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December 2007


Revolving black ball Division 1 Teams Drop Out

Division one teams note: Rickerscote Arms and Hop Pole have withdrawn from division one of the League.

Revolving black ball Winter League Match 8 Report

Division 1 Reigning champions, the Crooked Cue, took on leaders Bushes B in a closely fought match and the Cue men ran out 5-3 victors with Dave Barker (2), Rob Wharne (2) and Dave Whitfield all winning. The Rileys A claimed an 8-0 win at the Rickerscote (who have resigned from the league) and now hold top spot by 2 points over the Cue. The Crooked Cue A picked up their first win and in superb style coming away with a 7-1 success with Will Edge (2), Mark Holland (2), Brendon Ruttledge (2) and Dave Baker all winning. The Bird on Tap also gained their first win with a 5-3 victory over the Hop Pole C thanks to Tony Mason (2), Ben Lemaistre (2) and Dave Shelley.

Division 2 The St. Georges A opened up a 4 point gap after they ran out 6-2 winners at the Rileys C while the Rangers A celebrated their first win with a 6-2 success over 3rd place Oxleathers. Pete Harvey (2), Nigel Lanes (2), Mark Hollowood and John Holloway all won. The Staffs Bull A are finding their feet with a 5-3 win over the Highfields as Gaz Morris (2), Lynda Simpson, Pippa Steele and Sarah O?Donnell all won. The Rileys v Staffs Bull B and Perkins v Tap n Spile both ended in 4-4 draws.

Division 3 The Antelope still hold a 9 point lead at the top after their 6-2 win over the Rangers B while unbeaten St. Leonards also ran out 6-2 winners over Ricky B. The Nags Head picked up a 5-3 win at the Bear and Pheasant while the Crooked Cue T?s got back to winning ways with a 5-3 win at the Albion A. Crooked Cue D gained a useful 6-2 win over the Rickerscote C and the match between the Bird and Albion B ended all 4-4.

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November 2007


Revolving black ball Staffs Doubles and Threes Finals Day

Stafford Pool was represented at the recent Finals Day of the Staffordshire Doubles and Threes competitions. Singles Champion Andy Rawlinson (Hop Pole) and county player Kev Opie (Crooked Cue) lost out in the doubles final by the scoreline of 4-1 after their opponents seemed to have the rub of the green during the match. Meanwhile, the Crooked Cue trio of Mike Barker, Dave Barker and Dave Whitfield fell to the reigning champions from Leek in their semi-final of the 3-man competition. In a closely-fought contest the Leek team claimed the deciding frame of the match and then went on to retain their title. Alsager’s Pete Flanagan beat Steve Bridgewood by the odd frame to claim the singles title.

Revolving black ball Winter League Match 5 Report

Division 1 Rileys A were made to work hard for their 4-4 draw at home to the Crooked Cue but still hold onto top spot. The Bushes B jumped into 2nd place with a 6-2 win over the Hop Pole C while promoted Three Tuns have started well as they occupy 3rd place after their 6-2 win over the Bird on Tap. Dennis Kitchen (2), Matt Smith (2), Ian Thomas and Mark Davis all won for the home team. The Rickerscote A gained their first win with a 5-3 success at the Crooked Cue A thanks to Mick Bryant, John Lainton, Steve Hyde, Gerard Booth and Phil Alldiss. The Rickerscote lost 5-3 at home to the Bushes A who have also started well.

Division 2 St. Georges A are clear leaders by 8 points in this division after they ran away with 7-1 win at the Highfields. Another team achieving this score was the Amasal who triumphed at the Staffs Bull B where Craig Parsons (2), Paul Lakin (2), Derek Marley (2) and Craig Jones all won. The Tap n Spile had to dig deep for their 5-3 win over the Staffs Bull A while the Perkins also worked hard for their 5-3 win over the Rileys as Warren Bradbury (2), Martin Gaul (2) and James Devlin all won. The Oxleathers had to settle for a 4-4 draw at home to the Rileys C.

Division 3 The lead has changed again with the Antelope overtaking the Nags Head after they beat them 5-3 thanks to the efforts of Shane Warde (2) Chris Turner, Steve Hudson and Sean Mullen. The Crooked Cue Ts continue their good form with a 5-3 win over the Rangers B while the Bird gained their first win with a 5-3 victory at the Rickerscote B. The other matches all ended in 4-4 draws.

Revolving black ball Staffs Doubles and Threes Finals Day

Stafford Pool will be represented at the upcoming Finals Day of the Staffordshire Doubles and Threes competitions. Singles Champion Andy Rawlinson (Hop Pole) partners county player Kev Opie (Crooked Cue) in the doubles competition where they face J. Smith and M. Roberts in their semi-final. Meanwhile, the Crooked Cue trio of Mike Barker, Dave Barker and Dave Whitfield tackle the reigning champions from Leek in their semi-final of the 3-man competition. The Rileys club in Hanley hosts the event on Sunday 25th November with a 1pm start.

Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Final Match Report

Stafford Sunday B went down to a heavy 16-2 defeat at home to Trent Trophies A in their final Inter-league match of the season. The Stafford side were no match for the National Knockout champions with only Tom Tonna and Dave Whitfield salvaging any pride on the night. Captain Dave Whitfield finished the campaign with a very creditable personal record of 12 wins in 18 games.

Stafford Sunday A finished their season with another disappointing defeat - this time slipping to an 11-7 defeat on the road at Alsager. The loss leaves Stafford’s premier team in a lowly 7th posiion in the final league table. Steve Finney put in a man-of-the-match performance on the night, securing victory in his 2 frames without breaking sweat in his first visits to the table. John Grobnik finished the season with a personal haul of 16 wins in 20 starts which should see him return to the county side as an automatic pick.

