Last month saw a convincing win for England over Ireland at AC Level advanced. Our own Richard Peperell was one of the England CA Team contesting the annual Vera McWeeney Trophy in Dublin. The trophy (a silver cigar box) is named after a distinguished Irish sports captain and correspondent. This year, Vera's son Myles competed in the Irish team.
England (total handicaps 21) were not expected to do too well as the Irish handicaps totalled only 15 (with half the Irish team being Irish Internationals – did they want to win?) England took an early lead which they never lost, although by lunchtime on the final day the Irish had narrowed the gap to just 2 games. Many people reading this have played for their club and know the added pressure this brings. Just image what it’s like when playing for your country – it’s immense! Richard eventually calmed his nerves and succeeded in winning two of his three singles.
One of many memorable moments was when (-1.5) Patsy FitzGerald’s mallet fell apart, the head flopping off the very second after he had completed a magnificent 'non tp' TP and pegged out. This left the Brits with two hoops to find, which they failed to do. What a crowd pleaser, but what fun nevertheless, and what tension.
With typical Irish hospitality, gallons / litres of Guinness were offered to the Brits. (Is it really of this earth? So creamy and light, like a soufflé but warming like a broth.) Was this an Irish tactic that didn’t work, as England won 15 – 9? Maybe that matters, or maybe not. Each match was played with intensity, honour and humour. And we all had great fun. Richard Peperell
England (total handicaps 21) were not expected to do too well as the Irish handicaps totalled only 15 (with half the Irish team being Irish Internationals – did they want to win?) England took an early lead which they never lost, although by lunchtime on the final day the Irish had narrowed the gap to just 2 games. Many people reading this have played for their club and know the added pressure this brings. Just image what it’s like when playing for your country – it’s immense! Richard eventually calmed his nerves and succeeded in winning two of his three singles.
One of many memorable moments was when (-1.5) Patsy FitzGerald’s mallet fell apart, the head flopping off the very second after he had completed a magnificent 'non tp' TP and pegged out. This left the Brits with two hoops to find, which they failed to do. What a crowd pleaser, but what fun nevertheless, and what tension.
With typical Irish hospitality, gallons / litres of Guinness were offered to the Brits. (Is it really of this earth? So creamy and light, like a soufflé but warming like a broth.) Was this an Irish tactic that didn’t work, as England won 15 – 9? Maybe that matters, or maybe not. Each match was played with intensity, honour and humour. And we all had great fun. Richard Peperell