Day 1 Bowls World Indoor Championships

It is January and we are in Hopton-on-Sea so it must be time for

the 2014 world indoor Bowls championship at the Potters Leisure

Resort. Said back and relax as you get the ball rolling for seven days

of live action. -- setback. Hello and welcome to day one of our

coverage of the biggest Bowls tournament in the world. As ever,

the best players will be in action throughout the week hoping to pick

up those titles. Last year was all about the visiting tartan army as

Scotland's finest were crowned kings of the Bowls Castle. With the

success in the singles, men's pairs and mixed pairs, Alex Marshall, Paul

Foster and Stuart Anderson returned home with plenty to smile about and

they are back for more of the same. If I could win a title again this

year, it would be a good step in my career. Being a double world

champion would mean the world. This is the big one everybody wants to

win. Hopefully we can go one better than last year in the singles. I

have definitely got one title left in me. I am still competing at a

very high level and the confidence is there. That is definitely an

opportunity for another title. The English challenge fails to go past

the semifinals in 2013 and they will be looking to bounce back. The

ambition for this year is to win the world singles title. There are some

talented players here but I can beat anybody if I play well. Stage one is

to win round one, stage two is to be here in the semifinals and then to

complete stage three is to win the title. And never right of the Welsh

resolve as they have a few former champions hoping to lift the trophy

once again. I was the last Welsh winner in 2000. Hopefully it will be

our year. You have to try and perform and hopefully get a bit of

luck along the way. England's Rebecca Field is the offending

women's champion having been crowned Queen of the indoor game a year ago.

If I play well enough and play how I can play, there's no doubt I can win

again. This year 's challenge could come from teenage star Katherine

Rednall. Or from Alison Merrien. She swept away Karen Murphy in the first

round. So we are set for another incredible week of Bowls and if it's

anything like the excitement served up last year, we are in for a

blockbuster. later on Stuart Anderson will begin

his defence of the singles title but first up it is Alex Marshall and

Paul Foster going for an unprecedented fourth straight

success in the men's pairs. The 2011 world indoor pairs

champions, who successfully defended their world title. Pairs champions

for the third successive year. Paul Foster and Alex Marshall. It is very

pleasing. Especially to defend the pairs with Alex Marshall. We are

both relaxed and enjoying our Bowls. Paul Foster is the best player in

the world and we make a formidable pair.

So it's Paul Foster and Alex Marshall up against Greg Harlow and

Nick Brett. We are almost set for action so it's time to hand over to

Richard beer. Hoping to lift these coveted -- trophies for the first

time in their career, your appreciation please for Greg Harlow

and Nick Brett. APPLAUSE And defending this title for the

fourth year in succession, your appreciation please for Paul Foster

and Alex Marshall. It is time to join our commentators,

Andy Thomson and David Corkill. If Foster and Marshall were to win this

the fourth time, how big an achievement would it be? It would be

massive. The modern game is different with this portable rink

and the standard of play around is very high so it would be a massive

achievement. It took them seven or eight years to win the first one but

now they are very difficult to beat. When you look at it, you've got four

players on the provisional ranking list showing the top six. You've got

four of the very best on show today. Used only have. This is a hard one

to call. I agree with you, for top players. Really looking forward to

this one. The usual situation into

ballplayers, the first players lead and alternate Bowls. I really feel

Paul Foster and Alex Marshall will have to be on top form. I talked to

Paul yesterday and he thinks this will be their toughest test. I would

agree. Two good opening Bowls by Nicky Brett. He has been playing

superb. Paul Foster is also playing well.

Over the last few years in particular we had a situation where

we've seen Paul Foster taking over that mantle of Alex Marshall as the

best player on the circuit at the moment. He has four world titles and

Alex has five. Paul Foster has won all the other events as well. Alex

has said this is his favourite venue and Youghal was played well here.

Alex is playing exceptionally well. I suspect never Ball required here

for Greg Harlow to get into this because those two balls are

vulnerable. A slight correction from Greg. You would expect him to make

it with this one. It is looking good. This will be a heavy shot now

by Alex Marshall. He will be driving into this. Alex going to have a look

at the head. It looked good all the way. Made the adjustment. Really, he

has to come right in there. Damage limitation. There is a chance of

pushing the ball into the head and taking something of. It is a

forehand drive. Through the red Bulls. He match catch something. He

would be happy to take one or two out. Three down. He would be happy

to reduce the count to one here. Not a full driver. Controlled

weight. He's chasing it. It must close. -- it must be close. A big

start for the English pair. The value of the lead getting in.

Exactly. Nicky Brett's opening two balls all week have been excellent.

That is what Alex Marshall may be up against. I am sure Paula have a say

in this as well. -- Paul will have a say.

Some players don't actually play outdoor bowls. Greg Harlow is one of

those players. He is specifically an indoor player. Nicky Brett plays

bowls all the time. He loves the game. He plays all formats of the

game. Mixed bowls, club Bowls. He just loves the sport. I don't think

he'll be in the Commonwealth games though. He is out of favour with the

outdoor selectors. I think he is too good a player to leave out.

Greg will be looking for a little touch on the jack.

Alex Marshall's wife, Diane, provides flat -- family support for

this final. She's always there to watch her husband play.

This looks close. We are waiting for Nicky Brett to make a noise. Yes.

Well played. That is going to be no easy run for anybody in this match.

I would expect this to be fairly similar end at end. All players

playing well. You don't expect many loose ends. Alex Foch onto the

forehand and he is very close. He needs to Harriet passed his own

bowl. -- Harry it passed. Slightly under. This might just

block Alex out. It certainly doesn't help him. He can probably still get

around it. Alex is aware that his ball will swing around the shortest

green bowl. Just a draw. Alex likes the look of this one. If

he gets onto the green bowl, he could make three above this. Well

played! The Empire coming on to measure. --

the That is the sort of quality we

expect out of this match. All players are playing well. A great

bowl by Alex. 3-2, keeps the game tight.

24, this is a short length. Poulter does favour a shorter length. --

Paul. Both players favouring different

hands. Nicky Brett has favoured the forehand and Paul Foster the

backhand. A good reply. If you are a touch quick on that

hand it will go past. Greg and Nicky still holding the

one. This one has got a bit of work to

do. Alex clicking his fingers which

suggests it's probably heavy. A chance year for Greg. -- a chance

year. This quality of much has to go down as a space shot opportunity. He

would expect to draw another here. It just needs to bend. It's holding

up. There was a little touch on the red ball and I still think it is one

to green. That forehand just sticking a little

bit and not coming back to the centre. That has got as much to do

with the 24 metre jack. That will be the Scottish tactic because Nicky's

bowls will be slightly less bias. It was Nicky's ball that counted. Back

to his favourite length. 27 and a half.

He is allowed one bad bullet game. -- one bad bowl a game. He won't

have many. A lovely easy action by Nick Brett.

This one needs to stop. Didn't make the correction.

That is certainly looking better. It will be interesting to see if Greg

plays the forehand in this direction. I will put my mortgage on

Greg definitely not playing the forehand. He is not overly keen on

the forehand. This will be a backhand draw. And yet almost

everyone would think it's a forehand draw. It is just what the player

fancies and I have played with Greg a lot and he does favour his

backhand. And I would expect him to be close. He is on a good track.

It's all a matter of the weight now and here it comes.

That one looked good all the way. It was all about weight. He did not

want to move the jack. Alex is the same. He likes his backhand. This is

all about pace to get that. Slightly heavy. It is in a good place.

It would be ideal if he could get past the jack with this. This is not

far away. Well played, Greg Harlow! Absolutely perfect. It was perfect

for a second but the jack has now been brought out into the open. He

draws the shot but unfortunately moves it out and it gives Alex a

target. It all depends now how much weight he wants to play but you

would expect him to draw the jack through if he can get to that. It'll

have to be very good. He could make to out of it. It is a hard shot. It

is either a draw or a drive and I think he's going to favour the draw.

That is the drive shot if he wants to take the two balls out. He drew a

perfect ball on the second-hand -- second end.

He is running after it which suggests he liked it. I think he is

only slightly inside line with this. He is looking for the bend trailer

back. He was so close to getting the jack. What a great effort and it was

a very difficult shot. It was just about inch perfect. 6-2. A good

start by the English pair. At is another loose ball by Nick

Brett. He won't be happy with that. He is trotting up after this one so

he must have made a correction. It is good enough. It's not that but

it's not what he would have wanted. Nicky Brett will be slightly

concerned. How is the wait? It looks slightly

quick. -- weight. They are starting to struggle on the forehand side.

And the backhand is still available. We may see different tactics as the

game develops. Kept the line. He dominates the

backhand, it is such a reliable hand. They will roll them in all

day. This is just a draw for him, but he is coming up to see if the

strike is on. He can't strike it, he will be lucky to take out one ball

right and leave the others, but it is just a draw. I think so, just a

yard off his last delivery. Both players are looking at this

one. It is certainly better. It just needed a deep swing. What a ball. A

bit unlucky, just dropped back on the jack. Second shot, I think he

will be quite happy with that. He was two down and possibly facing a

three down. The ball coming in, catches the jack and unfortunately

moves it to the front ball. Still one down.