The Stafford teams finished the season in 7th and 10th place in the Inter-league table. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

Next season will see the addition of a Cannock team to the Interleague as Rugeley bid farewell to the competition.

Revolving black ball Pool League Welcomes New Sponsor

The Pool League welcomes Parkside Electrical as the new main sponsor. Parkside Electrical takes over the main sponsorship role that Keith Hill Bookmakers had fulfilled for many years.

Revolving black ball Winter League Match 4 Report

Division 1 Rileys A opened up a 9 point gap at the top after they ran out 5-3 winners at the Bird on Tap. Dave Richardson (2), Gav Davies, Adam Lilburne and Giles Eastwood all won. The Crooked Cue have a game in hand in second place after they recorded a 5-3 success over the Rickerscote. The Hop Pole slipped to a 5-3 defeat at the Bushes A for whom Tom Tonna, Daz Waters (both 2) and Neil Addison all won. The Hop Pole C picked up their first win of the campaign with a 5-3 win over the Crooked Cue A. The Rickerscote A and the Three Tuns drew 4-4.

Division 2 St. Georges A hold a 3 point lead over Rileys C after they ran out comfortable 7-1 winners over the Staffs Bull B. Rileys C gained a 5-3 win over previous leaders, the Tap n Spile as Chris Hanlon (2), Alan Alldritt, Jim Simpson and Ricardo Martinez all won. The Oxleathers have started well as they picked up their 3rd win in 4 with a 5-3 victory at the Amasal Social. Dave Rose (2), Chris Rose, Dave Hutton and John Belcher all won. The Perkins picked up a useful 5-3 success at the Staffs Bull A while the Rileys and Rangers A fought out a 4-4 draw.

Division 3 This division is proving a tight one as only 2 points separate 4 teams. The Nags Head lead by 1 point after they returned with a 6-2 win at the Rickerscote C. The St. Leonards hold 2nd place after they inflicted a first defeat over the Antelope who are on the same points. They ran out 5-3 winners with Paul Lamont (2), Rich Medway, Ben Lowe and Andy Challinor all wining. The Rangers B have started well after they ran out 6-2 victors over the Albion B. The all Crooked Cue derby went to the T’s as they ran out 5-3 winners over their D team thanks to Elise Ainger (2), Rhiannon Diagness, Claire Maslin and Taylor Kelly. The Bird in Hand vs Bear & Pheasant and Albion A vs Rickerscote B ties both ended in 4-4 draws.

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October 2007


Revolving black ball Winter League Match 3 Report

Division 1 The Crooked Cue took on arch rivals the Hop Pole and picked up an excellent 5-3 success - Dave and Mike Barker (2 each) and Rob Wharne led the way. Currently topping the table are the Rileys A who ran out comfortable 7-1 winners over the Rickerscote A as Adam Lilburne, Gav Davies, Dave Arrowsmith (all 2 each) plus Giles Eastwood all won. The Bushes B are in second place after they came away with a 5-3 win at the Crooked Cue A while the Three Tuns recovered from the week before with an identical score against the Hop Pole C. The Bird on Tap held the Rickerscote to a 4-4 draw.

Division 2 The Tap and Spile top this section after their recent 6-2 win over the Amasal. St. Georges A are close behind in 2nd place after they also achieved a 6-2 win at the Oxleathers. Lee Haidarovic and Ant Whitehead (both 2) along with Karen Tomkinson and Scott Haidarovic all won. Both Staffs Bull sides recorded 5-3 victories over the Highfields and Rangers A while the Perkins picked up their first win with a 5-3 success over previous leaders Rileys C. Warren Bradbury and James Devlin (2 each) and Chris Blackford all won.

Division 3 The Antelope have started strongly with 3 wins out of 3 after they ran out 6-2 winers at the Rickerscote B. The St. Leonards also have a 100% record when they also recorded a 6-2 win at home to the Rickerscote C. The Crooked Cue D were held to a 4-4 score at newcomers the Bird while the Rangers B disposed of previous leaders the Nags Head 5-3 where Alan Smith and Neil Colpitts (both 2) and Tom Bown all won. The Bear and Pheasant gained their first success with a 6-2 win over the Albion A as Brian Banchowski, Dan France and Ian Higgins all won 2 each. The Albion B gained their first win over the Crooked Cue T?s winning 5-3.

Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 10 Report

Stafford Sunday B went down to a 12-6 defeat in their recent Inter-league match. The Stafford side slipped to a 7-2 deficit after the first half leaving too much to do after the turn-around. The 6 frames in the Win column on the night were shared between 6 players. At the top of the table it appears that Afford may have thrown away their chance of claiming the title after losing to Trent Trophies Tuesday thus leaving the door open for the reigning league champions, Trent Trophies A, to hold onto their crown. Stafford Sunday A had a bye in the last set of fixtures.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 8th and 10th place in the Inter-league table with 2 matches remaining. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

The next set of League matches are on 16th November when Stafford B host Trent Trophies A whilst Stafford A travel to Alsager.

Revolving black ball Winter League Match 2 Report

Division 1 The Hop Pole are the early pacesetters as they came from 3-0 down to record a 5-3 win at the Bird on Tap. Mark Bailey (2), Andy Rawlinson, Mick Addison and Kev Brown all won. 2006/07 Champs the Crooked Cue started their campaign with a 6-2 win over the Bushes A. Bushes B gained an excellent 8-0 success over newly promoted Three Tuns as Paul Shepherd, John Grobnik, James Holmes (2 each), Robbie Jenkinson and Mark Bilingsley all won. The Rileys A gained a useful 5-3 win at the Hop Pole C while the Rickerscote derby ended all square at 4-4.

