Men's Singles Final Bowls World Indoor Championships

This has probably been the best week of my life. The biggest title you

can win in bowls. Over a five-game World Championship, you have two dig

deep somewhere along the line. You have got to back yourself 110% to

draw the shot and keep yourself in the championship. I have not been to

the world singles final. A new thing for me, all the razzmatazz that goes

with it. I am looking forward to it. Nicky Brett. To walk away undefeated

and win the world singles is the biggest honour in the game. The man

who dethroned Alex Marshall in yesterday's semifinal, Robert

Paxton. Robert Paxton is a world-class performer. He has proved

he can beat the best. Some achievement to get top of the pile.

He has become so consistent now. Is what dreams are made of, to get your

hands on the World Championship trophy. One -- You want to be there

so much. One of us is going to be lucky. I hope it is me. I just have

to knuckle down and win a game of bowls.

APPLAUSE. Hello everyone and welcome to the

final of the world indoor bowls singles championship. This is the

blue ribbon event, not just of the week, but in the sport of indoor

bowls. David Corkill is here. We have been waiting for this all week

and we do have a wonderful final in prospect? We do. These two guys have

been under pressure. They have proved their worth. They have faced

defeat and come through it. Yesterday could conceivably both

could have been knocked out? Yes. It was marvellous stuff. Nicky's bowl

Justin on a measure. It does not get closer. Both in the final for the

first time. What will they be feeling? They will be fairly

relaxed. It is difficult when you are coming on with a few minutes.

But when you have got that atmosphere, the adrenaline gets

going. They will be used to playing major finals. What is the most

important characteristic? Handling the pressure. I think it will also

come down to one or two big bowls. It is how the bowls break. The

semifinals from yesterday have been -- were two examples of what has

been a wonderful week. Here at Potters they know a thing or

two about putting on a show. And while it has been cold outside this

week, inside the action has been bubbling up quite nicely. It is a

week that has featured everything you might expect, -- from the great

British seaside holiday. A trip or two to the beach. A heavy dose of

amusement. Alex was going to lift the wrong bowl there. That is how

much he is thinking of it. And budding relationships. Burnett and

Anderson were equally irresistible in the world pairs, securing their

first title together. And big Darren Burnett was at it again 24 hours

later. He and Katherine Rednall went toe to toe with Julie Forrest and

Alex Marshall. The best pair won on the day. You cannot win them all.

Although for a while we wondered if Burnett might. Nobody had ever

bagged a hat-trick of titles at Potters before. Darren was in with a

shout. The tournament was serving up more than its share of drama and

tight finishes. Becky Field and Ellen Falkner enjoyed a three end

tie-breakers to book their places in the women's final. Alan triumphed

and became only the second woman to win three world indoor titles. No

man, of course, has won the title here as often as Alex Marshall. This

complex, this venue, there is nobody better. The best thrive under

pressure and so it was in the second round where Marshall saw his

tournament life flash before his eyes. I must beat Alex!

He is there. What pressure. Alex was through. But

what of burn-out in his pursuit of the hat-trick? The dream crushed by

local hero Greg Harlow in the second round. The history books remain on

written. As for Harlow, the favoured at the Potters, he only made it as

far as the quarterfinals. But the show must go on. And we were

building to a thrilling final act. Semifinals Saturday served up two

stunners. The perseverance of Paxton meant Marshall will have to wait one

more year at least before a sending the stairway to seven. The 2016

world indoor balls Championships concludes today. A new champion

waits in the wings. And then there were two. Two

Englishman, Robert Paxton and Nicky Brett. Robert Paxton from Taunton

seeded number four. And so we are ready to roll.

Time to introduce RMC. The atmosphere is absolutely

electric here at Potters. An all England final. Only the third in the

38 year history of this tournament. Let's meet the players and

introduced them on this famous blue carpet. Ladies and gentlemen, Robert

Paxton and Nicky Brett! CHEERING.

Genuinely a wonderful atmosphere inside this famous arena. At the end

of today either Nicky Brett or Robert Paxton will have their name

on the coveted singles trophy for the first time. Who will it be? You

can tweet us who you think will win. Corky has eased himself into the

commentary box along with Andy Thomson.

It is an all England final. There has not been one of those for a long

time. Who is going to win? Very hard to call. Nicky Brett is slight

favourite. It could go either way. It will be a very tight game. I

think it will come down to a couple of bowls. Yes, and luck will play a

part. Perfect start for a Nicky. That is what you dream about. The

bowl right on top of the jack. You cannot ask for anything better than

that. It is so rare enough to have a Scot

in the final. -- not to have. Yes, I would agree. You would expect to see

Darren, Alex or Paul compete in the final. Nice to see two ping players

competing. -- two English players. Very good recovery from the second

shot. That settles the nerves. They may be a little bit nervous. I

actually think these two guys are pretty relaxed characters. They have

been two major finals before, albeit not the world. They will know

exactly what they are doing. I do not think it will be as much

exactly what they are doing. I do pressure event for them in terms of

that. They have played in big events. This is the biggest event in

their careers really. To become the world champion, the pinnacle.

The messages are coming in from various people. Huntington bowling

club have their fingers crossed for a Nicky Brett. I am sure they are

watching. I am sure they are. I think Nicky was scrambling about

four tickets for his many friends and managed to get a few in.

I do not think Robert will be attacking this too early. Just a

draw on that. Opening end, one down, a reasonable result.

That is a very narrow gap to come in through. What a bowl. That is a

great effort. One to me. Good effort but no cigar

on this occasion. That is very good for Robert Paxton. He will feel very

comfortable about getting those two bowls really close. I think you

will. Both players will be happy with the start they have made. As

expected, a large crowd for the final. A large crowd for every match

really. Yes, this is the culmination of a couple of weeks of play. Every

day, almost capacity. Absolutely fantastic venue.

Nicky's wife, Sam, on the left. The family all over the arena. The two

girls are here as well, sorry and Lauren. -- Chloe. Mum is in the

stands. Trying to control her nerves. She was a little bit

nervous, as you can imagine. It is the amazing -- it is amazing the

information you clean through Twitter. Debbie Clapham has just

tweeted that Robert Paxton used to be her postman many years ago.

Settling in now. That is Louise, Robert's wife, who came up from

Devon last night. Not the easiest journey when her car decided to run

out of oil but it got here eventually. Very good. She got it

sorted. I hope we do not get any Tweets, but I think Robert is from

Taunton, which is Somerset. He was from Devon! All of these people from

Somerset will be tweeting you shortly. Do not bother. Andy is

here. It will be fine. It might be two to red. I would like

to know what the position is. It is difficult to tell. Very close on the

second one. Definitely one red. On the draw. A chance to rest off his

own bowl. Just needs to reach up to the jack and he has got a chance.

That lacked a little bit. Good effort. A very good effort. Another

foot away and it would have carried him past that. A good standard of

bowling. Every bowl within 15 inches. A chance here for Robert. He

is on the forehand. I just wonder if he is going for this back bowl? That

is the plan. He could push the outside green bowl. Very confident

shot to take on. I thought he would have dropped on the backhand. That

would have secured another. Yes, there was room in the backhand. He

has taken the one way I thought he would play for. The referee asking

for both of them to be measured. Alan Thornhill will sort this out.

The two semifinals were absolutely remarkable in this event. Fantastic

bowling from all four players. I agree, David. It was an unbelievable

standard for a semifinals. Ulf David Gourlay and Alex Marshall will be

disappointed. They put on wonderful displays.

Referee macro 28.5 metres. Jack links. --

potentially 25 ands in this match. Going by the two semifinals I would

not be surprised if we need them all. Not a lot between the players

here. Certainly a good standard. I agree.

It is very easy to get caught dropping short and that forehand

away from the commentary position. It has been quite a common bowl all

week, finishing the yard down in the centre. Nicky changing to the

backhand. That is well played. Nicky is somebody who is local,

lives in Peterborough. Not too far from Nicky. That is why he has got

good support in the crowd. That lacks a little bit of pace.

good support in the crowd. That has to be careful here. He obviously

won't want to touch the red ball down. Even if he does, there is a

good chance the red will move. That is a handy bowl. He might need

that after the next one. Green bowl out is a perfect result. Red bowl

onto jack is a good result. REFEREE: Robert, your bowl has just fallen.

That is not really going to help him. It makes it a bit harder. It

makes it now a draw. He got very close to it. Except that

bowl had not fallen, you would have made that. A clear run.

