The experienced Hoppers posted strong wins in the sectional phase, but lost 19-18 to Temora Bowling and Recreation's Bruce Lack and Arty Stacey in the final.

Albury and District didn't finish the event empty-handed as Howlong duo Les Pilfoot and Rick Crofts won the president's reserve pairs crown in thrilling fashion.

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Pilfoot and Crofts progressed to the final on a countback, with all teams on one win in their section, and they downed Cootamundra Ex Services' Jason Jones and Anthony Wilson, 18-16, in the decider.

Lavington's Vic Moore and Max Scanlan were unlucky not to have made the final, with their section all tied, but Wagga Rules' Ross Maguire and Noel O'Brien had a better shots difference and went on to win the tournament.

The state pairs finals are held at Ettalong Beach from August 20 to 22.

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