England & Wales staged a dramatic comeback to claim their second Partnership Trophy in a thrilling contest at Archerfield Links this week.
The event, held in association with Callaway, Callaway Apparel and TravisMathew, saw eight Partners from each home nation represent their country in the battle for glory.
After the opening day of fourballs, Ireland held a commanding lead with eight points, while Scotland and England & Wales trailed with two apiece.
However, a scintillating singles performance from England & Wales on day two saw them draw level with Ireland, taking the contest to the final hole of the final match.
Victory in that decisive match for Jack Frances of Hadley Wood GC secured the crucial three points, toppling five-time champions Ireland.
Across the singles matches, Partners produced 75 birdies, with Ireland’s Colin O’Gorman (Dundrum House GC) delivering both of the day’s eagles.
Aaron Hodkin from Wheatley GC, representing England & Wales was named the sponsor’s MVP after he won both his fourball match and singles match over the two days.
The win lifts England & Wales to two Partnership Trophy titles, drawing level with Scotland but still three behind leaders Ireland.
Partners qualify to represent their nations through two regional events, with the winners advancing to the main event, staged each year at a prestigious venue. This year Archerfield Links played host, with previous venues including JCB Club, Trump Turnberry and St Andrews.
The victorious England & Wales team was captained by Retail Consultant Simon Keeling and consisted of Adrian Ambler (Meltham GC), John Fisher (Huyton & Prescot GC), Jack Frances (Hadley Wood GC), Adam Hickling (Stoneham GC), Aaron Hodkin (Wheatley GC), Robert Joyce (Woodbridge GC), Ben Ratcliffe (Kilnwick Percy GC) and Richard Smith (Rookery Park GC).
Representing Ireland was Brian Carroll (Castlebar GC), David Hughes (Massereene GC), Brian McCormack (Tullamore GC), Brendan McGovern (Headfort GC), Damien McGrane (Carlow GC), Mark Murphy (Millicent GC), Colin O’Gorman (Dundrum House GC) and Gareth Shaw (Moyola Park GC).
Scotland were represented by Stephen Gray (Easter Moffat GC), Andrew Hutchison (Douglas Park GC), Steven Maxwell (Paisley GC), Alasdair McDonald (Pitreavie), Graeme McDougall (The Bishopbriggs GC), Callum Nicoll (Fairmont St Andrews), Gordon Robertson (Drumpellier GC) and Chris Robinson (Portpatrick Dunskey GC).
