Batavia Bowling League women’s pennants finals start at Denison with Northampton Ewes favourites

The big moment is here for local bowls.

Finals start today at Denison in the Batavia Bowling League women’s pennants competition, with the big dance tomorrow.

The top flight double-chance semifinal looks less cut and dry than it did before two rounds of bowls were cancelled in the last three weeks due to heat, although reigning champions Northampton still start clear favourites against Geraldton Gold.

The competition has been tough most of the season, but Northampton have been clear favourites from start to finish.

The Ewes have won 11 matches out of 13, and earned a draw in round 11 against third-placed Denison, as well.

Dion Delamotte and Kaye Burton have been among the standouts in an amazing squad.

The first semi, between Denison and Wonthella Gold, has me edging slightly toward the Seagulls with home turf to favour the hosts.

In both first and second divisions, the finalists head into the playoffs having played just one match since December 16, which is not ideal for any combination, but makes the series an intriguing one.

The second division is a Geraldton vs Denison affair.

Geraldton Blue will play Denison White in the second semi-final, a match that will go to the wire.

Just one point separates the top four teams after the home-and-away rounds, with Blue taking the minor flag by tenths of a percent.

Denison White take on the season’s surprise package, first-time finalist Geraldton Red, in the first semi.

Half a point separated the duo in the final standings, with a crackerjack eliminator looking likely.

The Denison players will be happy the series will be on the home track, but the season has been very even and it is tough to call either way.

The last round of pennants was abandoned last week Thursday to the weather.

The abandonment of two crucial rounds has resulted in a somewhat soft finish to an otherwise fast-paced season.

The temperature forecast is ideal for finals, but the league have also set aside February 10 and 11 as additional days in case any matches can’t proceed.