Unfortunately, gets a nick. From a tactical point of view, he

has gone is likely shorter From a tactical point of view, he

length. -- he has gone slightly shorter. Most players have played it

on the tee. This is 26.5. Yes, guaranteeing the length by bringing

the mat or per. It means he is guaranteeing the length by bringing

long for the jack. He is still OK. I think the length has been chosen

more to do with trying to get the bowls back to centre rink than

anything. Yes, I think so. Robert is the one who has founded.

Nicky needs another bowl in here. It dropped away. He will try to think

of anything he might change. A double shot available. Good forehand

shot. Good attacking ball from Robert. Good position if he moves

the jack. Will you get back. Struggling. Good weight. It was a

good weight, particularly from picking up the jack, but hard to

narrow that line. If he does, it will come across very quickly. Nicky

again needs to get another one in. I think Robert might be more positive

with the final delivery. I don't think he is here.

I think you should be going for this. Just playing the inside line

you should have a little bit of extra weight. Close. Just not

enough. A thicker edge and he was onto the jack. He was. I think that

was the first big opportunity for any player to score a count but

Robert just failed. Nicky will be thinking he got away with that

little bit. I think you will. -- I think he will. Early days in this 11

and set. -- end. REFEREE: travelling 26 metres.

Once again that forehand. I don't know why it is. I think maybe there

is a different line on it sometimes. It should not be the case but I

cannot think of any other reason. It does appear that once you get into

the centre, the bowl seems to slow down. For some reason again, I don't

know why. It should not be the case. Through the gap for a second.

Nicky quickly on the mark. He does not hesitate. Just didn't catch it.

The red bowl was his target. Same sort of shot for Robert as his last.

A slight correction. Not there. That is going to be a

very good protector for the green ball. -- bowl. It certainly is. The

same with his previous delivery, I think it will be a backhand draw.

That struggled as well. Nothing really close. I do not think it is a

draw. Two seconds. The problem for Robert is getting around his own

short bowl with sufficient weight to turn the green eyed. He can afford

to be reasonably positive. Yes, just a draw, quite right, Robert. Don't

be too adventurous at the moment. Only one down. He has got it.

APPLAUSE So good on that last bowl.

I think we will see a different jack Link from Robert, I will expect to

see it on the tee. Once again, Robert getting caught by

that short bowl. First delivery. It gives you

problems later on. You are always looking for the

correction, Andy, if you don't make the correction, you end up in a heap

of trouble which is what is going to happen now. Correction not made.

Two down. You can't keep leaving it to the last bowl. If Nicky gets a

good shot, there could be a bit of trouble.

This one is counting, how close is it?

It is still a draw. Just that extra push that is needed,

without over correcting. This looks better.

It is still burning. That is the danger, the over

correcting. You are frightened of dropping short again, so you push

that little bit more. I would expect Nicky to add number

three here. These ends are dangerous because the

target... He doesn't really want the jack here.

Nicky's last delivery, touches the jack, doesn't move it.

A very narrow target. Not very appetising for him.

Sticking to the door. Try to get at least a second bowl.

Can't blame him to stay in the draw but he had to negotiate his own

front ones first. No. If it had dropped the other way.

A very good end for Nick. My 12 turn onto the forehand and

leave that bread bowl. I would agree, David, he doesn't

want to push Robert's bowl. Forehand drawl.

-- draw. Robert had a good weight with his

last bowl. This one looks a little bit heavy.

He has missed the spare shot bit heavy.

He would be happy with that. However, he will be happy to score

three. Robert was dipping into that, so

effective. On this occasion, he came up drive.

You can't rely on the last bowl all the time.

He is bowl going.

That will start to play on his mind. Nick is getting good bowls in.

Coming up really close. Robert will hope to correct with

this one. You would expect Robert Paxton to be drawing the shot here.

It looks wide, wide and heavy, I think.

It looks wide, wide and heavy, I The line was ending up pretty good.

It looks wide, wide and heavy, I Into the centre drink, just a bit

pushy. To make sure he didn't drop short. That is more the worry for

Robert, just hasn't got the feel of the rink in the last couple of ends

in particular. His first bowl has been a problem. Just pushing the

bowl... A bit of a shoulder. REFEREE: Three inches short of jack

high. Just get the arm a bit looser. Tried

to put the jack in the ditch, take the green bowls out.

That is better. Good stuff, bang on target.

You can see the white dot to the right-hand side. Robert will be very

happy with pushing things out, getting a bit of space around the

jack. We see it replaced. The red light short. At least four

off I feat. Nicky Brett will draw, how close will it be? -- four or

five feet. The question is... The jack in the

ditch is worth two. He is going again, the jack in the

ditch is worth two. He needs to hold on, slightly on the

inside. Well done, Robert. That is a very good bowl. Absolutely solid.

The jack was worth a double. Find delivery from Robert. He takes

the green bowl out, probably has one shot.

It is a long way away. It is always very difficult.

When bowls are six feet away, it is difficult to judge. That one is not

in the measure, obviously. The running bowl just ran on through.

Two here would be a massive result. These are long sets, 11 ends. The

shot is being taken away. Although with a mission that this,

it might seem a little bit antiquated, we have tried lasers and

sonic measures, various other devices. To be truthful with you,

they just don't work. I think the players do prefer this

method. It looks like it could be two.

There is a situation of human error. The bowls officials are very highly

respected, by the players. They are happy to see them do their jobs. A

good score for Robert. The sonic measure was an interesting piece of

equipment but just wasn't reliable. No. It had to be basically level

with the bowl. It wasn't always consistent. We are better back with

the strings. Try using a sonic measure when the

jack is in the ditch, completely obsolete then.

Robert, you have to get this first bowl up.

It has been the failing really, he is hanging on in this set.

He may be thinking of changing hands.

Constantly dropping two feet short in this direction.

At the moment, the first bowl is hampered linking -- him.

Might have affected the speed of the carpet.

Nick, giving this a chance, even of his own bowl, doesn't want the gap.

Clean through. Still, a good one. Good position bowl. It is fair to

say, Andy, the rink is playing a bit slower this year. It appears, for

some reason, to have actually produced great actors.

You are right. A lot of the games I have really enjoyed. I think players

will adapt to a slower green. The lines become tricky.

Similar bowl to the last. Certainly, the, he will have to use the bowl

this time. Not sure if that has affected things. Still one red.

Robert still has too played the back and even if he gets into that gap.

REFEREE: Time out called. Robert has five Time outs remaining.

He has gone across into a decent position, properly another shot, but

not what he was looking for, he was looking for the split.

He has given Nicky a chance here. Final delivery scores. It gives

Nicky a chance to be positive. A chance of moving the jack back.

Backhand with a little bit of weight to see if he can get into the split

of the bowls. Looks to be under. Oh, to see if he can get into the split

well, one in, one out, baby. I think that is what has happened.

Two. -- one out, maybe.

REFEREE: Dawlat shots, Robert Paxton.

Slight movement in the crowd, both players are aware of it. Just

getting on with it. Again, that forehand of Robert.

Change to the facts and this time to see what happens. Doing well to

fight back into this set. This will be the only problem for

players never letting bowls go. It is in the brain, saying, I am

good. Then a dropped shot. That is better from Nicky. A problem for

Robert. That is an interesting choice, to

come around on the forehand. Probably the only had he could draw

the shot on. He is close with this. Probably the only had he could draw

Good enough? Just not enough. But a very good effort, a very good second

shot. He will be happy with that. Both these players are quick

players. Just getting on with the game. This looks a nice line. That

is a good home. I don't think Robert can do much here other than repeat

his last bowl. Another six inches of weight.

Again, he is very close. Do you have the weight this time, Robert? Oh,

dear me. Take the one, and run. I think he is going to come down and

play it, difficult to add another. think he is going to come down and

time, having used time think he is going to come down and

I think this will be a practice shots. Happy with the one. Keep the

set tight. Two ends to play. On the wide side, safe side. That was

definitely a practice shot. He wasn't putting his full 100% into

that one, very wise. We knew it was going to be tight, not a classic in

terms of some of the burning, but it has been intense. Certainly tense.

So surprised. -- in terms of the bowling.

I think the opening bowls have meant it has not been a classic. Both

players have struggled to get close for the opening bowl, that normally

creates the heads, the heavy bowl. Not unusual we have to say for a

world final as well, never easy, both players must be at the top of

their form. He turned his back on that one, it is not that bad.

