Ben holds his nerve

HEADING FOR THE FINALS: Neil Armstrong leads out against Maurice Foskett at Royton.

BOWLS:  

BEN Gledhill survived two 21-20 scares and produced a brilliant display in his third match on his way to a place in the finals of the Green Final Bowling Handicap.

The Royton youngster edged out two-time champion Alan Hodson in his first-round match at Nimble Nook before recording an identical verdict against team-mate Zac Stott.

But he saved his best display for last, seeing off Wilf McDermott 21-9 with a superb performance in the Chronicle-sponsored event.

Reigning champion Darren Griffiths bowed out of this year's competition at Royton.

After coming back from 20-16 down to beat Alf Smallwood in his first match, Griffiths reached the last 16 with a 21-11 verdict against Simon Cawley.

But he was unable to get past two-time champion Neil Armstrong in the finals-night qualifier as the confident St Paul's player recorded a 21-14 verdict.

Outstanding player at Crompton was Steve Fieldhouse (Friezland), who qualified for the finals at North Chadderton Social and Bowling Club on Saturday, July 5, in some comfort.

After beating Don Rae 21-14 and Steve Mellor 21-16, Fieldhouse registered a 21-15 verdict against Jim Mountford.

It is a few years since Dene Hibbert was competing on the county bowls scene, but the Ashton Cricket ace has rededicated himself to the sport and he showed the benefit with a superb display to qualify at Moorside.

After beating Barbara Cooper 21-5 and Frank Cassidy 21-10, Hibbert overcame competition chairman Keith McHugh 21-15.

Off a handicap of four following his spell away from bowls, the rejuvenated Hibbert could be the man they all have to beat in the finals.