Captain vs Vice Captain Annual Match. Queen’s. Sat 7th March.
Everyone is looking forward to our Season Opener this Saturday, this time over the Queen’s Course, as the Captain’s Team takes on the Vice-Captain’s Team in a set of “friendly” Four Ball Better Ball matches (the sort of friendly that involves smiling while quietly counting your opponent’s shots).
As per the draw, the first two names are the Captain’s pairing, and the second two represent the Vice-Captain’s pairing. We’ll play a standard 4BBB match, with handicaps taken from the low player at 90% allowance. And yes—Winter Rules still apply, so feel free to “place” your ball… within the spirit of the game, not the spirit of a magician.
8:00 – Early fireworks
Michael Collier & David Frame vs Jon Cooper & Tariq Ali
A tasty opener. Last week’s winner Collier and Frame will be hoping to set an early tone, but they’ll need to keep an eye on Tariq Ali, who has a knack for popping up with a timely net birdie just when you’ve started congratulating yourself. And with big hitting, Jon Cooper alongside, this one has “tight all the way” written all over it.
8:10 – The pressure cooker
Eric Lambert & Scott Williamson vs Ken Marshall & Kevin Dickson
Eric Lambert—fresh from his trademark belief that golf courses should close at the first hint of discomfort—will be forced to confront the cold reality of an on-time start. Across the tee: Ken Marshall, currently playing like a man with unfinished business, and Kevin Dickson, who won’t be giving away anything. Expect momentum swings, and at least one “that’s a good-good, isn’t it?” conversation.
8:40 – Class vs craft
Rob Crockart & Prof. Jonathan Fletcher vs Sandy Grant & Tony Moran
The Professor arrives with form and credibility after recent strong scoring, but the Queen’s demands more than a good reputation—it requires patience and a short game that doesn’t panic. Grant and Moran are seasoned operators: if this turns into a gritty match, they’ll fancy their chances of turning it into a proper scrap on the back nine.
9:00 – The big showdown!
Daley Smith & David Bruce vs Michael Cantlay & Alastair Cantlay
A fascinating dynamic with the Cantlays teaming up for the Vice-Captain’s side—always dangerous when two players share both a surname and a similar view of what constitutes “acceptable” course management. Smith and Bruce will need a fast start to avoid being slowly squeezed by steady pars and the obligatory birdie or 10.
9:10 – The Hibbies match
Jonathan Dickson & Allister Wallace vs Alan Black & Ian Fisher
Here’s the one everyone will be peeking at. Dr. Jonnie Dickson, still surrounded by whispers of heroic scoring, pairs with the ever-competitive Allister Wallace. But Alan Black has been in that wonderfully unpredictable mood where brilliance can arrive without warning—and if he gets rolling, Fisher just needs to keep the machine ticking. This could be the match where someone wins it outright… or loses it spectacularly.
9:20 – Sexton watch
Scott Jack & Alan Penman vs Bill Sexton & Kevin Beattie
Whenever Bill Sexton is on the sheet, expectations follow. If he starts converting chances, the Vice-Captain’s team could be staring at a long morning. Jack and Penman will be aiming to frustrate—hang around, win a hole, keep the pressure on, and hope Sexton leaves the fireworks for someone else.
9:30 – Late drama potential
Paul Wadsworth & David Mitchell vs Andy Barton & Patrick Elsmie
Often the later matches decide everything when the early pairings split. Two solid pairings here: if it’s tight coming down the stretch, don’t be surprised if this group ends up being the decider—either with a heroic putt… or a heartfelt appeal for one.
Format reminder
4BBB matchplay
Handicap allowance: 90% from the low handicap
Winter golf rules in effect
All that remains is to start on time, keep the ball in play, and remember: it’s Captain vs Vice-Captain—so naturally it’s friendly. Officially.
Also, our AGM is this Friday at the Hotel at 7pm. If you have not confirmed your attendance (or non attendance if you can’t make it) then please do so now so we can confirm the final numbers with Gleneagles. Remember to wear a jacket and your club tie.