Birley bags 5th Premier title.
Rimington pipped at the post in epic battle.
David receiving the trophy from sponsor, Glen Shawcroft of Alfreton SC
Last night at Alfreton SC, the stage was set for the 95th Premier final showdown between David Birley of Lennons SC and Jason Rimington of Hasland Club. It was a rematch of the 2020 lockdown final, where Jason emerged victorious to claim his inaugural Premier title. With Jason, riding on a wave of impressive performances this season, aiming to replicate his previous success against arguably the standout player of the season, the anticipation was palpable among the Alfreton crowd.
From the outset, Rimington demonstrated his intent, showcasing his prowess with a series of long pots and a composed break of 30 to clinch the opening frame, sending a clear message to his opponent. However, Birley, appearing in his 9th consecutive final, remained unfazed. He treated the spectators to a masterful break of 60 in the second frame, restoring parity.
Rimington's proficiency in the long game persisted, affording him opportunities to maneuver among the balls, culminating in a break of 48 to regain his lead. Birley responded in kind with a break of 39, ensuring the match remained finely balanced as they headed into a brief interval tied at 2-2.
The fifth frame unfolded as a gritty affair, with both players grappling to seize a significant advantage. Eventually, Birley managed to edge ahead, claiming the frame and seizing the lead for the first time in the match. As he appeared poised to close out the game with a classy break of 50, anticipation filled the room. However, a missed black ball provided Rimington with a lifeline, which he capitalized on with nerve and precision, forcing a decisive final frame.
The seventh and final frame was laden with tension and drama. Despite the setback of the previous frame, Birley composed himself, inching closer to the title. With Jason requiring two snookers, many believed the match was all but over. Yet, demonstrating remarkable resilience, Jason executed the snooker David needed, prompting a moment of despair for Birley as he saw the cue ball inadvertently strike the black, opening the door for Rimington's potential victory.
Rimington seized the opportunity, potting the red and seemingly securing perfect position on the pink, only to witness it cruelly cling to the jaws of the pocket. Finally, Birley seized control, guiding himself safely to the finish line and clinching his fifth Premier title, elevating him to second place on the all-time leaderboard.
“I came into this match knowing exactly how tough it was going to be to try and beat Jason, he plays the game the right way and gives nothing away.”
David & Jason with General League Secretary, Stuart Wheatley
“The best final I have seen this year, you couldn’t tell who was going to win. Both players played brilliantly.”
Scorecard
Jason Rimington 3-4 David Birley
(30 break) 61-26
0-80 (60 break)
(48 break) 65-18
26-91 (39 break)
28-55
(27 clearance) 62-61 (50 break)
18-55
Previous rounds:
Jason Dave
S/F Gav Shirley 3-0 Jim Harrison 3-1
Q/F Kyle Ryde 3-2 Scott Anson 3-0
L16 Dan Tramontano 3-1 Kieron Stevenson 3-0
L32 Steve Goodwin 3-1 Tom Haney 3-1
L64 BYE BYE
Competition Highest Break:
David Birley, 93
Top 10 Premier title winners:
Martin Finnigan x6
Mike Watterson x6
David Birley x5
Geoff Hardy x5
Ken Siddall x5
Rob Dye x4
David Carpenter x 4
Adam Duffy x3
Doug Allen x3
George Wilkinson x3