Archie deducted points again in league
Struggling Archibald Worthington have suffered a points deduction for failing to provide a full team – and captain John Digby didn't know about it.
Worthington, who are bottom of the Flowfit Shropshire Premier Bowling League, had two points taken off their tally.
They only provided 11 players for their game at Wrockwardine Wood, which they lost 13-1 with a 249-138 aggregate.
FSPBL treasurer-secretary Rob Burroughs said: "Archibald have had two points deducted after they turned up with 11 players and they have been fined £25 as well."
Digby said: "I didn't know anything about this – I've been on holiday and we had another lad away. It's not very good but I'd rather turn up with 11 than not at all.
"We've been struggling for players and we're a bit weaker than last year but we'll have a full squad for the next game."
The missing player meant a 21-0 walkover for Martin Williams. It's the second time Worthington have been deducted two points.
They failed to register regular Anthony Heath for their first home game against Wrockwardine Wood, a decision they say they are still appealing.
Steve Roberts led the way for Wrockwardine, beating Ron Adams to nine.
Andrew Marshall earned the MVP award for overcoming Matt Benbow to 10, while Dale Downes and Stuart Rutter both won to 11. Archie's only victor was Jack Hewitt, beating Tom Langford to 18.
Newport believe competition for places is keeping people on their toes as they bid to make it five titles in a row.
The champions thrashed Bowring 11-3 and 242-168 on aggregate to maintain their six-point lead over Meole Brace, who beat Bylet by the same scoreline.
Captain Dale Rudrum said: "I've got a good squad and we have lads on the side fighting for places, so people are looking over their shoulders."
Dave Rhodes enjoyed Newport's biggest win, against Steve Parton to four, with Scott Harries and Grocott both winning to six, and Mick Jones toppled county Merit champion Rob Roden to 19.
Meole Brace admit it's on the road where their hopes of catching Newport will lie.
Spokesman Terry Sambrook said: "We had three losers – to 18, 19 and 20 – and they all got into positions to win.
"But if we're going to catch Newport we're going to have to peg them back away from home, because their home record is so good."
