Singles and Doubles Knockouts
Staffordshire County Trials
The first stage of the County Trials for Staffordshire take place on Sunday 8th January. All budding county players need to be at the Green Baize club in Hanley no later than 12.00pm for registration. A small fee (about £4) is required for entry. Each player plays several of the other triallists during the day as the field is whittled down to the successful few who will be invited back on the following Sunday to take on some of last year's county representatives who are now required to re-trial. Only the victorious players from this second round of matches will make it onto the team to represent Staffordshire.
18th December Winter League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue are the new leaders as they avenged their previous week's defeat against the Hop Pole C. They ran out 6-0 winners - leading the way were Adam Lilburne, Dave Whitfield, Martin Priestley, Dave and Mike Barker. 3 points behind are previous leaders the Bird who had to come back from 3-0 down to earn a 3-3 draw at the Rickerscote. On the same points are the Hop Pole who had to work hard for their 4-2 success over the Crooked Cue K. The Bushes B got the better of their 'A' side running out 5-1 winners thanks to Mick Ferguson, Dave Arrowsmith, Simon Key, Simon Davies and James Holmes. The Rickerscote A gained a useful 4-2 win at the Luckpenny.
Division 2 The Crooked Cue A continued their fine form after they secured a 4-2 win at the Highfields. They lead by 4 points over their 'C' side who also won, defeating the Fox and Hounds 5-1 thanks to Rob Wharne, Mick Turner, Kev Connor and Dave Richardson. The Joiners got back to winning ways with a 4-2 win at the Bear and Pheasant while there was a welcome win for the Staffs Bull A who triumphed over the New Vic, running out 4-2 victors. Gaz Morris, Lynda Simpson, Pippa Steele and Ian Flanagan all won.
Division 3 The Morrisman are the new leaders after they secured a 5-1 victory at the Island with John Davies, Dean Cummins, Carl Blackford and Dave Harris all winning. The Rose and Crown held unbeaten Oxleathers to a 3-3 draw.
Stan Bent Knockout Round Two Report
There were no great shocks in the Stan Bent Team k/o as all first division teams went through. The only surprise was that high flying Crooked Cue came unstuck at the Hop Pole C losing 3-2. The Pole C have had some indifferent league form of late but wins by Kev Daly and Duncan Sunderland saw them go through. Holders the Bird progressed, beating the New Vic 3-1, as did last years runners up the Crooked Cue K who saw off the Rickerscote B winning 3-0. The Rickerscote beat the Bushes A 3-0 to book their place in the next round - Shaun Draper, Dave Ashton and Lee Terry all won. The Island lost out in a close match 3-2 to the Joiners - Steve Duchan, Andy Pearley and John garside all won. There was an identical score at the Bushes B as they overcame a rugged Shrewsbury Arms running out 3-2 winners. The Hop Pole faced a tough trip to the Fox and Hounds but came through 3-1 victors. There was a good win for the Three Tuns who triumphed 3-1 at the Crooked Cue C.
Subsidiary Team Knockout Round One Report
There were a couple shocks in the subsidiary k/o as 2nd division leaders Crooked Cue A won 3-0 at 1st division Luckpenny with Robbie Jenkinson, Nick Haden and Will Edge all winning. 3rd division leaders Rifleman gained an excellent 3-0 win over 2nd division Highfields- Mark Hollowood, Warren Bradbury and James Devlin led the way. The Bear and Pheasant picked up a useful 3-1 win at the Forester as did the Staffs Bull A who gained a similar score against their 'B' side. The Rickerscote A progressed with a 3-1 victory at the Rose and Crown and the Oxleathers won a tight tussle with their 3rd division rivals the Morrisman winning 3-2.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford rounded off their debut season in the Staffs Inter-league with a disappointing defeat to Trent Trophies Tuesday. A win in this match would have seen Stafford finish the season in 5th place, but the loss now means they have to settle for 7th place in the final Table. Gav Davies (2 wins), Steve Finney and Spencer Trow were the sole victors for the home team. Player statistics from these League matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page. The intention is for Stafford to enter 2 teams into this competition in the new year. Anyone interested in taking part should contact the League Secretary.
4th December Winter League Report
Division 1 Leaders the Bird in Hand gained a useful 5-1 victory at the Luckpenny, leading the way were John Daniels, John Grobnik, Phil Butcher and Steve Finney. The Crooked Cue are two points down in 2nd place as they were made to work hard for their 4-2 win at the Bushes A. The Hop Pole however made light work over the Rickerscote A as they ran out 6-0 victors - Andy Rawlinson, Tim Teece, Kev Brown and Mick Addison all won. The matches between the Crooked Cue K and Bushes B, Hop Pole C and Rickerscote both ended in 3-3 draws.
Division 2 The top of the table clash between both Crooked Cue sides ended in a 4-2 success for the ?A? side. Wins by Robbie Jenkinson, Nick Haden and Justin Mackereth saw them through. The Three Tuns jumped into 2nd place after a 5-1 victory over the Bear and Pheasant while there was a similar scoreline for the Fox and Hounds over the New Victoria. The Joiners had to settle for a 3-3 draw against the Highfields.
Division 3 The Rifleman have taken top spot after they secured a 5-1 win over the Forester thanks to Mark Hollowood, Warren Bradbury, Nigel lanes and Pete Harvey. The Rose and Crown gained a 6-0 win over lowly Rickerscote B while the matches between the Oxleathers and Staffs Bull B, Shrewsbury and the Island both ended in 3-3 stalemates.
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27th November Winter League Report
Division 1 The Bird in Hand still hold top spot after they secured a 4-2 win over the Hop Pole C. One point behind in 2nd place are the Crooked Cue who returned to winning ways with a 5-1 success over their ?K? side - Mike Barker, Dave Whitfield, Dave Barker, Adam Lilburne and Martin Priestley all won. The Hop Pole had to come back from 3-0 down to salvage a draw against lowly Luckpenny. There was also a similar scenario at the Rickerscote, as they had to do the same thing against the Bushes A. The Rickerscote A continued their winning form, this time a 4-2 win at the Bushes B.
Division 2 Both Crooked Cue sides are dominating the 2nd division as they both recorded wins and now hold a 7 point gap over their nearest rivals. The ?C? side hold top spot as they pulled off a 4-2 success over the New Vic while the ?A? side went one better with a 5-1 win against the Joiners. The Bear and Pheasant recorded their first win of the season with a 4-2 success over the Staffs Bull A. The Three Tuns kept their promotion challenge going with a 4-2 win at the Highfields thanks to Dennis Kitchen, Paul Johnson, Ian Thomas and Alex Williams.
Division 3 The Morrisman inflicted a first defeat of the season over the Shrewsbury Arms and in the process now occupy top spot. They ran out 5-1 victors thanks to John Davies, Carl Blackford, Steve Carson and Dean Cummins. The Oxleathers keep their unbeaten record going as they pulled off a fine 4-2 victory at the Island - Chris Rose, Dave Fieldhouse, Pete Bromley and Dave Rose all won. The Staffs Bull B got a much needed 5-1 win over the Rickerscote B and now puts them in mid table. The Rifleman picked up a 5-1 win at the Rose and Crown.
20th November Winter League Report
Division 1 The Bird are the new leaders after they defeated previous leaders the Hop Pole 4-2. Leading the way were Steve Finney, John Grobnik, Phil Butcher and John Daniels. The big surprise was Rickerscote A?s 4-2 victory over the Crooked Cue. This was the Cue?s first defeat in 22 matches and the victors on the night were Steve Bradley, Phil Alldiss, Andy Gray, Mick Bryant and John Lainton. The Bushes B returned to winning ways with a 4-2 victory at the Luckpenny while the Crooked Cue K gained a useful 4-2 win at home to the Rickerscote. Draw specialists Bushes A kept their record going with a 3-3 draw against the Hop Pole C.
Division 2 Leaders Crooked Cue C were without a game and so it was left to the other teams to close the gap and they did, with the Fox and Hounds claiming a 6-0 success over the Bear and Pheasant to put them level on points. The Crooked Cue A are a point behind after they recorded a 6-0 win at the New Vic. Justin Mackereth, Will Edge, Robbie Jenkinson and Nick Haden all won. The Three Tuns inflicted a first defeat for the Joiners, running out 5-1 victors. The Staffs Bull A are up and running with 4-2 win over the Highfields - Gaz Morris, Ian Flanagan, Lynda Simpson and Pippa Steele all won.
Division 3 Top clash was the match between the Oxleathers and the Shrewsbury, and there was no separating them as they were locked at 3-3. The Rifleman picked up a useful 4-2 win over the Staffs Bull B while the Island gained a 6-0 victory at the Rickerscote B. Sean Lucas, Alan Alldritt, Jim Simpson and Ian Pemberton all won. The Forester and the Morrisman settled for a 3-3 draw.
13th November Winter League Report
Division 1 Leaders the Hop Pole visited the Bushes B and came away with a useful 4-2 victory that still keeps them top - Tim Teece, Kev Brown, Mark Bailey and Mick Addison all winning. Closing the gap and jumping into 2nd place are the Crooked Cue who beat the Luckpenny 6-0 and are now only one point behind. The Bird in Hand were held 3-3 by the Bushes A and now occupy 3rd place. The Rickerscote picked up their first win of the season with a 5-1 success over their ?A? side thanks to Dave Ashton, Andy Palin, Shaun Draper and Daz Pownall. The Crooked Cue K and Hop Pole C were locked at 3-3.
