To many people, the appeal of Pool is in its simplicity and sociability, with most Pubs owning or having access to a pool table. Thankfully, this event retained the ‘Pub-feel’ in its charm and social appeal, with DJ’s, drinking and chanting from the crowd, all while maintaining a sense of amicability and respect between the two sides.
The event began with the dimming of lights, as a DJ announced each players’ names, and respective nicknames, to either cheers or boos from the crowd. To York’s dismay, this only enlivened the crowd more, with the positioning of the two tables in the centre of the room adding to the intimidating nature of the environment for the travelling players. When the lights again rose, the pool was ready to begin, with the potting of each ball met with an audible cheer from the crowd.
In the four matches we witnessed, Lancaster’s women dominated. The event operated in a best of three format, meaning that games were often decided by tie breaking shots. In one fixture between Lancaster’s Jay Crattage and York’s Sophie Coombes, the game was decided by the last ball, with Lancaster triumphing in the frame. Unable to silence the home crowd, York were dominated by Lancaster throughout the evening. The environment never turned hostile however, instead championing the sociability of the sport while remaining perennially competitive.
The event itself epitomised the appeal of pool to the average spectator or player, the organisation of the event, and even venue itself, allowed a large crowd to enjoy competitive play, predictable music and a few drinks late into the evening. The officials themselves even indulged in the odd dance or sing-a-long. For a sport on the opening evening of Roses, it perfectly epitomised the competitive spirit of both sides, while being a perhaps rare example of the amicability and mutual respect from both sides.