Division 2 The Rileys C have started strongly with a recent 6-2 success over the Rangers A as Chris Hanlon (2), Alan Aldritt (2), Jim Simpson and Ricardo Martinez all won. The Oxleathers have started well after their 5-3 win at the Highfields where Ken Marsden (2), Nick Lenton (2) and Dave Rose led the way. The Rileys picked up their first win with a 5-3 win at the Staffs Bull A while St. Georges v Tap n Spile and Amasal v Perkins both ended 4-4.

Division 3 The Nags Head lead after their 5-3 win over the Crooked Cue T’s as Paul Loughhead (2), Sean Lucas, Ian Hollingshead and Ant O’Brien all won. The Antelope also gained their 2nd win with a 5-3 win over Bear and Pheasant and are now second. The St. Leonards have started well with a 6-2 win at the Rangers B while the Crooked Cue D picked up a fine 6-2 win over the Albion B. Albion A picked up their first win a 5-3 success over the Bird in Hand while the Rickerscote derby also ended in a 4-4 stalemate.

Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 9 Report

Stafford Sunday B pulled off a well-deserved victory over the Stafford Sunday A team in their recent Inter-league match. The B side took their chances on the night, winning both halves of the match 5-4 with captain, Dave Whitfield, sinking the match-winning black in the final frame. Dave Whitfield, Robbie Jenkinson and Chris Hanlon each secured 2 victories for the B team with Andy Rawlinson matching the feat for the A side.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 8th and 9th place in the Inter-league table with 2 matches remaining. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

The next set of League matches are on 26th October when Stafford B host Alsager whilst Stafford A have a bye.

Revolving black ball Cue Pair Crowned Town Doubles Champions

Dave Whitfield and Dave Barker have been crowned the 2007 Doubles Champions after a close-fought final against Tim McGann and Kev Brown. The Crooked Cue pair made hard-work for themselves on the night, having to come back from 2-0 down in their semi-final against the pairing of Gaz Baker and Rob Wharne before then trailing 3-2 in the final itself. But they held their nerve and took their chances when they came. Martin Priestley bowed out of the Stafford pool scene with defeat in his semi-final alongside partner Mike Barker. Martin, who held the post of Pool League Treasurer for several years, now moves onto pastures new in Peterborough.


DOUBLES KNOCKOUT FINALS DAY
SEMI FINALS          FINAL
DAVE WHITFIELD / DAVE BARKER     3        
GAZ BAKER / ROB WHARNE     2     DAVE WHITFIELD / DAVE BARKER     4  
         
MARTIN PRIESTLEY / MIKE BARKER     1     TIM McGANN / KEV BROWN     3  
TIM McGANN / KEV BROWN     3        

Revolving black ball Local Pool Star Reaches National Final

Rob Wharne made a sensational debut in the recent National Amateur Individual Pool Championships held over 2 days in Great Yarmouth. The Crooked Cue player progressed through a very strong field of nearly 400 players from all corners of the UK until he found himself in the final where past world champion Carl Morris was waiting for him. Unfortunately, it was a step too far for Rob as the former professional from Stoke showed that he has lost none of his ability on the pool table. However, to finish runner-up in such a prestigious event is a major achievement in itself for the 21 year old Stafford player who can look forward to a very bright future in the sport.

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September 2007


Revolving black ball Andy Crowned Town Champion

Andy Rawlinson has been crowned the 2007 Singles Champion after a thrilling finish to the Finals Day held at the Crooked Cue on Sunday. The Hop Pole player made his way through the field to meet Mike Barker in the final and looked to be down and out when trailing 3-0 with the Crooked Cue man lining up a shot on the black ball to win the match. However, the 8-ball stayed on the table, Andy pulled off a good finish to secure the frame and then went on a run of games that took him all of the way to a shake of hands and the crown.


SINGLES KNOCKOUT FINALS DAY
QUARTER FINALS       SEMI FINALS       FINAL
ANDY RAWLINSON   3              
PAUL SHEPHERD 2   ANDY RAWLINSON   3        
               
DAVE ARROWSMITH 3   DAVE ARROWSMITH 2   ANDY RAWLINSON    4   
JOHN GROBNIK 0        
               
MARK BILLINGSLEY 3         MIKE BARKER 3
KEV OPIE 2   MARK BILLINGSLEY 1  
               
ADAM LILBURNE 2   MIKE BARKER 3      
MIKE BARKER 3            

Revolving black ball Pool Presentation Evening

The Presentation Evening for this year will be held in the Crooked Cue function room on Friday 19th October. Trophies for all successful players will be awarded on the night followed by a disco.

Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 8 Report

Stafford Sunday A slipped to a disappointing 11-7 defeat at Leek A in their most recent Inter-league match. A 7-2 half-time deficit killed off any realistic hopes of winning the tie although a 5-4 reverse in the 2nd half was a sign of improvement. John Grobnik continued his excellent run of league form as he compiled 2 victories on the night.

The Stafford Sunday B side had a bye in the last round of matches.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 7th and 10th place in the Inter-league table with 2 matches remaining. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

The next set of League matches are on 12th October when the Stafford teams meet with local bragging rights at stake.

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August 2007


Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 7 Report

There were mixed fortunes for Stafford’s Inter-league teams in their recent league fixtures.

Stafford Sunday A continued their recent good form with a 12-6 defeat of Leek B. The visitors from Leek held their own during the first half, reducing the deficit to the odd frame at 5-4 down. But the home side pulled away after the turn-around winning 7 of the 9 frames on offer. Putting in good shifts on the night were Dave Barker, John Grobnik and Mike Barker who doubled up with 2 wins apiece.

