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Republic
of Ireland completed a memorable BUSA Home Internationals victory with
a clean sweep of wins against England, Wales, Scotland and Northern
Ireland.
And all Irish eyes were smiling as Northern Ireland took runners-up
spot and also claimed the British Isles title.
Terry Griffiths presented the trophy to Ireland's captain Derek Stynes
and to the delighted Irish squad.
Having warmed up on Day One with an 11-7 win over Wales and a 14-4 win
against Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland swept past Scotland,
Wales and England, winning all three matches 13-5.
Runners up spot was in doubt until the final frame of the day, as
Northern Ireland secured a 9-9 draw against Wales to edge England into
third place.
The host country Wales (left) had a bad weekend.
Having lost their opening match against Republic of Ireland 11-7 on
the first day, they then lost a team member overnight to a bout of
tonsillitis and had to rustle up a reserve.
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And their bid crumbled after a narrow 10-8 loss
of England. At the very end of the day they earned a 9-9 draw with
Northern Ireland, to register just one point.
BUSA
President and event organiser Patrick McWilliams (right
with Terry Griffiths and Welsh organiser Robert Hayes) from Queen's
University Belfast, congratulated Ireland on their win and paid
tribute to the superb playing conditions at the Matchroom, echoing all
the player's thoughts.
"We've had a marvellous weekend here at the Matchroom again. We wish
we could play here every year. The club and the tables are fabulous
and the staff so hard-working and friendly and we're especially
grateful to Terry for taking the time to mix with the players and
present the trophies."
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