Losing rink, rain drench Sunbury’s hopes

John Coe was part of the winning rink on Saturday. Picture Shawn Smits.

Sunbury Bowling Club knew it had a tough task ahead if it was to knock off Altona Sports in Bowls Victorian Pennant, and wet and windy weather only added to the challenge.

Bowlers were on and off the green several times in division 1 section 1, with Altona Sports having the better of the day for a 77 (16)-66 (2) scoreline.

For Sunbury, one rink proved to be the difference, with Mark Cowan’s rink losing 27-12.

Brad Janner’s rink was one shot up heading into the final end, but Sports picked up four shots to win 17-14.

Elise Cowan’s rink lost 21-17, but Carla Kriznanic’s rink won for the first time this season, 23-12.

Sunbury’s David Glennon said the weather made a difficult task so much harder.

“They had to stop seven or eight times due to the rain,” Glennon said. “It’s difficult at the best of times without that. The synthetic green, coupled with the conditions, made it harder than usual.”

Only three games in their division went ahead, with Deer Park getting its first win of the season, while Fitzroy Victoria was too good for Moonee Valley.

Sunbury faces Moonee Valley this week.

“We play them at home,” Glennon said. “It’s very important with the ladder so close. Preston-Reservoir picked up nine points without bowling, which helps them in trying to avoid relegation. They’re really depleted this year.”

Sunbury now sits in eighth spot, 14 points behind Melton.

It was a mixed day for Sunbury’s other teams.The division 3 section 2 side, division 4 section 1 and division 7 section 4 teams all had their matches called off.

All three matches were due to be played at Sunbury. Teams were awarded nine points each.

With Broadmeadows forfeiting, Sunbury’s fifth team was awarded the win in division 7 section 3, while Sunbury (4) lost to Aberfeldie CBC (3), 105 (16)-59 (2).