Definitely not that bad. Robert Hickey sure he's through with

the first. Just a bit further than he would want. We are getting some

information on the tweets, Craig Burgess saying, when he played

against you some 20 years ago. Craig is doing a lot on the short game,

another of bowls which very popular. Derek is asking, Dave Cutler is was

here with a group from the Met. David Cutler from the days of

Commonwealth Games and international is. Yes, I know David, speaking to

him at lunch time. Reminiscing the world gold pairs level we won almost

20 years ago I think. It was if you years ago, Andy, 20 years ago, my

goodness me. Very good bowl, very good

correction. Not a particularly easy

championships. Down in Adelaide. Along with Tony Allcock. Fast

greens. A chance with this. Just need to get the connection right,

oh, he has got the edge. A solid bowl and missed it. It would have

been perfect. What does Robert do here, Andy?

He doesn't have a lock to do, probably just a forehand draw. But

Nick has all the play here. There is an advantage with the forehand, if

it drops short, it will give him a protecting bowl. We have talked

about Nicky's running bowl, we might see one shortly. He is trying very

hard this, gentle on the jack, doesn't want to move it too far. Oh,

dear. It is not too bad actually. But I think it will create an

opportunity for Nick to play the two bowls.

I don't know. I think now it is just a backhand draw for Nick. We can see

the plant pushes the red bowl. I know he is two damn but I still

think this will be a backhand draw. Forehand one would be the best he

can hope for. We spotted jack. And a lot of room in it. This end, 7-7,

you don't want to lose a double. He is two down, so, backhand draw.

Touching the jack is a bonus. He is certainly on a good height for it,

has he got the pace to make it run? I think he has. I thought he was

trying to get a thin edge. Didn't make it. Robert having a good look.

He knows he is lying two. It is not easy but it is at least not too

dangerous. I think he will throw the bowl out.

I don't think he will be concerned. He will be in the high side here on

the backhand. This will be out on a wider line

than normal. Just trying to keep good weight and drop in. Just not

getting back. It got back beautifully, it was just over the

weight. Not a guarantee, if you have made a

third, it would have been. I think so. Two gives him a good

cushion, he can afford to lose one. Nick, just off for a moment there,

of water. As we see Sandra McLeish here for the last time at world --

at a world Bowls tour event. We will miss you, Sandra.

Robert, this is the hand dropping short a lot with the first bowl.

Not bad, Andy. It is OK. Reasonable opener.

Sandra McLeish, an international in her own right in Scotland, they call

them internationalist Lovell. -- inernationalists.

APPLAUSE REFEREE: Three inches. Roberts will

try to keep bowls in the head, if he has to lose any, just the opening

bowl. Something wrong with this one.

Now he is in trouble. Yes, he is. Possibly two downplaying his third

delivery. I am surprised.

He could have made the gap. Nicky made the gap.

Just a matter of getting back. Again, it is not bad. Robert Paxton,

having to go for that big bowl. They look sufficiently far enough where

you would stick to the draw. I think so. That second bowl is so

far away. Backhand draw. He knows if he gets

one really good bowl in here, he will have to chase this a bit.

Well, it is all down to whether he gets back from there. He is on a

wide line. Trying to encourage it but it won't make it. Nick, what do

you do, clutter the heads up? I think so, I will be tried to add

another, put the pressure on. -- trying.

I think he had to take a chance, if he can get in behind the jack, that

would be the perfect results. It means if Robert played in runner

would be the perfect results. It Either side of the Red Bull.

would be the perfect results. It to clutter up the backhand too much.

would be the perfect results. It -- the red bowl.

would be the perfect results. It danger is if Robert puts the running

bowl. Bowl on the jack, the bowl will be

pushed into the ditch. Probably one down. Even the follow-through, he

might get the shot. Plenty of time. There is also a case

for a draw here. The way he has played this end, he is struggling

for draw weight. He has to push into it, surely?

He is under. He wanted it on the jack. A chance of getting two bowls.

He is still asking Nicky to draw within a foot and those two red

bowls will be in the way. The best percentage shot. Always

going to take one away. It chance for Nicky to tie the set. --

Switching back onto the other side of the rink, trying to slip this

bowl in He doesn't want to get caught.

It is very good. Well played. Well played, to score a double.

Under a lot of pressure with that final delivery.

REFEREE: First set, tie. I don't think any player has been

dominant so that is a fair call. Using the corner of the bowl, adds

another. He was delighted. Yes. He knew that as soon as it

started to bend and into the inside half. He had enough weight to slide

through. Two players, just chatting half. He had enough weight to slide

away to each other. Two international colleagues. They knew

each other well when it comes to playing the game. And Louise, does

she look tense or what? I don't think she is enjoying this.

Understandable. A1 Schechter shoot out possibly for

the title? -- one set shoot out. In WBT matches they are very

similar. Nicky Brett has played 70 on the

tour and won 48. Three titles for Nicky, just the one for Robert.

Nicky has been the player of the year. The man to beat in all events

over the last couple of years, really. Robert has won the press. --

the pairs. Again he tried to play big bowls

with third and fourth. I don't think this is running. If

there has been any fault with Robert, it has been those short

bowls. When he analyses this performance, he will know that he

had far too many. A big chance for a Nicky. Robert is in trouble here.

That was a good plan. It was a good plan. Robert will have a look at it.

Robert will be looking at that. He is a little bit on the wide side. He

could always get the bowl to go solid. That one is not guaranteeing

anything. The advantage of getting the front one is it will go through

with the jack in this position. He could play the draw but the best he

could hope for is second, maybe third shot. No guarantees on the

running bowl extra either -- running bowl either. That was high. The body

language said everything. A great start for Nick Brett. That final

delivery from Nick in the first set has given him some confidence, I

think. A good chance to score an opening four. It is almost as if it

was a body blow for Robert. Number four coming in. Absolutely no

problem for Nick Brett. Four very good bowls. The problem for Robert

was created by his first deliveries, which were short. To be fair, in the

first set, Robert had a few loose opening bowls. He has two pick his

game up, Robert. It is amazing, all the girls love to

have a little wave. Chloe and Lauren are there, two of Nicky's daughters.

The boys just sit and try to look cool. They will be looking forward

to seeing that when they get back and having a look at the game.

It is available, on BBC iPlayer, of course.

Well done. He is having to make that pressure all the time. You really

want to be adding a double rather than trying to get that single in.

Exactly. That was a great try. I heard a

squeal from one of the girls there! Excited about their dad. Nicky Brett

loves his bowls, all competitions. He has got a good daughter as well,

Chloe, a fairly good player. That is brilliant. That is the sort of form

shot Robert was playing in the semifinal. He knows he needs to up

his play. It does not leave much for neck. It certainly doesn't. I cannot

believe we have not seen a running bowl from Nicky. I do not think it

is on, to be honest. I cannot believe we have actually gone ten

ends without seeing a running ball. Still a draw shot available. He is

looking to see if he can drop on his own bowl and if that will make an

extra foot. He will try to rest on to his own red.

I think it was difficult to add another, really. That was shot to

nothing. Still, after losing four, getting the two back was excellent.

A bit more relaxed now that her man is back in the game. I am not really

sure if the willies ever relaxes when Robert is playing. Yes, a good

supporter. Always about when Robert is in major finals. And add the

international series. Change of length here from Robert.

Three quarters. That is a good one. It has been one

of his best though. Yes, he has not had a front touch too often.

of his best though. Yes, he has not certainly won the battle with the

front bowls. That was a good effort. A good bowl. Lots of the regulars

are watching. Andy Newell loves watching the bowls. Loves playing as

well. A good bowl course --. Well done. We are still waiting for our

first bowls event in Jamaica, but if anybody can do it, and the can. You

will no doubt be commentating there. If I get asked! Still good headers

for Nicky Brett. Robert has only got one bowl on the rink.

for Nicky Brett. Robert has only got draw for Nicky. Trying to give

Robert more problems. He just does not want to frame the

black. -- jack. That is very good. Nicky has got the last bowl as well.

Forcing Robert onto the draw. After the running ball, that is never

easy. Slightly wide. Who would like to

have arrived with that weight. Another chance for Nicky to pick up

a big count. The first Another chance for Nicky to pick up

in the game really to stretch a would be a good lead.

Well played, Nicky. 100%. Robert just not finding his true form in

this match. 7-2. Not all over yet. But Nicky has a good lead in this

game. REFEREE: jack length, 28.5 metres.

Very heavy scoring in the world final in getting a four and a three.

And as you say, Nicky has not been forced into the running bowls, which

is remarkable, really,, because we thought there would be a lot of

those in this match. I think that is probably an indication that Robert

is not getting close enough for him to play those kind of bowls.

That is good. Yes, it gives him a chance. Six inches weight, barely

got a murmur. It is a tough crowd out there, Andy. This is perfect. He

is just moving up a gear in the second set. Unfortunately Robert is

being forced into playing some very difficult shots. This is not going

to be easy. Two bowls could go out if he strikes this. Oh, dear! That

is a horrible result. When you get something like that at this stage

and your five down, the first thing that comes into your mind is, it is

maybe not my day. Yes, possibly. It was a good strike. There wasn't a

lot going for him. Danger signs for Robert Paxton. Three down. He is

glad to have two draw with the next one. -- to draw.

