9th of February 2023 saw the annual team duel against Merchiston in the Team Points competition.

Teams drawn at random now waited for the bell with much anticipation and just a little bit of confusion as we had several first timers on both sides. Rules clarified, and with the sounding of the bell, play commenced!

‘Striking’ up first saw a very balanced opening (16 v 17). ‘Inwicking’ saw a slight lead to Penicuik (25 v 20)

‘Drawing’ next up was to prove an early decisive discipline with Penicuik charging ahead to a 25 point lead! (51 v 26).

The next four disciplines remained finely balanced between teams (+3 to Penicuik) with each successful shot being cheered and every near miss met with groans and words of ‘wisdom’ from the audience. In the final discipline ‘Chip the Winner’ Penicuik again took the opportunity to further extended their lead by 8.

With the ringing of the bell and the shaking of hands, Penicuik were announced clear winners 108 v 72.

Retiring up stairs, Jim Cowper regaled us with the minutes of the first Penicuik v Merchiston match from 1816, where Penicuik were also victorious. 

As the applause died down after Jim’s entertaining words, thanks were given from Penicuik President, Iain Scott, welcoming the many new players from both sides that had taken part and the response from Merchiston Team Captain Mike Smith, who thanked Penicuik for yet another lesson from which they were slow to learn from!

Formalities over and drinks consumed , we agreed to do it again next year, Merchiston remaining ever hopefully of a return to winning form… We will see!

Top scorers – Penicuik

   Iain Scott – 22.    Craig Brown & Jean Noble – 16

Top scorers – Merchiston

   John Wood – 12. David Cunningham & Mike Harrington – 11

Report by Iain Scott