ROYAL Jersey Golf Club are one step closer to emulating the achievement of Les Mielles in the Hampshire County Sevens, following a stunning 4-3 victory away to L’Ancresse Golf Club.
Les Mielles claimed a famous victory for the club in 2023 after taking the Channel Island crown, before defeating the best Hampshire had to offer in the semi-final and final.
Now, Royal Jersey team captain Dan Burchell can turn his attentions to finals day at the back end of September at Rowlands Castle, after winning the last three matches to come from 3-1 down to win the Hampshire Sevens CI Final 4-3.
“I think it was a bit of a surprise for L’Ancresse on home soil,” said Burchell.
“They were very confident going into the match, but we showed a lot of fight and character from a tough position, especially on an away course.”
L’Ancresse got off to the dream start when Tom Le Huray edged past Kevin Therin on the first play-off hole, after the duo were locked after 18 holes.
But the visitors drew level after 13-year-old Aiden Wilson ground out an impressive 2&1 victory over L’Ancresse greenkeeper Wayne Moore.
Success would mark Wilson’s fourth win from four in the Hampshire County Sevens event.
“After Kev lost the opening match in a play-off after a great battle, young Aiden was once again fantastic,” added Burchell.
“He’s just 13, but he’s won all four of his matches in this competition and has shown great maturity to handle the pressure of the big occasions.”
However, L’Ancresse would take a vice-like grip on the tie, as Philip Greham was defeated 2&1 against Steve Mahy and Jason Byrne fell 3&1 to Jack Mitchell.
The fight was on, but the dogged Royal Jersey contingent were up to the occasion.
Paul Le Rougetel and Chris Huelin both won 5&3 against Sam Le Huray and George Melhuish respectively, leaving the game on a knife edge at 3-3 with Royal Jersey’s Sam Quail taking on Sean Mills.
Burchell said: “Sam has had a great season in Jersey Golf.
“For the last match, you need a cool head under pressure and Sam provided just that.
“He made a brilliant par at 17 to close out the match and to win from 3-1 [down] is something I’m really proud of.
“The lads all dug very deep and now get their reward at the back end of next month to fight for the title at Rowlands Castle.’
Hampshire Sevens CI FinalL’Ancresse GC vs Royal Jersey GC(Royal Jersey named first)
Kevin Therin against Tom Le Huray lost 19th holeAiden Wilson won 2&1 against Wayne MoorePhilip Greham lost 2&1 against Steve MahyJason Byrne lost 3&1 against Jack MitchellPaul Le Rougetel won 5&3 against Sam Le HurayChris Huelin won 5&3 against George MelhuishSam Quail won 2&1 against Sean Mills
Royal Jersey GC 4-3 L’Ancresse GC