REFEREE: Time-Out called. Nick Brett is looking very good

here. The family will go absolutely mad if he picks up a three or a four

on this end. A four would almost secure the game. I know it is only

the fourth end but it would be a healthy lead. A second shot would be

good. Very good. There are too many holes in there. You could flick off

one bowl and leave three. Normally Robert Wood walked down and just

draw this shot and would not even give it a second thought. -- will

walk down. This is awkward. Four damn, what looks a forehand runner.

As you say, the corner of any green ball runs away and drops three. He

would be four down on the re-spot. It is a brave shot if he goes for

it. And if he is on the forehand, he is. This is crucial.

He has taken two away. A reasonable result, shall we say. Yes. I can

understand why he went red. It was a very brave shot but very difficult

one. 9-2 is a good lead for Nicky Brett. You just cannot imagine what

his family is going the moment. Seven up with seven ands to go. --

ends. REFEREE: jack is 28.5 metres. All is going well in the Brett

family. They are happy. It is now a matter of just trying to

scratch away through, scoring singles to get back within four or

five shots with three ends to go. 9-2 is not a winning lead but it is

a good lead. Nicky Brett has definitely picked his play up. He

has moved up a gear in the second set. A lot of support I'd there. A

lot of noise for him. I do not think that will bother Robert. He knows

that most of the audience want Nicky to win. But they are fair. They have

been very fair. Bowls audiences are generally. That needed to hold.

Still one to green. He does not want to leave that green

one sitting where it is. I think he has given the shot away but it is

probably a safer position. He has got a good head. Needs to play a

good bowl to score a double. This will just be a draw for Nicky.

Nothing spectacular needed. Backhand draw. You get the impression that

Robert really needed another one there. Just the way Nicky is

playing, you expecting to be very close to this.

-- expect him. I think he likes it. Very close. If

you had picked up that jack are around the corner I think it

would've been end of the game. You really feel Robert has to make this

one. Well played, Robert. Excellent

stuff. Got the spare shot. Now, will we see a change of length and a

change of patronage -- patter and? He has only got the match

couple of metres. -- mat. Not quite minimum but 24, 25, I would think.

REFEREE: jack length, 23 metres. On a new length like this it takes

both players nearly a bowl or two to come to terms.

REFEREE: the gap is nearly nine inches.

He may give another away here. Not sufficiently far

He may give another away here. Not might see Robert just change now.

Nicky could play an attacking bowl if he wants to. That was unlucky.

That really is unlucky. He has framed the jack. He knows it. I do

not think Nicky is going framed the jack. He knows it. I do

disappoint bit this time. I think we might see the runner.

He has taken away all the danger. That was because of Robert's contact

with the front bowl. It was unlucky the way it broke for him. Framed the

head and made it easy for Nicky. Just the one bowl Shoot Out now,

really. You could hear the cheers for

Robert's bowl. He has got plenty of support here as well. They are also

hoping for a good game. I fancy a tie-break. They would like to see a

tie-break. Just over the weight. The line was

good. Second bowl. As I was saying earlier, Robert needs to put their

head down, scratch a few shots out and see if he can get close to Nick

in the last three ands. -- ends.

Absolutely, David. We always have good crowds at this

venue. It is one of the venues where you're always guaranteed to get good

support. Another short jack length. Robert

knew he had to change the length. Changed the length and changed his

hand. I think it is still green. Yes, just

got a thin edge. He needed more of it than that. Nicky is so quick,

really. The shot clock was stopped. They must've been something in way.

The officials are very good at that. If it is an external attraction they

will stop the clock running down from 30 seconds to zero. That was

OK. That was useful enough. He got a result there off the green.

It looked like he was not going to make it. Maybe two. Close with two,

says Sandra. That is a bonus. Still a draw. Nicky Brett, world number

one, certainly justifying that position. He does not want to make

the gap. Looks good. On green, confirmed by Sandra McLeish. Robert

knows exactly what he has to do. He really needs to score at this end.

He needs to keep scoring at every end, Robert. He has a reasonable

head at this end, Robert. Don't think you can get back from there.

That was outside the line out of the hand. Something was not right

because the wait was too heavy as well. If Nicky is able to make this

a double, I don't really fancy Robert's chances of getting back

into it. Robert Mueller was a slight chance to score a single. -- knew

that was a slight chance. If Nicky scores a double here he is in the

favourite seat. He played that well. Let it drift in so he did not get

near the red ball. Family support for Nicky Brett.

Still got four ends to go. Alan Thornhill is our umpire,

keeping everyone absolutely aware of the correct score, no mistakes.

5-11. Because the player in bread is always first.

REFEREE: Jack length 28.5 metres. Always feel Robert is one bowl away

from playing well. He did well to draw the first set.

He did. Nicky's final delivery to tie the first set. Since then,

Nicky's performance has been better than Robert.

He is going defensive now, a very good single shot, he is more than

happy to play the ends down, saying to Robert, you have to draw within

two inches to get the shot. More than capable of doing that. But

yesterday, he would almost say he would put two inside it.

Not so much today. No, he has not hit top form today, Robert. But that

happens. Sometimes more in finals, for the player to catch the form

they had been born -- they have been in, all week.

This had to be good, even to give him a shoulder to work off. Can't

afford to be short. Adding a bit of pressure onto this shot. It is a

good bowl, it gives him a chance. Roberts will be looking down the

backhand for the next bowl. It is good. Forehand draw is still

delivery, just It is good. Forehand draw is still

there for Robert, if he wants it, but another

there for Robert, if he wants it, that, try and move

there for Robert, if he wants it, possible to come

excellent. He has to start to take chances.

excellent. Once again, it is hard shots, or

draw again on the forehand. Obviously, the angles are not good,

playing this on the forehand. Probably still the same sort of

shot, looking for the front bowl. What a shot that was. How on earth

did he see that? Absolute perfection. That didn't

look like an option from the commentary position, really didn't.

Final delivery, clips the bowl, perfect bowl.

That was absolutely brilliant. I'm still trying to work out how he

generated the weight. Louise, a little bit happier with

that one. 11-7.

That was virtually a championship life.

I would agree. Dropped a shot there, would have been over. He is back in

the game. He has two score in the last three ends, though. -- to

score. A marvellous delivery, ageing the

bowl. We couldn't see that shot. The angles on the screen didn't allow

for that. Didn't think he could possibly get a short one with enough

weight. He played it to perfection.

Unfortunately, first bowl next end is short. And Nick Brett is all over

it yet again. He has put so much pressure on.

Robert is an honest player and he should have come off after the game,

and said, the opening bowl wasn't good enough to put Nicky under

pressure. Taking it deep.

Again, planning the odd bowl on the edge of the jack. When you are

playing well and things are going while you wait, pick that up. He is

mercurial when it comes to scratching out a win. As is this

man. Both dug deep in their semifinals

against Alex Marshall and David Gourlay, to secure wins.

Always placed inside outline. This has to be good. He is on a better

chat, I think, it is all about weight. -- plays.

Good correction. Bit of tension out there. Both

players know that the World Championship title is just about

within their grasp. Nicky, are you running? I think he has it close to

the weight. Has that dropped into shot, I think it might have. It is

close. We need Sandra to tell us. I think it might be one green.

Robert Lee should use a time out, it is too important. I don't think he

has many time outs left, Robert. Two seconds left.

It is all automated. Very nearly lost it.

He is looking at this. Need to get the right side of the green bowl. It

will be one to green now. When you touch a bowl like that, you will

move it half an inch on the carpet. Definitely one green.

If it is, Nicky Brett will not be playing his final delivery.

No need to. He knows he has won. It got a nice little touch to fall off.

12-7, five up, a good position to be in for Nicky Brett. A three, and a

two, is what Paxton is looking for. Nicky is saying to himself, just one

shot here. He has one hand on the trophy, just waiting to put the

other one there. Even if he loses one shot, still in a very strong

position. Certainly is.

Jack length -- REFEREE: Jack length 27 metres.

He will be confused as to where the form has gone this afternoon,

really. Is he short? It is as though he hasn't been play

in top form. Showing how good he is, applying himself, getting on with

the job. A determined character is Robert. Never beat him easy. This

one looks under. He has dropped it. That was a chance, a big chance to

add the pressure. Wouldn't be surprised if Nicky draws

a shot with this. Pressure on. If he draws shot here, it almost wins the

game. This was a walking 70. All the pressure from Nicky, you can see the

reaction from the family. They are screaming for their dad. REFEREE:

Nine inches. They note at the moment he is lying

championship game. Roberts is in a bit of trouble here.

