Mark Royal, World No. 14, was first up today against World No 5, Les Gillett in the start of todays 2nd round matches in the Scottish International Open.
It was Gillett that started well with Royal fishing a little out there on the portable for his weight and line. By end five it was Gillett that was ahead 1,7. Royal though dug his heels in and took a three count in end eight to bring it to 4,7. Next two ends it was one each and it was again Gillett that pipped Royal to the post with a single to take the first set 5,9.
Second set and it was Royal that upped his level and catching out Gillett with some well placed bowls. Going 9, 2 up by the fifth end he only dropped a single on end six. Royal went on to take the second set 12,3 and force the tie break.
It was Royal that took the first end, but it was Gillett that took the next two ends and match to earn a place in the quarter finals on Thursday.