BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win against the Woolwich Club A 8-7 on speed cloth.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home defeat at Hotshots12-3, with the whole team having a shocker.

RIP ROARING MATCH: Home 8-7 win  against New Eltham Social Club, with the both teams caught up in the atmosphere as the match see sawed.

SLKPA

A third place Premier Division finish and eventual elimination a the Semi Final stage of the Team Knock Out shows some improvement on previous season, but the team still had a few problems under the leadership of newly elected captain Dean James. With players complaining about team selection and a lack of leadership qualities the team resembled a ship with no rudder. As a consequence Dean's pool was not up to it's usual standard and he struggled to cope with troubles on and off the table. Relieved of the armband Paul Gafa' turned in a dream of a season with many notable performances and finished as the Most Singles winner for the season finishing with a 79% winning success rate. New recruit James Sheed became the lynch pin for the team, with his flowing flair something quite alien to the usual grit the Pickwick serve up. Baring a couple of wobbles he appears to be a very good addition to the squad. Adam Everitt didn't have quite the same impact that he had on the team in the summer season. However he is learning his trade and great things are expected from this likeable rogue. Martin Storey played some beautiful pool at times, and enjoyed a successful season, and could become the real jewel in the crown if he can find that ruthless edge to his game. Paul Slater played steadily and effectively whilst Ash Hall's unavailability saw him play a bit part during the season. Gary Mason is slowly improving his all round game and took up the challenge to become the Academicals captain in the second half of the season. Jason Grindley fluctuating form meant that he never played as many frames as he would have liked and dropped into the Aci's side once the Reserve League was up and running. Rob Taylor pulled the ladder up just before Christmas and he didn't feature for the remainder of the season. Chris Bracey cut his world rules teeth in the Aci's team, which should see him gather the knowledge to improve his game bit by bit. 

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win against the Summerfield 15-0.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home defeat to the George IV 11-4

TEAM PATIENCE EXERCISED: Home to the Kings Arms, as they circumvented the laws and wound us up in the Team Knock Out Quarter Final victory 8-4.

FSPL

The Pickwick can congratulate themselves on a good FSPL season although it so very nearly turned sour. The first two thirds of the season were nie on unbeatable and turned in some excellent displays, lying second to the champions elect the Catholic Club, and were 30 odd points clear with of third place with an unchallenging run in. From this point in the team nosedived, and secured the runners up spot away at the Falconwood Club on the last day of the season, with a massive sigh of relief. The Team Knock Out offered hope of genuine winners silverware until we ran into the Catholic Club at the Quarter Final stage and in their back yard where we were well and truly knocked out losing 7-0. Player Of The Year was the Pickwick’s talisman,  Graham Coomes. Generally when he misfired, the team misfired, which wasn’t too often. This was in evidence in our end of season slump, when his unavailability went hand in hand with the Pickwick’s poor performances. Dean James reclaimed the Most Singles title and the Challenge Trophy. Dean’s always a tough opponent on the table with the ability to clear and fudge as the frame dictates, another successful season. Martin Storey blazed away with little regard for the consequences and more often than not did the business, whilst Mick Warwicker operated with caution and precision turning in a 63% win ratio. Ash Hall enjoyed a good season with the cue, but could do with selecting himself a little more often particularly when he knows he’s cueing well. Paul Gafa’s season mirrored the team’s and his final statistics were a little below par. Rob Taylor played a little too cavalier at times, and out of character for a thoughtful player, to his detriment as his winning percentage dropped below 50%. Darren Vowles was troubled with bouts of unavailability, but showed a few glimpses of his old form of a few years ago…. more of the same please. Chris Bracey’s progress unfortunately stalled, but was always on hand when needed. Casual players Paul Slater and Dean Williams stepped in when the team were short of bodies and flew the flag with aplomb. Bob Pitcher didn’t need his cue this season, just his subs book, as he wasn’t required, neither was Curtis Storey.     

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win at George IV A 8-5.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home defeat to O'Connors 7-6.

BIGGEST THUMPING RECEIVED: Home defeat to Castle B 10-3.

BEST SHOT OF THE SEASON: Mick's controlled swerve out of the jaws of a pocket, to pot the penultimate ball at the Castle B.

NEXT BEST SHOT OF THE SEASON: Graham's potted black from a snooker using tons of check swerve at home to the Catholic Club C.

THOUGHT WE'D LOST: Miscalculated the score at home to Greenwich Town Social, and nearly threw away last 2 frames.

