Local bowlers prepare for the big kick-off

Lisnagarvey start with a visit, which appears to be the case on alternate years and it will not be easy but will give a guide to the season ahead.

It should be easier on the second week when entertaining newly promoted, Donaghadee.

Hilden have an early taste of life without the Kirkwood when they play Comber away and that will be a tough test in the new surroundings of PGL Senior Two.

Ards at home a week later will also be difficult enough.

Dromore were relegated last season and they have a difficult opening task when they travel to Carrick in Division 2, though the second game at home to Sydenham should, on paper, be a more comfortable experience.

Finaghy are home to Queen’s Island on the opening day in Division 4 and Lisnagarvey B, who start at home to North Down will give Finaghy an insight into what to expect for they travel to North Down a week later. Garvey B have a difficult trip to St Stephen’s on 3 May.

Dromore B can make a good start in Division 5 at home to BETS and follow up with a trip to Divis B, while Lagan Valley, who have a bye on opening day travel to Lurgan B.

Finaghy B start away to Castle B in Division 6 and are home to Rathfriland B a week later.

Malone have a tricky start away to Knock, but should gain points at home to Albert Foundry in the second week.

In Private Greens Junior Two, Hilden B reverse their A team matches with a home game against Comber B, followed by a visit to Ards B.

Opening week fixtureS

The outdoor bowling season gets under-way tomorrow (Saturday) with the following local fixtures.

NIBA: DIVISION 1: Divis v Lisnagarvey.

DIVISION 2: Carrick v Dromore.

DIVISION 4: Finaghy v Queen’s Island, Lisnagarvey B v North Down.

DIVISION 5: Dromore B v BETS, Lagan Valley a bye.

DIVISION 6: Castle B v Finaghy B.

PRIVATE GREENS: SENIOR 2: Comber v Hilden.

SENIOR 3: Knock v Malone.

JUNIOR 2: Hilden B v Comber B.