The Hoppers lost two of the three rinks up for grabs, but walked away 70-62 winners, largely thanks to the team skipped by Stephen Broad.

Broad’s men defeated David Barnes’ side by a massive 28 shots, 38-10, which ultimately proved the difference between the two clubs.

Les Murphy produced a 25-21 result against Allen Ross, while Bernie Mahlo comfortably accounted for North Albury’s Norm Honey, 27-11, but it was all in vein for Commercial.

In one of the season’s biggest upsets, the previously winless Henty upstaged the in-form Howlong at home, 68-46.

Peter Forck had a extremely close battle with John Dawson, but was narrowly beaten 20-19.

However, Kim Maher’s 23-11 victory against Phil Slater and Glen Harrison’s 26-15 triumph over Ian Doolan handed Henty it’s first big haul of points for the grade three season.

Lavington recorded an impressive win away to Culcairn to stay in contention with North Albury.

The Panthers surged to a 57-44 win, claiming two of the three rinks.

Ken Allen romped to a 26-11 victory against Jim Lee, while Adrian Pantling held off Terry Hensel, 20-12.

Culcairn’s only point on the day came thanks to a win on Dave Trebley’s rink, who handed Darren Moore a 21-11 defeat.

The ladder after round seven is: North Albury 43, Lavington 43, Howlong 35, Commercial 32, Henty 14, Culcairn 13.

Pennant matches continue next Saturday where Henty will look to go back-to-back when it hosts Commercial, Lavington is at home to Howlong, while North Albury hit the road to defend its top of the table position when it faces Culcairn.

District singles events also got under way across the region on Sunday, with the opening rounds completed.

The president’s reserve singles were held at Walla, with three matches played to determine the semi-finalists.

Matthew Richens accounted for Norm Wilksch, 31-13, Tony Cantwell defeated Bob Geddes, 31-11, while Michael Dunnett was far too strong for Mark Gilchrist, coming away with a 32-3 win.

Ron Bonat had the bye in the opening round and will meet Richens in the semi-finals on March 12, while Cantwell will clash with Dunnett.

North Albury Bowling Club is continuing to take entries for the first round of its five-week mixed barefoot bowls competition on Thursday.

Play will commence at 6pm and run for approximately two hours.

The cost is $10 per player, with a sausage sizzle held after the game.

The format is two-bowl triples and players can take part in bare feet, thongs or flat sole shoes.

Anyone interested is urged to contact Frank Guivarra on 0400 102 503 or Rodger Matheson on 0418 979 411 for further information.