SLKPA

Despite a third place league finish this was not the Pickwick's best season. Truth be known for much of the second half of the season the team were more concerned about the relegation battle than contesting for honours, with the team finishing with only a 2 point safety margin. The innocence of youth was a joy to behold in the early part of the season as new recruit Adam Everitt conquered all before him. He soon became the golden boy, being asked to seek and destroy in all the important frames. As the season progressed the polish began to fade, but a creditable 71% winning record is a fine achievement in your first campaign. Dean James played second fiddle for a while, but he remained a strong player and got stuck in when it mattered later in the season. He secured more wins then any of his team mates, 23, and was the captain's choice as player of the summer. Rising to meet the challenge Rob Taylor put in a useful winning season. If he can continue along these lines, then he will be cemented in the starting 5 for a while to come. Conversely Paul Gafa' had a miserable time at the table. A 50% record is below par for the most experienced player in the squad. Perhaps the pressure of captaincy weighed down too heavy, to the point that he has been relieved of this duty for 2008-09. Ash Hall turned in a few quality frames in a steady, successful season and there's no doubting his ability when he's on song. Maybe he just needs to smooth out the rough edges to take his pool to the next level. Paul Slater was hindered by his non availability and his pool suffered as a consequence. Another useful player if he can settle into a regular slot and deliver the kind of pool the Pickwick know he's capable of. Jason Grindley remains dedicated to the cause, and was available for every match. He was not used as much as in previous campaigns, and was probably a victim of larger squad the team had for 2008. Martin Storey's % dropped below 40% and luck was certainly against him. His attacking style is suited to these rules, but may need to rethink occasionally and avoid potting himself into a cul-de-sac. Surely he will return to winning ways in 2008-09, as he has a wealth talent in his locker. Gary Mason was ever present again for selection, but he is at a point now where he must step up, and take on the information offered to improve his game. His commitment and dedication to the team is first class and but he needs to grasp his chance when it comes along and continue his development. With the size of the squad presenting few chances for many regular players Chris Bracey was an unused casual player. 

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win against Beehive 3-0 (11-4).

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home defeat to Jolly Fenman 0-3 (4-11).

MOST INFURIATING MATCH: Completely out played the Fox Under The Hill away dropping just 3 frames, all in the second set! 

LOW POINT OF THE SEASON: The home defeat inflicted by the Summerfield.

FSPL 2008

A promising start to the season eventually faded away in the final third as the Pickwick slumped to mid table mediocrity. By and large most players turned in ordinary or poor seasons statistics, however Graham Coomes battened down the hatches to average two out of three frames all season, in his typical grinding fashion, which makes "Monkey" a tough man to beat at the old EPA rules. Paul Gafa' followed suit with the same average, counter attacking from his opponents mistakes. Mickey Warwicker continues to improve and regain the form he showed before his long lay off. Had his availability been a little better then perhaps the Pickwick could have risen a place or two up the table. Martin "Bedtime" Storey has assumed the mantle as the team's most attack minded player. He averaged 59% and as many frames as he won blowing the opponent off the table, he got undone falling to a sucker punch, when things went array. Skipper Ash Hall fell foul to the captains disease of leaving himself out to let others play. For much of the season his form was good, but didn't play enough to affect team results. Rob Taylor put in a 50% winning record, but he will feel that he is quite capable of putting in bigger performances than that figure suggests. Making the most appearances this season and virtually ever present, Dean James struggled a little. Playing as the team opener may explain why he was a little below par this season, but hopefully he can increase his win ratio next season. Darren Vowles' non availabilty prevented him from making any real mark on the season, whilst Chris Bracey, better known as Charlie Mumbles completely lost his way after a promising 2007-08 season, and now needs to return to the basics yet again. Bob Pitcher spent the whole of the season counting the team funds loose change as was never asked to take up the cue. All in all a disappointing season after all the good work in the previous winter. However good teams have the ability to bounce back, so we'll see how it pans out in 2008-09.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win against Fox & Hounds 12-1.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to Greenwich Town Social 3-10.

BEST TABLE: O'Connors

MOST NEGATIVE MATCH: Home to O'Dowds, only 7 frames played in an evening.

BEST COME BACK: Away win at George IV A after being 5-3 down.

WORST COLLAPSE: Home defeat to Greenwich Town Social after being 5-2 up.

NO TEAM: Away match against O'Dowds A. Very few players available. 