Division 2 Leaders Crooked Cue C kept their fine start going with a hard fought 4-2 win at the Bear and Pheasant - Kev Connor, Dave Richardson, Tim Gask and Robert Wharne all won. The Fox and Hounds are in 2nd place after they won 4-2 at the Highfields Club. The Joiners Arms picked up a useful 5-1 win over the Staffs Bull A - Adam Anslow, Andy Pearley, Steve Duchan and John Garside all won. The Crooked Cue A have started well after a 4-2 success over the Three Tuns and are now 3rd.
Division 3 The Shrewsbury Arms are the new leaders after securing a 5-1 success over lowly Rickerscote B thanks to Greg Pask, Steve Hughes, Steve Lowndes and Chris Bridger. The Morrisman fell to a 4-2 defeat at home to the Oxleathers and have also started well. The Rose and Crown gained a 4-2 victory over the Forester - Ben LeMaistre, Tim Brotherton, Dean Marley and Craig Jones all won. The Rifleman gained a useful 4-2 win at the Island.
Stan Bent Knockout Round One Report
The Stan Bent Team Knockout 1st round is underway and the shock of the first round was 3rd division The Island?s success over 1st division Rickerscote A. Jim Simpson, Sean Lucas and Alan Alldritt all won in their 3-1 victory. Holders Bird had a bye whereas last year's runners up Crooked Cue K were made to work hard for their 3-2 win over the Luckpenny. Gavin Davies, Dean Cammack and Lee Whitehouse all contributing. The Hop Pole and Crooked Cue both achieved 3-0 wins over the Oxleathers and Bear and Pheasant respectively. The Fox and Hounds also gained a 3-0 victory over their 2nd division counterparts the Staffs Bull A. 1st division Rickerscote were pushed all the by the Crooked Cue A as they came from 2-1 down to win 3-2 thanks to Shaun Draper and Andy Palin. The Joiners and Hop Pole C also won 3-0 to progress while the Crooked Cue C, New Victoria and the Three Tuns all won 3-1.
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30th October Winter League Report
Division 1 Leaders the Hop Pole were held at home 3-3 by 3rd place Crooked Cue. This gave the other teams a chance to climb a few places and it was the Bird in Hand who seized the opportunity. They won 4-2 at the Bushes B and so swapped places and now occupy 2nd place. The Hop Pole C celebrated their first success with a 5-1 win at the Rickerscote A - Shane Milleen, Baz Davies, Duncan Sunderland and Kev Daly all won. The Luckpenny gained a useful 3-3 draw against the Rickerscote.
Division 2 The Crooked Cue C continued their impressive start with a 5-1 win over the Highfields and have now opened up a 7 point gap over the Three Tuns who had to settle for a 3-3 draw at the Staffs Bull A. The New Victoria A picked up their first win with a 4-2 victory over the Bear and Pheasant with Dennis Moxon, Paul Lakin, Neil and Craig Parsons all winning. The Joiners travelled to the Fox and Hounds and came away with a 3-3 result.
Division 3 The Morrisman hold onto top spot after they secured their 3rd 5-1 victory of the campaign at the Rose and Crown. The Shrewsbury Arms however made it 3 wins out of 3 and move into 2nd place with a 4-2 success at the Rifleman A. Newcomers Rickerscote B gained a 3-3 draw at home to the Oxleathers and so ended their poor start. The Forester were held at home 3-3 by the Staffs Bull B.
Staffordshire Threes Finals Day Report
Stafford were represented at the Finals Day of the Staffordshire Threes competition by Crooked Cue Q at the Hanley Rileys Club. The trio of Adam Lilburne, Mike Barker and Dave Barker also reached the semi-final stage in last year’s competition. Once again they found the competition too strong at this stage as they were brushed aside 5-1 by Last Men Standing who completed three 8-balls on their way to victory. It was then a repeat performance for the aptly named trio as they dispatched Baize Potters in the final by the same scoreline with another display of top-quality potting.
23rd October Winter League Report
Division 1 The first division is already proving to be a close run thing with the top five sides within 4 points of each other. The Hop Pole were made to work hard for their 3-3 draw at the Rickerscote. The Crooked Cue also had to settle for a similar score line against a plucky Bushes B side. The Bird in Hand were the only team who registered a win in this division as they saw off the challenge of the Crooked Cue K winning 4-2. John Daniels, Phil Butcher, Steve Finney and John Grobnik all won. Both the Rickerscote A and the Bushes A had to settle for a 3-3 draw.
Division 2 The Highfields Club have got off to a good start with a 5-1 win over the New Victoria. Steve Hyde, Mark Simpson, Mick Jenkinson and Mark Phillips all won. Leaders the Crooked Cue C were held to a 3-3 draw at the Joiners Arms while the Crooked Cue A jumped into 2nd place after they beat the Staffs Bull A 5-1. There was a return to form for the Three Tuns as they won 5-1 at home to the Fox and Hounds.
Division 3 Newcomers the Oxleathers have started well after they beat the Rifleman 5-1. The Island went domre 4-2 to the Forester who had Mark Grundy, Jim Pain, Richard Medway and John Smith all winning. The Rose and Crown picked up their first win with a 4-2 win at the Staffs Bull B. The Morrisman have taken top spot after they achieved a 5-1 win over lowly Rickerscote B.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford came away from their penultimate Staffs Inter-league match at Leek A with a well-earned victory. The 11-7 win sees Stafford continue to climb the Table, now reaching 6th place. Mike Barker, Adam Lilburne and Lee Whitehouse each contributed to the success with 2 wins apiece as the team from Stafford overcame one of their nearest rivals. Player statistics from these League matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page. The final League tie of the season is home to Trent Trophies Tuesday. A win in this match would see Stafford finish their first season in this competition in a creditable 5th place.
16th October Winter League Report
Division 1 The Bushes A gained their first victory with a 4-2 win at the Luckpenny. Excelling for the visitors were Tom Tonna, Jason Armishaw, Neil Addison and Paul Dustan. The Hop Pole held onto top place, after seeing off the challenge of their ?C? side, running out 5-1 victors. The Crooked Cue made it 2 wins out of 2 with a hard fought 4-2 win over the Bird thanks to Dave Barker, Mike Barker, Dave Whitfield and Adam Lilburne. The Bushes B have also started off impressively with a 4-2 win over the Rickerscote. The Crooked Cue K are finding life in the 1st Division to their liking after they secured a 5-1 victory over the Rickerscote A which now sees them second in the table.
Division 2 The Crooked Cue C have started off in great style in the 2nd division after they beat the Three Tuns 5-1 and now hold a 2 point lead over the Fox and Hounds who also started well after beating the Staffs Bull A 4-2. The Crooked Cue A picked up their first win with a 5-1 victory at the Bear and Pheasant - Justin Mackereth, Robbie Jenkinson, Nick Haden and Will edge all won. Last seasons 3rd division winners, the Joiners Arms, started their campaign with a 4-2 win over the New Victoria.
Division 3 Newcomers, The Island, have started well in the 3rd div after they secured a 4-2 win at the Rose and Crown - Alan Aldritt, Jim Simpson, and Sean Lucas all won. The Shrewsbury Arms have also started well with a 4-2 win over the Forester. The Rifleman recorded their first win with a 6-0 victory against the Rickerscote B - Nigel Lanes, Peter Harvey, Gary Pemberton and Mark Hollowood all won. Newcomers, Staffs Bull B, also picked up their first win with a 4-2 win over the Morrisman.
9th October Winter League Report
Division 1 Reigning Champions the Crooked Cue got off to a fine start with a 4-2 victory at the Rickerscote, and there was an excellent start for last season’s runners up the Hop Pole. They won 6-0 at the Bushes A with Mark Bailey, Andy Rawlinson, Kev Brown and Tim Teece all winning. 2nd division champions The Crooked Cue K (formley Bird X) got off to a great start with a 5-1 win over the Luckpenny - Gav Davies, Dean Cammack, Steve Nixon, Giles Eastwood and Lee Whitehouse all winning. There was also an impressive 5-1 win for the Bushes B against the Hop Pole C while the Bird achieved an identical win over promoted Rickerscote A.
Division 2 The Three Tuns hope to make up for missing out last season and they started in fine fashion with a 5-1 win over the New Victoria. The Crooked Cue C got off to great start with a 5-1 success over the Staffs Bull A. Leading the way were Robert Wharne, Kev Connor, Sam Connor and Mick Turner. The Fox and Hounds recorded a hard fought 4-2 win over the Crooked Cue A - Dave Baker, Dave Barlow, Steve Johnson and Simon Baker all winning. Promoted Highfields also had a 4-2 win over the Bear and Pheasant.
Division 3 There were some big wins in this division. The Shrewsbury Arms beat the Rose and Crown 5-1. Leading the way was Dave Cunningdon, Geoff Pask, Steve Lowndes and Dean Howe. The Morrisman also won 5-1 against the Rifleman thanks to Dave Cummins, Mark Gaul, Chris Blackford and Graham Chadwick. The Island also won 5-1 against the Staffs Bull B while there was 4-2 win for the Oxleathers against the Forester.
