NGL Intermediate League Final

Northampton clinched the Intermediate League crown for the first time in their history after beating Kettering 4½-3½ in a thrilling final at Collingtree Park GC.

Although Paul Wilson (Kettering) and Gary Hardy (Northampton) enjoyed convincing wins in the middle two ties, all the remaining six games reached the 17th hole at least.

After Marcel Aarts took the last two holes against Northampton’s James Brough to secure a half in the opening match, Kettering moved ahead thanks to a victory from Stuart Bell down the last.

Northampton, who were beaten finalists in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019, responded with a 2&1 success from Nick Saker, but Kettering quickly restored their lead courtesy of a win from Ed Keech on the 17th hole.

The Harlestone Club weren’t to be denied however as Jonathan Thompson and Andrew Limbert both won the 18th hole to beat Nick Keech and Andy Robinson respectively in the final two games.