In a nailbiting tussle at Mere Golf and Country Club, Duffy and Feathers both emerged with pride intact as the opening inter-Pluggers match of the year was halved. Duffy opened up an early lead in a scrappy opening nine, which was not helped by a strong easterly wind. After the turn the action really began to heat up and pars were exchanged left, right and centre. They both now began to utilise the breeze and a couple of sweet iron shots reminded your correspondent of Bill Rogers in his prime (or was it Ted Rogers?). Duffy missed an obvious birdie chance down 17 and the stage was set for a dramatic closing hole. As was fitting, they both struck majestic drives to within range of the green on this par 5 hole. It was Duffy to hit into the green first and as is his wont he attempted to reach the dancefloor with a 5 iron from 225 yards (into the draught). Unsurprisingly this pulled up short and right. Feathers took the more pragmatic approach and pulled out the 5 wood. A piercing draw flew like a bullet into the wind and finished on the front edge. Duffy knew he had his work cut out now as he surveyed his chip from below the level of the lawn, which was from wet clingy Cheshire Blue Grass. The ball pitched pinhigh but there was no chance of any backspin and the ball trickled 12 feet past. Feathers pulled out the famous Ben Hogan beryllium wedge and knocked to 18 inches. Just like the old days Duffy checked the line, stood tall to the ball and pulled the trigger. There was never any doubt where the ball was going and it rifled into the back of the cup. Feathers now addressed his putt - a match-winning opportunity. The occasion proved too much though as an almighty twitch saw the ball scoot past the left edge. It was only fitting however as to pick a winner from these two fine champions would have been harsh. Honours even.