Doubles Knockout Finals Day Report
The Doubles Finals night was held at the Crooked Cue and it proved to be a night of shocks and
entertaining pool play. Lee Whitehouse and Gavin Davies are the new Doubles Champions
of Keith Hill Stafford Sunday Pool League.
The Bird in Hand X pairing beat the experienced pair of Spencer Trow (Crooked Cue X) and Will Edge
(British Legion) in a pulsating final. The latter pulled off a big shock in the Semis, inflicting a
first defeat in almost 4 years on 3 times winners Tim McGann and Kev Brown. Whitehouse and Davies
also beat an experienced pairing of Andy Bent and Andy Rawlinson in a close encounter 2-1.
The Final saw Whitehouse go for the clearance off the break in the first frame but fell short and
this enabled Trow and Edge to claw themselves back in the game with some tactical play. Trow then took
his chance to make it 1-0. In the second frame, things got very tactical and Whitehouse / Davies knew
it was important not to fall further behind. After some tactical exchanges it was left to Whitehouse,
who saw his chance and cleared up to make it 1-1.
The momentum was back in Davies / Whitehouse favour and it gave them the licence to play attacking
pool and again they had another chance and they duly took it to make it 2-1. Trow / Edge had to stop
them and after waiting for their chance they nearly clawed it back but let Davies in. He was under
pressure with some difficult shots to play but with the winning post only a few shots away he took it
and left himself a black into the middle. He stroked it in and with delight and raising the cue in the
air Dennis Taylor style, it was confirmed that himself Gavin Davies and Lee
Whitehouse were doubles champions for the first time.
National Inter-league Knockout Cup Report
The Stafford team came away from their debut at the recent
National Inter-league Knockout Cup
with their heads held high after just missing out on a place in the last 32. Stafford
were quickest off the mark in the first match of Group 24 against Renegade A as they built up a 4-1 lead,
only to be pegged back to 9-8, setting up a vital last frame. Up stepped Spencer Trow who held his nerve to
win the match for Stafford, beating a team containing several tour players. Renegade A
then produced a shock 13-5 victory over Milton Keynes A - the favourites to win the group.
This set up a final group match against Milton Keynes A with Stafford needing only a draw to progress into
the last 32. In a complete contrast to their first match, Stafford quickly found themselves 5-0 down. Dave
Whitfield then won his game, starting a mini-comeback, that led to a 5-4 deficit at the halfway stage. The
Bucks team again opened up a lead before being pegged back and, at 9-8 down, Stafford needed to win the
last game to stay in the tournament. But despite some excellent play the team fell just short and had to
accept a 10-8 defeat resulting in Renegade A winning a closely-fought group on games won.
Star performer for Stafford over the 2 group matches was Gav Davies who only just missed out on making it
4 wins out of 4 when he jawed a black in his final game. Good support came from Andy Rawlinson and Adam
Lilburne who also claimed 3 wins apiece. Representing Stafford in Great Yarmouth were Andy Rawlinson (capt),
Dave Barker, Mike Barker, Gav Davies, Steve Finney, John Grobnik, Adam Lilburne, Spencer Trow, Lee
Whitehouse and Dave Whitfield.
The eventual winners of the competition - Triangle - made it two wins in a row thanks to a star-studded
line-up containing 2 ex-world champions (Chris Melling and Mick Hill) as well as Darren Appleton who until
recently was the number one seeded player in the world.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford continued their good form with a hard-fought 11-7 away victory over near-rivals Alsager in their recent Staffs Inter-league clash. The match contained several good individual performances and generated a tense finale as Stafford sought the one frame needed to convert a 9-7 lead into a well-earned win. The result should see Stafford leapfrog over Alsager in the Table with 2 games remaining. Player statistics from these League matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page. The next League match is away to Leek A on 28th October.
Staffordshire Threes Finals Day
Stafford will be represented at the Finals Day of the Staffordshire Threes competition by Crooked Cue Q. The trio of Adam Lilburne, Mike Barker and Dave Barker also reached the semi-final stage in last year’s competition. The Hanley Rileys Club will host the Finals Day on Sunday 30th October with the semi-finals due to start at 3.00pm.
Singles Knockout Finals Day Report
Mark Bailey is the new Keith Hill Sunday Pool Singles Champion for the fifth time in his career.
He saw off the challenge of John Grobnik coming back from 3-0 down to win 4-3 in a pulsating final
watched by a sizeable crowd at the Crooked Cue. Grobnik earlier on in the match looked in complete
control as he cleared up after Bailey made some uncharacteristic misses. Just as it looked as
though Grobnik had won it Bailey got a chance to clear but he left himself a tricky black that he
managed to double to make it 3-1. Grobnik however still looked in control but a missed opportunity on
the black let Bailey in and so the score was 3-2. Same story in the 6th frame as Grobnik failed
again to take his chance. Bailey levelled and so it went to the decider when both players waited
for their opportunity and then Bailey got his chance and took it to the delight of his own
supporters. A truly great final, but such a shame that there has to be a runner up. Shortly
afterwards Mark Bailey announced that he would donate his winnings of £100 to a local school
to go towards a new computer.
In the earlier rounds there were some good performances as Kev Connor won a close fought match 2-1
against Paul Shepherd and Dave Barlow beat Andy Palin also 2-1. John Daniels had a tough encounter
against Daz Waters but came out a 2-1 victor. Mark Bailey started with a 2-1 win over stalwart
Steve Finney while John Grobnik started his run with a closely fought 2-1 win over Dave Whitfield.
Gavin Davies and Dave Ashton both won 2-0 against Duncan Sunderland and Giles Eastwood respectively.
In the quarters, 3 matches ended in 2-0 victories for Bailey, Daniels and Grobnik. The closest match
was between Davies and Dave Barker and after some excellent exchanges of pool it was Barker who
claimed a 2-1 success to reach his second semi appearance. Daniels also made his second semi
appearance but unfortunately came up against an in-form Grobnik who stormed to a 3-0 win and so
reached the Final. In the other semi, Barker and Bailey fought out an even contest with some
excellent potting on show, but it was Bailey who sunk the deciding black for a 3-1 victory to reach
the final.
Staffordshire Inter-league Knockout Cup
The draw has been made for the round-robin stage of the National Inter-league Knockout Cup. The tournament takes place on the 8th and 9th October at Great Yarmouth. Stafford find themselves in Group 24 battling it out against Renegade A (Berkshire) and Milton Keynes A. The winner of this group then progresses to the the last 32 where the tournament enters the straight knockout stage. According to the Overview Stafford’s toughest group match is likely to be against the team from Milton Keynes. Representing Stafford in Great Yarmouth will be Andy Rawlinson (capt), Dave Barker, Mike Barker, Gav Davies, Steve Finney, John Grobnik, Adam Lilburne, Spencer Trow, Lee Whitehouse and Dave Whitfield.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford was back to winning ways against bottom-of-the-table Afford B in their recent Staffs Inter-league clash. The 15-3 victory contained several good performances with 6 players doubling up on the night with 2 wins apiece. The result moves Stafford up to 8th place in the Table with 3 games remaining. Player statistics from these League matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page. The next League match is away to Alsager on 30th September. This will be closely followed by a weekend trip to Great Yarmouth on 7th October to compete in the National Inter-league Knockout Cup with 95 other teams from across the nation.
Local Pool Tournament
A Pool Knockout Tournament will be held at Stafford Snooker Club, Sandon Road on Sunday 25th September. The club has recently had a facelift with the introduction of 6 new, top quality English pool tables. All interested players should be at the club by 11.30am on the day with their £10 entry fee in order to be included in the draw. There will be an estimated £400 prize fund. The playing rules currently in use in the Stafford Sunday Pool League will be adopted for the tournament.
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Summer League Final Report
Winter League champions Crooked Cue have made it a double by winning the Summer League Knockout
final played at the Hop Pole. Their defeat of Bushes B turned out to be a much closer game than the 3-0
scoreline suggests.
In the first game Dave Barker (Cue) was well set for a clearance from the break-off until he lost ideal
position on his last colour and, in potting it, flicked the black ball into a safe position. Paul Shepherd
(Bushes B) came to the table and laid a total snooker, extracting 2 visits from the subsequent foul but then
also failed in his attempt to clear the table. After negotiating his way out of another snooker it came
down to a fluked black from the Cue man to put his team 1-0 ahead.
The second game saw Martin Priestley (Cue) take on Mick Ferguson (Bushes B) in what turned out to be the
big battle of the night. After an exchange of visits Martin took control of two of the corner pockets,
forcing Mick onto the back foot. With 3 colours left on the table Martin decided he had to take the bull by
the horns and go for a finish which ended with the black ball in the jaws of a corner pocket. Mick felt
he had no alternative but to play for a re-rack by surrounding the black with his set of balls. The re-rack
took on a similar pattern to the first game with Martin potting his set of colours first but saw the cue
ball find a corner pocket as he sunk his final colour. Mick developed his colours then laid a snooker,
extracting a foul. But in potting his final colour he lost ideal position on the black ball and missed a
tricky pot to the middle pocket, leaving the black ball short, and handed a golden chance to Martin which
he took.
