Eric Apperly Shield – Round 1 Match Report
Posted on: 28 July
Eric Apperly Shield – Round 1 Match Report
Castle Hill CC vs Richmond GC – Sunday 27 July @ Castle Hill
Castle Hill Country Club opened its 2025 Eric Apperly Shield campaign commandingly, delivering a clinical team performance against Richmond Golf Club.
Despite challenging wind conditions, our young squad showed grit, class, and true unity, turning individual battles into collective success.
Match Highlights
No. 1 – Nick Heanes
Faced a quality opponent in a seesawing match that saw four lead changes. Nick’s sharp course management and clutch putting held the match steady as he rallied to halve the contest on the final hole.
Special thanks to Gareth Holmes, who stepped in as caddie and was pivotal to Nick’s resilient finish. “Couldn’t have done it without you, Big G!” – Nick.
No. 2 – Andrew “Kneevsie” Kneeves
Up against CHCC’s greenkeeping apprentice Pat (playing for Richmond), Andrew displayed grit and precision, including a sublime up-and-down from kikuyu rough on the 6th. After building momentum with clutch putts on 11 and 12, the match was sealed 4&3. A calm, confident point.
No. 3 – Owen Brightman
After adapting to slower greens, Owen settled into rhythm with a near tap-in on 8 and a bold eagle setup on 13 that closed out the match. His unshakeable focus and methodical approach earned a solid victory.
No. 4 – Matt Fullerton
Came out blazing—winning four of the first five holes and maintaining total control. A birdie on the 13th confirmed a decisive 6&5 win. A clinical and mature performance.
No. 5 – Blake Komorowski
With Head Professional Steve Gannon (Ganns!!!) on the bag, Blake stayed poised and precise. Aside from a couple of three-putts, his round was near flawless—pars came easy and the 7&5 result spoke for itself. “Played with composure well beyond his years” – Steve.
No. 6 – Keean Holmes
Opened with a 4-up lead through 5 and never looked back. Despite a few errant drives, Keean responded with a birdie on 7 and closed out with a dominant 7&6 win. Ruthless and rock-solid.
A Statement of Team Performance
From top-order tenacity to back-end dominance, every player brought pride to the Castle Hill badge. The team showcased technical skill, mental strength, and brilliant synergy—exactly what the Shield is about.
Next Challenge: Round 2 vs St Michaels @ Concord
Sunday Midday Tee Time – 3 August @ Concord GC
We’d love your support—come along and get behind the boys!
Special Mentions
Big thanks to Albert & Justin Hadi, Vitaliy & Ellie Makayev, and all the parents for making the trip and cheering from the sidelines.
A huge shoutout to our Head Professional Steve Gannon for being on the bag and guiding the boys through the day.
Grant Heanes
Team Manager