The Stafford Sunday B side couldn’t kick on from the relative success of their previous match as they succumbed to a 12-6 defeat on the road at Leek A. Holding his own on the night was Robbie Jenkinson with 2 wins to his name.

Alpha Ladies have dropped out of the league after failing to field a team for the second time this season. All results against Alpha Ladies have subsequently been removed from the league table.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 7th and 9th place in the Inter-league table. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

The next set of League matches are on 28th September when Stafford Sunday A travel to Leek A while Stafford Sunday B have a bye.

Revolving black ball Summer League Knockout Finals

SUMMER LEAGUE KNOCKOUT FINAL
19th August
Venue: Crooked Cue
               CROOKED CUE 4 - 3 HOP POLE

Crooked Cue have been crowned Summer League Knockout champions after a nailbiting final against local rivals Hop Pole. Dave Arrowsmith and Martin Priestley won 2 games each for the victors whilst Mark Bailey, Tim Teece and Tim McGann replied.

SUMMER PLATE KNOCKOUT FINAL
19th August
Venue: Crooked Cue
            CROOKED CUE A 3 - 4 TAP n SPILE

The final of the Summer Plate competition also went the distance as Tap n Spile saw off the challenge of Crooked Cue A with Jamie Woolley securing the deciding frame.

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July 2007


Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 6 Report

There were better fortunes for Stafford’s Inter-league teams in their recent league fixtures.

Stafford Sunday A secured their second league win of the season after a 14-4 defeat of Alpha Ladies. The team from Stafford made an excellent start, winning all of the first seven frames, and taking a commanding 8-1 lead into the second half. A minor wobble after the break gave the Ladies some hope of a comeback but that was quickly put to bed when Dave Barker put the visitors into an unassailable position at 10-3 up before the team recorded their biggest win of the season to date. Mick Addison, Dave Barker, John Grobnik, Andy Rawlinson and Mike Barker doubled up on the night with 2 wins apiece.

The albatross around the neck of the Stafford Sunday B side is starting to loosen its grip after a well-deserved draw at home to Leek B. The team from Leek took the honours in the first half, winning 5 of the 9 frames on offer. The tie then seemed to be going into depressingly familiar territory for the home side when they trailed 7-6 but a run of 3 consecutive wins put them on the hill at 9-7 up. Unfortunately, a match victory couldn’t be secured as Leek B claimed the final 2 frames. But the Stafford team can now breathe a collective sigh of relief as their League season is finally underway and some confidence should be restored for their remaining matches. Captain, Dave Whitfield, continued his good run of form with 2 wins on the night. He was joined on this achievement by Paul Shepherd and Mark Billingsley.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 7th and 11th place in the Inter-league table. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

The next set of League matches are on 31st August when Stafford Sunday B travel to Leek A while Stafford Sunday A host Leek B.

Revolving black ball Summer League Knockout Stage

Three Tuns, Crooked Cue B, Hop Pole C and Rickerscote Arms have all cemented home ties in the quarter-finals of the main Summer League Knockout draw. They are joined in this stage by Rickerscote A and Crooked Cue (best runner-up). The remaining two places will be decided by two play-offs to be played on 29th July. Hop Pole take on Island A while Bird in Hand do battle with Bushes B. The draw for the quarter-finals is still to be conducted. All 15 teams not involved in the main knockout have a chance of winning silverware in the Summer Plate compeititon, starting with the first round matches on 29th July.

Revolving black ball Summer League Week 10 Report

GROUP A Three Tuns got the result they needed to win this group by the slender margin of one point. They ran out 8-0 winners at the Rickerscote C. The Staffs Bull B ended their campaign with a 6-2 win at the Highfields and finish third.

GROUP B The Hop Pole managed to hold onto 2nd place after they ran away with a 7-1 success over the Lord Nelson. The Tap and Spile achieved an identical score over the New Vic that left them trailing by one point but they receive a bye into the quarter-finals of the Plate for being the best placed 3rd place team.

GROUP C The Rickerscote A won this group with a 6-2 victory at the Albion and receive a bye into the quarter-finals whereas the Bird were held to a 4-4 draw at home to the Crooked Cue A

GROUP D The Hop Pole C won 6-2 at Rileys and won this group unbeaten and so receive a bye into the quarters. The Island B ended their campaign with a 6-2 success at home to the Ricky B and claim 3rd place.

GROUP E The Rickerscote won the top of the table clash against the Island A 5-3 and also get a bye into the quarter-finals. The Island A also qualified whereas the Bushes A missed out after they secured a 5-3 win at the Forester.

Revolving black ball Summer League Week 9 Report

GROUP A The battle of the top two teams again ended all square but has guaranteed qualification for both sides to the main draw. The Crooked Cue hold a 10 point lead but have played a game more than the Three Tuns who play the Rickerscote C this week. The Staffs Bull A picked up only their second win with a 6-2 win over the Ricky C.

GROUP B The Crooked Cue B have won this Group after they secured a 6-2 win at the Lord Nelson. Second place is still up for grabs after the Tap and Spile beat the Hop Pole 5-3. The Pole hold a 1 point lead over the Tap going into the last game.

GROUP C The Rickerscote A have joined the Bird in the main draw after they saw off the challenge of the Staffs Bull A winning 7-1. Only a single point separates these two teams. The Crooked Cue A and the Albion had to settle for a 4-4 draw.

GROUP D The Bushes B have finished on a high with an 8-0 success over the Ricky B to secure qualification to the main draw but the Hop Pole C are favourites to win this group as they only need 2 points from their last game. They drew 4-4 with the Island B.

GROUP E This group is also proving to be a close run thing as both the Rickerscote and the Island A are only separated by a single point and they play each other in the last game. The Island A won 7-1 at home to the Oxleathers while the Rickerscote won 5-3 at the Bushes A.