SLKPA 2007/08

The Pickwick can take pride in their performances this season. Again improvement has been made since the previous season, with the Pickwick challenging for the major honours. Ultimately it ended in disappointment, but the signs are there that with continual progress it won't be too long before a trophy appears in the cabinet. A comfortable third place finish in the Premier Division and being eliminated at the semi final stage of the Team Knock Out testifies to the statement above. The most wins trophy went to Paul Gafa' who had his best season to date. With 31 successes, he displayed some classy performances, but must now keep to that level and become the rock in the Pickwick's foundations. His closest competitior Dean James also didn't disappoint. Choosing to play a lot of tactical frames which provided him with 27 wins. Perhaps if he refused to be drawn into battles when having the tactical edge, and relied on his potting a few more frames may have appearred in the win column. Rob Taylor returned the best success percentage with 68% and showed he knows his way around the pool table, keeping his nerve on many occasions to record wins. Surely there's more to come from Martin Storey's cue. His season started brightly enough averaging 2 wins out of every 3 frames played, but went off the boil a liittle as the season progressed. His pool suggests that he'll return to top form sooner rather than latter. Ash Hall had a fine season and delivered the goods most weeks, only his time keeping and availability cost him the opportunity to play more. Paul Slater and Jason Grindley had very similar seasons. On their day, they can be formidable opponents, yet this year they weren't quite on it. They should easily be able to up their win percentage in future with just a little more care at the critical moment of frames. Gary Mason needs to master the art of match play. Most of his problems are with his levels of concentration. His game is coming along nicely, but at times regresses back into his old bad habits. He practices hard enough for these traits to be ironed out in time. Due to ill health Rob Snooks only played a handful of matches, and missed the climax of the season. The Pickwick need to step to another level to become a really top side, and will need to punish weaker teams heavier than then at present. But things are looking promising, let's see what the future holds.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win against Woolwich Catholic Club A 11-4. Two weeks later they disbanded!

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat at Woolwich Catholic Club A 13-2.

IT ALL WENT WRONG PERFORMANCE: Away defeat at the George IV A 11-4.

BIGGEST ROAR OF THE SEASON: Rob Taylor's clearance away at the Rochester Club to come back from 7-2 down to win 8-7.

GOT BLOWN AWAY: The 8-3 defeat by the George IV A in the Team Knock Out Semi Final. We were never in it.

FSPL 2007/08

The Pickwick regained the buzz in 2007/08 that was in evidence when we regularly competed for the top honours in the FSPL years ago. The early season form wasn't good. One league win in four and an early exit in the Team Knock Out away at the George IV A despite being well in control of the tie bode for a long hard winter, but match by match the season turned around, and a runners up spot in the league was secured with plenty to spare. The new and returning players to the winter squad had a huge impact, perhaps most notably Dean James. He was thrown in to open the account in most matches and grasped the nettle superbly. Not only did he get the team off to a winning start most weeks he set the tone for what our opponents were about to encounter all night. His record of 19 wins from 28 frames played earned him the Most Singles award, and along with the Challenge Trophy for 2008, he can rest easy in the knowledge that his first winter has been a great success. Mick Warwicker rejoined the fold after many years away, and after blowing a few old cobwebs away, knuckled down to some solid pool. Never one to set off to many fireworks, his knowledge and shot selection saw him outwit many opponents. He was ever present and his impressive record contributed greatly to the teams fine showing, so much so that his team mates voted him the Player Of The Year. Martin Storey, the odd man out amongst the Pickwick fugders, has become a useful tool for the captain to turn to. His potting game is his main strength, and many times made difficult clear ups look easy to the amazement of his rivals and team mates alike. The purists amongst us would like to see a tighter frame at times, but you can't argue with his 70% success rate, the best in the squad for the season. A satisfactory first winter for Rob Taylor has seen him settle in nicely at the Pickwick. Another ever present and his 52% record should give him confidence to go on and improve. His style of pool is well suited to the team and he has the ability and skill well within his armory, so we can expect good things to come in future seasons. Graham Coomes, Monkey, the master grinder gave away nothing at the table all season. His tenacity to hold on for dear life makes him a tough nut to crack. Would perhaps have wanted a few more wins than the 13 he gained from 22 played, but still remains a pivotal part of the Pickwick squad. The captain Ash Hall had a good season, winning some impressive frames. The one criticism is that he never picked himself enough, but maybe all captains can be accused of that from time to time. Paul Gafa' took a back seat ride this season, and didn't figure as many times as in other campaigns. His 59% record was below par, although there were a few glimpses of the old grit and determination, but probably this needs to be in evidence a bit more often. "The Mumbles", Chris Bracey was employed a lot more this season. His technique has improved a lot and he was soon making the stating 7 regularly on merit. He can applaud himself on many decent scalps, and if he tunes up his end game a little, his winning stat of 38% should rise rapidly. Darren Vowles was troubled by non availabilty and the need to retire from matches early. The one time Player Of The Year has lost his way in since those heady days, but with a little work on his cue action, could quite easily rediscover his form. He certainly knows his way around the table, and has a good head for fudging, but more than a 43% record would generally be expected. Yet another old boy, Dean Williams returned to chip in as a casual player, when availability was tight, and his 2 wins from 4 frames played helped out nicely. Bob Pitcher collected the teams funds expertly as ever, and along with Gary Mason and Reg Loxley, both who were hardly ever at matches due to work commitments etc, were not used this season. The season will be looked back on fondly as we seem to have increased the strength and numbers within the squad and things are looking up. The next step is to build on the foundations we have laid, and continue in a similar vein, with the intention of scooping an honour or two.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win at the Greenwich Town Social A 10-3.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to the Falconwood Club 9-4.

