KEY POINTS:
Peter Belliss, the world title winning hero of New Zealand bowls two decades ago, played brilliantly to skip his team through to the final of the men's fours at the national championships in Auckland yesterday.
Ironically, he will meet his old mate and fellow world title winner Rowan Brassey, who is part of the team of Nick Grgicevich and his two sons, Nevan and Vincent, in a final which promises plenty of drama.
"The last time we played a fours final was in Palmerston North in 1994 and 'Brass' won that one; so maybe it's my turn," said Belliss.
In his three matches yesterday Belliss was majestic at the head of a team full of talent.
Lead Justin Goodwina and Steve Posa and Kevin Robinson all showed their best qualities in three outstanding wins.
Belliss has played his recent bowls in Sydney for the ultra-strong Cabramatta club and the NSW state team and his presence has lifted the Hyundai championships.
"I haven't played a lot back in New Zealand over the years and it takes a little bit of time to adjust to the way the greens play," he said.
Belliss' second game against Barclay Lee (St Heliers) was a remarkable scoring spree with the Belliss foursome racking up 27 shots in 14 consecutive ends before Lee was able to get a score under his name.
Bellis went on to beat Stoke's Gary Watson 23-8 in the semifinals.
Nick Grgicevich's team was too strong for Tauranga South.
In the women's semifinals, Kay Tomlinson's composite team between the Richmond (Nelson) and Omanu clubs and Karen Hema's team from the Carlton-Cornwall and Pakuranga clubs won through.
- NZPA
