Tonge’s hammer blow

BOWLS:

TONGE’S hopes of retaining the Manchester Premier League title are all but over after their disappointing 11-3 (202-155) defeat to leaders St Joseph’s of Chorley.

Without Gary Ellis and Matt Gillies, a weakened Tonge team could find only two winners in Robbie Fitzpatrick (21-20) and Graham Hickey (21-14).

And with Chorlton side Lloyd Hotel winning 15-2 at the Nursery Inn, Stockport, Tonge are down to third.

Tonge’s next match is at home to the Railway Hotel, Congleton, next Wednesday.



BARRY Seville and Steve Mellor carry Oldham hopes in the finals of the Thwaites men’s pairs at Norden BC on Sunday (5.30pm).

Draw:

T Dobson/A Lowe v M Tunstall/P Lee; M Sutton/S Foster (Droylsden) v D Towning/H Nelson; M Clough/R Goodman v R Newton/C Lord;Seville/Mellor v I Holden/K Rudman. (Todmorden)

The A C Ventilation women’s pairs finals will be held at the same time and venue.

There are still a few places left in the Solar Choice men’s singles competition.

Qualifying nights are August 18 and 25, and September 1 and 8 (all 6pm). Finals will be held on Sunday, September 15 (5pm).

Entry fee is £5 and places can be secured by ringing Steve or Jean on 01706 527219 or 0776 7674699