Alex at a very wide on this, as he should be. -- out. Frightened to go

near the head, basically. Sensible. A little discussion about what jack

length to play. Alex is leaving it to Paul Foster and I think when you

are playing pairs, it is so much about the lead. Just let them play

whatever length they are happy with. That is why he said to Paul, I am

happy to play any length. And not surprisingly, Paul has gone short.

It was either going to be short or long. Just about making it. Jack

length 23.5 metres. Half a metre up from the minimum length.

On the forehand, hasn't really been totally successful on it, and

sometimes when you are not, it is worth moving to the opposition side,

if only to disturb them. At this length, he has decided to play the

forehand but his form has slightly dipped. Pressure on them here to get

a good close ball. Needs to give great something in the head. --

Greg. It was a big bend he was looking

for. That is better. Paul is saying to get in first,

there is still a draw the four Greg -- there for Greg.

Alex likes it. Just trying to beat the two red balls. Solid and drop.

This looks like it is going to need some treatment. He won't be hanging

back with this one. It is in the area. Great strike.

That could be interesting, because this may be lying to shots. I think

you have do put one on the card for somebody. It is difficult to get

close to the jack. Not only that, no matter where Alex puts this... Is it

one down or two den? That is the crucial question. No matter where he

puts this, you would expect Greg to go for it. Sleeper that is what Alex

is saying, if he goes close, then Greg will go for it -- that is what

Alex is saying. It looks so easy, but anything within five feet would

be enough for Greg just to draw. If he goes within three feet... Greg

will go for the ball. Just scored a shot or get the shot

close enough. It is well past a short one. Good enough. A couple of

feet past the spot and that is where he has gone too. Greg will try and

draw this now. Looks like the winner. Yes, it looks

good. Sometimes you just have to play into the single shot and leave

it at that. Probably got a little bit closer than he wanted to, but he

was three down went he went to play his first ball, he turned the head

around. It is your favourite comedy drawn drive. Closer to the them was

comfortable, but... -- it is your favourite, the drawn drive. So keep

some pressure on them. The jack is cast slightly further, I

would think this will help Mickey Brett. -- Nicky. Finding the centre

length easier with this. This is very much all about Nicky

Brett coming back into the rhythm again. It is better and Greg will be

very happy to see that. Yes, that is more like Nicky Brett. He has had a

couple of ends off, let his skipper do the work.

I lose one -- a loose one. Such grant of next, sees himself on the

screen with his girlfriend. The lad from Croydon, what a challenge he

has up against the defending champion -- Josh Grant is up next. I

spoke to him earlier, he is quite confident, and drawing quite well. A

talented player. Greg does not want to build this had

any wider. -- this head clicking the fingers. It is OK.

Sometimes, drawing a third is not a good idea. I think it was by

accident. It is almost a case of leaving this open for Alex.

Is he good enough to draw the shot? He certainly on a good line. It is

all about weight. It is a great ball, well-paid Alex Marshall. --

well played. And it has stayed up as well.

Will he bend? Just didn't move the jack the way he wanted.

Two or three inches to draw another. Not exactly a spare

opportunity, but at this stage of the game, he will be thinking, I

will have a go. I think he quite likes it. I don't think he has

enough. It wasn't far, but it was being

careful. It stretches things a bit, 11th ends to play to, four to go,

three shots behind, there is time. I'm glad you reminded me, David, I

had completely forgotten about that. You know all of these rules and

regulations, there is always somebody in my here to remind them.

-- in my ear. 23 metres, so this is about two

inches above the minimum. The pairs final is, of course,

always popular. A massive crowd in today. Large crowds, really, since

the beginning of the Championships into the finals week. As it seems to

step up a gear. Completely sold out, I believe, or not too far away

from it for the rest of the week. It is amazing how the players talk

to the ball. It will do nothing other than what it wants to do but

you talk to it anyway. But it has to happen, you have to do it, to

generate something else. Nicky is right on top of it again, keeping

the pressure on. Nicky Brett takes full advantage, pushes the jack

back, that is a good two. Probably the back for Alex. Personal

choice again, they have been favouring the backhand, those

players. Do you remember the book they

produced a while ago, it was very funny, full of jokes and quips, and

it was called A Load Of Old Balls, worth getting hold of a copy of it.

This is a big problem now. I would expect Greg to draw another here,

giving aspects problems. It is very good. Doesn't want to bring the jack

out into the Open. That changed it, a little bit unlucky a great ball

from Greg. Would have preferred to have left the jack alone. Gives Alex

a slightly better chance. A bit of a chat about it, looking

into the options, the draw and the backhand is available. Not

particularly easy but a big turnover available on the forehand and it

depends on what he wants to use. If you go slightly over the weight, you

can be in trouble but if he can stretch the jack back into that

position... It is a difficult weight, that is why they are taking

their time. It is a yard on title shot, but we know how difficult that

is. It brings that ball interplay, so you are looking at double

situation. Certainly worth looking at it -- into play.

There is another ball at the top of the screen, which you couldn't see,

which is giving Alex problems. Yes, there is a ball around three or four

yards short of the jack. This is a pressure ball.

Inside the line, it has to have weight or it will pull across. It is

not easy, it was a hard type of shot to play. Very difficult. Alex pushed

the red ball, it might just be too down. -- two down.

It also stopped Greg playing his favourite backhand. Yes, not as

confident on this site. -- side. It looks very good. Certainly a third.

And it looks like four. That really should seal up the set,

even with three ends to go. 11-4, very difficult to see Alex and Paul

coming back in this set. Jack length, 27 metres.

It is unusual for players to come from the same club and compete at

this level, but that is the case with Harlow and Brett. They have won

a number of national titles together. Yes, a lot of good players

have come out of that club. Obviously, the top two are accurate

three and Nicky, to England skippers. -- on Greg and Nicky.

Nicky is back into the groove, I think. Apart from this one! Don't

say it, Andy, just don't say it! There were signs with Paul on the

very short jack length that he was getting on top of things, but he has

been rather inconsistent. Yes, he has, he will not be happy at the

moment. Such a talented player, I am sure he will come back stronger in

the second set. Playing really well, is Greg. The

best player on the rink, I would say at the moment. Yes, any time he has

looked as if he is in bother, he has pulled out a very big ball, either

on the driver or the draw. He has been superb, the difference in the

two teams, I would say. This one needs to run. At the

moment, Harlow and Brett Lycett. -- lie set.

Greg having a look at this, probably doesn't think he needs to put

another ball into the head. Probably saying that to Nicky. It is a set

lie, don't need to play the last two ends. I wouldn't go near this,

especially not with the backhand, it just gives Alex a target.

It is a tough shot for Alex to even get close to it, never mind get the

shot. The set lie against it adds a little bit of pressure. It looks

like the forehand, keep away from the head.

That is good. Yes, it didn't need to be close. Probably closer to the

centre line than he was hoping for, but I think he was just saying to

himself, is there any chance Alex getting down and taking my two

balls out, I don't want to lose a three under four? -- and 84. I think

both of the players realise here, saying one is no good. Let's have a

look at what is going on, trying to see... The natural shot would be to

come down on the ball but even taking the green ball out and

staying in its place, it is only a single and that is not going to

crack it with two ends to go. He has looked at the forehand, nothing

coming in that I can see. It looks to be impossible. Paula saying, "I

don't know how you are going to get the shot" . Scratching his head, it

doesn't look good. He's going to try and punched the green ball into it

and hope that the jack moves forward, or something -- punch. This

is Luke Shaw. Even Ronnie O'Sullivan would be struggling here. -- this is

a snooker shot. Too wide. That is it, the first set

to Harlow and Brett and deservedly so.

It is comprehensive, no doubt about that. They restricted the defending

champions to scoring in for ends, two and two singles. Big counts of

travel and a full house of four in the first set has eased Nicky Brett

and Greg Harlow into a very strong position. I was talking to Paul

Foster yesterday and I was saying to him, of all the players playing, 80%

will be magnificent but if any power struggles a tiny bit, the others

will take over and that is what happened. Greg has made a few

conversion balls, that is the difference. Paul has changed the

length here, we have not had one of these, a long length. And rightly

so, he has too change their tactics. -- has two.

I think Nicky Brett will be happy with this length, slightly more

biased ball, it won't put him off. Both players short of the target.

They will adjust for the next one. Spike right Alex giving Paul a bit

of encouragement. Time to get one on the top.

Alex Marshall and Paul Foster are a very popular pair here, but I think

you can feel the crowd with the local pair, getting behind them.

