Semi final heartbreak for Stoke by Nayland

Stoke put up a brave fight in the semi final of the Thornton Cup Plate competition, but just fell short against an experienced and skilled team from Boyce Hill in South Benfleet.

Boyce Hill are multiple winners of both the Plate and Thornton Cup main event so were always going to prove strong opposition.

The format was five singles matches at home at Stoke, and five single matches away at Boyce Hill, both teeing off simultaneously at 12 noon in windy but bright conditions.

The five matches at Stoke resulted in a draw – 2.5 points each – but it was a different story at Boyce Hill where the home side ran out winners by 4.5 to 0.5, making the overall score a 7-3 defeat for Stoke.

Matt Tunstall secured the half point at Boyce Hill, with wins from Harry Hibbert and Greg Smith at home and an incredible five birdie finish from Ben Tatum to secure a half point in his match.

Stoke Men’s Captain, Glen Jackson praised his team for their run to the semifinal and said the results bode well for the future.