DAMPEST MATCH: Away at Plumstead Radical Hotshots, played in a cellar, even the sandwiches were damp!

HOW DID WE LOSE THAT MOMENT: Coasting in the cup match 6-2 up away at the George IV A, we melted and  were eliminated 7-6.

FSPL 2007

The season will be remembered as a league organizational cock up with the final league table. Have we won, have we not? With virtually no updated league table all season the Pickwick never really knew exactly where we stood, and even after the final match of the season was completed, the final table needed examining for errors. After a bit of haggling the league table was corrected and the Pickwick secured our first title in some time. In spite of the governing bodies mistakes our pool was quite good, despite losing four matches. The team were indebted to Graham "Monkey" Coomes who played doggedly all season winning 17 of his 20 frames, a remarkable achievement and the real backbone of the side. Martin Storey returned good figures with a 70% record and looked very accomplished at the table. New recruit Dean James settled into the team nicely, and did well as an opener, and got the team off to a good start more often than not. Ash Hall had his best season for a while, leading from the front with the captain's armband and just fell away slightly at the end of the campaign. Paul Gafa' chose to sit a lot of the season out, but still chipped in with a few vital frames on the title run in. Gary Mason, Rob Taylor, Charlie Mumbles and Darren Vowles all suffered from non availabilty and never had a long spell in the team. Charlie looked to be mastering the art of the game and became a tough cookie to grind down, and now just needs to play regularly and learn to put opponents away when they're on the ropes. Hopefully next season Rob get the chance to show the team his talents and go on to become a mainstay of the team, as his style of play ought to blend in very well with the incumbents. Gary's record was quite good, but he never played enough and at times when he could have chalked his cue, he chose to hit the bottle, and unfortunately Darren seems half the player he was a couple of seasons ago, and really needs to get on the practice table. Bob Pitcher and Reg  Loxley graced us with their presence many times but were not called into battle, whilst Curtis Storey played in the first match of the season, but it appears his attention is focused on pursuits outside pool. Paul Slater and Jason Grindley put pen to paper to register but never surfaced, whist Chris Haynes left the team before the start of the season.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win against the Castle 8-3.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to the Sun In The Sands A 7-4.

BEST FIGHT: Huge fight at the Castle between two non pool players causing the match to be abandoned. The fight spilled onto the playing surface and the pool balls were used as missiles.

AMAZING CLEARANCE: Martin Storey at home against the Castle. Returning from a day on the lash at Ascot races and not being able to pot a ball in the first few visits, he then cleared up including an amazing black down the rail.

THE SANDMAN COMETH: Gary Mason dozed off in the most important match of the season, the championship decider away at the Belfry, after consuming the odd cider or twenty.

