The 88th season of the Oxford & District Aunt Sally League kicked off with exciting matchups and unexpected results.
Defending champions White House edged past Black Horse A with a 2-1 victory, delivering strong performances despite a late comeback attempt by the home side.
Meanwhile, newly elevated Blackbird began their campaign at Littlemore British Legion ‘A’ by taking the first leg, but the Legion team responded by winning the remaining two legs to claim a 2-1 result.
Black Horse B turned in a commanding display, earning a convincing win at The Jolly Sportsman.
Favorites New Club A suffered a 2-1 defeat against The Ampleforth Arms A, as The Ampleforth Arms A mounted a comeback to take the match.
North Leigh FC made their return to competition with a valiant effort but fell 2-1 to The Masons Arms A.
In Section 2 action, previously dominant club Garsington Sports Club was defeated by Six Bells C, though Garsington did capture the final leg with a 22-16 score.
New Club B secured a victory over Queens Head A, while Dave Matthews played a key role in Queens’ final-leg win, scoring a perfect six.
Section 3 featured a tighter battle as Headington Con Club defeated Littlemore Rugby Club.
Steve Bennett led the Con Club in scoring, finishing with 10 dolls.
The Oxford & District Aunt Sally League, a traditional summer skittles competition, has maintained operations for more than eight decades and includes roughly 120 teams. Participants throw wooden sticks at a doll positioned on a rotating post.
Approximately 1,400 players take part annually, competing for championship honors in this cherished Oxfordshire recreational activity.