What a sensational campaign it has been for Bletchingley Bowling Club! After weeks of fierce competition, high drama, and standout performances against some of the region’s biggest names, BBC has officially booked its place in the Final of the London & Southern Counties (L&SC) Shield.
From overcoming big-hitting local rivals to taking down powerhouse teams laden with international stars, the squad has delivered an unforgettable run. Here is how the story unfolded.
The Opening Rounds Drawn in Area C alongside several heavyweights with formidable reputations, BBC kicked off the campaign with a bye in the opening round. When action commenced in Round 2 against Chipstead, BBC dominated from the outset, putting on a masterclass across both rinks and forcing an early concession after 16 ends.
Round 3 brought a tough test against ESL Division 1 side Wallington, but BBC once again proved far too strong. Controlling the green throughout, another commanding display saw Wallington concede after 16 ends.
The Local Derby & Area Final A classic local derby against Redhill in Round 4 brought all the tension you would expect from two nearby rivals. In a hard-fought, edge-of-your-seat battle where every wood counted, BBC held their nerve to secure the win.
That set up an Area Final away from home against the formidable, international-laden Blackheath & Greenwich. In an absolute nail-biter—and the only match in the entire tournament where BBC dropped a single rink—the result came down to the very last bowl of the match before BBC prevailed to be crowned Area Champions.
The Semi-Final At a neutral venue near Dartford, BBC met previous multiple winners Essex County BC—a team featuring international players and multiple Kent Middleton Cup stars. With a place in the overall final on the line, BBC delivered arguably their finest performance yet, surging to a landslide victory with Essex County conceding after 16 ends.
