The BCGBA Endsleigh Senior County Championship group stages wrapped up yesterday, revealing the four Counties moving on to the Semi-Finals. The Sections hosted intense matches, a few of which were decided in thrilling fashion.

In Section One, an intense match unfolded between Greater Manchester and Cumbria. The game saw a back-and-forth dynamic, with both teams displaying a strong performance. Ultimately, Greater Manchester secured a well-deserved victory with a 21-chalk lead. Meanwhile, Derbyshire showcased their skill at their new home venue in Marehay BC, securing an impressive 100-chalk win. The success at this venue hints that it may become a popular choice in the future! Despite Lancashire C.G.B.A's valiant effort with a 46-chalk victory at Wigan Subscription, Derbyshire's commanding 54-chalk lead from the away leg ensured their triumph. These results propelled Greater Manchester to the top of the table, securing their spot as the first Semi-finalists.

Moving on to Section Two, the most anticipated game of the day unfolded. Warwick & Worcester had been leading the table comfortably, with Wales as their challengers who had the chance to surpass them. As the afternoon progressed, the possibility of a Welsh victory was high due to remarkable performances from both sides. However, when the competition intensified, Warwick & Worcester's seasoned players demonstrated their expertise and secured a narrow victory by just 3 chalks, solidifying their position at the top of the Section. Meanwhile, Shropshire Crown Green Bowls were pitted against the Potteries & District Bowls. Both teams maximized the advantage of their home venues, with Shropshire aiming for a significant win that could propel them above both Warwick & Worcester and Wales, depending on the outcome of the Welsh match. Ultimately, their efforts fell slightly short, but a 32-chalk victory for Shropshire was sufficient to elevate them to the Runner-up position in the Section.

Narrow victories were the highlight of the first game in Section Three. North Midlands clinched a tight 23 chalk win at Haunchwood #1, while Staffordshire secured a modest 12 chalk victory at Amery Unionist BC. This marked another two points for North Midlands, claiming their second win of the season. In contrast, Yorkshire CGBA continued their dominant streak in Section Three. They outplayed Merseyside, boasting 19 winners from the 24 games and achieving a substantial 128-chalk winning margin. With these results factored into the tables, Yorkshire emerged victorious in the Section, earning maximum points and an impressive aggregate of +272 over the three games.

In the thrilling finale of Section Four, South Yorkshire Bowling faced off against Cheshire in a high-stakes showdown. The intense battle unfolded at both venues with close single-figure aggregates dictating the action. South Yorkshire emerged triumphant in both legs, clinching victory with an impressive aggregate of 16 chalks. With this triumph, South Yorkshire secured the coveted last spot in the Semi-Finals. And there you have it - the four Semi-Finalists set to compete on Sunday, 4th August.

South Yorkshire VS Yorkshire

Warwick & Worcester VS Greater Manchester

Where will the Crosfield Cup be heading later this year?