ESSEX RECOVER FROM EARLY SHOCK

ORSETT GOLF CLUB – Essex came back from an early scare to win this county match against Bedfordshire on Sunday May 24.

The sun was out, there was no wind, and players reported the course was in great condition. The golf was outstanding too.

Winer and May for Essex were 7 under par when they won 7&5. Dee and Rooney lost on the last green – but were 5 under par when they lost.

The home team were behind at lunchtime by 2½ to 1½ in the morning foursomes – and it could have been worse.

Mark Whiten sunk a thirty foot putt on the last green to snatch a half point.

After a firm confident team talk from the Captain, Essex came back stronger in the afternoon singles, winning seven and halving the others.

The 9 – 3 victory kept Essex’s unbeaten run going.

David Miller, team captain, confirmed the opening South Eastern Group Northern Division County match had presented selectors with a dilemma.

Several members of the first team squad were playing in the Welsh Amateur, so were not able to play.

“We selected some home grown players to represent the County following the ‘horses for courses’ idea,” he said.

“The first match of the year sets the scene for the rest of the year. We had to win this match, especially as we are the defending champions.”

The team will play Berks Bucks and Oxon at Gerrards Cross in a couple of week’s time.

* MATTHEW Southgate, of Thorpe Hall, came third in the Welsh Amateur Championship, beating four Walker Cup players and several internationals.