Wilkinson Works Magic, Foxes Edge Hares in Derby Thriller

 A last-end draw from Jez Wilkinson secures Rink 5 for the Hares, but the Foxes take the aggregate 45–40 and three match points, with promotion still in the Hares’ sights.

Match Commentary
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the green here in Hook! Warm skies, a gentle breeze, and a record crowd buzzing with excitement for this classic derby between our Hares and the Foxes. And here we go… the first end, bowls away!

And their off!

Rink 3, Pam Vivian, sharp as ever, putting the Hares under early pressure. Brenda Grout, Foxes skip, nodding, calculating… oh, that’s a clever shot! A three for the visitors on the 7th, and the Hares are reeling just a little. End 10, a four for the Foxes! The Hares rally in the last five ends, a four-point charge to get double figures — spirited, determined, with the crowd cheering every bowl — but the Foxes hold 17–10. Tactical masterclass from the visitors.

Rink 4, Campbell Williams, skip for the Hares, is steady, plotting. Paul Cary and Dave Clark playing their part. John Dawson at lead for the Foxes, and Dave Poulter rolling back the years at two — exquisite shots! The Hares claw small leads, the spectators murmuring in anticipation, but the last end tells the story: the Foxes needed three to draw… they manage two. Hares take the rink 14–13. Hearts racing all around.

Rink 5 — the spotlight shines on Jez Wilkinson. A three on the 3rd, a four on the 7th, a three on the 9th. Martyn Kee and Mick Poulter supporting like seasoned pros. The Foxes fight back, all square going into the final end. Stan Goddard holds two shots for the Foxes… the crowd holds its breath… and here comes Wilkinson! A draw so delicate, it seems suspended in air, then settles on the jack! Hares win the rink 16–15! Genius, pure genius!

Aggregate Score: 45–40 to the Foxes. Match points three to two. But the Hares? Still very much alive in the promotion race. One final game away at league leaders Marnell next week — it all comes down to this!

Spectators
A record crowd witnessed this gripping Hook derby, their cheers, gasps, and applause punctuating every twist and turn. From the clever tactics on Rink 3 to Wilkinson’s final, match-winning draw, the supporters’ energy lifted the players and made for a vibrant, unforgettable atmosphere. Truly, bowls is as much about the community as the competition.

Upcoming
Don’t forget the Hares vs Hares end-of-season match on 27 August, followed by a curry for those who wish to celebrate the season’s thrills.