SLKPA 2007

The Pickwick for the first time challenged for honours this season, proving that the ship is steering a steady and progressive course. The stumbling blocks however appear to be the league minnows, where players do not apply themselves in the same manner, that befits a top side, culminating in valuable frame defeats and point fritted away. The season began with the toughest test possible, away at the champions, the Catholic Club A and despite never being behind in the match until the final frame, the defeat perhaps summed up the season. The Pickwick never quite came to terms with their title rivals and finished in third place. Paul Slater recorded the most wins (17) and played steady all season, as did Jason Grindley who was the most frequent player on the team sheet, appearing 28 times. Captain Paul Gafa', improved as the season went on, recording the highest wins per frame ratio, whilst the two new boys Dean James and Rob Taylor settled in well and should be a big asset next time around. Dean recovered from a shaky start to finish the season well, whilst Rob should be used more regularly in future. His unavailability may have hampered him on occasions this season. Another player restricted by not being able to attend matches regularly was Ash Hall, who improved this season, but couldn't build any momentum to earn regular spot. The same goes for Robert Snooks who couldn't quite match last winter's performance, but still treated the lads to the occasional mind blowing fluke. Martin Storey completed a poor season by his standards on 50%, and with his ability that statistic should really be improved by punishing the players from the poorer teams. Only Gary Mason dropped below the 50% mark with 47% and he now needs to tune his game up a little to eradicate sloppy pool as the competition for places is getting tougher each season. Curtis Storey was signed up but never called into action. So overall the team performed well as a unit, and the stats show that the players are tuned in to world rules. The next step is to start to overturn a few of the better sides and go one better and claim a place on the SLKPA Roll Of Honour.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win at  Kings Arms 10-5. 

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to Fox Under The Hill 8-7.

AMAZING CLEARANCE: Rob Snooks away at Kings Arms. After trebling and cannoning the penultimate ball, he sent the black around the table nudging two goalkeepers away from the middle pocket, and ricocheting in off them and the jaws of the pocket, as only "Snooksy" knows how.

FSPL 2006/07

A very ordinary season by the Pickwick's standards, as the team finished in mid table after flirting with relegation in the early part of the season, and towards the end threatened to pinch third place. The Team Knock Out was exited at the Quarter Final stage, disappointingly as the Pickwick were beaten at home against a good but inexperienced O'Connors side. Eighteen league matches played with 8 won, 9 lost and 1 conceded, probably tells you all you need to know. Perhaps the most worrying aspect was the inability to play enough clever pool on home baize, as the fortress was invaded all to easily, on too many occasions. Martin Storey can look back at this season with a little pride, scooping the Player Of The Year award as well as the Most Singles. Ever present and only stood down on two frames throughout the term, he registered wins 23 from 38 and was the main threat to our opponents. He has worked hard at his game and is now reaping the rewards. Always dependable to grind out a result, Graham Coomes' pool was a little below par this year, he rallied late on to achieve a 50% success rate, but is a player with senior status and should post a higher return. Darren Vowles continues to show nice touches amongst the balls, and has certainly mastered the art of snookering, now it's time to concentrate on payday. If he can take his chances more often then maybe we'll see him scoop some in house honours. Paul Gafa' played sparingly, but finished the most successful squad member with 65%, but fell over the winning line at times when he really should be commanding the table. The skipper Ash Hall played bits and pieces pool, and if he could tighten his defensive pool then his statistic of one win from every two played would dramatically improve. Chris Bracey (aka Charlie Mumbles) played regularly in the last half of the season, and bossed the table virtually every match, but similar to Darren, his end game needs to be improved as he should be making more of the openings he creates. Work amongst other off the table matters hindered Gary Mason's season. He started the season brightly enough, and if can sort out his off the table problems then maybe his 44% record could improve next season. Curtis Storey preferred soccer to pool on a Tuesday in the latter part of the season. The young lad is still fine tuning his game and has a bit to do, but Rome wasn't built in a day. Peter Wishart's stay with the squad was all to brief. His first few frames before Christmas looked awful, but by the time he departed for a full time job in Scotland in March, he'd become a fully fledged member of "The Academy" fudging away winning 8 of his 13 frames played. Chris Haynes (Chad) has certainly got an eye for the balls, and knows his way around the table. If he can maintain his enthusiasm for 8 ball then with a little bit more savvy he could become a major force in the Pickwick in future seasons. He does however need to contribute more to the team than his own frames. Bob Pitcher was summoned to the table a couple of times, but his book keeping skills a are little sharper than his pool. Likewise Reg Loxley who always entertains if not on the baize then with his vast array of bird calling anecdotes. Just once was Paul Slater's presence requested and Jason Grindley's signature didn't appear once on the result sheet.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win at Yacht 8-7 Team Knock Out 3rd Round with a weakened team.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home defeat to O'Connors 7-2 Team Knock Out Quarter Final.