-- they know. Nothing easy about this one. Moving onto the backhand.

He will have one bowl to stay in this championship. I wonder what

Nick will do here. Because he knows Robert can pay through, he has got

the back position. -- play. Robert could have nowhere to go. The

alternative is, Andy, you know what it is like, stay away from it.

Yes. There is a case that and I think he is actually staying away.

Keeping it high. He is on the right side of it but he was to be passed

jack high, he is, that is a good bowl. Robert has got absolutely

nothing behind the jack coming he has to try and turn his own bowl

over with a shot. Possibly score two or three.

This man is the world champion. He is not showing it. A little puff

there. It is what he has been working for all these years. He is

in the area. Let us see how it pans out. He has got it, got the single

he needs to go to the next end, Nick Brett will have to wait.

APPLAUSE Good bowl, always in the area.

Keeps the game going. Robert has scored five ends out of

the pen, same as Nick, and he is four behind. Big four scores cost

him. Louise is almost resigned to this

now. A four in the final end is there.

You don't tend to get them. Don't get them when you need them.

Exactly. Plenty of time. No need for the...

No need for the shot clock in the first bowl, so plenty of time.

If it had been behind the jack, Andy, it would have been a

possibility. I would expect Nicky to beat that.

That would be the game. Expecting to beat it with the first

one. Which he has. That is excellent. All

he is doing is trying to pack the head with bowls.

I think Robert, unless something dramatic happens, we'll just keep

drawing to this. -- well. Yes, close with this one, that is where he

wanted the first one. What a lovely position to be in,

Andy. I would think Nicky is enjoying

this. He can chill a little bit on this

end. He knows if he puts another one close, it will build up against

Robert. Because that front Red Bull... That is all he needs to do.

That front Red Bull will not count. This is an impossible situation for

Robert. I think he might improve the

scoreline for the finish, that is all. Nick, very determined. We

always knew, but it is only in the last three years he has come

through, adapted his game for the Portable Rink. Robert knows this had

to make contact, looking for the front bowl onto this. It could be

all over. It has gone. Shake the hand. Robert is already coming.

World number one. Nick Brett played really well.

Robert Paxton not at his very best. But's wife, Louise, has been

accepting it for the last few ends. I think Robert will be the first to

accept his performance was not as good as in previous games. Well

done, Nick Brett, so pleased for you.

His wife can't believe it. It will be a big night tonight, the tears

are flowing. No one deserves it more be a big night tonight, the tears

than Nick Brett. Fought be a big night tonight, the tears

qualifying if you years ago. The crowd are on their feet to the

new world champion, Nicky Brett. A good effort by Robert Paxton but

just not enough. for a decade. Robert Paxton, last

bowl, proving he was in good form for this match.

Nicky Brett get the double he needs to go 9-9. Look at the reaction, to

level the first set. to go 9-9. Look at the reaction, to

The first end, Nicky Drew another one in 44 but Robert not letting go.

Proving that the hands... Just moving through, a big bowl to go 7-2

in front on the fourth end. Moving on to the last bowl for Robert, for

two. Again that edge, how on earth he got that bowl out, I don't know.

A brilliant bowl. Nick Brett celebrates. Good friends,

Robert Paxton and Robert saying congratulations, always just

second-best on the day. Not much between this as you can

tell. Really down to the big scores of

Nick Brett. Nick Brett, the world number one and

now the world champion, it doesn't get any better.

I am with the runner up and world champion, first of all, Robert, it

day at the office, one or two things didn't go your way, how do some it

up? Disappointed, obviously, world

final, not coming out on top. One end cost me the first set, down the

bottom which Nicky capitalised on. Then give him a seven shot lead, you

are chasing. People hate making its gizzards, you

did have a tough match which was epic, was it difficult to lift

yourself again today? Yes, and no. You are in the world final, if you

can't lift us up, you shouldn't be here. Credit to Nicky, he has played

fantastic in the last few years on the tour.

Your performers getting to your first final here? Aneke? Before we

get to the nitty-gritty of the match, how does being the world

champion sound to you? Pretty bloody good, I'd say!

APPLAUSE I think we'll allow that. There were one or two pivotal

moments in the match as there always will be in a final. At the end of

the first set, the double turned things around.

I can't remember any of the game. We are looking at it now. The moment

that drag you back. I was quite pleased with this one!

Obviously, miss this one, you are a set down.

Massive bowl for me, managed to get it.

And celebrated. Yesterday, we noticed when you had a good permit

against David Gourlay, the body language was positive. After that

moment, you picked herself up, start of the second set, credible.

You try to look for momentum in the final. It may not have been an epic,

a cop ever too much. Rob played some good bowls early doors, I did. We

scrapped a bit. A couple of take out shots. All in all, just managed to

do enough when it counted. The one thing you most certainly had

in your corner today was a lot of support from your family.

Yes, I blew them up before they came here.

How special is it to have done what he did today in front of your family

and friends? First class, I can't thank them

enough along. APPLAUSE

The crowd were great to me yesterday, I was struggling and they

pulled me through against David. My friends and family for coming.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2016 singles champion, Nicky Brett!

APPLAUSE This will put a smile on his face

because it is now wages time. The men with the money, the managing

director for Potters Holidays, Mr John Potter, the group marketing and

distribution director the Just Retirement, Mr David Cooper.

And, to receive his runners up checks, ladies and gentlemen, Mr

Robert Paxton! APPLAUSE

But now, it is indeed to the winner, receiving a Langholm glass Chevy, a

cheque for ?55,000. And the title of the 20 16th Just Retirement world

indoor singles champion, it is Nicky Brett!

APPLAUSE ladies and gentlemen, for the first

time in his career, the 20 16th Just Retirement world indoor singles

champion, Nicky Brett! And a standing ovation for Nicky

Brett and Robert Paxton, but for Nicky Brett, the world number one,

the moment he has worked his whole bowls life for, David Corkill? Nicky

has been around the International Arena for a long time. Like

everything else, do you only have one target, the world singles. He

was fantastic today. Big moment at the start of the

second set, a four. He came into that beautifully,

coming off the back during -- of going the second shot. Robert had a

bad end. Unfortunately, Nicky took full advantage. It looked easy but

it is not. Looking for that full house. Because of the psychological

effect on your opponent. You were talking in commentary, when

things aren't going for you, they don't. Robert Paxton, fourth end of

the second set, misfortune. I was saying earlier, it all depends

on whether you get the breaks. When you hit things. That was unlucky. He

hit the target perfect, took two of his own bowls and leaves Nicky line

three. When that happens, you start to question if it is more day.

Your thoughts on Nicky becoming world number one and following up

with this world title. Does that make him undisputedly the best

player in the world at the moment? No, but what it does make him is

world champion, and be confirmed where he is at this moment in time,

world number one and world champion. But he needs if you will years to

back that up and overtake people like Alex Marshall.

Become ignore six world titles. Nicky Brett, supreme this year at

Potters. Coming up after the bowls today on the east coast of England,

we have action from ski Sunday in Austria. At 5:15pm on BBC Two.

we have action from ski Sunday in Time now to bring you action

we have action from ski Sunday in the ladies final. Between Ellen

Falkner and Rebecca Field, former champions going head-to-head. Ellen

Falkner one in 2005 and 2006, Rebecca Field in 2013. Ellen Falkner

won the first, we join it in the second end of the second set,

Rebecca had her nose in front. Andy Thomson and David Corkill in the

commentary box. Always enjoyed the women's final

here. At Potters leisure resort. Not many seats there, David.

Spare seats, shall we say will stop it is the one place where everyone

wants to be able to enjoy the bowls, get a good view.

The players go into the auditorium to watch as well.

I've seen you sitting on the back row a few times, Andy.

Keeping myself tucked up on the way. We find you!

After the adrenaline rush of the first set, first few ends of the

second set, both players want to settle in. This is a good

correction. They certainly do not want to lose counts.

REFEREE: The gap is one inch. bowl, three feet.

Textbook delivery that, David. Backswing, nice follow-through. It

is Backswing, nice follow-through. It

key to it. Follow the line with the hand. Excellent. Excellent action

from Rebecca Field. Nice follow-through from Ellen as

well. That one dropping a bit short. The

chance to make the correction with the last bowl. By then it should be

three against her. That may come in useful. I think it

is just a draw. No drive shot available really. I don't know if

she likes the backhand in this direction. She has not played many

good drawing bowls with it. I don't think she has picked a line. Her

previous ball was good. Just had to follow that one. Just missed the

line. Uncompromising in that situation, that backhand. If you

miss the line you will go over very quickly. A good start for Rebecca.

