England triumphs over inform Birley
Heavy scoring bags Rich his second Handicap title.
The Alfreton SC Handicap sponsor, Glen Shawcroft proudly presents Rich England with the winners trophy.
Score Card
David Birley 0-3 Rich England
28-82 (48 break)
54-72
24-81 (49 break)
Venue: Alfreton SC
Referee: Adam Cupit
Previous rounds
David Rich
S/F Kyle Ryde 3-2 Andrew Frisby 3-2
Q/F Adam Clift 3-0 Matt Scraton 3-1
L16 Kennedy Wright 3-1 Andrew Bingham 3-2
L32 Gareth Clarke 3-0 Adam West 3-1
L64 Kieron Wood 3-0 Shane Miles 3-1
Highest break in competition
David Birley (94)
Match report
When the final two contenders emerged for the Alfreton SC Handicap competition, anticipation ran high for what promised to be a thrilling showdown. Rich England representing the Welcome Institute and David Birley of Lennons SC, both hailed as standout players of the league and the season, stepped onto the green felt, ready to battle it out.
This marked the second significant encounter between these top-tier Chesterfield & District players, the previous one being the 2023 Premier Final where David clinched victory with a decisive 4-0 score. However, with Rich concluding the season undefeated in player rankings, he aimed for a different outcome this time.
The opening frame witnessed a dominant start from the Welcome Institute player, Rich England, who swiftly chalked up consecutive breaks of 25 and 48, securing a 1-0 lead.
The second frame unfolded more cautiously, both competitors engaging in strategic safety play, seeking opportunities to gain an advantage. For David, it was about leveling the score, while Rich aimed to extend his lead to 2-0. Eventually, an opportunity presented itself to England, albeit a challenging long red shot. With precision, he pocketed the ball and positioned himself well for the next shot, quickly amassing a significant advantage. Although Birley staged a comeback, narrowing the point gap, an unfortunate foul on the yellow ball dashed his hopes. England capitalised on the opportunity, doubling his frame count and edging closer to clinching another Handicap Title, following his 2022 triumph.
The spectators at Alfreton could sense the momentum shifting decisively in England's favour, signalling what appeared to be the beginning of the end for Birley.
“This is clinical snooker from Rich England”
As anticipated, the third frame unfolded as the decisive moment of the final showdown. Once more, England capitalised on an opportunity arising from a long red shot, gracefully manoeuvring his way to a solid 49-point break. With only a handful of points remaining on the table, Birley faced an uphill battle to clear the table and initiate an improbable comeback.
This time, the challenge proved insurmountable for David. A sublime long pink sunk by Rich sealed the deal, prompting David to extend his hand in acknowledgment of defeat, accompanied by a round of applause from the spectators at Alfreton.
“Rich was far too good for me tonight and a deserved champion”
