Burway hope for final flourish

It could provide part one of a potentially historic double – so it's no surprise Burway can't wait for Saturday's Consolation Cup final.

The Ludlow club make their second appearance in the showpiece occasion when they meet fellow Tanners Shropshire League division one outfit Hanwood at Abbey, Buildwas (6.30pm).

It is a second appearance in the final for Burway who were soundly beaten by St Georges some 20 years ago.

And club officials are also hoping it will be the start of a landmark period for the club as they push for a second successive Tanners League title.

"We would love to put Burway, and bowls in Ludlow and south Shropshire in general, on the map," said spokesman Wayne Rogers.

"Winning this final would be a good start and if we could win the Tanners League again, I think going for the Premier League play-offs is something we would have to give serious consideration to as a club.

"But one thing at a time and we have got a very tough game on Saturday.

"But it's the biggest game for a lot, if not all of our team, will have played so we are looking forward to it," he added.

Hanwood, who have won two out of their three Consolation Cup final appearances, are happy to slot into the role of underdogs for Saturday.

"Burway won the league last season and are well placed to do it again and we have been mid-table both years," said spokesman Phil Talbot.

"We know we have are capable of beating anyone on our day but we have to bowl well.

"We have got a good blend of youth and experience and have got probably six players who were in the County Cup final teams of 1988 and 1990."

Both clubs will be packed with players who have come through the respective ranks.

But Hanwood will have to cope without Shropshire Junior Merit winner Ashley Wellings who is playing in the British version near Preston.

By JAMES GARRISON