National Over 60’s Championship Day 3 Wrap
WA sides impress on Day 3 to move into medal contention.
A very good day for both Western Australian Over 60’s sides have seen them move into serious contention at the National Championships in Launceston, Tasmania.
Facing a strong NSW side in the morning it was a game WA had to win to remain in contention and after over coming a slow start WA came up trumps. The Men’s side appeared in trouble early falling to 15-26 behind overall after 15 ends however the rink of Evans, Thorn, Bolton and Nicol produced the goods in a terrific team effort to overcome former Australian International Rex Johnston in a big 24-16 win securing a 63-55 victory overall. Steve O’Neill’s rink was also a winner scoring a one on the last end to take the match 18-17 which could prove vital in the wash-up. Gary Caffell who is the youngster of the side having only just turned 60 was superb in skippering his rink in a very good effort going down 21-22. Selector/Manager Roger Barns was thrilled with the efforts of the team as believes this to be the first occasion WA have defeated NSW in the Over 60’s Championships.
The Women had a similar win to the Men and took until the half way mark of the match to hit the lead. Lee Poletti’s rink of Andersen, Young and Butcher proved the catalyst. WA were trailing 23-30 before her side scored a much needed 5 shots and WA hit the front shortly after and despite NSW pressuring them all the way held on for a 53-51 win. Poletti’s rink the big winner with a 24-16 victory.
In the afternoon WA proved far too good for the Northern Territory. The Men coasted to a comfortable 62-43 win with the rinks of Evans and O’Neill again good winners for WA. The Women completely outclassed their female counterparts who are competing at Over 60’s level for the first time. Poletti’s team really finding their groove with another impressive display running out 27-10 victors. Gobbart and McDonald’s sides also strong winners with WA getting home 70-34.
WA will now play Tasmania and South Australia as the tournament concludes tomorrow. Wins against both those sides will see WA going close to winning the championships.
Over 60’s National Championships WA Results