LATEST MATCH REPORTS...

It's been a tough old season, but it came to an end today as we played our final game at Reading. With nothing to play for but our pride, our team was on paper immediately weakened by the loss of three top players to the Bs. Fortunately Sam and Keely from the ladies and Luke from the juniors stepped up to help us out. Sam especially did well with 3/4.

Berkshire's a good side and they quickly showed it. They took the first quarter 7-4 and repeated that in the second quarter. This match could have been a lot more one-sided than it was, but I have to take my hat off to the team for bringing us right back in it in the second half. At one point we drew level at 17 each, but then Berks woke up again and went 21-17 up. Still, we held on with three brave wins to come to just one behind with three frames being played simultaneously. We could just as easily have won this as we had chances in all three, but in the end, we won one and our opponents took home the spoils.

Paul Dawson got 3/4 which guarantees him the region's top C team player trophy. Well done to him for such a great season. His closest rival was playing on the other side and achieved 2/4 gifting Dawson the honours. Player of the match though was Michael Bonney. I am so proud of him for getting his first 4/4 at county, achieved with confidence. Nice one Booney!

Now the season is over, the frames have all been totted up and those under 50% will be retrialing, as will those who didn't make 50% of the fixtures. I'll be making my recommendations to the committee and players will be notified in due time if they have to go to the trials in January. Curiously, I notice that 3 of my players who were absent today had all played enough matches and were on exactly 50% - if I were a more cynical man, I might suspect they were opting out to protect their averages lol!

Anyhow, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for chipping in this season. We've struggled, for sure, to develop an identity and I know there have been some individual concerns and difficulties, but the season is over now and I hope we have all learned from it, so we can make 2012 a far more successful campaign. Everyone who has been involved should take pride in the fact that they have played their part for their county. A decision hasn't been made yet as to whether I will be leading the team for another season, but whatever happens, I'll be giving you the benefit of my support.

The As and Bs both won the region so well done to them. I'm sure there will be a few changes over the close season, so we will keep you all informed about those. Meanwhile, have a good Christmas everyone.

The Doctor