In view of the soaring temperatures on the day of this revived match, it was played for the Tabasco Egg Cup kindly donated by FHGC.
The fixture was strongly supported by the XL Club’s officers and Committee. In keeping with our cricketing heritage, the Captain and Finbarr O’Connor led the way in a tense but enjoyable half with Harry Latchman (ex Middlesex CCC and Notts CCC) and Mike Tomlins (ex Middx CCC).
The Blue Course was new to most of the XL Club players and presented a challenge with water on the first 4 holes claiming a few victims. The fairways were generous but the rough was penal if your ball strayed.
Overall we had a very enjoyable and sociable day in Saharan temperatures. We were all very grateful to Julian Shellard, the FHGC team captain (pictured above with me), for acting as water boy delivering extra cold bottles. XL Club edged the result 3 ½ to 2 ½.
There was great enthusiasm for a repeat next year, and we are already looking at dates.
Bryan Pickup, Match Manager.
