THE Essex Golf and Country Club Seniors' men's team lost 4½ - 2½ in their friendly match at Barkway GC.

Nearest the pin on the par-three 15th hole for the Essex players was won by Michael Estcourt.

Martin Devonish was nearest the pin on the par-four eighth hole in two shots for the Barkway players.

The Essex's men played a qualifying stableford, dodging the forecasted heavy rain on a damp and dismal morning.

Many players achieved very good scores, with John Manser winning with a wonderful effort of 41 points.

The victory helped reduce his handicap by one shot to 12.

Runner-up with an excellent 40 points was Vic Little, who reduced his handicap by a shot to 22.

In third place with a very creditable 38 points and on countback was Ray Mabbutt.

Nearest the pin on the par-four fourth hole in two shots was Collin Broadhurst.