Moss still dreaming of another Merit title

It's the title every Shropshire bowler dreams of winning and Andy Moss is still no different - even though he has won it twice.

The Shropshire Star-backed County Merit means everything to the Chester Road man, proving it by winning it in 1999 and 2008.

And he's determined to make a big defence of the title at Adderley tomorrow (11am), having qualified to be one of the 32 men aiming to be crowned king of Shropshire.

"At the start of the season the Merit is the one competition that stands out," said the dairy farmer from near Woore.

"Every Shropshire bowler dreams of winning it, and I have been fortunate enough to do it twice. But that does not stop you wanting to do it again."

The first Shropshire winner of the Autumn Waterloo and runner-up in the All England in 1999, Moss is certain be to among the favourites tomorrow.

He takes on Mark Taylor St Georges in round one and won't be taking anything for granted, saying: "He's got to be a good player because he's got to the finals."

Moss, who describes his form as "steady rather spectacular", has not played the Adderley green regularly for about decade - but he knows enough about it to feel calm with less than 24 hours to go.

And his tip should it not be a Moss hat-trick?

"Callum Wraight is obviously playing well, but so is Charlie Weaver (his team-mate at Chester Road).

"I know he's got Spencer Clarke (who Moss beat in last year's final) to start with, but Charlie won the Ellesmere Open last year and I think he's due one."