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Words from an Armthorpe bowler

1. Practice unusual marks - the type yourself and others don't bowl naturally

2. Don't be afraid to challenge someone on their strength if you are a good bowler. You should be able to play all marks and forcing them off their length gains a psychological advantage - so important in any sport

3. beyond a certain point bowls is 90% concentration, keep your head under pressure and never give up until the other person has scored 21 or whatever - a comeback always puts opponent under pressure - how many times have we seen someone "lose their rag" on the green - concentration goes and so does the game, and vice-versa, someone well behind gets a few back, focuses, concentrates and pulls off a good victory.

4. Even then, win or lose you can still win games for your team-mates from the side of the green so don't forget this aspect of your game - this was instrumental in my old team winning comps such as the Yorkshire and West Riding cups - works well at Armthorpe also where the team are always behind you and won quite a few team events last season.