This season’s BUCS knockout cup saw the University of Liverpool claim victory at the expense of runners-up Leeds Met Carnegie, in a thrilling and tense encounter held over the magnificent links of Hoylake.
Liverpool made a statement of intent in the opening round, easing to a 5.5-0.5 victory against a lacklustre Bangor University.
The next round posed a difficult draw against archrivals and league leaders UCLAN. Regardless, team captain Andy Smith led from the front, playing his first 12 holes in 3-under par and helping to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Newcastle should have provided a stern test but in near perfect conditions, Liverpool romped to a 5-1 victory. Craig Oliver displayed exquisite ball striking throughout his commanding 7&6 triumph, whilst Jackson Almond and Alex Cousins both birdied their final holes to win 3&2 and 1up respectively, leading Liverpool to their third final in four years.
The final always promised to be a nervy affair with the weather turning and scores changing throughout. The performance of the day however, came from 1-handicapper Dave Saul. Saul’s powerful long game was enough to overcome the elements and his opponent by an outstanding score of 8&7.
Meanwhile, Almond rallied back from five down to reach the 16th tee all square. Nevertheless, a three-putt from the front edge of the 17th green and poor club selection from the 18th tee resulted in a pair of closing bogeys.
With the scores standing at 3-2, it was left to Joshua Clements to seal victory. Thankfully, the 2-handicapper from Royal Portrush showed a cool head to make par at the difficult 429-yard 17th hole and move to 1 up; ensuring a slightly more comfortable victory stroll down the 18th fairway.
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