Buckley hits top form for Waterloo

OLDHAM and its bowling clubs have a fine representation in the last 64 of the Waterloo Handicap in Blackpool.

Seven players with local connections - including four from Springbank - have reached this stage of the competition, which continues on Saturday morning until tomorrow week.

One of the strongest contenders from this area is Nimble Nook and Springbank’s Andy Buckley, who has a Spring Waterloo title on his CV and has also reached finals day in the main competition.

Springbank have three other chances in Paul Heap, Martin Hodson and Matt O’Neill.

Heap takes on Gordon Hawkins, O’Neill plays Billy Burlinson and Hodson meets Josh Mordue, son of 2007 Waterloo champion Chris.

Buckley, an 8-1 shot for the title, takes on South Yorkshire’s Andy Mailer in the last 64.

He warmed up in the best way by landing the Spen Victoria Classic in Yorkshire – his third major title of the season and a £1,100 pay day.

He defeated the host county’s Mark Hughes 21-9 in the final after surviving a comeback by Bradford’s Richard Stockfield in an epic semi-final.

Said Buckley: “I led 20-12 and beat his lead with a foot bowl every end up to 20-19, only for him to come and beat mine.

“Then he lay game with two close bowls and I managed to produce a ‘dead un’ for game.”

Buckley, who had previously landed the Sandal Classic in Wakefield and the Houldsworth Open in Stockport, now has his sights set on Waterloo glory.

He said: “I’m going there in good form, but it is all on the day and it’s only 16 up (all competitors start off five).

“It’s good that there are a few Springbank lads involved so we will be willing each other on and shouting for each other.”

Waterloo and Taunton’s experienced Greater Manchester campaigner, Lee Turner, has arguably the toughest draw. He plays Preston’s Simon Coupe, who has won the competition twice and is the 5-1 favourite to complete a hat-trick.

Tonge’s Jimmy Derby is another strong fancy with the bookies and he meets Keith Williams on Saturday.

Michael Holden, runner-up to Mordue in 2007, represents Syke in the Chadderton League, and is a

former Royton player. He takes on John Grace in the last 64.