Foremost Golf produced some stellar golf over two days to retain the Ashworth Cup, claiming an impressive 15.5 – 8.5 victory over TGI Golf Partnership at The Belfry.
The morning fourballs on the first day were very closely contested however some late drama meant team Foremost went into lunch with a 4½ – 1½ cushion. This lead was consolidated in the afternoon with the newly introduced foursomes format which was played on the iconic Brabazon course, allowing the players to retrace the footsteps of Ryder Cup legends. The added format appeared to better suit the Foremost team who extended their lead overnight to 8½ – 3½.
Wednesday’s singles were again played on the Brabazon course in sunny but breezy conditions and Foremost went on to finish the job, winning the singles session 7-5 to record a 7 point victory and retain the Ashworth Cup for another year.
All Foremost team members contributed to the final points total but there were notable performances from rookies Andrew George (Ely City), Stephen Bennett (Waltham Windmill) and Kevin Crossland (Worksop), each of whom won all three of their matches to go undefeated for the two days.
Captained by Ashworth Cup veteran Darren Parris, the 12 man team, which this year featured six rookies, was made up of the winners and runners-up of the three Regional Foremost Championships and the main Foremost Championship, in addition to Parris’ four captain’s picks.
Commenting on the victory, Captain Parris said, “I would firstly like to congratulate my team for what was a superb performance against a very strong TGI team. These matches always have an edge to them but I would like to compliment both teams for the spirit and sportsmanship in which the games were played.”
“We fought back valiantly in the morning fourballs on the first day when we were behind and pressure was being applied and played well enough from then on to seal the victory.
“I’m particularly proud of the six new team members who had the opportunity through our Foremost Championship and Regional Championships to represent the group and make their Ashworth Cup debuts this week. I know how nerve-racking it can be playing in this for the first time. It was a marvellous couple of days and something that none of the players, or I, will ever forget.”
Foremost Golf www.foremostgolf.com
TGI Golf Partnership www.tgigolf.com
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