Third up was Simon Key (Bushes B) against Spencer Trow who was taking the place of Cue regular Dave
Whitfield. Both players took a while to settle as the game panned out with neither taking
control of the table. Spencer was the first to go for game but fell short. There then followed a sequence
of unforced errors as both players felt the pressure before Spencer held his nerve, winning the game and
match.
Not needed on the night to play the fourth singles game were Mike Barker (Cue) and James Holmes (Bushes B).
The Joiners Arms won the final of the Summer Plate competition played at the Crooked Cue. The winners
of the Winter League third division saw off the Fox & Hounds by a scoreline of 3-1 to claim their second
trophy for the year.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford narrowly lost at home against Afford A in their recent Staffs Inter-league clash. Stafford trailed 7-2 at the halfway stage before staging a mini come-back by winning 6 of the last 9 games. But it was not quite enough as Stafford suffered their third 10-8 loss of the campaign to date. Doubling up on the night for the local team with 2 wins was John Grobnik. Stafford have now slipped down to 9th place in the Table. Player statistics from these League matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page. The next League match is at home against Afford B on 16th September.
Summer League Semi-final Knockouts Report
Winter league Champions Crooked Cue have made it through to the Summer League Knockout final after coming
through a tough semi-final against their ?B? team. The ?B? team are the current holders of this crown but
they came up against a form team who have now won all 12 matches so far. The Crooked Cue had Dave
Whitfield victorious against Dave Richardson, Dave Barker who was successful against Dave Arrowsmith
and Mike Barker who triumphed over Adam Lilburne. This made the final score 3-1. The only reply was a John
Grobnik win against Martin Priestley. The other Semi Final saw last years Runners up, the Hop Pole, play
against the Bushes B. The Bushes B were in fine form and Mick Ferguson got them of to great start, beating
Tim Teece. Simon Key also won for the Bushes B seeing of the challenge of Andy Rawlinson and Paul Shepherd
then won the third frame against Mick Addison. The Final is to be played at the Hop Pole on Sunday 21st
August 2005 at 8:00pm.
The Joiners Arms have progressed to the final of the Summer Plate competition after winning 3-2 against the Three
Tuns. John Garside and Andy Pearley won their singles and then paired up in the deciding doubles to book
their place. Paul Johnson and Ian Thomas were the Tuns victors. They will meet the Fox & Hounds who
beat the Wagon & Horses 3-1 thanks to Dave Barlow, Dave Baker and Simon Baker. The Wagon's sole reply
came from Ben Edge. The final is at the Crooked Cue on the 21st Aug at 8:00pm.
Summer League Quarter-final Knockouts Report
The Crooked Cue are in the semi-finals of the Summer Knockout after seeing off the challenge of the
Highfields, winning 3-0. Leading the way for the Cue men were Dave Whitfield, Dave Barker and Martin
Priestley. They meet their ?B? team who also gained an identical score line against the Bird X - Adam
Lilburne, Dave Arrowsmith and Dave Richardson all winning. The Bushes B visited the Rickerscote and
came away with a hard fought 3-2 win and now play the Hop Pole in the semis. The Hop Pole beat the
Rickerscote A 3-1 with Kev Brown, Tim Teece and Andy Rawlinson all winning.
In the Summer Plate, The Three Tuns won their way through after they beat the Bushes A 3-2.
They will meet the Joiners who ran out convincing 3-0 winners at the Bird A. The other Semi will see the
Wagon, who beat the Hop Pole C 3-0, pair up against the Fox & Hounds who saw off the challenge of the
Bear and Pheasant, winning 3-1.
AGM Key Points
This year’s AGM took place on Sunday 31st July at Stafford Rangers Social Club. No changes were proprosed to how the League is run but two new faces were welcomed to the Committee in the shape of Linda Simpson (Staffs Bull) and Simon Baker (Fox & Hounds), replacing Jason Armishaw and Justin Mackereth. Other news of interest is that it is the intention of the League to enter two teams into next year’s Inter-league competition where World Rules are played and each team has a minimum of 9 players. In order for players to become more familiar with the full-blown World Rules, a 3-man team competition will be organised using these rules. There will be an opportunity for any player in the League to compete in the annual county trials, held at the Green Baize in Hanley, in order to qualify as a county player.
Summer League Player Ranking - Top 10
The top 10 players in the final Summer League Rankings are listed in the table below. The Player League Ranking table for the last Winter and Summer seasons combined are also up-to-date. This page also explains the system used to award points based on the Winter League division of the beaten player.
| Summer | Name | Overall | Points | Summer |
| Ranking | Ranking | Value | Points | |
| 1 | D Whitfield | 35 | 6 | 40 |
| 2 | S.Tyler | 23 | 2 | 38 |
| 3 | A.Palin | 7 | 6 | 34 |
| 4 | M Priestley | 24 | 6 | 32 |
| S.Draper | 37 | 6 | 32 | |
| P.Dustan | 57 | 6 | 32 | |
| 7 | M Barker | 1 | 6 | 30 |
| A.Pearley | 35 | 2 | 30 | |
| I.Thomas | 31 | 4 | 30 | |
| 10 | M Ferguson | 4 | 6 | 28 |
| S.Hyde | 18 | 6 | 28 | |
| C.Powell | 79 | 4 | 28 |
Overall Player League Ranking
Ever wanted to know where you would rank amongst all of the pool players in Stafford? Then check out the Player League Ranking page. It’s a first stab based on results from the Winter season just gone and the Summer season. Points are awarded for singles victories based on the quality of the beaten opponent - 6 points for a victory against a player who plays for a 1st Division team in the Winter League, 4 points for a victory against a 2nd Division player, and 2 points for a victory against a 3rd Division player. Any comments or suggestions should be passed onto the League Secretary.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford narrowly lost at home against Gala in their recent, mid-table, Staffs Inter-league clash. Stafford built up a 6-4 lead before being pegged back by Gala who went on to win the match 10-8. Doubling up on the night for the local team with 2 wins was Adam Lilburne. Player statistics from these league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page. The next League match is at home against Afford A on 19th August.
17th July Summer League Report
In Group A the Bird X have qualified for the main draw after they beat the Rose and Crown 5-1.
They join leaders Crooked Cue B who had a close fought battle with the Joiners winning 4-2. The Three
Tuns join the Joiners into the Summer Plate after they defeated the Forester 4-2.
In Group B the Bushes B have qualified for the main draw after they saw off the Bear &
Pheasant winning 4-2. The Crooked Cue made it 9 out of 9 wins after they won 4-2 at the Wagon. The
Crooked Cue C stopped their run of defeats with a 3-3 draw at the Staffs Bull but there is now 3
teams fighting for 2 plate places in this group.
In Group C the Rickerscote A picked up an important 4-2 win over the Bird A and now sees them
3 points ahead in 2nd place with one game to go. The Bushes A have given themselves a great chance of
qualifying for the Summer Plate after their 4-2 win at the Shrewsbury. The Rickerscote made it 9 out
of 9 wins when they beat the Morrisman 4-2.
In Group D the Highfields Club pulled off a great 4-2 win at the Hop Pole C and look favourites
for the 2nd place which will qualfy them for the main draw. The Fox and Hounds chances were dealt a
blow after they lost 6-0 to leaders Hop Pole. The Antelope picked up only their 2nd win of the summer,
winning 4-2 against basement side the Nags Head.
10th July Summer League Report
In Group A the Crooked Cue B have qualified for the main draw after they secured an emphatic
6-0 win at the Forester. In 2nd place are the Bird X, 6 points behind after they won 5-1 at the
Joiners. The Three Tuns managed only a 3-3 draw at the Rose and Crown but along with the Joiners,
they have at the very least qualified for the Summer Plate.
In Group B the Crooked Cue have won their group after they made it 8 wins out of 8. They beat
visiting Bear and Pheasant 5-1 and will now get home advantage in the quarters. The Bushes B look a
good bet for 2nd place as they saw off the challenge of the Staffs Bull winning 4-2. The Wagon have
moved into 4th place after their 4-2 win over the luckless Crooked Cue C.
In Group C the Rickerscote have also won their group with 8 win out of 8 after they beat the
Bushes A 5-1 and also now have a home tie in the quarters. There is a battle for 2nd place as the
Bird A ran out 6-0 victors over the Morrisman, but 2 points down are the Rickerscote A who gained
a 5-1 success over the Shrewsbury.
In Group D the Hop Pole have pole position but they were held to a 3-3 draw by their
‘C’ team. The Highfields cut their lead to 5 points after they beat the Nags Head 4-2.
In 3rd place, 4 points behind and with a game in hand are the Fox and Hounds who triumphed 4-2 at
the Antelope.
Staffordshire Inter-league Knockout Cup
Stafford narrowly lost at home against Trent Trophies B in the semi-final of the Staffs Inter-league Knockout Cup. Stafford built up a 5-4 lead in the first half of the match but the team from Hanley upped their performance in the second half, winning the match 10-8, to progress into the final. Doubling up on the night for the local team with 2 wins apiece were Gav Davies and Mike Barker.