Well, we are in England, so you would expect a bigger support for

the English pair. I think the crowd have always been fair, they just

want to see good bowls. Just a slight disturbance, so

restart, change of ball. Alex has always had that lovely,

smooth delivery, it hasn't changed throughout the years. . Certainly

looking good with this one. He has drawn it, well played, Alex.

Every time Greg has been asked a question on this backhand, he has

reduced the goods. It needed the red ball to fall out.

Great try. Same thing for Alex, if he can get

up to the green ball I don't think it is running.

Nicky has already called it, a choice of shots. Hit the target and

take the red ball out or draw the shot. He's looking for the little

rattler in here. I'm not convinced about that shot, because Greg has

been playing this backhand so well, you feel he could draw that. But it

is possible for the red balls to go in and take their own two out but I

don't think it is really worth it. Nicky is such a positive player, I

think he fancies the forehand runner. If you catch any ball here,

you are going to take the red out. He always favours the positive shop.

Dash and delete -- shot. Greg dropped away four or five inches

short, I think he has listened to Nicky and will play the forehand

runner. Running through it. Lots of chances.

He was under the line. One shot, Foster and Marshall. It was off

target but nearly got the shop. -- shot. Alex had a few chances.

That jack looked about two inches out. I think there's a mark on the

carpet, that's what it was. There was a little chalk mark.

Paul was paying attention when he realised it wasn't on centre. He is

dropping far too many balls short. That seemed to stop very quickly.

Once you get into the centre of the rink, it is a slow the ball down. I

think this is a lot that. -- a lot better. It is certainly a lot better

than his first one. Judy Potter in her usual seat.

Resplendent in powder pink,-that is called.

Baby pink is just a bit stronger than that! I will take your word for

it! Back to the balls. Just a draw here for Greg.

He likes the look of this one. Great try.

A sign of a good pay is when the lead is not in your skipper covers.

He wants to be gentle with the jack. I think he is still holding

onto it. Yes but he has given Greg a chance. This shot is difficult. I

think you just draw it. If you touch the jacket is a bonus. -- touch the

jack, it is a bonus. He must like it. Not enough. He

needed a thinner edge. He had the weight.

Wonderful international arena here at the Potters Leisure Resort. Paul

has had enough of these 29 metre lengths. Anything shorter would be

good for him. Short again. He is surprised that

back. -- surprised at that. Alex will be wondering why Paul has just

not founded today. Very unlike Paul Foster. Nicky has not really

punished him. Alex still encouraging him.

This looks a better line. It is certainly a better weight as well.

That is so much better. Paul knows it shouldn't take him to balls to

get there. But he has given Alex a very good chance. That is a good

second. Paul just looked up and look at his

watch and said, at last I've got one close! It is like having Big Ben on

his wrist. I am surprised he does not fall over with the weight of

that watch! It is absolutely Joe enormous! I think you need that! It

might help me. This is a decent line. It just needs to hold. That is

really good. Right up in front. That's what the difference is if

your lead gets in. They have made a good start here. A bit of pressure

on Greg. He needs to play a really big ball.

He has really played this hand well. I think it is just going to go

through. A great effort. It looks to be on a slightly

narrower line. Not running. This might be a positive shot here

from Greg. He is looking at the green ball into the head. He is to

down so we can't be any worse off. Andy has been playing the draw

rather well but there is an alternative on the forehand. He has

got shoulder to come off. He is looking at the backhand. Either of

these into the header to move the jack. They are a long way to push

in. Certainly no guarantees. I think he is going to probably try and draw

this. He is very close. He is very close

with this. Still too down. Two to Scotland. A good effort but it is

exactly what the defending champions wanted. They wanted to get off to a

good start. I think Paul has abandoned the long

end. Going more three quarters. Just a matter of time. It is going

to make a massive difference to this match. I am sure Greg and Nicky will

be a of that. A good reply from Nicky Brett. Well played.

They might be a position ball already. -- they might be.

Alex does not need to go near this. Paul's all is touching and Nicky's

all about the quarter of an inch. That means it will be a draw for

Nick Brett. He is normally quite accurate with

his forehand runners. That is what Greg has asked for.

He is on target. Great strike. On the response, start over again, as

Greg said. I thought he might have drawn that because he was so close

with his first ball. I agree. He just needed to touch the ball but it

now becomes a two ball singles between Alex and Greg.

He is certainly very wide. Right on the edge. A good weight. Still room

for Greg. He is on the front inside edge of the matter to hold the ball

up as long as possible. -- the mat. The bowl will stay as long as

possible on the line. There is something disturbing him. It was

just in his island. -- his eye line. Greg realises he has to go very wide

to keep his ball up. It needs to stop. The extra weight is holding

it. This looks too wide. He has gone

off. Side ditch. That is the problem with the eager swinging ball. You

really have to go very wide on the re-spot. His first ball was three

inches away. Slightly wide and it goes off. It has left the door open

for Greg. This looks better. It certainly does. They are on the card

in the second set. A long way to go. Seven ends. Even in a tight game,

you are talking about potentially 25 ends, that is usually enough to

separate layers. Yes, normally at this level. The Scottish pay will be

happy now they have started this set better and they are playing better

balls. They will feel as though they are back in the game.

Nicky quickly moves his hand. It needs to stop though.

It certainly looks fit again. -- had. That is more like Paul Foster.

Does Greg Harlow try and draw it off orders he come through it? He has

played the backhand so well in this direction. I think this is just a

draw. At that was a lovely ball I Paul Foster. If he starts to get

into its form it's going to be very difficult for the English pair to

hold them off. Greg is playing the forehand. It is a runner then,

surely. I am slightly surprised. He has played the backhand so well on

the draw. He has got it. Very good ball.

A great strike from Greg but Alex has got about 15 inches here. Paul

is not sure if he has pushed through this. If Greg puts this one on the

nose of it, it will be a really good recovery. Massive recovery if they

score a two-year. Paul is already applauding this

bowl. Well played Greg Harlow. That is exactly what the hearings are all

about. -- that is exactly what good hearings are all about. Greg Harlow

has been the player of the game so far. This is close. It is just

whether it gets back in time. It held out slightly. Halfway up, they

both thought that was going to make it. A big turnaround in that end. By

that man. A lot of this match has been down to the recovery bowls by

the skippers. Greg Harlow has been winning that particular area.

Good lead bowls. The shop is against Craig. -- the shot.

A couple of feet, that was all. He could give the shot away here and

actually still be better off in some respects. I would agree. They could

probably try and put another ball in there. He is going to try and draw

and hopefully not move the jack. He is better of a losing one rather

than the potential of losing three or four.

Too frightened to go near it. You can't blame them.

Alex thinks it has finished in a good race but I don't think it has.

There is still room around the ball. If you can remove that all, you are

talking about bringing it through to hear. If the jack moves across into

this area, you've got four shots and not only that, then the short ball

is hampering him. I don't know if Greg is looking at a drive here. I

think it is just a draw. Greg was so close with his opening delivery. You

sort of know that Nicky is such an attacking player and Greg has to

think to himself, I have to be strong enough here to play

mailshot. -- strong enough to play his own shop. -- shot. He is too

heavy. It will get back. -- it won't get back. I am surprised Alex is

going down to play this. There is no way he is going near this head. Even

my own favourite Highland drift would be too risky year. Just take

the one. He is on the line to draw. Paul is

saying, what are you doing? That was courageous. He could have easily

given three away. He was confident enough to draw another. A big crowd

here as expected. The perfect venue. Best venue in the world to play

bowls. That is what they all say. All the facilities available and big

crowds. And a bracing walk down the beach to build sand castles! Wear

you down there this morning? No chance!

Still an intriguing game. You just feel this is going to go to a

tie-break. It is looking slightly that way.

This looks good. This looks like the winner. Well played. Not an easy

hand, the forehand. But very playable. Here we see Nicky Brett

changing to the forehand. He plays the perfect draw. He makes it look

easy. I have watched a lot of people practice but it's probably 80-20.

People favour the backhand. This is just a draw here from Alex. This has

to have very good weight. Perfect line, finding centre ring.

He can still draw this on the backhand, it is Greg's favourite.

I don't think he has quite got the pace. Just inside. Two feet, mate.

Alex running after this one. Yes, it is a lot closer. It needs to hurry

to get past the green one. He is dropping shot.

It was a risky one, but your weight was good last time.

This is not easy for Greg to score another, but he would be the shot

away, so this this the confidence. -- this is for. I don't think he is

running. He is going to drop shot. Keeps things nice and tight. The

England players are still in good shape at the moment.

Good starter. The Rumford home in the last four ends one pair looking

for a tie-break, the other looking to be champions.

A bit of a problem, because any lengthening of the jack and the red

is in the perfect position. Nicky would have wanted that one slightly

further. Just slightly through. Weight was nice.

Greg will probably favour the forehand here. Greg waiting for Alex

to come up. The 100 metres sprint therefore Alex. -- there for Alex.

