STEVE Whitlow’s stunning double secured for Castle C a brilliant victory after a deciding frame in the Northwich and District League’s Team Knockout Cup final.

He had sunk three reds before landing out of position for the black and a decision to take a risk was rewarded when his side denied Gladstone C in their bid to add another trophy to their Division One title.

Eric Webber had taken the first frame for the favourites before Ste Roberts composed himself to clear the table and restore parity.

Matty Hubert emerged as a victor from a tactical battle to restore Gladstone’s lead before Steve Smith levelled at 2-2.

Les Savage’s persistence paid off when he executed a difficult cut on the black to edge the underdogs closer to a victory only for Darryl Fallows to reply with a timely maximum break.

However Castle, beaten in both top-flight meetings between the rivals this season, were not to be denied though and Whitlow’s final flourish settled the outcome.

A busy week continued when Paul Brown, of Gladstone B, retained the Pauline Peach Memorial Captains’ Cup following a 3-2 win against Mark Clays (Greenbank A) in the final at Gladstone Club on Saturday.

Tony Little (Broken Cross) and Barry Watkins (Barn Owl) reached the last four of a tournament that attracted 39 entries.

Meanwhile Si Corbett (Broken Cross) defeated Dana McCormack (Iron Bridge H) in the final of a plate competition played the same afternoon.

Results

Northwich and District Pool League

Alan Backhouse Team Knockout Cup

Wednesday, March 20

Final: Castle C 4-3 Gladstone C.

Pauline Peach Memorial Captains’ Cup

Saturday, March 23

Final: Paul Brown (Gladstone B) 3-2 Mark Clays (Greenbank A).