3rd July Summer League Report
In Group A the Crooked Cue B have taken over top spot after they secured a 5-1 win over
previous leaders the Bird X. The Three Tuns gained an important 4-2 victory over the Joiners and
now have hopes of qualifying for the main draw. The Forester won the bottom of the table clash
4-2 against the Rose and Crown.
In Group B the Crooked Cue entertained 2nd place the Bushes B and ran out 5-1 victors and
now hold an 18-point lead. The Bear & Pheasant claimed a 6-0 win over the Crooked Cue C and
so give them hope of entry to the main draw. The Wagon picked up a useful 4-2 win against the
Staffs Bull.
In Group C the Rickerscote hold a massive 25-point lead and only need 2 points to win the group
after they beat lowly Shrewsbury 4-2. However only 3 points separate the next 4 places as the Bird A
and Bushes A scrapped out a 3-3 draw. The Rickerscote A slipped up against the Morrisman losing 4-2
and so leaves the 2nd place wide open.
In Group D the Hop Pole have opened up an 8 point gap after they beat the Nags Head 5-1. The
Highfields are in 2nd place after they saw off the challenge of the Antelope, running out 4-2 winners.
The Fox and Hounds and the Hop Pole C game was postponed.
Announcement of AGM
Sunday 31st July 2005, Rangers Social, 7:45pm PROMPT
All existing and new teams are invited to apply to join the Keith Hill Stafford Sunday Pool League Winter Season 2005/06. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT ALL TEAMS ATTEND THIS MEETING. It is an opportunity for all members (paid) to express their opinions and new ideas on how the league should be run. DECISIONS AND NEW PROPOSALS will be in place for the forthcoming season. SO PLEASE ATTEND!
SUBSCRIPTION FEES - £45.00 per team
Teams who cannot attend on the night must contact the League Secretary and pay before the set date. Failure will result in a £5:00 surcharge.
MATTERS TO BE ADDRESSED ON THE EVENING:
*ALL TEAMS PLEASE NOTE that election of OFFICERS and proposed new changes must be put in writing and sent to the League Secretary by Sunday 17th July 2005. Changes CANNOT be made on the night. ALL TEAM REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE GIVEN A VOTING CARD.
Singles and Doubles Knockout
The Singles and Doubles knockout competitions for 2005 kick off at the start of September and again carry cash prizes for players who reach the final stages. Further information, including online entry forms can be found on the Knockouts page.
Staffordshire Inter-league Knockout Cup
Stafford have been drawn at home against Trent Trophies B in the semi-finals of the Staffs Inter-league Knockout Cup. The other semi-final is being contested between Trent Trophies A and Alsager. Both matches take place on 15th July.
26th June Summer League Report
In Group A leaders the Bird X returned to winning ways with a 5-1 win over the Forester while
2nd place Crooked Cue B were made to work hard for their 4-2 win against the Three Tuns. The Joiners
Arms are still in touch as they managed a 4-2 win over lowly Rose and Crown.
In Group B the Bushes B had a double header against the Wagon and came out on top with two 5-1
victories and now are only 11 points behind leaders Crooked Cue who won a close fought 4-2 victory over
their ?C? side. The Bear and Pheasant picked up a useful 4-2 win at the Staffs Bull.
In Group C the Bushes A picked up their first win of the campaign with a 4-2 victory at the
Rickerscote A. They also played their outstanding match and that ended in 3-3 draw. The Shrewsbury Arms
also broke their duck with a 4-2 win over the Morrisman, while leaders the Rickerscote are now a massive
21 points clear at the top after they saw off the Bird in Hand A with a 5-1 victory.
In Group D the Hop Pole made it 5 wins on the trot with a 4-2 win over one-time leaders the
Highfields. The Fox and Hounds now occupy 2nd place after they secured a 4-2 victory over the Nags Head.
The Hop Pole C have found some form with a 4-2 win at the Antelope.
19th June Summer League Report
In Group A the Bird X suffered their first defeat of the summer with a 5-1 loss against the Three Tuns.
This enabled the Crooked Cue B to close the gap to 1 point after they eased to a 6-0 win against the
Rose and Crown. The Joiners also had a 6-0 victory at the Forester.
In Group B there is no stopping the Crooked Cue as they picked another 6-0 win, this time at the Staffs
Bull and now lead by 20 points. The Bushes B have found some form as they cruised to a 5-1 win over the
Crooked Cue C while the Wagon battled out a 3-3 draw with the Bear and Pheasant.
In Group C the Rickerscote also have a 100% record but were made to work hard for a 4-2 win against their
'A' team. 15 points behind in 2nd place is the Bird A who ran out 5-1 winners at the Morrisman, where
there was also a welcome 4-2 victory for the Morrisman over the Bushes A.
The Hop Pole have taken over as leaders in Group D after they secured a 5-1 win at the Antelope. Previous
leaders the Highfields suffered their first defeat going down 4-2 at the Fox and Hounds while the Hop Pole
C claimed a 6-0 win over the Nags Head.
12th June Summer League Report
In Group A the Bird X continued their fine start with a 4-2 win at the Rose and Crown and now lead
by 9 points over the Crooked Cue B who were held to a 3-3 score against the Joiners. The Three Tuns
picked up their first win with a 5-1 success against the Forester.
In Group B the Crooked Cue also have a 100% record after they saw off the challenge of the Wagon
running out 6-0 winners. 11 points behind in 2nd place are the Staffs Bull who beat the Crooked Cue
C 4-2 while the Bushes B (Charnley B) gained their first win with a 5-1 victory at the Bear and Pheasant.
The Rickerscote Arms dominate Group C with their 4th win out of 4 after seeing off the challenge of
the Morrisman winning 5-1. The other matches ended in 3-3 draws between the Bird A v Rickerscote A
and Bushes A v Shrewsbury.
The Highfields have started strongly in Group D after they beat the Hop Pole C 4-2 while the Hop Pole
are only 4 points behind as they saw off the Challenge of the Fox and Hounds winning 4-2. The
Antelope celebrated their first win with a 5-1 victory at the Nags Head.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford completed their second successive win in the Staffs Inter-league with a comprehensive victory against Staffs Ladies at the Green Baize in Hanley. Stafford raced into an 8-1 lead at the halfway stage of the match with Steve Finney notching up his first win in confident style. The second half went almost as well as the first half leading to a 15-3 result. Doubling up on the night for Stafford with 2 wins apiece were Gav Davies, Dave Barker, Lee Whitehouse, Spencer Trow, Adam Lilburne and Steve Finney. The next League match is at home against Gala on 22nd July.
Team Changes
The Albion, playing in Group B of the Summer League, have relocated to Stafford Snooker Club and will play the remainder of their matches as Crooked Cue C.
The Charnley A and Charnley B teams, playing in Groups C and B of the Summer League, have relocated to The Bushes where they will play the remainder of their matches.
5th June Summer League Report
In Group A the Bird X lead this section by 6 points after a 4-2 win against the Joiners. In second place
the Crooked Cue B picked up a 6-0 win at home to the Forester, Adam Lilburne, John Grobnik, Dave
Arrowsmith and Giles Eastwood all won. The Three Tuns were held 3-3 by the Rose and Crown.
In Group B leaders Crooked Cue picked up a fine 5-1 win at the Bear and Pheasant while there was a first
win for the Wagon as they beat the Crooked Cue C 4-2. Justin Mackereth, Will Wilby, Will Edge and Nick
Haden all won. The Charnley B were held 3-3 at the Staffs Bull.
In Group C the Rickerscote continued their good start with another 5-1 win a the Charnley A. The Bird
in Hand A picked up their first win with a 4-2 victory at the Morrisman, while there was a same scoreline
for the Rickerscote A against the Shrewsbury who had Mark Sheerin, Andy Gray, Steve Bradley and Mick
Bryant in fine form.
The Highfields Club are the surprise leaders in Group D as they made it 3 out of 3 after a 4-2 win at
the Nags Head. The Fox and Hounds hold 2nd place after beating the Antelope 4-2, Dave Baker, Dave Barlow
and Steve Johnson all won. The Hop Pole won 4-2 against their C team and hold 3rd place.
Staffordshire Inter-league Report
Stafford are up and running in the Staffs Inter-league competition with their first league win of the campaign against Leek B. Stafford raced into a 7-2 lead at the halfway stage before being pegged back in the second half and were relieved to come away with a 10-8 victory. Doubling up on the night for Stafford with 2 wins apiece were Dave Arrowsmith and Lee Whitehouse.
22nd May Summer League Report
Bird X beat the 2004 summer champs Crooked Cue B 5-1 and now lead group A. Lee Whitehouse, Dean Cammack, Mark Lynch, Steve Nixon and Gavin Davies all won. The Forester picked up their first win, 5-1 v Rose and Crown while the Joiners were held to a 3-3 draw against the Three Tuns. In group B the Crooked Cue picked up an excellent 4-2 win at the Charnley B, Martin Priestley, Dave Whitfield, Dave and Mike Barker all won. There were also 4-2 wins for the Bear and Pheasant and Staffs Bull over the Albion and Wagon respectively. The Rickerscote have started impressively in group C after securing a 5-1 win at the Shrewsbury, leading the way were Shaun Draper, Andy Palin and Dave Ashton. The Rickerscote A won 4-2 against the Morrisman while the Bird A could only manage a 3-3 draw against the Charnley A. The Highfields lead group D after they saw off the challenge of the Antelope winning 4-2. The Hop pole picked up their first win with a 5-1 victory over the Nags Head, Mark Bailey, Tim Teece, Kev and Keith Brown all won. The Fox and Hounds and Hop Pole C fought out a 3-3 draw.