These players know each other so well, they can have a little bit of

a lap in between but it is serious stuff. It is very competitive on the

rink. The forehand draw. They should get back. That is a

stonking ball. It really is perfect, he could not have walked

down and put it in there any better. Exactly what it wanted. It

is still draw rubble, four inches. -- drawable. He is looking at the

heavy shot. It is the easier shot, I think. I am happy with that, on

YouGov. If it catches the centre ball, the plant, both the balls will

go. He's catching the middle of the shortest green ball, in the centre.

Very close. He has got the jack. Great strike. A real bonus as well,

because the jack point forward off the green ball, they will have a

response, which will favour red. -- a re-spot. This isn't particularly

easy, slight pressure on this one. He has been drawing so well, Greg, I

would expect him to draw this. Taking his time. He has pushed it

out wide, it is a good line. Also do -- it is all to do with weight. Well

played, Greg Harlow. It is a big, big ball. It is not just the fact he

has managed to get the shot, it is where the shot is. But there is a

possibility here. There is a ball which is a toucher for red. If he

gets the drive, get the jack, you are talking about running that green

ball off the rink, which brings in this red one and this red one, and

there is already read in the ditch. Speak what I think Alex will be at

this. Jack gives him the shot, the drive gives him the shot. He has got

a toucher in the ditch. The chance of scoring three shots out of this.

He has also got to seconds, so if he does remove his closest ball, it

still won't matter -- two seconds. It looks wide, missed the chance. He

knew right away it was on the wide side. It has to go down as the

chance. Not a particularly easy one, but he would have been disappointed

to be that far away. Alex Tidwell, he was at least two down when he had

his first strike, -- Alex did well. Still keeps the set tight.

Jack Lynch, 25.5 metres. -- jack lengths. The

14 or 15 inches away, so still room here for Paul. You certainly

wouldn't want to get caught on that but he's not prepared to move on to

the forehand. 16 inches, he feels he can draw around.

It looks good. It is a shoulder for Greg to rest on.

He is asking it to keep running. He gets past that one. On another day,

he just clips that and it falls away. Nicky Brett will be happy with

that. Chlorine to get down, the weight

looks lovely -- clawing. No reaction from Paul, Paul feels it is against.

We slightly favoured green from our rings. Yes, I think it is. The rings

are very accurate. The camera is right over the top of the head, it

is all down to expertise at the end of the

The backhand is slightly blocked out there, so an awkward one, I don't

know where the best place to put this one is. Drawing beforehand,

just trying to get in amongst the reds, just in case? -- the forehand.

It is very difficult, because it is also tight. It gives Alex a chance

if he takes it wider. He is having a real go at this. Oh,

no. He has fallen back on the red. That is so unlikely. It has given

the shot away. If it was close, and it surely is not close now, that is

so unlucky for Greg. It has to be read now. Yes, a massive difference,

definitely one to read. -- red. You can play this with confidence on the

high side, just a little drop in. Desperately unlucky for it to go

wrong. Anything on the jack, I'm going to

be giving a shot away. I think there is a case are just taking the one,

Alex, here. One up, two to go, if you score another single, you are

two up going into the last end. Highline drift.

Try a wee draw, then. If I fall back on the jack, that is a problem.

Once again, I'm going to predict Alex to be short. I just don't think

he should be going near this. One shot, I think, is quite good here.

It is all about your own confidence, but they don't play this forehand

very often. Maybe it is better just not to go near it.

I am quite good at these predictions now. You are getting better,

absolutely. That was one not to bother with. I think Nicky will see

that Greg has been desperately unlucky. Greg may question whether

they should have gone near that. If you give the shot away in a

situation like that, it is never easy. Alex had a hard shot to

actually get the shot back, so it could be quite crucial, that.

In the run for home, the last two ends, Scotland looking for the three

end tie-break, England looking to win it. Good match, have enjoyed

this one. Yes, I thought it would be a good match. It probably won't win

the shot, but it does win the battle at the moment. I expect that to be

beaten. It is all that pace this time. Big

swinging ball, it will drop back, got to be close.

The way Alex and Greg have been playing, you think they could fit

their generic for balls inside that. Stay away from the jack. Unlucky.

Very unlucky. -- four balls. Paul has asked the forehand, I think Alex

fancies the backhand. That is why he is going to have a look. I can see

why Paul is thinking about the forehand, simply because that is the

shot that Greg is going to be playing. I reckon I am faster than

you expect this time, it is Greg's time to run up.

That is what Greg will be looking for.

He is asking for a yard on, Nicky, that is hard. You are asking for

perfection. Accurate three nose as well it is a difficult shot. Speaker

three he needs to bowl inside the normal draw line with an extra two

or three weight. -- feat in weight. That is a great ball, a wonderful

ball by Greg Harlow. He didn't have the extra weight to lift the ball,

but he had the perfect draw. Close for two, mate. And that is crucial.

It was a cracking ball, pushed the red, lifted it up and it dropped

back and the jack was moved. And that was the difference with Alex

Marshall not getting in with his first delivery. Alex is certainly on

the backhand now. I don't think Alex and Paul would be very disappointed

at dropping a one here, David, but two makes a massive difference going

into the last. Losing one, yes, they will still have to win the last end.

A big ball, this. The jack is available on the

backhand. If he gets it right, he could pick up three or four shots.

It looks narrow. Well, actually, the weight wasn't too bad at all, it was

very close. It was under the line. I think he has to be very careful. If

it is two, it is almost better walking away from it, because you

can come in on the forehand and drop his own ball away. If they favour

two, they can afford to lose one on the last end. The defending

champions are looking per to shot, then, that is a whole lot of

difference. -- looking for two shots. That is what Nicky is talking

about. He is saying on the high side, you are looking to bring in

the outside ball. -- off the outside ball. I would say you are better off

leaving it at two. He's playing the backhand. This has

to be very wide. And he is very wide. I don't think he is going near

this! That is the Highline drift shot but he hasn't pushed through it

and that is very sensible. Most of the players do favour two.

That is not going through, I'm going to put two down on my card. I agree.

Two shots. A little cushion here for the

English pair, who could afford to lose one but not two. Jack length,

28.5 metres. So Paul Foster and Alex Marshall, as defending champions,

playing in red all the way through the event. And Nicky Brett and Greg

Harlow in green. The fact that they have managed to

stay using the same colour bowls all through the pairs... That is OK,

good start. I think Alex is quite happy about the ball behind the

jack. I think that is why Paul deliberately made sure he was up

with this one. Nicky, again, a touch is required. That is never going to

be lost. He is better there. You are always better there than in front of

it. Try and drop a little bit. Just a

draw, draw the shot and hit the jack, it's a bonus.

You are close here, Paul. He is, you can see Alex saying it. He has got

it. He has the jack, definitely. Not only that, he has made two out of

it. Greg is having a look at this head, to me, it is a simple backhand

draw. It looks forehand but it has to be backhand for Greg. Very

pensive, the defending champions. This large crowd have really enjoyed

this. It has been a wonderful game. Not always the bowling, Andy, but

the tension. And this man has certainly been the best player on

the rink. Can he draw to win the game?

It is on a wide line. It is all about pace. I think it is too heavy.

It looks quick, no way it is getting back. Can't blame him, you're not

going to get anything if you are short. It is a set line against at

the moment. What does Alex do? Get a back touch in.

That one is holding off as well. Greg doesn't really want to change

the line very much, the cheque is still inside. Still have two thirds

if you want to ride it appear. Nicky, no! If I was Greg here, I

would be telling him to draw the shot on the backhand. He has played

that so well. It takes one ball out, he has then got 18 inches to draw

the shot, I would think he will draw it. He will draw the shot. The thing

is, if Greg pops one in there, it is going to be hidden out of the way,

it is going to be almost impossible for Alex to get a hand, whereas Greg

is saying, if I take the back one out, there is too much space.

Exactly, that is why it should be the backhand draw. I know that Nicky

loves the little runner, but for me, this has to be the draw. The

backhand draw. Nicky is looking at coming down here on the forehand,

the ball out here, or this ball out, but that space is just too big.

Exactly. Utah never delete you are talking about 18 inches in front of

the jack, 18 inches behind the jack -- you are talking about. There is

also the forehand draw, but I'm going to go back to Greg playing the

backhand draw so well. He could draw it on the forehand, the jack is off

centre towards the forehand, so it helps it a little bit. I don't think

he likes the forehand down here, on the draw. I think sometimes you have

to just say to your partner, "I really fancy playing this" . So

undecided, that is not a good sign, I don't think. Really taking his

time over this one. A little tap on the arm. Well, Nicky quite rightly

has encouraged him. Greg has chosen his shop. Once a skipper decides

what to do, you have to give him 100% backing. You cannot keep that?

In the mind -- you cannot keep that question mark in the mind. I'm not

sure I agree with this one. Playing the runner. He has taken one away.

