ICE man Ray Birtwistle will be hoping to put the skids under Bolton for the first time in more than a quarter of a century when Bury Snooker League bid to take the Greater Manchester Inter-league Snooker title next Wednesday evening (28).

It's the first time the local league have entered the prestigious competition and they couldn't have tougher final opponents as they haven't recorded a victory over their rivals in more than 25 years of competition.

Many feel the time is right to put that record straight and with players of the quality of Stephen Kershaw, Lee Marney, James Kay, Paul Jones and the nerveless East Lancs anchorman Birtwistle, hopes are high of denying Bolton yet another title.

Birtwistle showed just what a cool customer he is at the green baize with vital final frame wins in each of the last two ties.

On both occasions the Bury lads showed fine battling qualities to come from 2-1 behind against tough opposition, form that will stand them in good stead for their championship bid.

In the quarter -finals title-favourites Manchester were put to the sword in a thrilling night at Walmersley Conservative Club followed by a semi-final clash at Bradford Ward Labour Club when Bolton B were seen off setting up Wednesday night's showdown at Heywood Reform Club, Tower Street. Play gets under way at 7.30pm.

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