BOWLS EXTRA: Young Provincials pipped at the post

Their title hopes appeared anything but healthy following 12 shots defeat against the Private Greens League on Friday night.

But the NIBA squad regrouped to reel in 12-and-a-half points on Saturday - which was enough to reclaim the trophy.

“The boys performed superbly and showed great battling qualities after the opening defeat,” said NIBA official Stephen Moran.

“They knew what was required going into their final match against the Provincials – and they didn’t disappoint.

On the adjacent green, the Provincials enjoyed the perfect start by beating the struggling Bowling League of Ireland – reeling in a full quota of points.

And, the Provincials hardened their challenge by beating the PGL on Saturday morning – adding five-and-a-half points to their tally.

David Dilworth spoiled the PBA party by beating Gary Kelly 21-11, while Duncan and Keith Padgett finished level (23-23).

The NIBA, however, shot themselves back into title contention by demolishing the BLI, winning by over 60 shots and winning on all four rinks.

It set up a title shootout with the PBA in the final two games – while the PGL were also in with a shout.

But the NIBA were not about to let the opportunity slip. They roared from the blocks and picked up the six points required to guarantee the title.

NIPBA results: NIPBA 96 (7pts) BLI 14 (0): L Jacob 27 M O’Looney 14; G Kelly 24 T Smyth 12; K Padgett 20 S Leoanrd 18; S Colvin 25 R Maher 15.

NIPBA 91 (5.5) NIPGL 73 (1.5): G Kelly 11 DJ Dilworth 24; K Padgett 23 A Duncan 23; L Jacob 23 P Brennan 18; S Colvin 34 M Torrington 8.

NIPBA 66 (1) NIBA 81 (6): S Colvin 20 P McCafferty 10; K Padgett 10 D Jordan 28; G Kelly 17 G McKee 19; L Jacob 19 P Burns 24.

Finals positions: NIBA 14.5; NIPBA 13.5; PGL 13; BLI 1.