Drumaness Potters claimed the BMF Dano Fitzpatrick Memorial Cup in dramatic style, defeating Darragh Cross on a black ball play-off after a thrilling contest. The Potters got off to a strong start, with Marty Enright and Des Sweeney winning the opening two frames to establish an early lead, before Finbar McLaughlin responded for Darragh Cross to make it 2-1.
Marty Enright restored the Potters’ advantage in the fourth frame, but Darragh Cross fought back through Ciaran Murray and McLaughlin, who produced composed performances to level the match at 3-3 and force a play-off.
With tensions high, the decider went to a series of black ball games. Darragh Cross briefly took the lead, but the Potters responded to level matters once again, setting up a final winner-takes-all frame between Des Sweeney and Ciaran Murray. After a tense exchange of safety shots, Sweeney held his nerve to pot the decisive black and secure victory for Drumaness.
The BMF Downpatrick and District Snooker League thanked St Mary’s Snooker Club, Newcastle, for hosting and sponsoring the final, as well as supporters who attended what proved to be a memorable night of snooker. Entries are also being invited for the upcoming doubles competition, which will take place in Drumaness Snooker Club following the remaining league fixtures.