CONCEDED MATCH: First ever conceded match at home to Catholic Club C, unable to raise a team.

I QUIT: Gary Mason on numerous occasions concerning various situations. He continues to play!

SLKPA 2006/07

The signs are good that the team is progressing, but still a long way from being title contenders. The Pickwick toyed with relegation for a while, but eventually finished 4th in a seven team division. The season got off to a great start with a thumping 13-2 victory at home over the Kings Arms and was repeated later in the season away, to ease the relegation worries. The low points were elimination from the Team Knock Out at the first time of asking and heavy defeats inflicted by the Catholic Club, and a collapse away at the Jolly Fenman. Overall the team are dealing with the new rules rather well, and now must just polish their pool playing technique to close the gap on the top teams. The surprise package this season was Robert Snooks who grasped the nettle when asked and won 18 of his 31 frames played. A mixture of good pool and some amazing shots saw him overcome opponents, and now needs to cut out the rash play that sometimes creeps in when he's under the cosh. Martin Storey had the most wins and was the mainstay of the team, ever reliable and secured many important frames, genuinely looks the part at this discipline. Surely the best is yet to come from skipper Paul Gafa', perhaps dogged by the captains armband, yet this should be no excuse for only registering a 50% success rate. Paul Slater played aggressively and looks capable of winning from anywhere during a frame, but should be more successful than his record suggests. Gary Mason enjoyed a good first half of the season and then fell away on the run in. Simple pool is required, to take the easy shot rather than playing the big one, will see him win more frames. Jason Grindley's record wasn't earth shattering yet he could become the real jewel in the crown. A natural potter and the ability to outmaneuver his opponent, now he just needs to compose himself more at the table and frame after frame will come his way. Ash Hall was used sparingly due to poor form and unavailability, again another player with a lot of promise at "World Rules". The team bid farewell to James Davis who has moved to South West London. James was enjoying some of his best pool for the Pickwick, and the team are going to miss this likeable lad who often showed his frustration when underachieving, and we wish him well. Our casual recruit Curtis Storey, was not called into action this season. So the team is developing into a useful outfit, and if progress continues then hopefully honors are not light years away. 

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win to Kings Arms 13-2.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to Jolly Fenman 8-7.

CLUELESS PERFORMANCE: Away defeat in the Team Knock Out to Commons 8-4.

ALMOST  BLEW IT: Away win at Royal Eltham 8-7 after leading 7-3.

AMAZING BLACK: Robert Snooks' long doubled black played at the speed of light that never touched the sides, away at the Kings Arms..

BEST HIGH FIVE: A Royal Eltham player after a frame win, high fiving the poles at the Pickwick.

FSPL 2006 

A very disappointing performance saw the Pickwick finish 6th in a 7 team division. This can be attributed to the fact a few players chose not to play EPA rules on a Tuesday, leaving the squad a little threadbare. This gave others the opportunity to gain a regular place in the starting line up and shine, unfortunately the nettle wasn't grasped. The first successful match wasn't registered until after the halfway mark and only two victories were recorded all season. Many matches were lost by the odd frame in eleven but the team must learn to put opponents away when it comes down to the crunch. If there is a torched to be held then Graham Coomes should be recognized. After loosing his first 5 frames he remained unbeaten for the rest of the season, completing it with a 69% success rate. Ash Hall inconsistencies were once again in evidence, but appears to be doing more things right than wrong, yet still needs a big season to put all the doubters to bed. Paul Gafa' played occasionally, but hardly set the world alight. However the remaining regular players must take responsibility for the Pickwick's poor show this season. After a bright start, Martin Storey fell away and as one of the major players in the squad, needs to ensure he regularly plays above par. Ever present Gary Mason should now be winning more frames than one in three, if he is to continue to be selected every week, whilst Darren Vowles had a shocking season, and could've ended up loosing every frame, but for a good display in the final match of the season. New boy Curtis Storey has embarked on the long road to becoming a pool player. The signs are there that he's learning, and must continue to do so in seasons to come. Without doubt the Pickwick missed Jason Grindley's attack minded style of pool, as he only played two frames all season. Bob Pitcher had a walkover win in his only appearance, and Charlie Mumbles played sparingly, but unsuccessfully. Paul Slater was unavailable all season.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win to Kings Arms 7-4

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to Fox And Hounds 8-3

UNFINISHED MATCH: Away defeat to Falconwood Club 6-5, final frame being played a week later at the Pickwick.

