Snooker: Fightback in vain for Conservative A

Feb 6 2009 Chester Chronicle

QUARTER-FINALS week in the Chester Challenge Trophy threw up some intriguing matches.

In a tight clash, United Services beat Conservative A on aggregate points.

Services’ Tony McKevitts took full advantage of his 23-point start over Neal Jones, pulling off a shock win to put his side in command. Although Steve Williams pulled back 27 and made it 1-1 in frames, Geoff Brassington beat Eddie Jenkins by 13 points to put Services 2-1 up and Martin Walsh revelled in his new-found form to see off Jason Taylor by 21 points.

That put Services 3-1 up and 66 points in the lead, but they were given a scare as Brian Morgan and Andy Short notched up victories to make it 3-3. Their brave fightback was in vain, however, as Services won by 15 points.

Christleton A defeated Liberal B with wins from Dave Done, Mike Craig, John Mooney and Mark Cook, while Christleton B overcame Chester Transport 5-1. Andy Mumford got the ball rolling for Christleton by defeating Kevin Conway by 41 points. Finn Gallagher, Chris Read, Wayne Amey and Neil Cardus also triumphed, making Shane Futcher’s victory over Shawn McDonnell a consolation.

In the City of Chester Challenge Trophy, Wings defeated Upton A, while United Services booked their passage to the semi-finals with a win over Conservative C.

In the Riley’s Division, leaders Christleton B were held to a 3-3 draw at home to Riley’s.

There were high-quality breaks for Riley’s Lee Stephens (64) and Finn Gallagher (66).

Second-placed Conservative A ran out 5-1 winners over Upton RBL A. Neal Jones showed his form with breaks of 53 and 38.

Bottom two Chester Snooker Club and Liberal A fought out a 3-3 draw.

In the Olympic Trophies Division, Broughton Wings held on to top spot with a draw against Upton C while Conservative C did well to hold CCO to a draw. Improving St Saviour’s defeated Waverton 5-1 and Conservative B claimed a 4-2 win over Upton RBL B.