THE KING William IV hosted the first scotch doubles final in an enthralling game won by Billy United pair mark Ingram and John Farrugia.

The semi-finals were two evenly matched games, the first of which saw Jamie Stanton and Ian Hill beaten 3-1 by Mark Ingram and John Farrugia, before Whitchill boys James Hill and Ryan Rowlands edged out Castle players Wayne Hobson and Gavin Rowlands in the second semi 3-2.

The final saw a first for Barry pool in that it was live streamed on Facebook by Anthony Mullins.

The match started well for the Whitchill Hotel opponents and league poster boys James Hill and Ryan Rowlands, who led 1-0 and then 2-1, before Billy boys Ingram and Farrugia took frames four and five.

The pair should have won the sixth frame, but lost on the black.

At 3-3 and going into the final frame, none of the players were taking risks, with patience and a steady hand needed at every stage of the nervy encounter. Hill and Rowlands looked to be in control but an uncharacteristic mistake gifted a chance to Ingram, coolly potting his final ball to leave partner Farrugia with a simple black over the pocket to win a gripping final which was a credit to all involved.

The singles final will be contested by Ceri Morris and Ingram, who has had an excellent season.

The normal doubles final between Lawrence Klee and Jamie Stanton of the Whitchill against Bill United opponents John Farrugia and Ceri Morris will take place on Thursday, July 13 at 8.30pm at The Whitchill Hotel.

Presentation Night is taking place this Saturday, July 15 in the King William, hosted by Dave and Jo, with trophies being awarded at around 8.30pm. All are welcome.

The new season begins on Thursday, August 3. Entry fee is £50 for one team or £90 for two teams. The format is four singles, two doubles, four singles, two doubles -12 frames in total. There are two bonus points for a win and ties are settled by sudden death, in which potting the black from the spot will decide the winner. In this scenario, the winner receives one bonus point.

We are looking for players and teams of all capabilities to join the Vale's fastest growing pool league. Please phone Anthony on 07568 444180 or text Joe on 07870 498738 to join, or follow us on Facebook.