It's too far. If there had have been a definite

three against them... I still don't think that was the right shot. He

did the best he could with it. Took the one out. Pressure on Alex here.

It seems quite easy in the commentary box to draw within 18

inches, but there's a lot of pressure on this.

There are very few people you would want on the matter more than Alex

Marshall. My money would be on Alex to draw another here. Forcing us

into the tie-break. He's definitely drawn another. Will

it drop? It hasn't, it stayed up! That is dramatic. It looked good all

the way. Alex Marshall and Paul Foster tightening.

What a dramatic finish that was. He couldn't believe it.

That length and distance, it looked an absolute certainty that ball

would have dropped back. It's a lovely wide angled bowl

coming in here to make the three early draws for Greg Harlow.

Another opportunity for the full house this time. Drops in, makes the

four. This was all very close, right up to

the 10th end. Harlow drops the jack back for the double. That gives him

the comfort of an extra shot. This bowl, will be looking at this for a

long time. It looked absolutely perfect on the swing. No one knows

how on earth that bowl didn't drop back into win the second set.

Very comfortable in terms of the ens one. 10-7. They were always a little

bit in front, the English pair. I'm standing next to this year's

champions. Congratulations to both of you.

Nicky, first of all it must be nice to get your name on that trophy,

especially against those two guys who have dominated it for the last

three years. Very nice. These boys are top class. They've shown it year

after year. It's nice for us to eventually get it. You came out

swinging, you were right on the top of your game. We have to be. Three

years in a row, it looked like they could win six in a row, they are

that good. We know that we had to play a plus. You've got the

microphones on today, we could hear some of the discussion on that last

bowl. What was the thinking? I leave the thinking to him! You took a long

time to decide what you wanted to deliver. The choices were to draw

the shot and it probably would have been the better shot have I have

been successful, but the margins were small. The option was to take

one out and draw the last bowl. All the way down the green we thought

he'd drawn it and it just held off and failed. It must be somebody up

there shining down for us. Another thinking question about, what were

you thinking when Hattie delivered that final bowl? Can somebody else

play it? The guys in the commentary box were saying if there's anyone

you want to deliver that it would be Tattie. How are you guys going to

celebrate tonight? Very quiet. The mixed singles start tomorrow, so it

will be a quiet celebration. If you believe that! It's not what your

wife has been saying up in the gallery! Your champions, Greg Harlow

and Nicky Brett. The applause just dying down for a

second but soon it will rise again, because it's time for the trophy

presentation. It is presentation time. Will you

please welcome your presentation party, the director of strategy for

Just Retirement, Mr Peter Borlee, along with the chief executive of

the world Bowls tour, Richard Madison.

First to receive their runners-up cheque, your appreciation for Alex

Marshall and Paul Foster. Now to the winners, receiving a

Langham glass goblet each, a check and the title of the 2014 Just

Retirement World, Champions, Greg Harlow and Nicky Brett.

They have finally gone and done it, ladies and gentlemen. The 2014 World

Indoor Pairs, champions, Greg Harlow and Nick Brett.

Congratulation to Greg Harlow and Nicky Brett, enjoying that willing

feeling here. Someone else who knows that feeling very well is the

defending men's champion, Stewart Anderson.

Only four men in the last 35 years have managed to successfully defend

their men's title. So Stewart Anderson, can he become the fifth?

Winning the title last year was the pinnacle of achievement for the

28-year-old. He comes from Ayrshire, a club which has a rich history of

producing top-class players, including six world champions, both

men and women. We caught up with Stewart as he prepared to defend his

crown. The famous one was Hugh Duff in the

indoor singles. I was not to see him play, it was a bit gutting for

myself. I'm still currently an international player at this time

and moment. We have the winners bored, I'm lucky enough to be on it

as singles champion. We come to one of the stars of the club, Carrie

Maclean, she won it at the age of 15. She went on and won the world

under 25 ladies singles at the age of 15 again. It's phenomenal for the

club and it's great for herself as well. The talent we've got in the

club is brilliant. It's good for the community here. Carrie McLean,

certainly a name to watch out for. Comparisons between Carrie and

Stewart's outstanding junior talent is coming through the same club are

inevitable. The club manager and junior coach remembers the current

world singles champion taking a little enticing into the club during

his formative years. When he first walked in the door he was a bowler

outside. But you knew he had natural talent. When he first came in, he

found was a totally different game from insight outside. It's more of a

game of skill inside. He had to polish it. He had to learn to just

work at it, a wee bit harder to finally train his skills. I always

said to him years and years ago, just play your bowls the way you

can, let them do the talking and it will take you around the world.

That's what has happened. I lost my very first game. I was ready to

chuck it will stop she tried to turn me around and keep me going. Now I'm

the current world champion, it's all down to Margaret. Stewart still has

a love of the outdoor game and may well feature in Scotland's

Commonwealth Games team in Glasgow 2014, but right now his main focus

is indoors, and his defence of the title he was so overwhelmed to win

last year. To play the final with that crowd, it gives you goose bumps

going back, knowing you are the world champion and has had a great

year. I can't believe a year has gone past already. I'm really

excited. There is no more pressure on me, I'm always laid-back and I

don't mind the challenge. There were over 100 people here when I came

back will stop all the people shouting and screaming when I walked

in the door. It was lovely to see them. No doubt all Scottish progress

in the tournament will be again cheered on by the members here,

where the Bowls club is very much the heart of the community. But the

people here know the unassuming lad from just down the road in the

village will be trying his very best to uphold the club's proud tradition

once again. He will watch every bowl that is played and televised, we

will watch the repeats and cheer him on. We would be totally delighted to

bring him back next year as the world champion. The previous two

world singles champions, Paul Foster and Andy Thomson, have gone down at

the very first hurdle when it titles were defended in 2012 and 2013

respectively. But as always, Stewart is taking a relaxed and

philosophical approach to the tournament. Don't underestimate his

ambition. The first year I went in I was an underdog. I still feel like

that. But if I walk out and play against Paul Foster and Alex

Marshall, I still feel an underdog. I still feel I can beat them.

The defending champion, Stewart Anderson, is hoping to fill the last

remaining spot in the last 16. I've been joined by Andy Thomson.

The two guys warming up, Stewart Anderson and Josh Grant. In the last

couple of years we have seen the defending champion, and I hate to

bring it up, going out in the first round. Tiller there's a lot of

pressure coming as defending champion. Myself and Paul Fella the

first hurdle. Stewart has a tough game here. There's a lot of

pressure. That is why defending champions have sometimes not

produced a good performance. But it is possible that Stewart is the type

of player that a lot of people could be thinking that he could have gone

to the top a few years ago, people thought he was the next big thing.

He lost in the final to Greg about four years ago, he came back last

year and he's a talented player. I must ask you about Josh. He's 19, a

shop assistant in Waitrose. He has had to play - Machtig time off work

to be here today. It's a big day for him in front of the BBC cameras and

up against a player of that ilk. How does he cope with it? He's from the

same area. I know him very well. He's quite a calm, cool type of

person. I think you will cope quite well. Josh Grant up against Stewart

Anderson. That is our next match on the BBC. Making his first appearance

on this portable rink is this national under 25s runner up. From

Surrey, give it up for Josh Grant. Josh takes on twice a world under

25s and the defending world indoor singles champion, Stewart Anderson.

MUSIC: "Jump Around" by House of Pain.

Fascinating game, two young players. Stewart Anderson at 28 stop young

Josh Grant is only 19. I've been joined in the commentary box by

world champion and many times runner-up, John Price. Thank you,

David. It's an interesting clash, this one. Stewart is a young man

with a lot of experience. This is a whole new ball game for Josh. David

and Goliath you might say. An element of that.

But sometimes when it comes to the youth side, John, you get the

situation where it just doesn't faze them. Exactly. We could all go back

to our younger days, you just went on the green and rolled the bowls,

sometimes the more you know the more difficult it becomes.

Stewart Anderson gets out of the blocks pretty quickly generally, so

it will be very much up to this young man to try and hold on. Keep

him under pressure. He will have a lot of support here, I feel. Yes,

and he's started well. Stewart, this is what he is renowned

for, he will draw a lot of close bowls, try and surround that Jack.

Josh's main supporter is his girlfriend there.

He's just missed his line with that. Stewart has settled very quickly.

I might be tempted to have a little runner here. Yes, he's going for the

runner. That looks narrow. I always felt the first end of any

match, you are a bit nervous. No matter how experienced you are, it

doesn't really matter. You want to get into it and you just want one

bowl within five or six inches, just to take the pressure off, to settle

into it. Stewart Anderson's popped three in there, missed the chance of

a full house. Additional pressure, being on

television for the first time for Josh. It's very easy to think that

players just arrive at the portable rink and play like they do back at

their home club, but it's not always the case.

Stewart Anderson will be taking no risks with this young man. No place

for sentiment in a portable rink when you are defending your title.

