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🎱 Finals Night Report

Friday, 28 March

As the tournament reached its dramatic climax, Finals Night at Clifton Cricket Club delivered everything you could want: high stakes, local heroes, and a few surprises. The evening featured two semi-finals followed by the grand final, with four standout players remaining from a field of 32 competitors.

📊 Group Stage Highlights

From October through January, players battled it out in a round-robin group format. Several early favourites hit the ground running, and a number of new names made serious statements.

Four players came heartbreakingly close to the top 16, missing out by the finest of margins:

Owen Hogben brought flair and confidence to every match, and had one of the most exciting playing styles in the tournament.

Sam Winstanley pushed some of the top players to the limit in close games and showed real grit in late-night fixtures.

Dave Wild notched up solid wins and proved a tricky opponent throughout.

Steve Judge was right in contention until the final few group nights — a couple of frames either way and he was in.

All four were serious contenders and are sure to be dangerous in next year’s competition.

🔥 The Semi-Finalists & Their Road to Finals

Nick Flaxman (Chairman of the Club)

Nick’s run to the semi-final was solid and composed. In the Last 16, he edged out Ian Morris 4–1, followed by a convincing 5–1 win over Paul Dunn in the quarter-final. Nick had arguably the smoothest route to the final four, playing measured, tactical pool throughout.
Odds to win going into semis: 8/11

Neil Winstanley (Pool Team Player)

Neil showed class throughout the group stages and brought that same form into the knockouts. He demolished Chris Lord 4–0 in the Last 16 and dispatched Harry Golland 5–2 in the quarters. Known for his clinical finishing and table awareness, Neil was the form man.
Odds to win going into semis: 3/1

Steve McManus (Cricket Team Player)

Steve might be known more for his cover drives than cue shots, but he surprised the field with a composed 4–0 win over Stu Vickers and then dismantled Paul Jones 5–1 in the quarters. He entered the semis with confidence and nothing to lose.
Odds to win going into semis: 5/1

Adam Richmond (Club Steward)

Adam had been a quiet contender all season. His 4–0 win over Sam Brooks in the Last 16 and a shock 5–0 whitewash of John Littler in the quarters turned heads. A player with understated skill and good temperament.
Odds to win going into semis: 3/2

⚔️ Semi-Finals – Two Statement Wins

🎱 Semi-Final 1: Neil Winstanley vs Adam Richmond

Both Neil and Adam accidentally potted the black during separate frames — a rare sight at this level that underlined the tension of the night. Despite that, it was Adam who settled quicker and took control of the match.
Final Score: 6–2 to Adam Richmond

🎱 Semi-Final 2: Nick Flaxman vs Steve McManus

Nick came out sharp and focused, using his experience to control the pace and apply pressure early. Steve, who had played with freedom all tournament, couldn’t quite find the same rhythm under the spotlight. Nick took his chances well and pulled away in the second half of the match.
Final Score: 6–2 to Nick Flaxman

🏆 The Final – Nick Flaxman vs Adam Richmond

Played immediately after the semis, the final had a proper club atmosphere — tense but respectful, with both players enjoying strong local support.

Adam went behind for the first time in the whole tournament, with Nick taking an early lead and applying tactical pressure from the off. Adam responded well, but Nick’s safety play and long potting were on point. In the end, it was the Chairman who held his nerve and controlled the key frames.

Final Score: 7–4 to Nick Flaxman

🥇 Champion: Nick Flaxman (Chairman)

The defending champion retained his crown in style.

A calm, commanding presence throughout the tournament, Nick timed his run to perfection. Known for his tactical mind and smooth cue action, he raised his game on Finals Night — dispatching the outsider in the semis and overcoming the tournament’s most consistent player in the final. His experience, focus, and ability to manage pressure made him a worthy back-to-back champion and a popular winner among the club.

🥈 Runner-Up: Adam Richmond (Club Steward)

Adam’s campaign was nothing short of exceptional. He sailed through the group stages and knockout rounds without ever falling behind — until the final. A player with sharp shot selection and a cool temperament, Adam proved he belongs among the club’s elite and earned huge respect from players and spectators alike. He’ll no doubt be back next year, with one more step in his sights.