3-0 up. I have been asked a question on Twitter about how the umpires

George the distance. As they walk up the side of the rink they can

calculate exactly where that is in relation to the mat. It makes for a

quicker game, so you can set the jack in line.

A good start by Rebecca. She has composed herself and is drawing well

after the final ends of the first set.

14 inches. She still feels confident of toying around with the opening

bowl from Eleanor. Inside the bowl. That is OK. That is

fine. We do everything in metres now. But bowlers are used to working

in inches and feet and yards. Yes, it is all in feet and inches. That

is how we have been brought up, really. Of course for schoolchildren

now it is all in metric -- metric. On the other countries in the world

it is metric. -- in so many others. I think if we were telling our

players you a ten centimetres short, they would go, what on earth is

that? If you say four inches, they would know exactly where you are. It

will be interesting to see what Alan decides here. It will be difficult

to draw the shot. I think she will be positive on the backhand. It is a

good backhand shot. Yes, just inside the line. Wants to move the bowl,

not the jack. She was prepared to take that risk.

Here we see Eleanor's bowl, right on the target. If she had hit it full,

there might have been a slight touch on the jack. Good running bowl. Yes,

she played it well. Rebecca just needs to close her shot, promote her

own bowl. Is it one red here? Well, it is

showing one red. I think it is. Just. Just hearing a few

confirmations that it is red. This needs to stop cancer Eleanor.

-- to count for Eleanor. That has gone through. Yes, one to red.

Eleanor needed that. -- Ellen. She did not want Rebecca to get any

further ahead. Although it is a long set, you do not want your opponent

to get four, five, six in front. Keep in touch. Ellen is resisting

any temptation to change this length. I just feel as if she is

getting a little bit out drawn in this direction.

Both players could go short with the jack. It is who is prepared to take

the risk first. Rebecca is getting enforced in this direction. I would

expect Rebecca to beat that. I chance for Alan. -- a chance for

Alan. If Ellen pops another one in, she is

in a strong position. That will offer Rebecca and

opportunity. She has got the back position. She certainly can afford

to play reaching draw, as we call it. A couple of chances.

It teases us into playing the shot but it is still difficult to

manufacture. You have to use the mat a lot. Go from the outside in. Yes,

get a flat line. Still a chance for Ellen to draw another. This looks

better. Not bad. Not bad. It is in. But the two bowls will disappear. I

would be inclined to play But the two bowls will disappear. I

a bit of weight because there are two chances. Be more positive inside

the line. She has thrown it high again. This

has to have perfect weight. Sheena will never get that. -- she was

never going to get that. She needed to be stronger.

never going to get that. She needed from Rebecca. Brilliant effort

though. Ellen gets back to tying the set.

Magnificent arena. The jack looks fairly safe. Once again, coming up

towards the tee. 28.5 metres. Just one short of a full length. A lot of

players will use their own bowls. There are pool bowls available which

have the correct colour, different manufacturers, weights and grips

etc. A lot of players do use their own. Most of them do not have a red

etc. A lot of players do use their or Green said. Obviously the

etc. A lot of players do use their 16 top players have. It is not a

problem for them. All of the manufacturers of

problem for them. All of the They can choose them, practice with

problem for them. All of the them, see which suits you best.

problem for them. All of the Nicky Brett arrived with seven

different sets in the back of his car. Different sizes, different bias

is. He cannot make his mind up. He is terrible. He will be having a go

at me shortly when he sees me! Maybe that is why he is world number one.

thought it was going to be under. It is still about 18 inches short.

Forcing Ellen to play the forehand side. She has played a few good

bowls down the side, Ellen. She will have to start thinking about leaving

off it. Good effort, second bowl. She is happy with that. She has not

been getting to the jack Whither backhands in quite some time. --

with her backhands. Not really a shot here for Rebecca.

Just a draw. A safe one, Andy. Yes, it is a safe one. Hopefully she can

pick a two up. Yes, I think that counts. That is

close. That is a tight one. Very, very tight indeed.

Mike Davies will sort this out. Very simple instrument but incredibly

accurate. I love tools, generally, Andy. I am

a great one for trying different things out. A good steady hand

required when you are holding them, David. Hull yes.

My tool shed at home is full of all sorts of weird and wonderful things.

Things I have bought over the years or inherited from my father.

That is the trouble when you see a book case or something, Andy, and

the wife says, you could make that! Not for me. I am not a great DIY

man. That looks like a terrible bowl. But I will be truthful, she

probably missed the line by about four or five inches. You just get

absolutely hammered on that forehand. You absolutely do. The

margins of error when you are looking down a tight line are very

small. You have to have faith in a big swinging bowl. The chance of a

correction here for Rebecca. That is the sign of a good player, ignore

the bad bowls, get back and start all over again. That is what she has

done. Well played. She is thinking to yourself, if I had pushed that

little bit wider...! Lovely correction. This may force

onto the back end just a draw. Just needs to keep the weight to

hold this up. Very close to it. A lovely view from our commentary

position. You could see that ball go down a perfect line. Third delivery,

pushes the ball out. Corrected very quickly.

Elin playing the background draw. I do not think she has drawn many good

shots on the backhand. No. But she is putting it into good position.

Rebecca must think about this. A back bowl would be very useful. I

think the spot is probably a good spot here, the re-spot.

She is certainly not on the re-spot line. No. But she has pushed it out.

She will be happy enough with that. If Ellen kills this head, she will

score. I think Ellen will be positive here. Good shot. Down on

the backhand. You could almost play this on any hand. She would play

this heavy on the forehand. She was on target. But just got the

perfect edge. She was in the area. However, she just gets a very

fortunate edge on the jack. If it had gone through it would've been

one to Rebecca. It is fractions, isn't it? It certainly is. Ellen

Falkner has been playing the big bowls. That was another one. She is

hanging in with the big bowls. The first real change. 26.5 metres.

It was going to happen sometime. I think it is a good idea. Ellen has

been losing the battle coming in this direction. She has dropped this

one short. That is a good tactic. We have people viewing this final

all around the world. Stewart in Norway ginning in. -- Chevening in.

I know you like to speak many languages, I just wondered if you

could reply to him in Norwegian? No. Stuart Gray will be back for the

bowling season at Taunton bowling club. I hope it is a summer to

enjoy. Chose the perfect bowl. Once again from the forehand side. Yes,

losing the battle quite often in the first two. But the recovery bowls

have been excellent. Lots of Time-Outs are available but

for some reason Ellen is not bothering much. She has got plenty

of time here. She has got ten seconds.

The target bowl is the green one just beyond the jack.

This is just a backhand draw for Rebecca.

Rebecca's final delivery. She needed the jack. Bump fist for that one. A

big shot for Rebecca. That was not a good one. That is

exactly where Ellen will be trying to bring the jack. Ellen asking what

is the nearest green bowl. Just a draw. Or, yes! -- hole! There

was a bit of a delayed response from the crowd. There we see Ellen's

second delivery. Catches the jack. The crowd are anticipating following

on the jack. It did not move. Good head of bowls. The inside line was

not a particular problem. Elin wants to be a little bit careful here. If

that bowl drops, the jack will go to green. I just wonder if she will

play the backhand and play safe or be very brave on the forehand.

Difficult. I think she will be brave on the forehand. I agree with you.

Moves are own red bowl. Yes, she is staying away from it.

That was a good bowl. Very handy there. Five bowls all within a foot.

Three of them are within six inches. That is good stuff. Good standard.

I think I would be taking one here. She is tempted because the movement

of the jack is the problem. That is where the danger is. Any touch on

that, that jack is going to move and probably end up over there. That was

very sensible. I thought she might. It is a match where single shots are

so important. Yes, she did not want to go three shots down. She has

reduced the deficit to one. Keeps in the game. Ellen Falkner can afford

to draw the set. Rebecca has to win it by at least one clear shot.

A bit late in the game to start changing. A few ends ago, maybe

think about using the forehand. She has been forced onto the

forehand. The pattern repeats, often Rebecca in the first, then Ellen

retrieves. It is about who scores the shot at the end of the day. Once

again, change of hand for Ellen, then a good bowl.

That is what she would have been looking for with her first one.

As you say, David, sometimes awkward to change near the end of the game.

You feel as if it is a bit of a gamble.

The player behind really want to score on this end. Force your

opponent to chase the match. That is what Rebecca will have to do if she

loses the shot here. It is going very quick, needs the jack, got it.

She has got it. She is still down.

