THE National and County competitions are moving into their final qualification stages and there are a number Gerrards Cross players that have qualified for the quarter and even semi-final stages.

Many of the games are being played this week and

the Cross

are optimistic of having a considerable number of players in the final stages of competitions.

Neil Farnish has qualified in the singles, and the four of Kevin Dwyer, Keith Young, Simon Cobb and Farnish are through to the final of the county seniors.

The ladies section at the club is also progressing well and have reached the quarter-final of the Trundell. They are also currently in a good position in the league format Bucks Plate.

In the Mid-Bucks knockout competition, under the stewardship of Keith Patrick, the

Gerrards Cross

team took on Chesham and ran out winners across all rinks. The Cross take on Aylesbury in the next round.

In the Top Club, the team had a tricky away match at Hazel’s Bowls Club. Hazel’s had taken the major scalp of Waddesdon in the last round and, with a large and noisy home crowd, the Cross players knew they were in for a game.

The travelling support from Gerrards Cross saw a tight game with some excellent bowling from both sides and, at the half way stage, it was very even before slowly the Gerrards boys took control, winning by four rinks to one.

Club captain Alan Price was full of praise, saying: “It was a great result against some really tough opponents.

“The atmosphere was also fantastic and made for a special evening.

“I’d also like to thank all those that travelled on a Sunday evening to support us, and we look forward to the challenges of the next round.”