With two matches to play, the Durham men’s team sits top of the Northern Counties League.
Durham and Yorkshire won their third round matches to both remain undefeated with five match points, with Durham holding top spot with more game points.
Durham produced an emphatic 13.5-4.5 win over Cheshire at Brancepeth Castle in the third round of matches, while Yorkshire earned a narrow 10-8 victory over Northumberland at Arcot Hall, including victories in the final two singles matches for Matt Dolling and Dan Norman. In the third match of the weekend, Cumbria secured an 11.5-6.5 win over Lancashire at Seascale.
“It’s been a fantastic start to the season, and it’s all down to the effort the lads have put in,” said Durham captain Mark Walker. “These are challenging matches and winning them comes from hard work over the last couple of years and last winter.
“I’ve been particularly proud of our performances in foursomes, an area we’ve focused on and developed a solid strategy for. There are half as many points available in the morning foursomes, but a good start is so important to every match. The camaraderie in the team has reached a new level this season as well, and that’s been great to see.
“We see it when the guys are competing individually as well as when they’re together, and I think that has played a huge role this season too.”
The penultimate round of matches will take place on August 15-16 – with Yorkshire hosting Durham at Crosland Heath, Cumbria hosting Northumberland at Furness, and Lancashire facing Cheshire at Ormskirk.
“With only five games each season, every one we play is a big match,” added Mark. “Given the positions we’re in, the match against Yorkshire is obviously important, but we’re preparing in exactly the same way we have all season. We’ll play to our strengths and be ready. It then comes down to 12 guys going head-to-head on the golf course and we’re looking forward to seeing what happens.”
In the second round of this year’s matches, Durham beat Cumbria 10.5-7.5 at Durham City as Yorkshire beat Cheshire 9.5-8.5 at Bromborough, and Lancashire beat Northumberland 11-7 at Seahouses.
For full results visit www.ncgu.co.uk
