Inclement weather on Day 7 of the Irish Open could not dampen the spirits of competitors nor their acolytes. A veritable power play from Andrew Johnston resulted in a brace of triple peels in his 2 nil win versus Danny Johnston. Also in the Championship Singles, Patsy Fitzgerald twarted the hopes of US public representative, Randy Cardo, with some clever approach play and accurate hoop-running. Cardo displayed some outstanding shot-making and an even temperament in a game that had neutrals cooing. 
In the Alternate Shot Doubles, Paul Cotter and Simon Williams accounted for the formidable pairing of Sandy Greig and Anne Woulfe Flanagan. 
Richard Whelan' s deft touch and nimble mind were enough to annex a brace of victories in his partnership with Dave McGrath as they saw off the cream of Hamptworth - the Stephens', followed by a Werner/O'Rourke double act. Geraldine O'Rourke was to sup from the bitter chalice of defeat yet again, this time in the USCA Silver Salver but not before demonstrating a remarkable ability to make low percentage shots look easy. 
A Bev Cardo masterclass in break play set up a Green Cup clash with Dawn Jupin. Jupin had earlier knocked out this writer with a defensive tour de force. Rich Schiller came through on the other side of the draw to set up an All-American clash on finals day. Danny Huneycutt and Andrew Johnston showed form in dispatching Greig and Cardo whilst Simon Williams fought a lone stand as partner Patsy's filial duty outweighed his team loyalty, against a Dutton-Boyd dual assault. Williams succombed to the English duo before the latter were eliminated by the hoop-happy Maughans. 
Tomorrow promises much by way of quality croquet. The action starts from 9:30am with the main Championship Singles starting about 11:00am.