WORST IDEA OF THE SEASON: Monkey Coomes using a different cue for the first 5 frames.

BEST IDEA OF THE SEASON: Monkey Coomes reverting to his old cue. 

SLKPA 2006

The Pickwick continue to learn and improve in the art of World Rules pool, and by and large the summer of 2006 will be viewed as a success. The early season form saw the team complete three successive victories to be amongst the front runners, however the latter games of the season proved a little disappointing, as the team faded away into mid table. The season's league record tells the story, won 7 lost 7. The draw for the Team Knock Out could also have been a little kinder, as the Pickwick left the tournament in the first round, loosing to the reigning winter champions. Captain Paul Gafa' recaptured some missing form from the previous season recording the highest success rate 61%, although this will need to be bettered if he wants to get his hands on some silverware. Martin Storey played some impressive pool winning 19 frames, and rarely had a bad night. Debutant to world rules Jason Grindley took to the game like a duck to water, and surely the team would have faired better had he been available for the whole season, only managing to play 15 frames. Paul Slater played a lot of intelligent pool and showed some real battling qualities, and with a little bit more luck his 58% success record could easily have been improved. Gary Mason caused problems for his opponents, and now just needs to avoid silly mistakes and knuckle down when things are going against him. The enigma that is Ash Hall, sometimes brilliant, sometimes not. Steadier, not so gun ho pool, would help our man knock in a few more blacks. Yet still a hand player to have in your side. The same can be said of James Davis, with most of his problems being in his mind and not on the baize. It's real torture when he loses, and a vet would probably administer a lethal injection to put the poor fellow out of his misery. The wildcard Robert Snooks, unpredictable and prone to the odd wild lash at the balls. If he can eradicate these bad habits, he can become a useful player. The Pickwick need to continue the upward trend in forthcoming seasons, and use the inadequacies of the Pickwick table to make it a fortress.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win to Catholic Club 7-6.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Away defeat to Kings Arms 9-4. 

CHAOTIC MATCH: Away to Terry's Place A (at Rileys) who played three matches simultaneously.

BIGGEST FRAMES OF THE SEASON: Gary Mason holding his nerve twice to beat the Catholic Club and Our Lady Of The Rosary A both at home 7-6.

FSPL 2005/06

Overall the season was a succuss with the Pickwick moving in the right direction. The team ended the season in fourth place in the Premier Division and departed the Team Knock Out at the Semi Final stage, narrowly loosing 7-6. The players still need to keep improving and avoid school boy errors, if winning silverware is to become a regular occurrence, but progress is definitely being made. Four players averaged higher than 50% win success, and perhaps this was the stumbling block. If two or three more players improved theirs to above 50% then The Pickwick could have been collecting a big one. Captain and Player Of The Year, Ash Hall, had a great season. Led from the front and played some clinical pool, and for the early part of the season was the real lynchpin. Paul Gafa' once again scooped the Most Singles trophy and played consistently if not spectacularly, completing the season with a 71% success rate. Graham Coomes had an in and out season, and seemed to save his best pool for the cup competition, single handedly dragging the team through the Quarter Final tie away to Welling Snooker Club springs to mind. Martin Storey was ever present and had a steady season and was regularly called upon when the chips were down. Gary Mason continues to improve, but on occasions showed glimpses of his old poor habits. If he can eradicate these then he may well develop into one of our better players. James Davis didn't enjoy his first winter, and got out thought by lesser opponents, when with better shot selection, he may well have been the victor. A season to forget for the talented Jason Grindley. His lack of composure at critical moments being his biggest downfall, if he can rectify this, his success rate will rise dramatically. Unfortunately the Pickwick's latest exponent in the art of fudging Darren Vowles, played some reasonable pool, but lacked the guile to seal the frame. A huge disappointment as Darren was last seasons Player Of The Year. Paul Slater played as a casual player, and showed enough to suggest if he fancies playing full time then he'll be a real asset. Chris Bracey aka Charlie Mumbles, Reg Loxley and Bob Pitcher played a handful of matches, but couldn't muster a win between them. A new recruit for the coming season, sees Martin's son Curtis joining the fold. Let's hope it's "like father like son."

BEST PERFORMANCE: Home win to Greenwich Town Social A 11-2.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home defeat to Rochester Club 10-3.

UNABLE TO FIELD A COMPLETE TEAM: Home defeat to Kings Arms 7-6.

