Nailsea A were pitched against Bristol B in a round of the South West Croquet Federation GC Handicap League at Nailsea and District Croquet Club.

Bristol utilised a team of mostly higher handicap players, standing at 1, 7, 8, 10 and 12.

On the other hand, Nailsea’s team consisted of more experienced players with handicaps of 0, 3, 3, 3 and 6.

This high handicap awarded more turns to Bristol which brought the matches to a head.

By lunch, Bristol sneakily led with a score of 5½ to 4½.

The games remained neck and neck as the day proceeded, with four games ending in a draw.

Three of these matched featured Nailsea’s Mike Powell.

Even though Bristol held onto its lead, the final score of 11:9 to Bristol did not reflect the tight play throughout.

Nailsea’s captain, Steve Durston said, "It was a close match all around, with Bristol making very good use of their extra turns".

If you are interested in watching or playing croquet in Nailsea, visit www.nailsea-croquet.org.uk/.