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June 2007


Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 5 Report

There were mixed fortunes for Stafford’s Inter-league teams in their recent league fixtures.

Stafford Sunday A secured their first league win of the season after a 10-8 defeat of visitors Trent Trophies Tuesday. The teams were similarly matched on the night with the home team edging both halves 5-4. Skipper, Andy Rawlinson, finally delivered in a league match after some fine individual performances in this season’s cup games. John Grobnik kept up his good form with wins in both halves and Mick Addison kept his nerve in the final frame to clinch the win that had been long overdue.

The struggle continues for the Stafford Sunday B side who are still searching for their first league point of the new season. This time they went down to an 11-7 defeat on the road at Alpha Ladies. Captain, Dave Whitfield, continued his good run of form with 2 wins on the night. He was joined on 2 individual victories by Chris Hanlon.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 7th and 11th place in the Inter-league table. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

Revolving black ball Summer League Week 6 Report

GROUP A The Three Tuns still hold top spot after their 7-1 win over the Highfields. The Crooked Cue are 2 points behind in second place after they were made to work hard for their 6-2 win over the Ricky C thanks to Mike Barker (2 wins), Martin Priestley (2), Dave Whitfield and Adam Lilburne.

GROUP B The Crooked Cue B won the top of the group clash against the Hop Pole as they ran out 5-3 victors and now hold a 7 point lead at the top. The Lord Nelson gained their first success of the campaign with a 6-2 win over the New Vic as Andy Gilbert (2), James Mace (2), Chris Boden and John Wheeler al won.

GROUP C The Bird got back to winning ways with a 5-3 win at the Ricky A and now hold a 7 point lead at the top. The Albion picked up their first win with an excellent 6-2 win at the Bull Ladies where Dean Marley (2), Craig Jones (2), Steve Dale and Tim Brotherton led the way.

GROUP D The Bushes B moved back to the top of this group with a 6-2 win over the Island B. Mark Billingsley (2), John Grobnik (2), James Holmes and Simon Davies all won. The Hop Pole C are 2 points behind but have a game in hand.

GROUP E The Island A were held to a 4-4 draw at home to a fast improving Forester side and still hold a healthy 11 point lead at the top of this group with the result from the Ricky and Oxleathers still awaiting!

Revolving black ball Inter-league Knockout Cup Report

In a reverse of last year’s result it was Trent Trophies B who took the honours this time round as they saw off the challenge of Stafford Sunday A in the recently held 5th place play-off knockout cup final. The Stoke side stormed into a 7-2 lead as only John Grobnik and Dave Barker provided any resistance in the first half. Both players then notched up their second wins of the match as the Stafford team made a mini-comeback. Captain Andy Rawlinson, Adam Lilburne and Giles Eastwood also joined the party but it proved to be too little too late as TTB held their nerve and went on to a well-deserved 10-7 victory.

Revolving black ball Summer League Week 5 Report

GROUP A The Three Tuns have taken spot in this section after they ran out 8-0 victors over the Ricky C. Ian Thomas (2), Matt Smith (2), Mark Davis (2), Dennis Kitchen and Steve Banks all won. The Bull B were held 4-4 by the Highfields Club.

GROUP B The Hop Pole have closed the gap on the leaders to 2 points after their 7-1 win over Lord Nelson. The Tap and Spile are still in touch with the top two after they also gained a 7-1 win over the New Vic.

GROUP C The Crooked Cue A surprised previously unbeaten Bird running out 5-3 winners. Gaz Baker (2), Will Edge (2) and Justin Mackereth all won. The Ricky A missed their chance of going top after they were held 4-4 at home to the Albion.

GROUP D The Island B gained a valuable 5-3 win at the Ricky B to keep their hopes of qualification going for the main draw while the Hop Pole C were held to a 4-4 score at home to a rugged Rileys team.

GROUP E The Island A won the top of the group clash 5-3 against the Ricky and now hold a 7 point lead. Ricardo Martinez (2), Jim Simpson, Sean Lucas and Lee Edgington led the way. The Forester surprised the Bushes A running out 5-3 victors and also still hold hopes af qualifying for the main draw.

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May 2007


Revolving black ball Summer League Week 3 Report

GROUP A The Crooked Cue have started well with 3 wins out of 3 and lead this group by 10 points over the Three Tuns who had a free week. The Rickerscote C picked up their first win with a 5-3 win at the Highfields as Steve Rogers (2), Tracey Stanyer, Robbie Fowler and Les Murphy all won.

GROUP B Leaders Crooked Cue B had to settle for a 4-4 draw at the Tap n Spile. The Hop Pole picked up a 6-2 win at the New Vic - Andy Rawlinson (2), Tim Teece (2), Mark Bailey and Mick Addison were the victors.

GROUP C The Bird in Hand lead this group by one point over the Staffs Bull Ladies. They both recorded 6-2 wins over the Albion and Crooked Cue A respectively. The latter had Ladies County players Karen Tomkinson (2), Lynda Simpson(2), Claire Maslin along with Pippa Steele and Sarah O?Donnell to thank.

GROUP D The Hop Pole C have started well winning their first 2 matches and lead the group. Their latest win was a 5-3 success over 2006 summer League Champions Bushes B - Andy Mason (2), Kev Daly (2) and Duncan Sunderland all won. The Island B picked up useful 7-1 win over Rileys.

GROUP E 2006 runners-up Rickerscote have started well also winning their opening 2 matches. They won 6-2 at the Forester and had Shaun Draper (2), Tim Owens (2), Dave Ashton and Mark Draper leading the way. The other game showed no result between the Bushes A and Oxleathers.

Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 4 Report

There was further disappointment for Stafford’s Inter-league teams in their recent league fixtures.

