Dave Smith reports …
The second intercounty match for 2026 was played against Sussex Captains at Elfordleigh Golf Club, with sunny weather, but near gale force winds.
Having passed the match sheet, and score cards with printed labels to Sussex Captain Andy Plowright, I went to confirm the catering arrangements. On my return to the bar, a Sussex captain called me over and asked if I could read the wording on his jumper, which I did, then he looked at his scorecard with raised eyebrows…… I had left “Hampshire” as the opponents from the previous match. Thankfully the Sussex team thought it was amusing.
I welcomed Sussex Captain Andy and his team, and introduced Elfordleigh Captain Dan Batten, who gave a welcome on behalf of Elfordleigh Golf Club and pointed out some interesting features to beware of.
The first match featured myself and Elfordleigh Captain Dan, playing Sussex Captain Andy, and Joe Angella.
Elfordleigh captain Dan said the line was down the left and the Sussex pair got there balls away well, as did I, but Dan promptly hit 2 balls right and the gale sent them into the unknown.
The Sussex duo got off to a quick start, and went 2 up after 3, but Dan and I fought back to be all square at the turn. However, after playing the trio of par 3’s, Sussex were again 1 up. Now came the demanding uphill/downhill stretch which saw Dan come good with his local knowledge, and me with some ‘worm burners’ under the wind. This saw us coming out as 3&1 winners.
As the matches started to come in, it became clear from the comments that the wind was playing havoc with judging distance.
Following a most enjoyable meal and short speeches by both captains, the match result was announced by Sussex Captain Andy which was 6 – 2 win for Devon.
I look forward to seeing you at Presidents Day on the 7th May at Exeter Golf and Country Club.
