Hertfordshire's opening match of the Inter County Championship ended in disappointment.  The county had a dream start with a clean sweep in the first session.  Michael West was as reliable as ever and registered a 16-11 win whilst Alan Spicer, playing singles for the county for the first time, staged a remarkable comeback to win 17-13. Pauline Taylor and Alan Hare finished 14-6 ahead and the Fowlers (Audrey and Brian) took their points with a 13-9 scoreline.

The second session saw the game points shared.  Adrianne West, Mary Chadd and Brian McGivern snatched a 12-11 victory and Diana Davies (making her county debut), Margaret Hare, Tony Gayler and Bill Gearing won 13-9.  Mike Eccleston (also making his debut), Jill Oakes and Jeanette Gayler were less successful and Sue Murray, Robin Quarterman, Sam Salmon and Ken Murray went down 6-12.

In session three Alan Spicer won again (14-10) whilst Michael West came from 4 shots behind to draw his game 14-14.  Both pairs lost but did enough to secure their bonus points to go with those scored in the singles.

With 19 points in the locker, Herts needed just two more to take a memorable victory at Handy Cross IBC.  But it wasn't to be.  The final session was a washout and the match went to Bucks.

However, Buckinghamshire are clear favourites to finish top of the qualifying group and are particularly strong at home.  If, before the match, the selectors had been offered 19 points from this match they would have gladly accepted.  After the magnificent start, the team were naturally disappointed but they should be greatly encouraged by the final result.