You have to get in, treat him as if he is one of the best in the world.

Try and get the job done. If Josh can score a few shots and keep

straight under pressure, that will build the match.

Just the one at the moment. Still therefore Stewart. The movement on

the jack is good, but he will just draw in at the moment, just a reach

and draw. Recovery boar, last delivery. --

recovery bowl. Perfect line, he just didn't push

it. This is the marker for this match,

Alan Thornhill. Very experienced. Commonwealth Games, the outdoor and

is one of the panel members. A little bit of room there. It's

important for Josh to take these opportunities, he is not going to

get too many loose deliveries out of Stewart.

Stewart Anderson spent some time in Wales. Moved back to Scotland, spent

a year or so down there and moved back to Scotland. Suddenly his game

just seemed to build up again. Yes, I think Stewart is probably a

Scottish boy at heart. Didn't really settle with the delights of Wales.

Josh just falling a little bit short on the overcorrection.

This is better, this is more like it. Stewart Anderson missed a chance

to close the door. That will make him feel good.

Josh has got to look at maybe applying a bit of pressure to

Stewart and see what Stewart comes back with.

Big effort, really good try by Stewart. He's done it again. A bit

of space, but once again the last bowl delivery of Stewart Anderson

gets in. Takes a shot away from Josh Grant. That's not going to be easy

to beat. Doesn't waste any time on the mat.

He's sticking to the forehand delivery.

The last two ends have been a little bit loose, but Stewart Anderson has

come in with the last delivery to make it count.

Well, a bit unfortunate. It slid across the face of the jack.

That's another good ball from Stewart. Well, Josh is having a go

at this. Always on the right side though. That's the problem he is

going to face if he does start attacking. If you are missing, you

can get yourself in a lot of trouble against somebody of Stewart's

capability. He will be in a heap of trouble, there is no doubt about

that. It is fine if you are hitting well, but once it starts going

wrong. Stewart put another one in behind. So the problem here for Josh

now, he has gone with the second ball really. There is no difference

in position so you would think well, he will go again. At the back of his

mind he is thinking "If I miss again, I would be at a four." Well,

that's a good hit. Well played. APPLAUSE

He came in after it as well which is good. I will give him good credit

for that because he was, he could have easily gone back and he decided

that's the right shot to play. He ditched the jack. Plenty of nerve.

Oh, absolutely. He is giving it a good go. Oh, I

don't believe it. Right up to the edge.

APPLAUSE And Josh was thinking to himself, "I

have got a chance here." The shot is against him and to be truthful with

you, it is going to be a hard bowl to beat that, John. You can see it

on the drive, it would be worthwhile going for it. He is playing, it,

Dave. Great ball. A great shot. Well

played. Clean as a whistle! APPLAUSE

The 19-year-old is on the card. Always good to see. It should settle

him down a little bit. A couple of great bowls there, John? Yes, a

gutsy performance. Two good hits. He will be feeling good now. His heart

will be beating a little bit faster and he will be chuffed. That could

be the catalyst to put a few balls on the jack.

That's the idea. Longer jack lengths.

And Stewart's dad Billy comes down to watch him and an excellent baker,

I think it is fair to say, John. He usually has a tin of goodies for

folks here in the background. We will have to order a few doughnuts

and get some in the commentary box. A couple of hot cross buns. There is

no chance, mate. Those back there will have eaten it all!

You are forgotten about up here. We have got jelly babies so we can't

grumble. I love my jelly babies. Stewart is in again. That's the

problem Josh will face. Stewart is monotonous on the draw and he will

crowd the jack. You need to be matching him really, David. Yes, it

is all about weight with this one. He has good line. He pushed over it

and Stewart has to cover those. Stewart, anything past the jack here

is good. He could be in a situation of allowing a third shot. A good

looking line. Here it comes. Yes, there is the cover ball. Maybe a

little bit further required. A jack is possible to go now, but you know,

what do you do here John? Do you play a similar ball? Do you take the

risk? I think he has got to be tempted to play just through this

and hope that he gets the jack. You could leave it short and you think

well, that's no good, is it? Well, he is going for it on the other

side. If he misses, he will certainly lose a four. It is in the

area. Good connection. Oh well played. Very well played. That's a

good connection, Dave? Very good connection. Three down to four up by

the looks of it. He will be wishing that had been the last bowl. I think

he picked the right shot there. He played right through it. It was a

bigger target. He played it well. I would expect Stewart to draw second

anyway. He will not be looking for the shot. That really would be a

bonus. Yes, so he is certainly wide enough, there is no doubt about

that. It is all on the weight now. How is his weight? If he is quick,

he is in trouble. Oh, he just caught the ball. If that was past the ball,

I think he would have been drawing it. I think he would have been

drawing it as well. He missed the green. Stewart will have a look. One

green. Well, he has done well so far. He

has been under a bit of pressure, but he is playing good recovery

shots is Josh Grant. He is only three behind. And five ends played.

He just needs a couple of descent ends and all of a sudden, he is

right there. Well, that's better. He made the

adjustment. You just feel he is not far off playing a really steady game

here. Stewart has loosened up a little bit.

A nice easy delivery from Josh. Nothing too complicated there. A

good line in. Yes, he is trying hard. This should drop back in for

another shot. APPLAUSE

Still more than enough room for Stewart Anderson.

Yes, that's number one. Well, that gives him an opportunity. He was in

a lot of trouble. I just wonder will he have a little pop at the bowl

bearing in mind his success with the running bowls.

That looks wide. As soon as you put the extra weight on there is just no

chance of it getting back. That's the hard shot, John, isn't it? He

was just over a yard of weight, but he doesn't get back on the higher

line. This is a nice draw for Stewart. He

could add another here. It takes him away again. Well, that's a definite

spare shot opportunity. Plenty of room. There it goes. Sliding in. Not

a problem. APPLAUSE

He is going to get the odd loosish end with a young and inexperienced

player and you have to take advantage of those, John, but

claelically, we are talking about four ends where we have had single

shots scored, that's tight stuff. So it is a nervous first end and it was

a little bit loose in the last, but apart from that, if he can keep it

nice and tight. I always think defending champions are a bit

nervous anyway. Yes, it is never easy coming back to defend a title

and Stewart would have wanted a good start and really this is a good

start from him. It is a comfortable start. He has got a five shot lead.

He would be happy with this. He is getting the first bowl in more often

than not. A good start by Stewart Anderson.

Well, that wasn't intentional. I think he was trying to get past the

red ball. Well, that's what I'm saying, Stewart Anderson came out

and packed it in. He grouped the three balls together, but hasn't

really done that since. Josh really needs to get himself going with the

first two bowls. That's more like it. That's t idea.

-- that's the idea. Well, you play a similar bowl. No

danger. A good green. This goes again. Big

effort. Well, that's surprising from our

angle. Yes. It is often quite hard to tell. Stewart Anderson is a quick

player. Well, if you can miss the front one or push it in, he has got

a chance. That was harsh on the young man.

That was a long way away that bowl and to finish there and through a

gap as well, John. He wasn't intending that. Stewart is a good

sportsman. That's bowls for you! Stewart will always acknowledge

that. There are some players you play against and you usually find

them at the club that will never acknowledge a fortunate bowl, but

the top players always do and Stewart is a gentleman on the rink.

I think Josh you are inside the line with this. Unlucky to lose a single.

It can be a cruel game. Yes, small margins. A tough old game. Well,

girlfriend Nicola is not saying too much to mum.

That's a good reply. Well done. Two great bowls from both players.

You can't imagine the jack ending up where it is, John, you know after a

bowl like that and it actually made it somewhat harder. A big wide draw

here so he will drop back. This is pretty close as well. Yeah, it is a

good bowl there. He is trying to push his own green

bowl. Well, that was a good effort on that side with that weight. Well,

a front plant would have been perfect, but unfortunately, he

didn't get back in again. That's a good bowl at the back. A really good

try with that weight as well from Josh. Stewart might just leave this

and drop around the back. Well, it is a set lie situation. So point in

being brave and going chasing shots when you don't need them. Positions

far, far better. A good effort again, David. Same

thing. Oh, that's a really good try. Very unfortunate. A solid

connection. It is such a hard shot and he played it so well. And

nothing for it. He has got a sense of humour and he

can still laugh about it! I don't think he has seen too much amusement

in it. He is just accepting the fact that it is not going his way at the

moment, but it could well change. A good bowl by Stewart. That's about

as much as he could do really. I think he is going to play it again.

Same bowl and hope that it dips the extra inch or two and get the bowl

out solid and stay himself. He needs a double. One shot is no good, but

it is a bit of a practise shot for him.

Well, he is having another good go at this. A slight correction. Lovely

weight for the job. A difficult shot.

