THE NATIONAL DOMINO, Whist And Hearts Clubs of Barbados 2015 domino season will officially slam off today from 5 p.m. with 26 teams spread across three divisions competing in the Four-hand League.
In the Premier League, defending champions R.L. Seale QEH, again under the astute leadership of Anderson “Ricky” Belgrave, will be looking to dominate the boards despite the loss of seasoned campaigners Joseph “Bud” Harewood and Emmerson “Ninja” Shepherd to Green Floor and Vauxhall United, respectively.
The usually strong QEH outfit will rely heavily on their national players if they are to repeat as champions. Their first game is at home against the consistent St Peter giants, Wednesday 2000 French Village who are keen to improve on their disappointing sixth place finish last season.
Last year’s runners-up Carlton And A1 Braves will host the St Lucy-based Checker Hall side. The Braves, who look menacing on paper, should be further strengthened with Barton Hinds coming over from Nu Look Speightstown. But Checker Hall could spring an early surprise.
The Christ Church-based Hillside, despite losing Joseph King to neighbours Almond Bay Evergreen, will be looking to show that last season’s third place finish was no fluke when they oppose Speightstown.
While Speightstown have lost the services of Barton Hinds and Chris Millington, they still have the nucleus of last season’s side.
Turton’s Construction Hindsbury, with new president of the association, Callam Barnard in their line-up, will tackle newly promoted Almond Bay Evergreen, who won’t be pushovers.
The other newly promoted side, E. Pamela Small Funeral Services Vauxhall will be keen to show that they belong in the Premiership after many seasons away from the top flight.
Vauxhall have benefited from Alwyn “Allie” Bryan and his partner Michael “Shortman” Walrond making the switch over from their opponents, Grow Bananas/Vita Malt/Disiclin Dream Team. (PR/EZS)
