The penultimate match for Captain Phil Webb and once again a foreboding weather forecast was fortunately not accurate. Other than a couple of light showers we played in humid but mainly dry conditions. Both teams were very much looking forward to playing the new layout at Stover, for the first time since opening earlier this year. What a pleasure awaited us all, the new holes at Stover were unanimously approved by all, the greens in particular were excellent. Although wet in places, subsequent to some localised torrential rain, the unseen drainage installed was very efficient. Playing with member Bob Beeson, Vice-Captain elect of DGC, was a real benefit and provided information and guidance in our game.
I’m pretty sure the ladies were in confident mood, having given the men a comprehensive drubbing last year. Into action, with Stover Captain Mike Brewer, Phil Webb manfully led us hoping to reverse the outcome from last year. Despite local knowledge and this his rehearsal for a finale next week at Torquay, Phil and Mike fell prey to their opponents putting and ability on the day. Phil possibly had his mind a little distracted by his appearance the next day in the DGC 4bbb final at Woodbury GC ? Game 2 ,where Nick James provided 26 & 14 shots unsurprisingly fought gallantly but were felled 2 down. With just two pyrrhic victories from the men the inevitable came into focus, the ladies once again comfortably over the line.
Stover GC, quite evidently, have a very healthy future with work still in progress on the rest of the course creating new greens and tees aiming toward the eventual layout. I can only recommend to all, yet to play the current ‘eclectic’ configuration, do so you will I’m sure not be disappointed. As always the welcome at Stover warm and friendly and the chicken in a Tarragon sauce for dinner very welcome. Speeches by both Captains thanking all concerned and the trophy retained by our fair opponents ended a very pleasant day for all.
Malcolm Jordain