Well, it wasn't a walk over for Stewart. He had to play some good,

steady bowls. Josh Grant contributed to the set. He is going to have to

be a bit mor consistent. Josh is having to play too much recovery

bowls if you like. Too many weighted deliveries to get himself out of

trouble. Yes. A good bowl again. That's a better

start. As I was saying, John, it is all

about just that little bit of extra pressure if Stewart misses one bowl

he is suddenly two or three down instead of having lots of room to

draw. This just sneaks in front of the red and it has. It is a number

one. That's very good. He is asking a question of Stewart here because

this man is more than capable of delivering. You have got to do that.

You have got to put him in a position where he has got to recover

and he played a good end, Josh. This looks a little bit over played. Now

suddenly Stewart is going to have three or four against him with the a

last bowl and that can make you a bit nervy if you face two or three

of those. A good line again, Dave. It is all

about weight. He could be very close again here. Needs to run. He is

going to be a little bit unlucky. Well, unfortunately that's going to

give Stewart a shoulder. Josh knows that himself. He was very unlucky

with that. That was a good delivery and just didn't get enough ben.

Another six inches of bend and he is in the way, but he just left that

angle off that bowl. We just had a delivery of Christmas cake and

biscuits in the box here. It is one of our few guilty pleasures, John.

That's all. Well done, Stewart. Yes, he is going for the runner, four

against. Well, he looks like he is inside. He might take one or maybe

two away. Yes, he managed to get two away. Damage limitation.

APPLAUSE That's a good end for the young man.

A good start to the second set. He is starting to operate a bit

better now with the first delivery. A very good ball by Stewart

Anderson. Stewart Anderson provisionally

number ten. He is equal with Jason Greenslade in the World Tour world

rankings group, just behind you John. Yes, it is all very congested

in the middle part. It is nice to be fighting for the Champions League

spot rather than fighting for the relegation. I have been there a few

times in recent years. You could be there with Swansea the way things

are going? And Stewart is looking to improve his ranking position. Two

great bowls again there. This looks like it will be a little bit of

weight from Josh. He has been very good with the weight shot.

He doesn't waste any time. In the area, Dave. He gets a good run

through. Well played. That was the perfect way to play it. Just getting

off the ball and stun the weight out and carry through. He played well.

Yeah, a good shot. Stewart has to do it again. This is

looking good. And in front. A bit of a choice,

does he draw and try and keep it tight, so if he loses anything he

only loses a single, or does he go again and take the bowl out and

leave it to Stewart to have to draw the shot? I think he might be

tempted to go again. Even if he gets into the jack it's not a problem, if

he gets it off the rink. Running bowl and getting back down

again to dead weight is difficult at the best of times, but in the

portable rink you really need a lot of experience to play that shot. You

will think that Stewart will probably get in with this one. He's

got the line and wait, I'd expect him to draw another.

No mistake. Two beauties from Stewart Anderson.

You've almost got two sections of singles play. The first section with

the first two and then the second section. He played a really good

end. Stewart is shaking his head, as if

he thought that one was absolutely the same as the previous delivery

but it doesn't always work out that way.

This looks lovely line Stewart Anderson. Not quite. Good grouping,

though. Stewart Anderson doesn't go for the

big drive, he is conservative, he draws well. Think about the game.

Is very good bowl. It was a good end. That's the beauty. I quite like

the look of this loud as well. First time the rink and he's given a good

account of himself. Absolutely. What a bowl! Josh looking to score a

potential two shots in this end and suddenly sees it taken away from

him. There's not a lot you can do about that, when somebody plays a

bowl as good as that. There's not many people who can take a bowl as

good as that! Had to be there, had to give it a

chance. Opportunities abound for both

players. That's good stuff. A very good reply, good quality game at the

moment. Some good shots with the running bowl.

I think he thought he was closer than that. He had a very good line

in. For Josh, he really needs to be

playing the same bowl, rather than adjust anything.

Nothing easy about this one. He's not happy about it. Didn't push it

through. I think his line was pretty good, he

just didn't push into it. It may not be in but it's a very

good bowl. It is in. The rings say it's a very,

very close. A decent line. If he runs he's got

to run on that line. Big effort. That's the first real break in the

match. A little gap of four shots now. He will be looking to power on

the next couple of ends. A little bit of space here, Josh can

get in with the first bowl, he needs to score this end. Stewart's dad,

he's looking a little concerned. A quick thank you to Billy, the

shortbread is wonderful! Much appreciated. He never fails at any

event, does he? He is a good lad. The usual trap, isn't it? You try to

correct and you over correct. Stewart could close the door here.

He's stayed on the high side of the jack. The front bowl dropping down

as well. Two problems now for Josh. Stewart making a run for home. If he

gets this end he is in a strong position. He could just draw this

off and turn the jack around the corner.

It's a great effort, it really is. Drop back... Great bowl.

I'm not sure he's made the shot. The marker feels it's very close.

Stewart, you don't want the jack but if you hold to the bowl and drop

back you could make three. That's a beautiful delivery!

Josh didn't do anything wrong with his delivery, Stewart just came in

and aced him. Life is tough! He will play for it now down the

backhand, push into it, bowl on to bowl on the jack.

The damage has been done. This is a long way back for Josh Grant.

There are a few questions being asked of Stewart Anderson at the

start of the second set. He responded strongly, he played a

couple of really good ends. Get two troubles. He's made the break. Four

ends to go, seven shots up. The last two ends have been a big

blow for Josh. The lad hasn't done too much wrong really. No, he's

played some excellent bowls, he played a brilliant third bowl

against second shot. He lost the three out of nothing really.

It looks like it might be dropping a little bit. It has. Again, he's a

good line bowler, he's getting the line. He's played three bowls that

have made the centre line, but he's just missed out on his weight.

The score doesn't suggest how close it's been. Often the case.

Another great bowl again, monotonous when he's in this kind of form. To

be fair, he's had a bit of room in this match on a number of ends, but

he's come up with the big bowls to come up with the big counts as well.

This isn't easy for Josh. Well played, that's a great bowl.

Big smile. Goodlad well done. When you play a last bowl like that

it shows you have kept your nerve. We've seen some very experienced

international bowlers just crash out there. This young man is keeping his

nerve. Doesn't look like there's too much that will fluster him. He's

played some really good bowls, some good conversion shots as well.

There's lots of potential here. He will be more than pleased with his

first performance on the portable rink. He's just unfortunate to catch

somebody of the calibre of Stewart Anderson on good form.

Stewart is good, he will crowd that jack, make it very difficult for you

to score more than a single. That's what makes him so dangerous, the

ability to close out ends. I wonder if Stewart Anderson will be

tempted to run this now. It looks like a good target.

He shaved it! I wonder what Josh is going to do here. At 9-3, does he

put one in again and hope that it finishes a foot short? I'd gamble

and go again. He needs to drop back. I'm a little

bit surprised. It is a good bowl, but I'm a little bit surprised. I

thought he might have tried to block it. Stewart will go again.

He needed Stewart to miss that to give him a real chance in the set.

He made two goes at it. I think if Josh had kept his forehand, even if

he'd been a foot short scoring in the line, there's always a chance

that if Stewart had hit that ball, it might have locked in the green

and taken Stewart away. It was just too open, Stewart wasn't going to

miss twice. You've got to hope that somebody

strikes that they don't get that perfect connection. He played a

really good end again there. You would have expected him to have

adjusted. This one goes on the jack. Well... It's a little bit too

late, unfortunately. Josh will be thinking, why did I go with this

length jacket at the start of the match?

He's looking good again. That's a third, but again, the door is still

slightly open. If that had been in front of the jack it would have been

different. It looks like second bowl. That's

enough because if it keeps Josh to one shot, the match is over.

This is a difficult shot. He needs more than two, really.

He does, but it looks like he's just trying to draw it to me.

It looks like it's just the one shot. If it is, they will shake

hands. Yes, conceded, Joshua. The best he

could do was call four shots on the last end to make it a draw. Stewart

Anderson negotiates the 19-year-old from Croydon and send him home. But

a good defence of his title, and he's into the second round.

It was always going to be a tough draw for young Josh to get past the

defending champion. It certainly was. He pitted himself well,

particularly in the second set. He hung in there. Stewart finished him

off with some really good bowls. Stewart was really in good form

here. I think he will take confidence for the rest of the

tournament. This was coming into the first end will stop we thought this

could be very difficult. Even when he wasn't on target,

sometimes Lady luck smiles on you when you are the defending

champion. And moving into the second set, if

you see how this bowl turns around. Josh, again, line, possibly two

shots. Josh left with very little to play

here except to try and rest the ball off. Just didn't have the weight. It

is one shot to Stewart Anderson and he is through to the second round.

Josh, I will concede you first of all. This is a new experience for

you, playing in front of the cameras on the BBC against the defending

champion. How tough is that? Quite tough, took me a while to settle

down. I thought I played well in the second set. It was tough.

