Thompson Cup Final - 26th April 2007

The Thompson Knock Out Cup was presented to the Stratford Air Gun League by Councillor E R Thompson in 1928. The current holders RBL were knocked out in the first round by MEB who have had mixed fortunes this season. Avenue Sports & Social Club were defeated by Wilmcote and Binton B formerly from The Mason's Arms at Long Marston went out to Binton. Home Guard got through to the next round on a bye. In the second round semi final MEB lost out to Wilmcote (220 to 221) and Binton knocked out Home Guard (215 to 213) which resulted in Wilmcote and Binton meeting once more for yet another trophy. It was difficult to forecast which of the two teams was likely to win this match as both have been shooting very well with some excellent average
team scores.

Simon Dale was first up for Binton and shot a steady 33pts. Andy Morris for Wilmcote matched this score. Michelle Dale for Binton did not shoot as well as she can and with only two bulls scored 30 but this was one more than Lyn Brookes for Wilmcote and she gave Binton an early lead. Binton crept in front by another three points when Gary Hooper shot 33 against John Maycock's 30. John Parrot for Binton shot 31 but Gareth Morris turned the tide and pulled two points back for Wilmcote with his score of 33. Neil Bragg, also for Binton shot 30 but Alan Brookes pulled another two points back when he too shot 33 to give Wilmcote a one point lead after 5 shooters. Alan Dyer and Tom Morris both shot 30 so no change after six shooters. Binton's Neil Beningfield was next to shoot. His gun malfunctioned and he shot a 2 but he still turned in a respectable 29 points as did Tim Stephens for Wilmcote and Ron Bailey for Binton. The last shooter of the evening was Paul Boazman for Wilmcote, whose last shot in an earlier round of the competition resulted in Wilmcote snatching victory from MEB. He did not shoot as well and with three three's could only manage 26 points. With both teams fielding eight shooters, the lowest score was dropped from each side which gave Wilmcote 218 points and the Cup against Binton's 216 points. Despite both teams shooting below their respective league averages it was a close match throughout. It was unfortunate that Neil Beningfield's gun malfunctioned or the result could have been different. Thanks to Lyn Brookes for providing refreshments on the night, especially her wonderful cakes.
 

This competition brings to a close this season's shooting. Our Presentation Night will be held on Saturday 15 May at Wilmcote Club. I hope that you have enjoyed reading about our matches and if you think you maybe interested in joining us next season why not contact Roy Clarke on 01789 720340 or send an e-mail to royclarke45@btinternet.com or visit our website www.sagl.co.uk for more information.