Double delight for Lennon’s duo.
Alfreton crowd delighted to some magical break building.
Match Card
Gav Shirley/David Birley 3-2 Tom Haney/Kyle Ryde
Shirley: 49 break 81-14
Birley: 112 break 112-11
17-63
24-63
82-22
Referee: Adam Cupit
Venue: Alfreton Snooker Club
As the league progresses towards the apex of the competition finals, the third match of the season unfolded in the Pairs category, hosted at Alfreton Snooker Club. The contestants hailed from Lennons Snooker Club, represented by Gav Shirley and David Birley, squaring off against the formidable duo of Tom Haney and Kyle Ryde, the champions from 2022.
In a display of exceptional skill, the Lennons players set a high bar for the match early on. Gav showcased his prowess with a commendable break of 49, clinching the first frame with confidence.
Continuing the momentum into the second frame, David demonstrated his proficiency by swiftly amassing a break of 40. With the balls positioned favorably, whispers of a potential century circulated among the attentive spectators. Despite a challenging position following the last red, David exhibited remarkable composure. With precision and finesse, he expertly dispatched a long blue and maneuvered through the remaining balls, culminating in a spectacular break of 112. The audience at Alfreton Snooker Club erupted into applause, acknowledging the brilliance of David's performance. This century marks David's second of the season and firmly cements his place in this season century club, sponsored by Haney’s Driveways and Patios. This century is also his eighth throughout his tenure in the Chesterfield & District Snooker League.
“I practiced with Dave earlier today and knew something special was coming in tonight’s match.”
Trailing 2-0, the formidable performance displayed by the Lennons duo suggested an imminent conclusion to Tom and Kyle's final. However, the Alfreton pair showcased resilience and skill, resurrecting their chances with a commendable display reminiscent of their previous title-winning form. Employing a combination of strategic safety play and seizing opportunities as they arose, they fought back valiantly, leveling the score at 2-2 and setting the stage for a thrilling decider.
Despite their spirited comeback, the momentum proved fleeting as the Lennons duo, bolstered by measured contributions, seized control to clinch victory and claim the coveted title. For Gav, it marked a maiden triumph, while for Dave, it added to an impressive tally, securing his third title.
The journey for this formidable pair continues as they prepare to vie for supremacy in the final of the Scotch Doubles against Jason Rimington and Gav Cann from Hasland Club. Additionally, they will lock horns in the Team of Three finale against YM Brotherhood A. Individually, Dave sets his sights on further accolades, aiming to build upon his Romley Open title as he aspires for glory in the Romley Money Match, Premier Divisional Masters, Handicap, and Premier titles, respectively.