Not enough. Once again, playing this forehand

well. Ellen Falkner. But Rebecca coming to have a look at this. I

don't think she liked what she sees. The difficulty for Rebecca if she

tries to play the forehand, to be careful of the jack.

But if she plays a backhand and gets into this area, it has got to be

useful if she gets in there. That is where I would be, she has to

be behind the head. She will be expecting Ellen to

attack this head. Maybe a little bit further than she

wanted. Right sort of shot, I think she was trying to get the other side

of the Red Bull. -- read bowl.

A percentage shot. All sorts of things to come off there. Depends

how much weight she uses. Quite a bit. Going strong, will it

hold? She is calling it to hold. It almost looks like it was going to

hit that one, she was just on the wrong side.

Not far away. A great effort. When a stunt like that, all the

momentum goes on to the other bowl. Offering Rebecca a safer opportunity

for the second shot. She could be braver with this one.

No danger in giving it away. Just lacking the pace. Can't blame

her. A real chase for home now. Alan

really needs to win this next end. -- Ellen.

A very tight set here, nine ends, 12 shots scored. Not a lot of big

scores flying about. Very few Shot bowl going in. Correction made.

Is it dropping away? That Shot bowl going in. Correction made.

dropped away from the shot. Showing the bowl has touched the

jack. Ellen's second delivery, perfect

bowl. This looks went under. That is a forehand inside the line.

I don't think Ellen was to try this now.

It is quite important that she does add another. Puts her in a good

It is quite important that she does position going into the final end.

She didn't want to play the forehand and leave a shoulder. She is playing

a backhand, trying to come in and around the back of the jack. Gives

her a bit of position. This is good. A very handy bowl. It won't be in.

But it will be a situation where, if Rebecca misses this, she might well

just decide to aim for the four. At this moment, Andy, I would

suggest she would be very happy with two.

Rebecca am probably one or two down, doesn't make much difference going

into the final end. She would not want to drop 83. -- a three.

The forehand, if you touch the outside of the red bowl, the chapel

go closer to the green. The backhand, she was close to adding

another. One more gives her a little bit of space in the last end, she

can afford to lose a single. Setting up on the safe side. The

danger for Ellen is I don't think she has played many good ones on

this site. I don't think she has added with this.

Too heavy. The line is perfect. Yes.

It is a one and ship out for the second set to win the trophy and the

title. All to force a tie-break -- one end shoot out.

REFEREE: Jack length 26.5 metres. This has been a wonderful game

between Ellen Falkner and Rebecca Field, Ellen took the first set

10-9. Second set, perfectly poised, going into the last end at 7-7. And

this end is going to be interesting in terms of its tactics. Certainly

not worrying about scoring a two or three, they just want to win. If

Ellen wins, she takes the title and the trippy. If Rebecca wins, we are

into a three end tie-break. Two good bowls, doesn't really want the jack

first. She ran with it. A little touch of the bowl.

She held onto it. This is almost like a tie-break end, it doesn't

matter who scores. I think she will run at this.

This cannot be drawn. Very controlled to try and rest into

her own bowl. There is a back bowl in, always handy. She will attack.

She has come down to have a look, she will be positive now, Ellen.

Rebecca can't go near this. Cover shot.

Quite rightly, keeping it wide. Anticipating a drive from Ellen. A

good bowl. I'd expect a forehand runner here.

It is the backhand, maybe because the bowl will come across the centre

line better. Close to something. Good effort. Always high. I can

understand why she played it. The only thing I don't like about the

backhand is the green bowl will go onto the jack in the ditch.

Forehand, better chance of taking the bowl out clean.

I think she plays the forehand rather well, Ellen. Slightly

surprised there. Again, Rebecca will be staying away from this. Can't do

anything about the head. Going deep again. Just saying to

Ellen, if you get this, good on you. We still think the forehand was off

centre, Andy, I think it will be a better percentage shot to get to

there. The one thing I really think is an issue for Ellen played the

backhand, if she gets the bowl, the jack will move into this direction

and there are green bowls waiting. Which loses the shot. She is

stronger on the forehand. It is off centre. This is where the bowl holds

out on the forehand. A better shot because of that.

Plenty of time outs available. If she gets this absolutely right, it

will be hard to beat. If she catches the red bowl solid,

the green will go out. It will be a difficult shot for Rebecca.

Pick your hand, Ellen, if you fancy the backhand, play it. To me, it is

forehand. Looking at the forehand now. She

didn't hit us, that is not possible! It really is a forehand shots.

Very close, got it. Played it to perfection. Didn't get the high side

of the bowl, got the solid contact. She has got the shot back and holds

a championship life. -- lie. This is interesting, is Ellen lying

one or two. We haven't heard anything, it is

close for the second. I would say if Rebecca is lying

second shot, she will drive this. I think she will drive it anyway,

regardless. A hard one to draw. This is a runner

as well. It depends on how much weight. A big

target in many ways. The second shot is critical here.

It is a forehand runner as well, same bowl as Ellen.

Going for the heavy shot. What is her line like? It looks as if she is

under, she is making the gap. REFEREE: Second shot and the match,

Ellen Falkner. Ellen Falkner, 2-0. The big bowls,

she really played the important ones.

That was the difference. It is fair to say Rebecca played with a

slightly on the draw shot but Ellen played the better shots.

She came back well, had a gap of a few years, came back very strong in

this event. Some very tight matches. 10-9, 8-7, wonderful final.

A wonderful final, the gap was ten years since Ellen Falkner had her

hands on that trophy. 2005, 2006, she had to wait a while, but she has

won the title again. I am delighted to take the ladies singles champion

is with me. One, they say absence makes the heart grow fonder, how did

you feel? I was absolutely delighted. As I

said in the interview after the match, sometimes, the time that

lapses in between, it makes it even more special.

You go through the years and lows, it is great to come back

on top. What has the reaction being, has it sunk

on top. What has the reaction being, the number of messages. We had a

lovely evening the number of messages. We had a

Potters. Then back to the number of messages. We had a

yesterday playing in national competition, and came down yesterday

to watch the final. Did you go to work on Friday having

won on Thursday? Friday afternoon, back to work, all

good. The thought that some people have

been chatting about here is you have won it three times like Carol Ashby,

Carol Ashby had a go at the open singles at Potters, William

contemplate having a crack at the guys?

I have always entered the open conditions. One year I lost in the

final. I have been close. Other women have done it, Carol Ashby,

Julie Forrest have made it here. I will certainly be trying to test my

wits and get into the open event. Today, if you do come back, you will

be watching. Nicky Brett, someone you know very well, pairs partner is

how long? 16 years. I know we don't look old

enough! We have one if you nationals

together, a couple of mixed pairs. I am over the moon to him today.

together, a couple of mixed pairs. I has worked its jimmy hard, it took

him a number of years to break into the top 16. Not only want one but

world champion to add to his portfolio.

To think you have both won the World Championship in same year, a dream

for the two people who have known each other so long.

Incredible, me, each other so long.

supportive of each other in tournaments and delighted when one

of us wins. Great for Nick. He has just moved clubs otherwise it would

have been another two for the city of Ely.

The strength of women's bowls, yourself, Rebecca, Catherine, apart

from the fact you are all from yourself, Rebecca, Catherine, apart

local area. Young, but been around for a while. Your thoughts on how

local area. Young, but been around strong the sport is for women?

It is one of the great things about the sports, it is open to

It is one of the great things about very inclusive and accessible. For

the women's side, we have been dominant and strong on

the world stage for a number of years as team England.

There are loads of young players coming through, a great pathway and

system which spurs everyone on and pushes everybody for a place.

Wonderful to have you here, thank you for coming in. I hope you have

enjoyed the afternoon. The state of women's bowls is healthy, and the

future of the game in the men's, edition as evidenced by last night's

Under 25s final. Joseph Mower had an outstanding record at junior level

in Wales and in the British Isles, edition.

He was up against Ross Owen, 22, from Wales, in 2012 he knocked out

Paul Foster in the first round of the singles at Potters.

Joseph Mower won the first set. Ross came back with the second set. This

is the start of the tie-break, Robert Paxton commentating with

David Corkill. Ross Owen has been dominating this

length over the last two ends. It different tactic now. Absolutely,

he is waiting list but he's on a good mind.

It comes. Will he be tempted at this?

Tactics change, just a matter of winning the end, it doesn't matter

about scoring a two or three, one is good enough. Two handy bowls to

start with. Ross is waving this one back again.

Just slipped round, very good. That is a handy place.

Ross will probably be thinking that it is just not close enough, that

single shot. Needs one a little bit closer. That is what he is trifle,

trying to encourage it forward. -- what he is trying.

