Birnie claim top spot in Morayshire Indoor Bowling Association's second division title chase

With Lhanbryde's fixture being cancelled due to the weather, Birnie had the opportunity to claim top spot in the second division of the Alexander Wallace (Toyota) indoor bowls league.

The village team were on the road at Hopeman B, where only three shots separated the teams after the first session in favour of the visitors, Charles Stewart winning by 11 shots to 6.

Tommy Murray won 14-11 for the coastal club to tie the overall scores. Trailing by one shot with two ends to play, David Parry dug deep to score a three followed by a two to secure a four-shot victory for the village club and top spot in the league.

Lossiemouth hosted Fogwatt in what turned out to be a terrific first session, both games finishing all square.

Kevin Donaldson and Sandy Bruce both secured wins in the second session for overall victory and five points for the home club with the visitors gaining a consolation point.

High-flying Duffus were at home to Lossie Bowling Club A, and the visitors took a surprise lead after the first session with George Hutcheon and Alan Smith both winning.

Gibby Phillips played superbly in the second session to win 21- 5 and secure four points for the home team, with Lossie A collecting two points.

First division leaders Burghead went on the road to Fochabers, Bill Robertson giving the home club a first session advantage.

The leaders were not to be denied with a strong second session performance, David Ross and Ryan Gordon winning 12-11 and 15- 5 as the leaders stretched their lead at the top of the table.

Moray BC showed great form at home to Bishopmill, winning all four games for a comfortable win and second place in the table.

Hopeman A and Alves both showed why they are in the top half of the table in a highly entertaining match-up.

Martin Taylor gave the away team a three-shot cushion going into the second session. John Ross increased the advantage winning 16-9.

Zander Main finished strongly counting six shots in the last two ends for a 19-8 win and four valuable points for the coastal club.

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