New pool season kicks off

The 2024/25 Newtown Pool League kicked off last week with thrilling matches across all divisions.

The Premier League saw strong performances from both returning and newly promoted teams, while the Second and Third Divisions showcased fierce competition among seasoned players and fresh squads.

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Premier League: Llanbadarn and Talbot Tigers Impress Early On

Llanbadarn made a statement with an impressive 11-3 victory over The Jockey B. Justin Bishop’s stellar 3/3 performance, including the match-winning frame, ensured Llanbadarn dominated, claiming the last seven frames in a row. With their home base at Monty Club, they now look ahead to a clash against The Sws, who narrowly lost to reigning champions Full Montys. Mike Williams’ decisive final frame secured an 8-6 victory for Full Montys over The Sws, while Graham Ottaway’s 7-ball win highlighted the close battle.

Meanwhile, Talbot Tigers also started strong with a 10-4 win over Monty Teasers. The Tigers introduced Shaun James (3/3) and Mark Crees (2/3) to the lineup, with Dave Woosnam sealing the match in the tenth frame. The Teasers, who finished fourth last season, will look to bounce back with the addition of new player Steve Bebb.

In other action, Cefn Coch A took a dominant 10-4 win against newly promoted The Herbs, with Jon Edwards making his league return in style (2/2). The Herbs will seek redemption as they prepare for a home match against The Jockey B, while Cefn Coch face Monty Misfits, who were held to a 7-7 draw by Lion Cubs in a tense, error-laden match.

The Nomads couldn’t hold their early lead against The Jockey A, who surged to win 9 of the final 11 frames for a 9-5 victory. Lee Willis, a new signing, clinched the match frame in the 13th against Josh Owen. Four 7-ballers lit up the encounter, setting the tone for an intense Premier League season.

Second Division: Jockey Jesters and Monty Queues Set Early Pace

Newly promoted Jockey Jesters wasted no time asserting their presence in the Second Division, thrashing the newly formed Zimmers 11-3. Despite veteran Terry Marshall's early win, the experience of Zimmers couldn’t contain Martin Williams’ 2/3 performance. The Zimmers will look to regroup against Sportsman this week.

In a closely fought encounter, Monty Queues edged past Desert Rats 8-6, with Neal Pratten (3/3) sealing the match in the penultimate frame. The Queues now face a stiff challenge against Red Lion, while Desert Rats have a bye this week.

The Bowling Ballers had to fight back from 7-5 down to secure a draw against Red Lion. Gareth McMurdo and Chris Knowles (3/3) led the charge to even the score. The Ballers will now host BullnHeifer, who themselves narrowly lost 8-6 to Cefn Coch B.

Third Division: Strong Starts for Melts, Judges, and Dolau B

The Third Division began with dominant performances, most notably from the Courthouse Judges and Dolau B, who both secured emphatic 11-3 victories. The Judges, with Amy Jones and Sam Young both recording 3/3, saw the match effectively end in the 11th frame. Dolau B, strengthened over the summer, mirrored the result with Steve Tudor, Mark Powell, and Lydon Birch all going undefeated.

Monty Melts captain Alex Galvin will be pleased with his team's 10-4 win against Buck Yourself, with Michael Goodwin’s 3/3 leading the way. Meanwhile, Back Lane Bowlers mounted a superb comeback against Woodenspooners, overcoming a 4-2 deficit to win 9-5, thanks to standout performances from Kye Brooks and Sam Woosnam.

Finally, Lion Caerhowel secured a narrow 8-6 win against The Jury, with Ben Heeraman’s key victory in the twelfth frame ensuring his side started the season on a high.

You can view all the latest league tables and upcoming matches by visiting the League's website at http://app.newtownpool.co.uk/