Golf correspondent Michael Minty previews this weekend’s round of the metropolitan senior A pennants.
Otago B52s v St Clair Saints
What’s at stake?
Not a lot for the B52s, who are almost certain to play a home semifinal against the Bombers, but that all changes should they and the Bombers win, meaning they potentially face the Saints away, which might be a scenario they’d prefer to avoid.
The Saints, on the other hand, can not only secure a home semi but earn first dibs on a home final should they win today and beat Chisholm Links in their semi.
On paper the Saints should claim four wins here — the B52s’ best chances lie with Will McLauchlan and the returning Andrew Hobbs. The return of Tony Giles for the Saints at No 6 just makes them look stronger out of the gates. Saints 4-2.
Otago Bombers v Chisholm Links
What’s at stake?
Nothing but semifinal practice for the Links, which makes them a dangerous proposition, while the Bombers can put pressure on the Saints with a quick victory that is then leaked to the other side of the course into the Saints camp.
The Bombers are forced to play Tom Griffin — who is yet to get of the mark this year — in place of Callum Judkins, while Mike Weastell returns for the Links and looks set to keep Ben Patston honest at No 1.
Nevertheless, you’d think the Bombers should get home here, especially at home, but the Links will have fond memories of last year’s upset on the hill. Bombers 3½-2½.
Island Park v Taieri Lakes
What’s at stake?
Unfortunately, the only thing at stake here is the wooden spoon and even that looks like going to the visiting Lakes side on games.
It’s been a rough season for both sides. Island Park will feel it the most, having begun the season with two wins before a tough loss to Chisholm Links which pretty much left them out of the money before nearly springing an upset at St Clair last week to stay in touch of the semis.
Taieri, on the other hand, could only win the one game against Island Park at home last month and have never really been a threat for finals golf. Island Park should win this fixture with the visitors maybe jagging a couple of games. Island Park 4-2
