Hawick’s Julie Forrest produced a grandstand finish in her opening match of the ‘JUST’ Open Singles Championship at Potters Resort to leave fellow Scot Jason Banks from Inverurie in the North of Scotland reeling on the ropes after his surprise 3-11, 8-7, 2-0 defeat.
Forrest, who has won the Ladies World Matchplay Singles title at this venue for the past two years, stepped in as a late replacement for Ian Honnor who had to withdraw.
Taking on young gun Banks – the reigning IIBC World Under 25 champion, Forrest only scored on two ends on the first set. The players tied at 3-3 after four ends, but Banks checked out with back to back trebles and doubles to seal the set with an end to spare.
Forrest though rallied in the second chalking up singles on the first four ends and then Banks stormed back with a 2, 1 and 4 to hold a 7-4 advantage with just two ends remaining.
Once again though Forrest displayed her trademark fighting spirit and dug deep, scored a treble and single to edge the verdict 8-7 and force a tie break.
She took first blood then in a nervy second end, Banks drew the shot with his last delivery, but a sensational, clinical runner from Forrest removed the shot bowl to leave her with a match lie and a place in the second round on Thursday 21st January.
“JUST” WORLD OPEN SINGLES
RESULT