Stafford Sunday A slipped to a 10-8 defeat on the road against Afford. The teams were similarly matched on the night with the home team edging the first half 5-4 before the Stafford side hit back after the interval. Second half wins for John Grobnik, Dave Barker, Rob Wharne and Steve Finney took the Stafford team into an 8-6 lead. But hopes of a first league win of the season were dashed as Afford held their nerve in the closing stages, winning each of the final four frames to the obvious relief of their players. John Grobnik and Steve Finney came away with victories in their 2 frames.

The struggle continues for the Stafford Sunday B side who are still searching for their first league point of the new season. The experienced Trent Trophies Tuesday team left Stafford Snooker Club with a 14-4 victory on the night. Able to hold his head up was Robbie Jenkinson with 2 frames to his name.

The Stafford teams currently lie in 8th and 10th place in the Inter-league table. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

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April 2007


Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 3 Report

Stafford Sunday A picked up their first points of the new Staffordshire Inter-league season after playing out a 9-9 draw with Rugeley. The teams were similarly matched on the night with the visitors edging the first half 5-4 before Stafford hit back in the second half, even leading 9-7 at one point. John Grobnik, Rob Wharne and Dave Barker all put in good shifts - winning their 2 frames during the match.
There was further disappointment for the Stafford Sunday B side who are struggling to find their feet in the league this season. After trailing 6-3 to the experienced Afford team, they fell away to the extent of only winning one further frame in the second half, going on to lose the match by the scoreline of 14-4. Holding his head up on the night was Tom Tonna with 2 frames to his name.
The Stafford teams currently lie in 8th and 10th place in the Inter-league table. Player statistics from the Inter-league matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

Revolving black ball Inter-league Knockout Cup Report

Stafford Sunday A saw off the challenge of Stafford Sunday B for a place in the final of the Staffs Inter-league Fifth-Place Play-off competition. The 10-7 victory keeps alive the possibility of an invitation for the A team to the National Finals weekend at Yarmouth next year. After the opening frames were shared, the A side went into a 5-3 lead before Mark Billingsley won an important game to pull one back and keep the B team within touching distance at the halfway stage. Early frames to the A side in the second half put them onto the hill at 9-6 before Paul Shepherd notched one up for the B team. But the possible comeback fizzled out as Gav Davies won the crucial game to take Stafford A to the 10 frames required. Winning 2 frames on the night were Andy Rawlinson, Rob Wharne and Dave Barker (all Stafford A) along with Stafford B’s James Holmes.

Revolving black ball Stan Bent Team Knockout Final Report

The Bushes B of Division One won the Stan Bent Team Knockout Final for the first time with a 4-2 success over the second division champions Crooked Cue B. The Bushes B are proving to be the knockout specialists as they also hold the Summer league K/O title from 2006.
They were made to work hard for this victory as both captains were drawn against each other in the first game. Paul Shepherd (Bushes B) had a great chance to put the his team 1 up but the dogged resistance of Dave Baker (C Cue B) stopped him in his tracks and so gave the Cue men a 1-0 lead. On 2nd saw James Holmes (Bushes B) tackle Dave Barlow and it was Holmes’ clean potting and positioning that saw him through and so level the scores at 1-1.
Third up was Simon Davies (Bushes B) and he was taking on Staffs County player Kev Opie, but it was Davies who had the first real chance to take it but a bit of misfortune saw him lose position and let Opie in to clear up and so hand back the lead to the Cue men 2-1. The fourth game saw the experienced John Grobnik (Bushes B) take on the young Gaz Baker and after an exchange of visits it looked as though Baker was going to nick it but the cue ball ran 2 inches too far and so forced himself into making a mistake and allowing Grobnik in to clear and so level at 2-2.
Dave Baker was then drawn against James Holmes and Holmes carried on from where he last left off, clean potting and excellent positioning until he got on the last ball where he also ran too far and so let Baker back in but baker left himself a tough last red and he missed it thus letting Holmes pot the black and so for the first time put the Bushes side ahead 3-2. Shepherd then took on Opie and the Bushes B captain was prepared for this one as an exchange of tactical play resulted in Shephed taking the first opportunity and clearing up and so hand the Stan bent Team K/O title 2006/07 to the Bushes B to the delight of their supporters.

Revolving black ball Subsidiary Team Knockout Final Report

The Subsidiary Final ended in a 4-0 win for the 3rd division champions Island B over the 3rd division runners-up Albion. Andy and Sewart Sim along with Richie Mullins and Ant Whitehead were the winners. Both Haidarowicz brothers, Scott and Lee were unable to make the final.

Revolving black ball Stan Bent Team Knockout Semi-finals Report

Bushes B won through to the final of the Stan Bent Team Knockout with a close fought 4-3 success over the Crooked Cue C. The Bushes B were struggling at 3-1 down but came back with a fine 2nd half performance and it was John Grobnik with 2 wins followed by Paul Shepherd and Simon Key to round off the scoring. They meet 2nd division champions Crooked Cue B in the Final after they ran out 4-0 winners over the Rifleman A with Kev Opie, Dave Barlow, Chris Hanlon and Dave Baker all winning. The Final will be held at the Hop Pole on Sunday 15th April 8:00pm.

Revolving black ball Subsidiary Team Knockout Semi-finals Report

The all Island Semi Final resulted in a 4-2 win for 3rd division champions Island B as they seek more silverware. They will play familiar opposition in the Albion who finished runners up to them as they saw off the Bear and Pheasant 4-3. The Final will be played at the Crooked Cue on Sunday 15th April 8:00pm.