VICTORY FROM THE JAWS OF DEFEAT: Away to Welling Snooker Club, Team Knock Out Quarter Final 7-5.      

SLKPA 2005

A whole new dimension to pool for most of us, and we didn't adapt too well, to the inaugural season of the SLKPA playing to "World Rules". The league table doesn't lie. Finishing just off the bottom in the top division and an early exit from the Team Knock Out. On the plus side, most of the squad enjoyed the new method of play, with the matches being much quicker with the emphasis on potting balls, rather than playing defensive pool. The team average of 42% again indicates just how poor it was at times. Martin Storey returned the best stats of all the regular players, and it could have been even better, but for poor shot selection at critical times, although Paul Slater and Ash Hall didn't disgrace themselves when called upon. If they are available more in the coming winter season, then hopefully the Pickwick can challenge more effectively for honours. Captain Paul Gafa' had a season to forget, especially as he was no stranger to "World Rules", whilst new boy Robert Snooks showed flashes of what he's capable of, and with a little more care on the table, could flourish into a useful asset. Gary Mason keeps improving, but still needs work on the tactical side of his game. James Davis' lack of confidence meant every match became that little bit harder as the season progressed.  Darren Vowles occasionally got lost within a frame, again down to the rules, but has enough skill to cause his opponents problems. Graham Coomes and Jason Grindley were unavailable for the whole season. Overall the Pickwick remain optimistic for the coming winter season, and with the first one under our belts, and more knowledge of the rules, we can only improve.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win at the Greenwich Town Social 7-6

WORST PERFORMANCE: Rearranged home defeat to the Lord Raglan A 7-6. The Raglan had just 3 players.

INSPIRED PERFORMANCE: Gary Mason playing out of his skin away at the Greenwich Town Social.

MADDEST MOMENT: Robert Snooks amazement after potting a premature black at home to the Kings Arms.

FSPL SUMMER LEAGUE 2005

Division One

 10^th May            away            Greenwich Town Social A      6 - 5   WON

 17^th May            home            Alma C                                  6 - 5   WON

 24^th May            home            Greenwich Town Social B      2 - 9   LOST

 31^st May            home            Woodman                              3 - 8   LOST

 7^th June              home            Woolwich Catholic Club A     WITHDRAWN

 14^th June            away            Lord Raglan A                        5 - 6   LOST

 21^st June            home            O'Dowds C                            8 - 3   WON

 28^th June            home            Greenwich Town Social A      4 - 7   LOST

 5^th July               away            Alma C                                   6 - 5   WON

 12^th July            away            Greenwich Town Social B        4 - 7   LOST

 19^th July             away            Woodman                               8 - 3   WON

 26^th July             away            Woolwich Catholic Club A     WITHDRAWN

 2^nd August         home            Lord Raglan A                        5 - 6   LOST

 9^th August       away            O'Dowds C                              6 - 5   WON

FSPL 2005

The summer of 2005 saw the Pickwick perform like Jekyl and Hyde. At times very good, but also finding the self destruct button. Winning 6 and losing 6 matches meant the Pickwick finished in mid table. The teams' transition continues to improve, as players become comfortable competing with strong opponents. But there is still a long way to go before the Pickwick become a real force in SE London. The team average of 48% win success tells the story. This has to increase well above 50% in the forthcoming season for the team to do well. Top performer was Gaf with an excellent %, however there were too many under achievers. Darren Vowles demonstrated his ability to Captain the side well, when asked to take up the mantle. A serious hand injury hampered Martin Storey. Jason Grindley and Graham Coomes put in steady if unspectacular seasons, whilst Ash Hall's loss of form didn't aid the cause. Gary Mason continues learn the art and is improving slowly. Charlie Mumbles preferred to sink pints rather than blacks, but was always a source of entertainment around the table. Bob will always be better at accounts than pool, yet he still managed a couple of frames, and Reg Loxley never chalked his cue this season. With the addition of James Davis to the winter squad, the Pickwick are hopeful of doing well. An asset such as James, should improve teams' esteem.   

BEST PERFORMANCE: Away win at the Alma 6-5.

WORST PERFORMANCE: Home loss to Greenwich Town Social A 4-7.

NEARLY NOT QUITE PERFORMANCE:  Away to Lord Raglan.

CHARLIE'S MOST PISSED PERFORMANCE: Away to the Woodman.

COMPLETELY OUTPLAYED: By Greenwich Town Social B at home.