In therapy

Just had the most shattering experience. Played well. Some ends play more than well. And yet my County Men's 4 Bowls competition fixture finished in an hour after fourteen ends. And I won just three ends, beaten 5-21.

Was playing a County player and National finalist at home. First to twenty-one. First few ends go his way. Sure it'll be closer after my usual slow start.

And my bowls do get better. Nice line. A bit heavy, but getting one or two close. But my opponent is also warming up and playing stunning bowls. Perfect line, length amazing. He's rolling three out of every four bowls right up to the jack.

Manage one yard on shot on end eleven to roll the jack through to my back bowls, three to me. But too many other attempts miss the jack by inches. He's just too good. And he must be playing on the top of his form. Can't see many bowlers beating him.

Come away from the experience humbled. Such a big gap between Club and County. Maybe I'll do better in the County Senior Singles and Senior Pairs. Here's the scorecard.