Staffordshire Team Knockout Cup
Stafford have qualified to enter the National Inter-league K/O Cup at Great Yarmouth in October after a thrilling win against Afford A from Stoke in the quarter-final of the Staffs K/O Cup. Gav Davies and Lee Whitehouse were the heroes for Stafford, both winning three games on the night, including the 2 all-important games in the tense 3-game play-off after the teams shared the first 18 games.
Team Knockout Final Reports
Stan Bent Team Knockout Final There was going to be a new name on the Stan Bent Knockout Trophy as the final was between the
two Bird in Hand sides. On first was Dave Shelley (Bird A) who took on the challenge of Steve Nixon
(Bird X) and this was somewhat a scrappy affair as both players struggled to find any momentum.
But as the game wore on Shelley started to relax and some crucial shot selections put him in control.
It was Shelley who then had first chance on the black but he over hit it and thus then gave Nixon a
chance to seize the initiative but an amazing double by Shelley gave the Bird A a 1-0 lead.
The second game saw John Daniels (A) take on young Gav Davies (X). Davies potting ability saw him attempt to
clear up but after he potted his last ball he left himself a tricky cut into the middle on the black
and tried to dig deep on the cueball to avoid the in-off into the opposite bag. However he potted the
black and successfully avoided the in off into the middle bag but unfortunately he caught the knuckle
and the cueball flew straight up the rail into the corner bag. This gave the Bird A a 2-0 lead.
The third game saw Giles Eastwood (A) take on Dean Cammack (X) and it was a must win for Cammack and roared
on by a big support he had the better of the earlier exchanges but the fell short and so gave
Eastwood a chance to stamp his authority on the match. He then took complete control but suddenly he
failed to hit a cushion after contact and this gave Cammack hope and then amazingly missed shots were
coming at regular intervals. Then the chance came for Cammack and he sunk the black to pull it back
to 2-1.
Fourth game saw Steve Finney (A) pit his wits against Lee Whitehouse (X) and this was an
exciting passage of play and it was Finney who took the Bull by the horns and go for the clearance
and suddenly he was on the black but tight on the cushion and this hampered him enough to miss it.
Whitehouse then brought his dead balls into play and left Finney what seemed to be no pot on the
black. Then incredibly he saw a path for the black to go into the corner and after much deliberation
he took it on and it flew in. The match was won and so gave the Bird in Hand A their first major
honour winning the Stan Bent Team Knockout trophy 2004/05.
Subsidiary Team Knockout Final Division One champions the Crooked Cue were denied a double by losing 3-2 to the Hop Pole C. Martin Priestley (Cue) took on average winner Kev Daly (Pole C) in the first game and after scrappy exchanges on the black it was Priestley who made 1-0 to the Cue. Second game saw another average winner Dave Barker (Cue) fall short against Will Sunderland (Pole C) who then levelled matters. On third saw Mike Barker (Cue) (also another average winner) succeed against Shane Milleen (Pole C) and so made it 2-1 to the Cue. County player Adam Lilburne (Cue) was pushed all the way as he fell to Duncan Sunderland (Pole C) and so it was 2-2. Both the Barkers then took on Daly and D Sunderland and after chances for both pairs it was Kev Daly who took his chance and cleared up the remaining 6 balls to take the Subsidiary Shield for the Hop Pole C.
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10th April League Report
Division 1 The League title had already been decided the week before but there was still a matter of the relegation issue to be decided. Four teams were still involved and it was the Charnley A who took the first step to survival with a 4-2 win against fellow strugglers Metro Bar and then drew 3-3 with 2nd place Hop Pole. The Metro Bar managed a 4-2 win at the Bird in Hand A but it wasn’t enough to keep them up. So it was one from either the Luckpenny or the Rickerscote to decide the final relegation place and with news that the Luckpenny had lost 4-2 to the Crooked Cue X, the Rickerscote only needed a draw to stay up but also lost 4-2 to league champions the Crooked Cue. The other match saw the Charnley B draw 3-3 with the Hop Pole C. Merit winners for the 1st division with 15 wins were Dave and Mike Barker (both Crooked Cue) along with Kev Daly (Hop Pole C).
Division 2 The Rickerscote A returned to the 1st division after a season’s absence as runners-up after they won 6-0 at the Antelope - Phil Alldis, Mick Byrant, John Lainton, Andy Gray, Mark Sheerin and Steve Bradley all won. The Bird X had already won the league the week before but there was still a merit winner’s prize up for grabs. Dave Barlow (Fox and Hounds) had already set the target of 13 wins and joining him with the same total were Gav Davies and Lee Whitehouse (both Bird X) along with Justin Mackereth (Legion). The Bird X drew with the legion 3-3. The Rose and Crown failed in their attempt to avoid relegation after only drawing 3-3 with the Three Tuns. The Staffs Bull also drew with bottom side the Bear and Pheasant.
Division 3 The Highfields had already secured promotion the week before but Chris Rose picked up the merit award outright with his 14th win of the campaign after drawing 3-3 with the Albion. The Joiners Arms finished the season in style with a 5-1 win over the Rifleman B and the Forester finished strongly with 4-2 win at the Morrisman and ended up with third place.
3rd April League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue are the new League Champions. They only required 2 points but went on to win 4-2 against the Bird in Hand A. The team were led by the captaincy of Martin Priestley with Adam Lilburne, Dave Whitfield, Mike Barker and Dave Barker. The Hop Pole looked to have sealed second place although they did lose to the Luckpenny 4-2 - Kev Johnston, Dave Johnston, Chris Blaggborough and Chris Moore all won. In fact all the bottom three teams won, the Metro Bar picked up a useful 4-2 home win against the Crooked Cue X while the Charnley A got the better of the 'B' side also winning 4-2. The Rickerscote have been pulled back into the relegation fight after losing 4-2 at the Hop Pole C. Kev Daly, Shane Milleen, Will and Duncan Sunderland all won.
Division 2 The Bird in Hand X are the 2nd division champions after they secured a 5-1 win against the Antelope. Lee Whitehouse, Gavin Davies, Steve Nixon, Dean Cammack and Mark Lynch are the successful team this season. The Rickerscote A need only a point to secure the runners up spot as they saw off the challenge of the Fox and Hounds winning 5-1. Phil Alldiss, Mick Bryant, Andy Gray, John Lainton, Mark Sheerin and Steve Bradley have all shown good form. Consolation for the Fox is that Dave Barlow has at least a share in the averages after winning his 13th game of the season. The bottom two sides both won 4-2, but unfortunately for the Bear and Pheasant (who beat the Legion) they still go down. The Rose and Crown however still have hope after they beat Staffs Bull but need a big win and hope the Bull lose heavily.
Division 3 The Highfields Club have secured promotion after they beat the Rifleman B 6-0. Chris Rose (who has won the averages), Steve Tyler, Mark Simpson, Mark Phillips, Andy Jackson and Tom Appleby have led the way. The Albion A claimed a 6-0 win against the Morrisman and occupy 4th place.
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20th March League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue are only two points away from winning their first league title after they saw off the challenge of their 'X' team, winning 5-1. Mike Barker with his 14th win along with Dave Barker, Adam Lilburne and Martin Priestly all won. The Hop Pole are the only team who can catch them as they secured a 5-1 win over the Metro Bar - Tim Teece, Kev Brown, Andy Rawlinson and Andy Bent were the victors. The Charnley B climbed into 4th place after winning 5-1 at the Rickerscote. There was a massive win for the Charnley A who beat fellow relegation contenders the Luckpenny 4-2 to keep their first division status alive. The Bird and Hop Pole C drew 3-3.
Division 2 The Bird in Hand X have secured promotion to the 1st div at their first attempt after coming back from 2-1 down to win 4-2 at the Fox and Hounds. Gav Davies, Dean Cammack, Lee Whitehouse and Steve Nixon all won. The Foxes Dave Barlow recorded his 12th win of the campaign. The Three Tuns kept their promotion chances alive with a 4-2 win at the Staffs Bull - Dennis Kitchen, Matt Smith, Paul Johnson and Ian Thomas all won. The British Legion are finishing strong and now hold 4th place after they secured a 5-1 win against the Rose and Crown.
Division 3 The Joiners Arms are the 3rd division champions at their first attempt. The quartet of Jon Garside, Steve Dickson, Adam Anslow and Andy Pearley have been the main players this season. They secured the title with a 4-2 win at 2nd place Highfields. Chris Rose for the Highfields recorded his 12th win and now leads the averages. The Shrewsbury claimed a 6-0 win over the Albion A while the Forester put a dent in the Rifleman A promotion chances after beating them 4-2. Richard Medway, Tim Barker, Chris Tooly and Robin Lewis all won.
