East Lothian 3/5 – Scotlawn Bowls

The East Coast Carpet Leagues got underway last Friday.

In Division One the defending champions Cockenzie and Port Seton were pushed all the way in a tight game at home to Dunbar, however, they eventually scrambled over the line with a 6-2 win by only 5 shots. Top scorers on the night were Haddington and Castlepark who both recorded emphatic 8-0 wins. Haddington entertained EL Co-op in what was expected to be a tight game, however, they over powered their opponents across all three rinks and won by 37 shots. Castlepark were also big winners by 29 shots at home to Elphinstone. The battle of the new teams seen Prestongrange run out 6-2 and 12 shot winners at home to Winton. In, perhaps, the shock of opening night East Linton travelled to reigning Top Ten champions Tranent and left with six of the eight points following a six shot win.
This Friday sees holders Cockenzie and Port Seton face a tough trip to EL Co-op who will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing result at Haddington last week. Elphinstone will be looking to inflict further hurt on Tranent when they entertain them while Haddington and Castlepark will be looking to back up their impressive opening week wins when they travel to East Linton and Winton respectively. In the other tie Dunbar welcome Prestongrange to Sunny Dunny.

In Division Two’s opening fixtures Ormiston defeated Cockenzie & Port Seton A 8-0. Aberlady recorded a 7-1 win at home to Longniddry while EL Co-op A and West Barns were 6-2 winners over Haddington A and Macmerry respectively. In the final fixture there was a 4-4 draw at East Linton A where EL Labour Club were the visitors.

The first round proper of the ELBA trophy is due to be played on Tuesday 7th May. This competition is played on consecutive Tuesday’s until the semi-finals and final are played at Haddington on Sunday 26th May.

The East Lothian Under 25 selectors have announced that they are to have a practice match at Gifford Bowling Club this Sunday 5th May from Noon until 2pm. All players wishing to be considered for the team this season are asked to attend while the dress code is casual.

If any clubs wish to inform the reporter of any open tournaments or results of opens they are hosting over the season please send an e-mail to sackman@live.co.uk.