The U 18s began their Channel league season with a home fixture at Orchardleigh v Gloucester. The overnight rain had softened the greens which were receptive. The course was well presented but as usual provided a good test for the players with course management being of importance.

Gloucester had by far and away the better of the morning foursomes. Only Michael Nicholls and partner Alfie Jubb securing a point for the home team. The final Somerset pair of Matthew Wordon form the U16s and Jackson Carey from the 14s battled hard twice  coming back from a two shot deficit to level the match but ultimately going down on the 17th hole. The pin position at the top of the valley on the  17th green certainly provided the boys with a challenge!

After a good pasta lunch the home team were up for the challenge of trying to win seven of the ten singles to secure a win. The boys certainly played well . Dylan Xanh secured the first win , Alfie Jubb the second. Very close matches didn't quite go our  way and both Sam Floyd and Liam O’mara came away with hard fought halves. Gloucester showed composure from short range and played some excellent golf to secure wins against Jake Bovington ,Alix Kew ,Adam Jolly, Michael Nicholls and Matthew Wordon which won them the overall match.

With the result secured the only game left in play was Jackson Carey’s. With four to play he was three up. Some great play from Alistair Cumnock for Gloucester resulted in winning holes on the 15th and 17th which left Jackson 1 up playing the last. The U 14 showed great nerve with the entire field watching to hit a straight long drive down the last, a decent approach and a fine chip to half the hole and take the win. Well done Jackson, one to watch for the future.

My thanks to Orchardleigh for looking after both teams so well both on and off the Course.

Next match for the U18s, home to Wiltshire at Farrington on Monday 13th August.

Ian Poole

SGU Junior Organiser/U 18 team manager

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