The Final of the Canterbury Junior Interclub Matchplay was played at the well presented Russley Golf Club, after a frost delay the matches begun between both finalists who the previous week had triumphed in extra holes after the semi finals were tied 2-2. Russley Red against Russley Black so any true Canterbury supporter cheering for Russley was always going to be winner. After 9 holes the momentum was with the Russley Black team, #4 Ryan Mordaunt (2 birdies) playing Ethan Parkes square, #3 Vanessa Lim after shooting 38 on the front nine 3 up against Eva Yin, #2 Rahil Krishna having a day that every putt was going in also 3 up against James Mordaunt, while the match of the #1’s Jono Fry and Uny Shao was square.
Ethan continued his fine display of staying on the fairways in the second nine and taking advantage of his shot holes to record a victory for the Reds 3&1. Ryan shot a net 70 which would usually be good enough to win most matches however Ethan had his best ever round, his net 65 highlighted with a 50 metre hole out on the seventh hole.
Vanessa levelled the scores at 1-1 after beating in Eva 4&3 in what was a very tight, high quality match to watch. Mistakes were rare, both girl’s drives were on the fairways and no trees were harmed. Vanessa shot a net 69 to show the people watching how the game of golf should be played.
Rahil then put the Black team ahead with a 6&5 victory over James. His putter was a lethal weapon and this match had some adventure, finally a couple of trees were hit and fairways and greens were missed. However, this was no impediment to either player, this meant the hours of practising some challenging chips could be highlighted to the people watching. Rahil played the last nine holes of his match 1 under the card, James was playing very well but once down had to take chances to win holes. Black with their noses in front 2-1.
All eyes turned to the battle at the top of the order and Jono responded to the pressure, playing the second nine in 38 to beat Uny 1 up. Overall victory to the Russley Black team 3-1.
Thank you to the players for the spirit the matches were played all season, to the Russley Golf Club and Rodney Yee for organising the final, the spectators and supporters who witnessed some outstanding golf and special mention to the managers and club officials who have supported the competition.
Pictured left to right are Michelle Mordaunt (manager of the Russley Black team), Vanessa Lim, Rahil Krishna, Jono Fry, Ryan Mordaunt, Uny Shao, Ethan Parkes, Eva Yin, James Mordaunt and Steve Parkes (manager of the Russley Red team).
Thanks to James Barclay for his match report.
