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BRONZE WAISTCOAT REPORTS - 2005 BRANTON BLAZES ON 19th November 2005 Branton and Keane met earlier in the opening group stages where they both produced some skilful play but two superb pots on the blue and pink secured the 2-0 victory for Branton. Jacob Stokes showed real tenacity and tactical play in his match against Keane. In the first frame, Stokes lost on the black whilst in the second, Keane played some tremendous shots leaving Stokes requiring snookers. Stokes didn’t disappoint but Keane replied by winning the match 2-0. In group A, Stokes tried to overcome Branton but was outscored with breaks of 43 and 25 which gave Branton the 2-0 lead. Group B saw Curtis Campbell win a close first frame against Christopher Corry on the black but Corry came back strong in the second demonstrating some sound pots. Campbell responded to the challenge and took the match to a 2-0 lead. Despite Campbell displaying a talent for snooker beyond his years, he just missed out from a place in the semi-finals. Dylan Chilcott continued his good form all day and potted well in his match against Ashley Negus. Although Negus missed the start of the season, it was clear he had not lost his touch performing some surprising shots throughout the tournament. Chilcott went on to win 2-0 and extended his success by not dropping a frame in his other preliminary rounds against Corry and Campbell. In the semi-final, despite playing some good safety shots, Negus lost 2-0 to Branton who just proved to be too strong on the day. Chilcott played against Keane in the other tense semi-final that concluded with Keane winning 2-0. Tournament Director, Steve Brookshaw commented, "The third Bronze Waistcoat produced some great matches and the boys were impeccable in their dress sense, manners and sportsmanship". Report by Steve Brookshaw |