams 10 as they took the lead by 16. Wins at 9 and 10 by Nicky Jones and Keiron Roberts sealed their maiden success in their 4th final. Wins by Scott Moseley and Sally King at the back meant the games were shared but those two 9 and 10 winners were the difference.

Victorious captain Aaron Roberts said “I thought we were class. Ian Dutton vs Stuart Rutter deserves a mention because both players were unbelievable and neither stopped beating each other’s bowls. Once draw was out I knew if we kept the front 4 close then we had a massive chance of bringing our first cup home, Ian Jones was a deserved MOTM after stressing he had to change his bowls from his usual ones. Taking 5 out of the next 6 blocks really quietened the Wrockites support, Craig Griffiths, Joey Williams, Nick Jones and Keiron Roberts played the green with pure class. Got to give a mention to Martin Jones because prior to the game I quoted ‘that’s the only card I’m worried about’ sorry bunt you were unbelievable. Back 2 of Sam and Ollie were fantastic, both played ex homesters and kept their composure to bring home Ifton’s first County Cup win. Thank you to Wrockwardine Wood on another fantastic final, decider next year? Thank you to the referees and Shropshire officials on helping produce another fantastic night of bowls. Last but not least thank you to all at Meole Brace bowling club, green was in fantastic condition and Ifton thoroughly enjoyed being on the winning side for the first time.

Opposition skipper Rob Jones was magnanimous in defeat, saying “congratulations to Ifton, they were simply the better side on the night, we have no complaints at all from 1-12 they played extremely well and are worthy winners.”

Full scores are below, with pictures underneath.