World singles champion Shannon McIlroy was forced to scrap his way into the final of the men's singles at the BLK National Bowls Championships at the Taieri Bowling Club yesterday. After 17 ends Hope held a 15-13 lead over McIlroy, who was forced to dig deep in turning his fortunes around. Two hotly contested semifinal matches decided the final combinations to face off in the men's pairs final on Sunday. New Zealand bowls legend Peter Belliss once again paired up with Lance Tasker this year, the combination having last won the title 23 years ago in Palmerston North at the 1995 national championships. The final offering Lawson the opportunity to win a 12th national open title and a chance to go back-to-back with the national pairs title after he was successful pairing with Neville Rodda in New Plymouth last year.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 06, 2018 19:18 UTC