CI's elite make home advantage count again

Channel Islands 6.5, Hampshire 5.5

THE Channel Islands are making a pleasing habit of overcoming Hampshire's best.

At L'Ancresse yesterday, Garry McFarlane kept his nerve magnificently down the 18th to defeat Mark Burgess in the last match on the course and ensure victory for the home side by the slenderest of margins.

Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Channel Islands Golf Union president Keith Maplesden allowed himself a wry, knowing grin when he was reminded that Hants have yet to win this match after three attempts.

But he was then quick to emphasise the importance of the annual fixture.

'The key thing is that we in the mainland have dropped our friendlies against our counties and put this match in their place. We have done that for two reasons - firstly it is far more competitive and, secondly, it helps foster relationships within the union,' he said.

'The golf is of a very high standard and the competitiveness can be seen in the results, which is just what we need for our players at the start of the season.'