The RIBSA senior Ladies snooker championships was played to the final in Newbridge CYWMS on Sunday April 9th. With 4 competitors turning up, it was agreed to play a “Round Robin” with the top 2 ladies to play in the Final on “finals weekend”
First into battle were Michelle Sherwin and Paula Judge. This was a highly tactical affair with a high standard of safety from both girls and it was no surprise that they shared the spoils, 1 frame each. Claire Mill and Catherine Fitzsimons also had a close match with Claire taking both frames.
Michelle played Catherine next and ran out a comfortable 2-0 winner, Claire and Paula played a superb match with high quality safety and potting with each girl winning a frame. Down to the final pairings and with Michelle and Claire on 3 points and Paula on 2, there were numerous permutations that could have emerged.
Michelle and Claire played another high quality match and they shared the spoils winning 1 frame each. Paula got the better of Catherine winning both frames. This resulted with Michelle, Paula and Claire finishing on 4 points each.
I commend Catherine for turning up, even though she did not win a frame she played through the “pain barrier” and battled all day despite having problems with her back. As tournament director I announced the format for resolving the situation. The names of the 3 girls would be put into a “hat” and 1 would be drawn out to go into the final, while the other 2 would play off in a best of 3 match.
Claire Mill was the name drawn out, which meant that Paula and Michelle would play off.
The high standard that was on display throughout the day was maintained in the play-off. Michelle used her vast experience and tactical knowledge and emerged a 2-0 winner. The final, which will be played on finals weekend, May 5th – 7th between Michelle Sherwin and Claire Mill. Commiserations to Paula, but I have no doubt your day will come.
I want to thank the girls for the very sporting way they played, especially the “miss” rule. The balls were only replaced when it was the right decision to replace them and not just for the sake of accumulating penalty points. On behalf of RIBSA I want to thank Newbridge CYWMS for the use of their excellent facilities. Thank you to Leo Kennedy and Jim Byrne for the refreshments.
Ger Murray Tournament Director.