13th March League Report
Division 1 The top of the table clash saw the leaders the Crooked Cue snatch a 3-3 draw against last years champions the Hop Pole and now keeps them 16 points clear with only 3 games to go. 3rd place the Crooked Cue X could also only manage a 3-3 score line against the Hop Pole C and so it has given the Bird in hand an opportunity to close the gap and they did with a 4-2 win at the Charnley B. Leading the way for the Bird was Steve Finney, Giles Eastwood, John Daniels and Gav Burton. The Rickerscote edged further away from the relegation zone after beating basement side the Charnley A 4-2 - Dave Ashton, Andy Palin and Steve Hyde all won. The Metro Bar and the Luckpenny had to settle for a 3-3 scoreline.
Division 2 Another top of the table clash saw the Bird in Hand X being held to a 3-3 draw by the Rickerscote but still hold an eight point lead plus a game in hand. The British Legion put a dent in the Three Tuns promotion bid as they won 4-2. Leading the way for the Legion were Nick Haden, Will Edge and Justin Mackereth. The Fox and Hounds are finding some form as they saw off the Bear and Pheasant 6-0. There was a welcome win for the Rose and Crown as they beat the Antelope 4-2 - Brian LeMaistre, Dave Tagg and Chris Parsons all won their singles.
Division 3 The Joiners Arms are celebrating as they secured promotion to the 2nd division. They were held to a 3-3 score line by the Morisman but with the Rifleman A only winning 4-2 at the Albion A, they cannot be caught. Their next goal is to secure the division three title. The Shrewsbury Arms climbed the table after winning 5-1 at the Rifleman B. Paul McQuillin, James Hawkins, Geoff Howard all won their singles. The Forester gained a useful 6-0 win over the Nags Head, leading the way were Richard Medway, Robin Lewis, Tim Barker and Brian Lowe.
6th March League Report
Division 1 The Hop Pole C put a dent in the Hop Pole’s championship challenge with a 4-2 win. Duncan Sunderland, Shane Milleen, Kev Daly and Andy Mason all won for the ’C’ team. The Crooked Cue extended their lead to 16 points after being held 3-3 at the Luckpenny. The Rickerscote moved out of the relegation zone after winning 4-2 at the Bird in Hand. Lee Terry, Andy Palin, Steve Hyde and Shaun Draper all won. The Crooked Cue X entertained the Charnley B and it ended in a 3-3 scoreline.
Division 2 The Bird X were without a fixture but the Ricky failed to close the gap as they were held by lowly Bear and Pheasant 3-3. The Three Tuns however closed the gap on the Ricky as they saw off the challenge of the Antelope, winning 5-1. The British Legion consolidated mid-table after they beat the Staffs Bull 4-2. The Fox and Hounds gained a useful 5-1 win against the Rose and Crown - Dave Barlow, Dave Baker, Gaz Baker and Tom Batthews all won.
Division 3 The Joiners Arms extended their lead at the top to ten points after winning 4-2 at the Shrewsbury Arms while 2nd place the Highfields Club could only manage a 3-3 draw at the Morrisman. The Albion A won 4-2 at the Nags Head - Mick Turner, Tim Gask, Kevin and Sam Connor all won. The Rifleman derby resulted in a 4-2 win for the ?A? team and so keeps their slim hopes of promotion still alive.
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Summer League Details
The Summer League season will be played in a group format with the top two teams from each group going through to a quarterfinals knockout stage. There is also a minor competition for 3rd and 4th placed teams. All new and existing teams are welcome to apply. The playing rules will be as per the current 2004/05 Winter season. The Summer League is planned to start on the 15th May 2005 and will be followed by the Singles and Doubles knockout competitions.
To register a team in the Summer League, a representative will have to attend the signing-in at Stafford Snooker Club, Sandon Road on Sunday 17th April 2005 between 7:00pm and 8:30pm. The cost of entering will be £25 per team. Fees MUST be paid before or on the night by either cash or cheque. Failure to register in time will result in a surcharge of £5. If you are unable to attend the registration evening then please contact the League Secretary.
20th February League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue extended their lead to 15 points after whitewashing a luckless Metro Bar 6-0 while 2nd place Crooked Cue X could only manage a 4-2 win at the Rickerscote. Spencer Trow, Mick Addison, John Grobnik and Lee Cordall all won. In 3rd place are the Hop Pole who slipped further behind after being held to a 3-3 draw at the Charnley B. The Bird in Hand A picked up a first win in 4 games after they overcame a rugged Charnley A 4-2. Steve Finney, Giles Eastwood, John Daniels and Gav Burton led the way. The Luckpenny kept their div one survival hopes alive after a 3-3 draw at the Hop Pole C.
Division 2 The top 3 teams all won with leaders Bird in Hand X winning 6-0 at the Bear and Pheasant and now lead by 12 points. The Rickerscote A are in 2nd place after they secured a 5-1 win at the Rose and Crown. The Three Tuns returned to winning ways as they beat the Fox and Hounds 5-1. Dennis Kitchen, Paul Johnson, Ian Thomas and Mark Davis were the victors. The Staffs Bull climbed a couple places as they saw off the challenge of the Antelope winning 4-2. Lynda Simpson, Gaz Morris, Keith and Ian Flanagan all won.
Division 3 The Highfields Club closed the gap on the leaders as they cruised to a 6-0 win over the Shrewsbury Arms while mid-table Albion A and the Forester were locked at 3-3. The Joiners Arms continue to lead the division after seeing off the challenge of Rifleman A winning 5-1. Jon Garside, Dave Edensor, Andy Pearley and Steve Dickson all won.
Adam Represents County
Local Stafford player Adam Lilburn has successfully gained county status and recently made his debut in a county fixture against Lincolnshire. Adam plays for the Crooked Cue from Stafford Snooker Club and had to endure a competitive County Trials system in order to represent Staffordshire. For more information about qualification for County Trials contact the League Secretary.
Inter-league Competition
The Stafford Sunday Pool League is now affiliated to the English Pool Association (EPA). Recent changes to the playing rules have given the League knowledge and experience to participate at a new level. Therefore the League has decided to join the Staffordshire County Pool Association (SCPA) Inter-league.
Staffordshire is regarded as one of the best, if not the best, county pool teams in the country. The county sports a world junior champion in 17-year-old Adam Davis, world no.2 Gareth Potts, current England Captain Lee Kendall (who once plied his trade in the Stafford Sunday Pool League) and other England players.
Stafford will have one team in the league and will play their home matches at the Stafford Snooker Club on Friday nights about once every 3 to 4 weeks (see Fixtures). The format will consist of two 9-frame sessions (total 18 frames) and will be played under the current EPA World Rules. Other teams playing in the Inter-league are as follows: Trent Trophies A (current national Inter-league champions), Trent Trophies B, Trent Trophies Tuesday, Gala, Leek A, Leek B, Afford A, Afford B, Staffs Ladies, Afford Elite and Alsager.
13th February League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue extended their lead at the top to 13 points after winning 5-1 at the Charnley A, leading the way for the 'Cue men' were Dave Barker, Adam Lilburne, Mike Barker, Martin Priestley and Dave Whitfield. The 'X' kept their hopes alive with a 4-2 win against the Bird in Hand A. In 3rd place, a point down, are the Hop Pole who overcame a tough encounter with the Rickerscote, winning 4-2. At the other end of the table the Luckpenny continue to improve as they saw off the challenge of Charnley B - Chris Moore, Dave and Kev Johnston all won. The Metro Bar eased their relegation worries with a fine 5-1 win against the Hop Pole C.
Division 2 The Bird in Hand X continue to dominate the 2nd division after they saw off the challenge of lowly Rose and Crown, winning 5-1. 11 points down in 2nd place are the Rickerscote A who beat 3rd place the Three Tuns 4-2. The Antelope gained a 5-1 win against the Legion - Mark Bradbury, James Devlin, Chris Turner and Adele Edmondson all won. The Fox and Hounds picked up only their 2nd league win of the season with a 4-2 win against visiting Staffs Bull - Dave Barlow, Dave Baker, Tom Batthews and Ron English were the victors.
Division 3 The Joiners extended their lead at the top of the table with a 6-0 win at the Nags Head, leading the way were Jon Garside, Steve Dickson, Andy Pearley and Adam Anslow. The Forester gained their biggest win of the season with a 6-0 victory over basement side Rifleman B - Robin Lewis, Rich Medway, Tim Baker and Chris Tooley all won. The Shrewsbury Arms continue to climb the league with a useful 4-2 win against the Morrisman. Top clash saw 3rd and 2nd place teams in action against each other and there was no separating the Rifleman A and Highfields as it ended 3-3.
6th February League Report
Division 1 Leaders the Crooked Cue returned to winning ways with an excellent 5-1 victory at the Hop Pole C and now lead the Division by 12 points. In 2nd place is the Crooked Cue X who achieved the same score line at home to the Charnley A, leading the way for the 'X' team were John Grobnik, Mick Addison, Spencer Trow and Daz Waters. The Hop Pole continued their good form with a 4-2 win over previously 2nd place Bird A who now slip into 4th place. The Charnley B are now challenging for honours after they achieved a 5-1 win against the Metro Bar. The bottom of the table clash resulted in a 5-1 win for the Rickerscote over the Luckpenny. Dave Ashton, Lee Terry, Andy Palin and Steve Hyde all won for the 'Ricky'.
