20th October 2007
The first in this years series of West of England Billiards & Snooker Foundation Bronze Waistcoat events (Exeter) got underway with a well earned win for Will Blackmore against Adam Gallen. Blackmore, often on the receiving end against one-time fellow team mate Gallen turned the tables with a convincing 2-0 win in the final. Blackmore beat one of the strong favourites Michael Rogers from Taunton 2-1 in the semi final with some excellent potting. In the other semi final Matt Baker was having a good tournament until he met a rejuvenated Gallen who had been struggling earlier in the group stages and only qualified on frame count-back. Gallen ran out an easy winner 2-0.

Rogers dominated group A winning without dropping a frame making a string of useful timely breaks. Baker narrowly qualified as runner-up aided with some inspired potting. Newcomers Ben Mills & Adam Chadwick played extremely well given this was their first ever tournament, Both losing frames by just a single point. Group B was a tough group which ended with all players equal on matches won, frame difference and head-to-head results. Jay Bullen was the unlucky loser based on aggregate score. Eventual finalist Gallen and Blackmore qualified, Gallen posting a superb 41 break the best of the day

The tournament was sponsored by GWRSA (South). Tournament Director Mel Berry said "The tournament went without a hitch and all players were dressed to look the part. I can see improvement from last season which is supported by the number of breaks and the standard of play we have seen here today. All augers well for future events". Anyone interested in playing in this tournament should visit the WEBSF web site www.websf.co.uk

Report by Steve Canniford