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March 2007


Revolving black ball National Inter-league Finals Report

Stafford Sunday A again failed to progress past the group stage of this year’s National Inter-league Finals which were recently held at Great Yarmouth. The Stafford team made a very poor start in their first match, trailing 6-1 and 8-3 to Taunton LVA. An amazing comeback then saw them work their way back to the point where they led by 9 frames to 8. But the final frame eluded them and they had to settle for a 9-9 draw. The 2nd match saw the Stafford side race into a 6-3 halfway lead against Dinnington only to see their hopes crumble in the second half as frame after frame went the way of the Yorkshiremen who eventually prevailed 10-8. Steve Finney was player of the weekend for the Stafford team with 3 wins out of the 4 frames he played as well as pulling off a crucial, length-of-the-table pot in one of his games whilst cueing over his opponent's final colour.

Revolving black ball 25th March Winter League Report

Division 1 The Hop Pole captured 2nd spot with a 5-3 win over newly crowned league Champions Crooked Cue. They inflicted a first defeat on the Cue with wins from Andy Rawlinson (2), Tim McGann, Mick Addsion and Tim Teece. The Bird had to settle for 3rd place again after they secured a 6-2 win over relegated Crooked Cue A. The Rickerscote and Bushes B both won 5-3 against the Bushes A and Rickerscote A while the Crooked Cue C were held 4-4 at the Hop Pole C. Adam Lilburne of the Crooked Cue picked up the most wins with 28 wins.

Division 2 Last game of the season saw the top two come up against each other and it was the Crooked Cue B who kept their unbeaten tag intact with a 5-3 win. Both Kev Opie and Dave Barlow shared the most wins with 27 victories. The Rifleman A and the Bear and Pheasant both recorded 5-3 wins over the New Vic and Highfields respectively. The Staffs Bull A claimed an 8-0 win over Oxleathers.

Division 3 The Albion secured runners up and promotion after they won 7-1 at the Rifleman B - Craig Jones (2), Mark Billingsley (2), Dean Marley (2)and Steve Dale all winning. The Staffs Bull B claimed 3rd spot with a 6-2 win over the Rickerscote B while the Forester and Antelope finished off with 5-3 wins over the Star and Garter and Rickerscote C respectively. Scott Haidarowicz (Island B) claimed the most wins with 27 victories.

Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 2 Report

Both Stafford Inter-league teams continued their disappointing starts to the new league season. Stafford Sunday A suffered a 12-6 defeat on the road against Trent Trophies B. Trailing 5-4 at half time, the Stafford side were confident of a result but failed to convert their chances in a disappointing 2nd half. Mick Addison continued his good form, winning both of his 2 games. Stafford Sunday B slipped to a 14-4 home defeat at the hands of Rugeley. This was despite Martin Priestley contributing half of the total frames won by the team.

The Stafford teams occupy 7th and 9th place in the Table. Player statistics from these League matches can be viewed on the Inter-league Averages page.

Revolving black ball Summer League 2007 Details

The Summer League season will be played in a group format with the top two teams from each group going through to a quarter finals 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 Winter season. The Summer League is planned to start on 29th April 2007 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 15th April 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.

Revolving black ball Inter-league Knockout Cup Report

Both Stafford Inter-league teams have progressed into a semi-final derby clash in the Inter-league Fifth-Place Play-off Knockout competition. Stafford Sunday B saw off the challenge of Alsager with a 10-6 victory thanks largely to double wins on the night from Mark Billingsley and Paul Shepherd. Stafford Sunday A also beat Afford by the same scoreline with Andy Rawlinson, Rob Wharne, Dave Arrowsmith and Dave Barker winning their 2 frames.

Revolving black ball National Inter-league Finals Preview

The draw has been made for the group stage of this year’s National Inter-league Finals to be held at Great Yarmouth. Stafford Sunday A have been placed in Group 24 where they take on teams from Taunton and Dinnington. The event takes place over the weekend of 31 March to 1 April.

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February 2007


Revolving black ball Staffs Inter-league Match 1 Report

Both Stafford Inter-league teams made disappointing starts to the new league season. Stafford Sunday A will look on their match as a rare opportunity missed as Trent Trophies A came away from Stafford Snooker Club with an 11-7 victory despite missing a number of their top players. Mick Addison won 2 games for the home side. Stafford Sunday B struggled to a 13-5 defeat at the hands of Trent Trophies B despite Dave Whitfield and Paul Shepherd winning 4 games between them. The team blooded a number of new players on the trip to Stoke who will hopefully gain something from the experience.

Revolving black ball 18th February Winter League Report

Division 1 The Crooked Cue moved a step closer to the league title after they came away with a 5-3 success at the Bird. They now hold a 15 point lead at the top with only 4 games remaining. The Hop Pole are only a point behind the Bird in 3rd place after they triumphed 6-2 over their C team. The Rickerscote jumped into 4th place after they secured a 6-2 win over strugglers Crooked Cue A. Dave Ashton, Andy palin and Shaun Draper all picked up 2 wins apiece. The Bushes B gained an excellent 5-3 win at the Crooked Cue C - John Grobnik (2), Paul Shepard, Simon Davies and James Holmes all won. The Bushes A eased their relegation worries with a 5-3 win over also strugglers Rickerscote A.

Division 2 Leaders Crooked Cue B were without a game and so the Three Tuns had a great chance to close the gap but they were made to work hard for their 5-3 win at the Bear and Pheasant. The Staffs Bull A gave their survival hopes a massive boost as they ran out 5-3 winners at the Rifleman A. Lynda Simpson (2), Martin Van Cotsford, Gaz Morris, Pippa Steele and Dave Street all won. The remaining matches ended in 4-4 draws between the New Vic v Island A and the Highfields v Oxleathers.

