Half Crown Stockton take on the World

Jerome Rousseau, Sofiane Lachani and Herve Bavazzano qualified to play for England after months of intense competition and team manger Rich Powell said they head to France with realistic ambitions.

“If we get through the very difficult first round we’ll have a good chance against the next teams we meet,” said Powell.

“As you can imagine, France are usually the world champions and our goal is realistic.

“We aim to reach the last 24 and then take what comes.

“It will be a hugely demanding few days, but we look forward to it. Bring it on.”

As well as the championship games for teams of three, there will also be a precision target shooting competition held over the four days of the event, with Lachini aiming to better his 2011 European Championships semi-final performance.

The Half Crown currently has 42 members aged between ten and 80 and Powell believes the international recognition is further confirmation of the club’s high standing within the game nationally.

“For some years Half Crown has been one of the leading English clubs and top players enjoy belonging to our club and playing at the highest level,” he said.

“That includes a number of ex-patriot French players and our three England men are all ex-pats.

“We’re proud to attract the best players in the country as well as introducing newcomers of all ages to the game.”

 You can follow the team’s progress at www.petanque-marseille2012.fr