EVER since the Super League individual merit awards, sponsored by Brownhill based financial adviser Terry Sayers nine years ago there have been lots of memorable matches as the event reaches its conclusion.

But none of the past events compares to the remarkable finish this year when Stacksteads' star Louis Stevenson quite unbelievably reduced a 30-point aggregate deficit to snatch joint first place in the merit ratings.

St Annes captain Terry Wood looked a certainty to take the title when he had a win-point lead and a massive 30-point cushion.

Faced with two top opponents no-one really gave Louis much hope but after first romping home 21-3, there was still one game which he needed to win 21-9.

Bamber Bridge number one Phil Parkinson, who himself needed 17 or better to win his own club prize met Louis in a head-to-head at Rose n' Bowl last weekend.

No doubt recent results by the homester boosted his confidence and as the game progressed it was obvious he was determined to stake his claim for the coveted trophy.

From 2-2, Louis went 7-3 ahead and then from 7-4, rattled up five brace and two singles in a remarkable run of bowling to lead 19-4.

A couple of yards deviation from the mark gave Phil an opportunity to break the sequence but the next end gave Louis the advantage at 20-5. Once again the Bamber Bridge man stopped the rot and the next six ends were extremely exciting as the eager spectators played every bowl themselves in their encouragement of a thrilling contest.

At 20-10, Louis finally produced a deserved match winner that gave him a share of the title with 20 points and plus 74 aggregate. The best of the rest to make their presence felt in the Merit Leaderboard were Brian Tomlinson, who had an excellent season to finish in third place.

Witton number one, Mick Lee, enjoyed his best season in the division to accumulate 14 points and edge out last year's club winner Colin Campbell.

Lostock quartet Dave Danley, Barry Sutton, Tommy Fishwick and Dave Barnish made a big impression in the top 10 prizes.

Considering he missed four matches, Steve Crossley from Ighten Mount, returned one of the best scores of 13 points and plus 62 aggregate.

Presentation of all awards will take place immediately following the final of the annual knockout tournament on Sunday, September 26, at a venue to be decided after this weekend's quarter-finals.

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