Division 3 The top of the table clash saw the Island B take on the Albion and it was the Albion who took a 3-0 lead only to see the Island B to fight back and then lead 4-3 before the Albion levelled matters 4-4. The Star and Garter jumped two place as they recorded a 5-3 win at the Rickerscote B - Lee John, Chris Bridge winning 2 each saw them through. The Staffs Bull B picked up a 5-3 win over the Rickerscote C while the Rifleman B are still challenging for promotion after they fought hard for their 5-3 victory at the Forester.

Revolving black ball Adam debuts on Pool Tour

Adam Lilburne recently made his debut on the IPA Pool Tour at Hinckley. The tour will give Adam an opportunity to test his potting skills against the very best players on the pool circuit. The Crooked Cue player won his preliminary round match on the main tour but then narrowly lost in the 1st round by the scoreline of 7-6. In total, there are 6 events on the tour and each weekend provides an entry to both the Strachan International Tour and the Club Open.

Revolving black ball 4th February Winter League Report

Division 1 The Crooked Cue extended their lead at the top to 11 points after they ran out 7-1 winners at the Bushes A. Adam Lilburne (2), Dave Whitfield (2), Martin Priestley, Dave Barker and Dave Arrowsmith all won. The Bird are in 2nd place after they were made to work hard for their 5-3 win at the Hop Pole C. While the Hop Pole however slipped further behind after they suffered a 6-2 defeat at the Rickerscote thanks to Dave Ashton, Shaun Draper and Tim Owens all picking up 2 wins each. The Bushes B and Crooked Cue C both recorded 6-2 wins over the Crooked Cue A and Rickerscote A respectively.

Division 2 The Three Tuns are closing in on leaders the Crooked Cue B. They have cut the gap to 10 points after they whitewashed the Bull A 8-0. The Crooked Cue B managed to win 5-3 at lowly New Vic. The Rifleman A picked up a useful 7-1 win over struggling Oxleathers with wins for Warren Bradbury, James Devlin, Mark Hollowood, Martin Gaul and Nigel Lanes. The Island A came away with a 6-2 success at the Bear and Pheasant.

Division 3 The Albion are the new leaders after they recorded two wins over the weekend. They ran out firstly 8-0 at home and then 6-2 away to the Rickerscote B. They now lead by 4 points over the Island B but the latter have a game in hand. They won 6-2 at home to the Forester. The Rifleman B kept in touch with the top two after they came away with a 5-3 win at the Stafs Bull B - Lee Powell, Colin Powell, Liam O’Neill and John Devlin (2) all won. The Star and Garter and the Antelope both settled for a 4-4 draw.

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January 2007


Revolving black ball 28th January Winter League Report

Division 1 The Crooked Cue continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 6-2 win over the Bushes B that puts them 9 points clear over their nearest rivals. The Bird are in second place after they secured a narrow 5-3 success over the Crooked Cue C - Robbie Jenkinson (2), Steve Finney (2) and Tony Mason all won. The Hop Pole are on the same points as they ran out 6-2 victors over the Crooked Cue A with Andy Rawlinson (2), Tim McGann (2), Mick Addison and Kev Brown all winning. The Bushes A picked up a useful 6-2 win over struggling Hop Pole C and there was a welcome 5-3 victory for the Rickerscote A as they beat their arch rivals the Rickerscote.

Division 2 It is now looking like a two horse race between leaders Crooked Cue B and 2nd place Three Tuns. The Cue B were locked in a tight battle against the Rifleman A but came out 5-3 victors - Kev Opie (2), Dave Barlow (2) and Chris Hanlon all won. The Three Tuns however made light work off their efforts with a 7-1 success at the Island A - Dennis Kitchen (2), Ian Thomas (2), Mark Davis (2) and Steve Banks all won. There was an emphatic win for the Bear and Pheasant as they stormed to a 8-0 success over luckless Oxleathers.

Division 3 The Island B lost their unbeaten tag to the Staffs Bull B as they suffered a 5-3 defeat after Dan Banks (2), Dan Goodwin (2) and Kev Flanagan all won for the Bull. The Albion closed the gap to 7 points with a 5-3 win over the Star and Garter - Dean Marley (2), Mark Billingsley, Craig Jones and Steve Dale all won. The Rifleman B suffered a 5-3 defeat to the Antelope to dent their promotion chances and the Rickerscote derby ended in a 4-4 draw after the C side were 4-0 up over their B team counterparts.

Revolving black ball Lynda and Clair to keep Karen company

Not to be outdone, the Ladies County Team also now has 3 players from The Stafford Sunday Pool League as Lynda Simpson and Clair Maslin from Staffs Bull A line up alongside Karen Tomkinson (Crooked Cue B) who retains her place in the county side.

Revolving black ball Robbie and Kev join County Ranks

The Stafford Sunday Pool League now has two further representatives in the Mens County Team after the recent trials that took place at the Green Baize, Hanley. Robbie ’Super Robbie’ Jenkinson (Bird in Hand) and Kev Opie (Crooked Cue B) will make their debuts alongside Giles Eastwood (Crooked Cue C) who retains his place in the county side.

Revolving black ball Inter-league Knockout Cup Report

The new Inter-League season has kicked off with the first round of the Knockout Cup competition. Unfortunately, both Stafford teams fell at the first hurdle and now hope to go back into the hat to contend in the 5th-place play-off that may be rewarded with a trip to the finals at Great Yarmouth.

Stafford A slipped to a 10-8 defeat at Trent Trophies B after trailing 5-4 at the turnaround. Pulling their weight with 2 wins each were Adam Lilburne, John Grobnik and Rob Wharne. Meanwhile Stafford B were beaten 10-7 at home to Rugeley despite leading 6-5 at one point and with Spencer Trow on top form for the home side.

The set of fixtures for the new Inter-League season are now available.

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