What have you learned from this experience? This carpet is tough,

so, yeah. We wish you the rest of -- Best of luck, you're only young, you

got time off work to come here. Before we talk about you, a bit

about your opponent today and the talent he has. Yes, he can play

bowls and he got forced to play over the weight, he had learnt to play

not those shots. He is young, he will be back here soon enough. I was

young here as well, the same as Josh. He will learn. I was speaking

to Andy Thomson, the last couple of men's champions have gone out under

the first round, are you glad to get that under your belt? I must admit I

was nervous coming onto the green, it took me four or five ends to

settle into my game. I was hoping it was not three in a row! Only four

other men have defended their title successfully in the last four

years. Does the weight of history ever enter your mind? I am just

looking forward to Wednesday now against rot. -- against Rob.

Congratulations, Josh, hopefully there will be more for you in years

to come here at otters. Well done to both of you.

Well done to Stewart Anderson, he is through to the last 16. Up against

him, we will find out who he plays, we will look back on the other last

16 match still act banding. It was between the former world champion

and Commonwealth champion Robert Weale against Michael Stepney, who

had to come to a tough qualifiers. We will pick this up in the

tie-break and once again, David Corkill is in the commentary box.

And alongside him we had Andy Thomson.

Robert Weale, seeded 16th of this world indoor singles championship,

really needs to win this match. He has dropped down to provisional 18th

for the season. The qualifier, Michael Stepney, from Scotland, from

Elgin. He won the first -- he won the first set comfortably, Robert ,

and now it is all too late for as Michael Stepney came back.

In tie-break situations, it only takes one good one or one lucky one

to win it for you, Dave. It is the way tie-breaks work, it is not a the

naked shots, you just have two when the end so the rules are slightly

different. -- you just have to win the end. They are not bad bowls, not

close enough. Michael Stepney has really worked

his way into the snatch. He was blown away in the first set. -- into

this match. Robert Weale was very consistent, but he had come back

strong, still not operating with his first bowl but the recovery bowls

have been good. He had been particularly good with the third

bowl. That was a good second bowl then, Robert needs to react to this.

A tighter line by Robert. It is in the area.

A portable rink, the jack bounces quite a lot. On some normal club

carpets, the jack almost touching itself to the bowl. -- the jack

almost attaches itself. He is looking for a good bowl to drop

back, he is high and wide. It is still useful. Three red, you only

need one. So what does Robert do, though the auger on the re-spot?

Probably the re-spot position, so anywhere where that last green bowl

is, or go past the re-spot. Cover the green bowl. I think Michael will

probably run the gamble. He is slow on the mat, Robert, and that time

clock is coming down. Two seconds, plenty of time! Not even close! If

the hooter goes off, you certainly hit. He has covered almost

everything now. He has got the re-spot covered, he maybe could have

done with a little more on that to have the best back. A big question

being asked here now. There is probably still enough room to draw

the shot. Time out called. Mike has three

time-outs remaining. He has got three bowls in the end, a good

cobble bowl. -- cover bowl. You campaign the percentages onto the

jack and try to run it all the way through the gap if you can. You

would have to be lucky on the bounce to get that.

It did not go right, because the jack is now off the confines of the

rink, it will go onto the re-spot position. It is the first end to

Robert Weale. He needed the jack all the way through. It depended how it

bounced. You had to get through a lot of bowls, a lot of timber there.

He was a little bit unfortunate. A good strike.

It is never certain to get the results, though.

We are back to Robert Weale's favourite position, 26.5 metres.

Using the mat on this backhand, the shorter jack linked, to allow the

all to pull back into the centre of the rink.

It is all the way back in again. That is a very good open up my

Robert. -- are very good opener by Robert.

That is good, that is really good. I think if I was Michael now, I would

be tempted to tap that. He has got to go with that one. He has got to

go into it quickly. He is in the area by the looks of it. He was

having a good look on the way down but the forehand just hold of. He

just started it little white, a lot of weight on that.

He is going for the blocks, he has got the re-spot fishing covered,

probably. That is good, a really good blocker. He may be would have

liked it to be a bit shorter. He did well to find the centre, a good

bowl. It is always a gamble when you play a bowl like that, if you do not

make the centre line, you could give the guy a target. If he is looking

at the re-spot, you have got a few. Really, I think he needs to be

crunching the jack in this sort of area to try and bring it out to

this. If he gets it absolutely right, it will be going into there

and it brings another bowl into play at the bottom. That is the way to do

it. You have got all of the options covered there!

I would go a little bit deeper than the green bowl myself now. I would

as well. He has got everything covered. Anything at the back of the

rink. Where are you going with this? He is

all right. That is pretty good, actually. He had not covered to be

truthful. It is a bowl to save the match for Michael Stepney.

Time out called. Mike has one time out remaining. That is really where

he needs to be. But if he is fortunate, in that sort of area, if

the bowl goes with it, he is trying to bring the jack through. If you

come with the jack into that sort of area, he could stop on it. He needs

a solid connection. Hope that his bowls fly through with it.

This is a really tough shots to play. Trying to wrest the bowl with

a forehand. It is never going to get back. That was never really going to

be on for me. A good end by Michael Stepney. He has fought back very

well, took it really back into Robert Weale but it is Robert

Weale, number 16 in the world, who gets through this first-round match,

and that he had to win, against the Scot Michael Stepney.

So the line-up for the last 16 is now complete. There are eight former

champions in there, and on tomorrow morning's red button coverage, we

will see Jason Greenslade against Robert Paxton. How does the betting

looks? Tomorrow on BBC Two, we are going to

show you the final of the mixed pairs, and we are going to take a

look back at how those semifinals unfolded. First up, the match

between the defending champions. Let's pick this up in the first set,

the eighth end and the defending champions are leading 7-4.

That is threatened a half. -- a foot and a half.

Keep coming, hurry in that line, hurry. Unlucky.

This needs to hurry a little bit. And David Gourlay has got his work

cut out once again. Very close, Paul. Very close, keep

running. Up again. That is the backhand blocked right

away. It is five inches short, he can come around it. Look at it in

the forehand as well. David Gourlay will be looking at the

options, he can clear the red bowl, he has got an available shot on this

side as well. Anything at the area at the back

would be good. He is close again. What a bowl! That

is a great shot by David Gourlay. He is playing very well.

That is going to be very hard shot to beat.

Paul Foster, he can draw it in there on the forehand. The difficulty for

him is, if he plays any pace on this, the jack is going to extend

through and that will give David Gourlay an extra opportunity to

score double. He has to keep it nice and tight, play it on the forehand,

let the bowl track back on the natural bias.

He is struggling for weight. It is not an easy spare shot for David but

it is important. David is looking at all sorts of

options to try and see if it would be easier to score an extra shots.

It is really, either side will work for him. The repeat of his last

bowl, or play it out wide in the forehand.

Didn't push through it. It is going to be a single. Still, keep them in

touch going into the last end, 7-5. David Gourlay immediately asking

Eleanor Gass to put a long jack lengthy in, try and listen this up

to have a chance, score a double, try and get something out of the

set. That's amazing, that's a good start.

Well played, Eleanor, very good start, well played.

A very good opening bowl. The skipper is always happy to see

anything within a foot when you are looking for a double.

Two feet, same again. Can he do it again?

David is just trying to get this one to stop little bit. It is better

through than short. Watching this one, but it seems to

be sweeping away very quickly. David Gourlay, happy to leave the

forehand of Paul Foster as he tries to get between the two red bowls. A

big dip needed. He has missed the chance. Surprised at that. I

expected David to have... This is going to come over.

Trying to get a really good close second shot. That is all he needs to

win the set. As Paul just said, not close enough.

I would expect David Gourlay to add another.

David Gourlay can come around on the forehand, nice and wide, try and

drop in on that. The backhand looks a bit sticky.

This is very wide from David Gourlay. He had to be on the wide

side but he has really pushed this one out, I do not think it will get

back. Having taken the first set, Foster

and Thomas sauntered home in the second, 9-1, and they are through to

the final tomorrow. But who will they play? Bullet the Andy Thomson

Greg Harlow? They shared the first two sets so we joined it at the

start of the tie-break. It's good. It's good, Catherine.

Well done. It looks good from number one. Just

sneak in. It looks good. It is all on the. --

it is all on the weight here. There it is, number one, three and

tie-break, things are different. It is not keen related shots, it is

just about scoring. -- it is not a keen related shots. That is a really

good bowl. Andy will be looking to try and

tight in this up little bit. Bring the jack between the two red bowls.

He is not even bothering, which surprises me a little bit. He is

going deep on the high side, in case Greg decides to have a go on it, he

has covered the re-spot position. If he has a go on it, the weight... If

you can get the jack back, I know there is that bowl there. He needs

the two red is clean. Yes, a controlled weight.

Never easy to pick out the line on the forehand.

He has got a connection, but I don't think that is going to make it.

They are asking the marker, whose shot, because they are not sure. If

it is that close, you have to draw the shot, Andy.

It could be green, cannot mess about with it. Looks like it is very