SEVEN of the remaining eight bowlers in this season’s Guardian Cup are attempting to win the competition for the first time.

They had to contend with sodden conditions, as well as their rivals, during a qualifying round on Monday spread across four greens in Northwich.

Jason Cornes, from Castle, is the only former champion still standing.

The Cheshire star has five final wins to his name and will move clear of Stan Frith on a roll of honour if he can add to that tally next month.

However a list of contenders that includes representatives from five other clubs won’t make it easy for him.

Like Cornes, Steve Curbishley and Adi Faulkner are regulars for the Mid-Cheshire Bowling Association’s Premier Division champions.

Three bowlers – Simon Jones (Tarporley), Neal Ocego (Frodsham Red Lion) and Joe Tomkinson (Owley Wood) - matched their feat of reaching the Roberts Bakery Cup final.

It keeps them on course to repeat at trick managed by Jimmy Harrop (Wharton Cons) last season of claiming both titles in the same season.

This season's Guardian Cup concludes on Sunday, July 14, from 2pm.

Results

Mid-Cheshire Bowling Association

Guardian Cup

Qualifying Round

Monday, June 10

At Comberbach: Simon Jones (Tarporley) and Joe Tomkinson (Owley Wood) qualified

At Owley Wood: Paul Farrington (Middlewich Community Church) and Neal Ocego (Frodsham Red Lion) qualified

At Rudheath: Steve Curbishley and Adi Faulkner (both Castle) qualified

At Winnington Rec: Jason Cornes (Castle) and Lester Bebbington (Wharton Cons) qualified