Division 2 In the big top of the table clash the Bird X came out on top with a 5-1 win at the Three Tuns. Lee Whitehose, Gav Davies, Steve Nixon and Mark Lynch all won. The Rickerscote A jumped into second place after a hard fought 4-2 victory at the Staffs Bull. The Bear and Pheasant waited 8 games for their first win but have won 2 on the bounce after a 4-2 success at the Rose and Crown. Andy Haycock, Sean Lucas, Jim Simpson and Ian Hollinshead all won. Draw specialists the Legion and the Fox and Hounds did not fail to disappoint, as they were both locked at 3-3.
Division 3 The Joiners Arms still lead this section after a 4-2 win against the Forester but their lead was cut by 2 points as the Highfields claimed a 6-0 success against the Nags Head. The Rifleman A are still in the hunt as they won 4-2 at the Morrisman. Steve Brownbill, Gary Pemberton, Nigel Lanes, Warren Bradbury and Pete Harvey all won. The Albion A picked up a useful 5-1 win at the Rifleman B. Mick Turner, Tim Gask, Sam and Kev Connor all won.
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30th January League Report
Division 1 The Luckpenny pulled off an excellent 5-1 win against 2nd place Bird A to enhance their chances of survival in division one. Chris Moore, Paul Durie, Kev and Dave Johnston were the victors. Top of the table Crooked Cue lost their first league game of the season with a 4-2 defeat at the hands of the Charnley B, leading the way for the Charnley were James Holmes, Mick Ferguson, Simon Davies and Dave Arrowsmith. The Metro Bar won a crucial match against the Rickerscote Arms 4-2. Wayne Rutty, Neil Johnson, Mick Smith and Roy Brown all won. The Hop Pole continued their recent good league form with a 4-2 win against the Crooked Cue X and are now third.
Division 2 There were big celebrations at the Bear and Pheasant as they pulled off a shock 4-2 win over 2nd place Three Tuns. The heroes were Andy Haycock, Ian Hollinshead, Andy O'Brien, Pete Gamble and Sean Lucas. Leaders, the Bird X, were the only winners in the top four as they edged 4-2 past the Staffs Bull. Lee Whitehouse, Gavin Davies and Steve Nixon all won. 3rd place Rickerscote A were held 3-3 at home to mid-table British Legion while the Antelope also drew 3-3 at the Fox and Hounds.
Division 3 In form Shrewsbury Arms have suddenly found their feet with a 4-2 win at the Rifleman A that now lifts them off the bottom. Paul Mcquillin, James Hawkins, Geoff Howard and Steve Mcquillin led the way. The Morrisman are now challenging for promotion after they secured a 4-2 win at the Nags Head. Dave Harris, John Davies, Geoff Chadwick and Chris Blackford all won. Mid-table, the Forester, held 2nd place Highfields to a 3-3 draw.
23rd January Team Knockout Report
Stan Bent Team Knockout Round Two The 2nd division leaders, Bird X, created another cup shock after eliminating past Champions Crooked Cue X of the 1st division. They won 3-2 with Lee Whitehouse and Gav Davies winning their singles and then teaming up in the doubles to secure victory. 2nd division Antelope also beat 1st division opposition, winning 3-1 against the Luckpenny. Mark Bradbury, Mick Tinsley and James Devlin were the victors. Last seasons runners-up, the Rickerscote, were made to work hard for their 3-2 victory at the Forester while the Rickerscote A won 3-1 at the Rifleman A. The Metro Bar put their poor league form aside after they narrowly came through with a 3-2 victory at the Shrewsbury Arms. The Bird A had a tricky tie at the Three Tuns but came out on top with a 3-1 win and join their X team in the next round. The British Legion are also in the last eight with a 3-1 win against the Bear and Pheasant - Nick Haden, Justin Mackereth and Pauline Burton all won. In an all 3rd division match, leaders - the Joiners - beat the Morrisman 3-2.
Subsidiary Team Knockout Round One The Fox and Hounds picked up their first win of the season with a 3-0 win against the Rifleman B - Dave Barlow, Simon Baker and Tom Batthews all winning. The Rose and Crown caused a shock, winning 3-2 at 1st division Charnley A. 1st division leaders, Crooked Cue, had no problems in winning 3-0 at the Staffs Bull while in the all Hop Pole derby the C team came out on top with a 3-1 victory.
16th January League Report
Division 1 Leaders, the Crooked Cue, were made to work hard for their 4-2 win against the Rickerscote but still managed to keep an 11 point gap at the top. Second placed, Bird A, got back to winning ways with a 4-2 win at the Metro Bar. While hot on the heels are the Crooked Cue X who also won 4-2 at the Luckpenny thanks to John Grobnik, Spencer Trow and Daz Waters. The Hop Pole seems to be finding their feet as they came from two down to beat the Charnley A 4-2. The Hop Pole C entertained the Charnley B and had to settle for a 3-3 draw.
Division 2 The top 3 won all their matches with the Bird X leading the way by 2 points after they soundly beat the British Legion 5-1. In 2nd place the Three Tuns also won 5-1 at the Rose and Crown who had Dennis Kitchen, Paul Johnson, Will Pattyson and Ian Thomas winning to keep the pressure on. While in-form Rickerscote made it 6 wins on the bounce with a 4-2 win against the Antelope. There was a welcome win for the Staffs Bull who triumphed 4-2 at the Bear and Pheasant thanks to Linda Simpson, Keith Flanagan and Gaz Morris.
Division 3 The Shrewsbury Arms picked up their first win of the season with a 5-1 victory at the Nags Head. Paul and Steve McQuillin, John Hawkins and Geoff Howard all contributing. The Joiners Arms went back to the top after a 5-1 win at the Rifleman B while the Highfields Club got back to winning ways with a 5-1 win at the Albion A. Chris Rose, Steve Tyler, Tim Appleby and Mark Simpson all winning.
9th January League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue opened up an 11 point lead at the top with an impressive 5-1 win at 2nd place Bird A. 3rd placed Crooked Cue X could only manage a 3-3 draw against fast improving Metro Bar while there was a welcome 5-1 win for the Hop Pole who triumphed over the Luckpenny. Leading the way for the ?Pole? were Mark Bailey, Andy Bent, Andy Rawlinson and Tim Teece. The Hop Pole C also picked up a 5-1 win, away at the Rickerscote with Kev Daly, Dave Gask, Will and Duncan Sunderland all winning. The all Charnley match proved to be a tight tussle as they were locked at 3-3.
Division 2 With the Three Tuns not playing, the Bird X regained the lead at the top but was held 3-3 at the Antelope (Albion B) and now lead by just 2 points. The Rickerscote A made it 5 wins on the trot with a 4-2 win at the Fox and Hounds. Leading the way was Mick Bryant, Steve Bradley, Mark Sheerin and Phil Alldis. The other matches played resulted in 3-3 draws with the Bear and Pheasant ending their 6 match losing streak against the Legion. The Staffs Bull ? Rose and Crown was the other stalemate.
Division 3 The Joiners Arms were without a match and so the Rifleman A returned to the top with a 5-1 win against the Nags Head and now lead by 1 point but have played a game more. The Highfields returned to winning ways with a 5-1 win against the Rifleman B and keep in touch at the top. The Albion A leapt into 4th place with a impressive 5-1 win at the Morrisman. Winners on the night were Mick Turner, Tim Gask, Sam and Kev Connor. The Shrewsbury Arms gained another 3-3 draw against mid-table Forester.
2nd January League Report
Division 1 The Crooked Cue opened up a 4 point lead at the top after a 4-2 success against their X team, leading the way were Mike Barker, Adam Lilburne, Dave Barker and Dave Whitfield. Second place, the Bird A, were held 3-3 at the Hop Pole C. There was great relief at the Metro Bar as they picked up their first win of the season with a 4-2 win over the Hop Pole thanks to Dan Clarke, Mick Smith and Wayne Rutty. Luckpenny's good form continued with a 3-3 draw against the Charnley A.
Division 2 Second place, the Bird X, got back to winning ways with a 5-1 win against the Fox and Hounds while leaders, the Three Tuns, are 2 points clear after a 4-2 success at home to the Staffs Bull. There was a second win of the campaign for the Legion as they triumphed 4-2 at the Rose and Crown, thanks to Will Edge, Nick Haden and Justin Mackereth. The Antelope (Albion B) keep in touch with the promotion chase after securing a 4-2 win at basement side the Bear and Pheasant.
Division 3 Previous leaders, the Rifleman A, were defeated 5-1 at the Forester. Leading the way for the Forester were Robin Lewis, Rich Medway, Chris Tooley and Tim Barker. The Joiners pulled off an excellent 6-0 win against highflying Highfields and now put themselves well clear at the top. Rifleman B gained a fine 4-2 win against in-form the Morrisman with Dave Adams, Chris Rutty, Greg and Clive Hassall all winning. The Shrewsbury Arms stopped their losing streak with a 3-3 draw at the Albion A.
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