It may not have been Flodden or Bannockburn, but Scotland and England went into battle again – this time over the backgammon board.

A team from the North East Backgammon Association took on a team from Central Scotland in a specially-organised one-day match at the William Edler Building in Berwick.

The eight-strong teams played four rounds of five-point matches. All was to play for after the first two rounds, with Scotland 10-6, but Scotland produced an over-powering second half performance to win the match 23-9.

Two players were unbeaten on the day – the Scotland duo of Ian Hesketh and James Newman.

The event was organised by Keith Gill and Neil Webb. Keith said: “It was a great day for all involved and we hope to make it a regular match twice a year, with the re-match in the Spring. Thanks to everyone who turned up to make it a really successful day.”

Neil added: “Backgammon has really grown in Scotland in the last couple of years, so this kind of event really helps to cement that success. There are clubs across Scotland and we’d be delighted to see new members wherever you are.”

 

We’re always keen to hear about team events! By some coincidence, those of us south of the border get a chance to redeem ourselves in a few weeks; the Scottish Ladies will be challenging their English counterparts for a streamed one day online match on October 21st. We’ll be putting out links a bit nearer the time for those who want to watch, and hopefully some big names will be joining us in the commentary box!