Edinburgh Open Pairs
Murrayfield Curling, 5th February 2012

Knowing only a win would do to even stand a chance of qualifying from their group, Edmunds and Stockton faced the daunting task of playing two members of Murrayfield’s crew of Ice Technicians.

Despite often leaving the sheet to ring bells, nip ice and mop sheets, the Edinburgh University boys’ opponents were strong and determined.

Losing a big first end in Pairs is far from ideal and, sadly, a steal of four was the Ice Crew’s reward for some excellent play – filling the house and not letting Edmunds anywhere near with his stones.

Stockton and Edmunds did not let this first end get to them, however, as they picked up in the second. Some lovely guard play from Stockton allowed Edmunds a draw for two with the hammer which he executed confidently.

With just a two shot deficit, the Edinburgh twosome resolved to keep it tight. End three was very congested and after the hammer was thrown, the measure was needed to decide if Forsythe’s team had taken one or two. In the end, it was just a one meaning a three shot lead going into the final end.

The fourth proved a tight, congested affair once more and despite Stockton and Edmunds’ best attempts at raises and tap-ups, and some uncharacteristic errors from their opponents, they could only score a single point.

Ted Edmunds