He looks like he's on a slightly inside line, a with this. The front

edge or jack's clean. Yes. Will it travel enough? I think it has, to

the back red one. Hard for us to be sure.

REFEREE: It is very close. Front red, goodness me, we thought

the red level with the jack was closer. Probably 18 inches for Ross

here. That is close. When you put the

rings on, you realise how things are lying. The jack high bowl ducks the

shot but it is not when you put the rings on. It is not easy, this. The

front bowl to negotiate. It does hold at the end. I think he

has played a very good bowl here. That is really tidy. A really good

bowl. Takes a bit of the Angola way. -- angle away.

The question it is he prepared to have another go, or try to draw it.

That is his only option. Doesn't look to be much of a runner for him.

REFEREE: Time out called. He is keeping that concentration going. He

is going for the strike, bowl on to bowl.

Now,... Has he got the re-spot. I can't

tell. It certainly looks to me. The jack is in the ditch and it stays

live if it is within the confines of the rink, the yellow marker on the

bottom of your picture. This is going to be tricky.

It really is. It is a measure with the bowl in the ditch. Then they

will have two come over the ditch for the next bowl.

That is well in. Yes. 12 red. A successful drive there. If it had

been on the re-spot, it probably would have made it as well.

A good bowl. Ross wondering... Ross did everything he could. He

didn't play a bad end at all. Joseph came up with an answer, just

got the edge of the jack into the ditch.

Joseph's Mum and girlfriend sitting quietly, properly as nervous as

kittens. -- probably. REFEREE: Jack length 28 metres.

Hannah on the left and mum Angela, Ross Owens.

Can be a danger sometimes, Ross has been dominating the short jacks. He

has giving it away, and Joseph has got it in.

The one thing he doesn't want to be here is short.

A great effort. The line in front is not good for him.

That is the place he did not want to be. He will struggle to get past

that. Very tempting to run at this to get

it out of the way. A good decision. Just moved the bowl out of the way.

Fortunately, had to -- unfortunately, had to waste one.

I would go on the re-spot here, stay away from that. Just leave it up to

Ross to make the disturbance. It is not easy.

Good thinking. Very good understanding of the game, both

these players, they no had to play these sets.

Same bowl as last time. Takes the two bowls away, the jack into the

ditch. He is down the line.

Great shot. Well done. He got a touch on the jacks so it will be

marked as a touch, stay on a rink. He had opened the door, a good

strike. Joseph has no choice but to try and draw close.

Interesting. He is playing across the line here, I'm not sure I would

have played that. Here it comes. It needs to run a bit. No, it is not

bad. A bit of a challenge to try and get to that. It is a match lie.

He has played that backhand well, to be fair. Suddenly put the pressure

on bass. More importantly comic he hasn't

gone close to the jack which means boss will probably try to ditch it.

He is forced into the jaw. boss will probably try to ditch it.

He has one hand on the trophy, at 18, that is a very big achievement.

16 inches to draw this, boss. After two banners. The forehand. He

is on a good line, it is all about weight. Has he got enough? He has.

That is a great pressure bowl. The two boys able to relax out of

there even with the pressure of the last end. The last end the

tie-break. Joseph Mower has given himself last

bowl again. That is very good under Joseph Mower has given himself last

pressure. The rules change on the third tie-break. You can and it is

to kill the end. Every player can do that four times. It can be replayed

once. A little tide on the ball. I don't

think it is made any difference. But it has brought him closer. Still

trying to get inside the red bowl and use it.

Good weight. Still a handy bowl in the head.

He starts to be a little bit careful.

Trying to close the head down a little bit.

It looks like a good rest on the backhand for Joseph Mower. He has

got the shoulder to work off. His runners have been good. You might be

tempted down the back. Tough shot. That was a good effort. Just

dropping inside. He has the re-spot covered on one side. Think Ross will

be doing well just to cover the back position. Yes, split the two red.

This is a tough one for him. Joseph Mower as Godfrey ball out again. --

has got the bowl out again. He covers the re-spot. Does not

cover the back bowl. That is the angle he wants to come

off. Full jack, it could go anywhere. Either way he is going to

be off to it. Drive off the backhand. Ride up the middle. It

will be one to red. I acknowledge and from Ross Owen. That is the

shot. Joseph Mower has won the singles. A very good final. It

really has been. An excellent example of how the youth aeroplane

the game at the moment. Lots of good draws, lots of good hits. Good

appreciation for each other. Good sportsmanship. Excellent game.

Joseph Mower won the first set, lost the second. He wins the tie-break

and lift the title. And the smile on the face of young

Joseph Mower says it all, a great moment for him in his career which

came before family and friends, hopefully, can it provide a

springboard for him to go on to better things?

David Corkill here. Corgi, exciting young talent? Absolutely. We have

seen Ross before. I knew what he can do. Seeing Josef come through has

been fantastic. We have got a lot of good young players in the UK. It is

just about developing them. Darren Burnett won the mixed pairs title

this week and doubled up with his success in the pairs. There was a

moment we thought he might win all three? Yes, absolutely. He was

certainly playing well enough. It was a bit of deja vu. We were in the

situation with Robert Paxton. He was brilliant. Cell of the last hurdle.

Darren did the same thing but he played extremely well in this event.

You cannot win all three? Remains that situation at the moment. Can it

be done? I think it can. You have to be informed for two weeks and that

is not easy. All week we have been asking Corky to pick out his shock

of the day. Here are the candidates for the shot of the week.

What are bowl! That was perfect. He got the edge of it.

Yes! That is it! He has got it! He had both of them covered.

It is no exaggeration to say there were so many candidates from so many

great games. What did you decide was the shot of the week? I was tempted

with a couple from Alex Marshall but the Robert Paxton one, the second in

the tie-break, it was amazing. It is such a hard shot. We were thinking

he would drive this. To turn the jack around the corner took an

amazing amount of courage to even attempt to play that shot. That was

brilliant. That was quite superb from Robert Paxton. And he has won

the shot of the week. But the man of the week has joined us. Mickey

Brett. Is it quite heavy? Just about heavy enough! We wanted to ask you

about your magnificent celebrations after you won that trophy as he came

back on to receive it. The cartwheel is becoming a bit of a thing. One of

my daughters is a gymnast. I cannot do anything else. I thought I better

continue with the cartwheel if I win anything. What did she give you out

of ten? The legs need to be straighter! Probably about a seven.

When a sports man plays in any event, the support of family and

friends is paramount? Absolutely. My wife has spent many an night on our

own at home, ferrying the kids about. It is more for them than me,

really. I do a lot of the bowling but they spend a lot of time on

their own. It makes a difference. You are not only the world champion,

you are also the world number one. You have worked really hard for it.

Is this the moment that you have been working for?

Is this the moment that you have push on now and become one of the

all-time greats? I do not know about being an all-time great. I am

looking to do as being an all-time great. I am

time I go out there. Becoming world number one at the start of

time I go out there. Becoming world season was a massive achievement for

myself. It was duly followed by season was a massive achievement for

becoming world champion. I never dream that I would ever become world

champion. I just dream that I would ever become world

against the best players in the world on the tour. Did I dream I

would ever be here,? Probably world on the tour. Did I dream I

What about winning it two years world on the tour. Did I dream I

row. --? Not easy. But world on the tour. Did I dream I

back defending champion and world on the tour. Did I dream I

reason Nikki stood out? It goes back about five or six years ago. Nikki

and I were chatting before a match. I said to him, be careful of those

and I were chatting before a match. running bowls. He came off after

losing and said, I need to change my game, and he did. It is less

aggressive. It has really worked. He has been playing brilliant ever

since. It is the standard of consistency that is the key. Easy

spot on? Yes, I played runners at the wrong time. I did not have good

head positions. Probably played OK in games if not better. But in

crucial lens got too many big scores to lose games. -- ends. Pick a good

time to play a runner. Don't do anything silly. Luckily the last few

years it has been going pretty good. Not long before you can start

salivating in style. What is up the sleeve? I am driving home to start a

new job tomorrow. I'm going to be a requirements manager,

new job tomorrow. I'm going to be a servant, at RAF with me. Do they

know they have the world champion, to start tomorrow? I don't think

they do, no! How good has it been to It has been amazing. A lot of the

players have come in and done very well. The quality of the semifinals,

the quarterfinals, and a very tense final, no matter how people may look

at it, it was tough, and well done to Nikki. Thank you both. We are at

the end of our week of Corbridge at Potters. It has been one -- for the

wonderful bowls. One man will leave with a big smile on his face, Mickey

Brett. Goodbye. -- Nicky Brett.