Essex have gained the English Males’s County Championship for simply the second time ever, and the primary time since 2009, after a tense final-day win over Gloucestershire at Whittington Heath Golf Membership in Staffordshire.
After Essex edged the Sunday morning foursomes, Lincolnshire in the meantime had been seeking to win their first – and solely – title since 1974, however wanted to beat Cumbria and hope Gloucestershire might do them a favour. There was nonetheless hope for Cumbria and Gloucestershire, who might nonetheless win the occasion themselves if outcomes went their method.
Lincolnshire went about their enterprise with a fantastic 6-3 win over Cumbria, which noticed 4 of the six video games go to the wire, which means all eyes had been on Essex who wanted to win 5-4 general in opposition to Gloucestershire.
With three video games within the steadiness, Will Horne fought again from 3-down to win 2&1 which sealed the title for Essex, and it proved to be pivotal as the ultimate couple of matches went Gloucestershire’s method. It meant Lincolnshire completed second, whereas Cumbria pipped Gloucestershire to 3rd.
Essex Captain Paul Prebble mentioned: “I’m unbelievably proud. It’s a incredible group that we had and we got here right here with nice hope. It means a hell of rather a lot to win as a result of reaching this degree of golf for Essex is a big achievement and it’s one thing that has occurred so hardly ever that it turns into much more particular.
“Each single match was simply ridiculously shut and I’ve bought no fingernails or nerves left! It was clearly our time.”
Essex participant Zach Chegwidden, who was taking part in his final novice occasion earlier than turning skilled, added: “To play for Essex one final time and for us to win the Males’s County Finals is unbelievable. It’s actually particular to complete my novice profession alongside some actually good mates of mine from my residence membership and residential county.
“We’re Essex boys, so there’ll be some correct celebrations – though most likely not tonight, because it’s a faculty evening!”
