It’s the same old story for Banbridge as they miss out on the Senior Cup

They have won everything else but, for some unknown reason, the Senior Cup always catches them out. This year was no exception.

Their qualifying round was played last Sunday at Rossmore Golf Club in County Monaghan.

Jim Carvill was unavailable and that was the first setback. Team captain, Paul McAleavey, was still confident that he had a team well capable of qualifying.

As it transpired, a four-card total of 304 was required. That’s four 76’s.

Luke Woods, fair play to him, shot an excellent 75. Luke came onto the team in place of Jim Carvill and he certainly justified his selection.

Rory Leonard, consistent as ever, came in with a 76.

Up to this point, Banbridge were on target. All they needed were two good scores from Connor Doran, Colin Wilton or Jonathan Ward.

It didn’t happen. Connor, Colin and Jonathan all had little mishaps here and there and all three finished with 80 gross.

The Banbridge score of 311 was seven shots too many.

Rossmore, Mourne, Lisburn and Dungannon were the qualifiers from this venue.

Banbridge went home disconsolate.

Life goes on and there’s always next year. Have we heard that before?