The qualifying round of the 2004 MTBA National Championships was completed at the Eden SuperBowl. A total field of 31 bowlers (22 men, nine ladies) played 16 games over two eight-game sessions.

This year's format differed from previous editions. Bowlers played on two different lane conditions in preparation for the European Championships in Antalya in August.

Kenneth Arpa was through to the final stages after topping the men's qualifying round. He rolled 1,606 and 1,620 for a steady 201.6 average.

Arpa was third behind Brian Farrugia and Mauro Anastasi after day one. But it was in the second session that he showed his mettle, as his opponents grappled with poorer consistency.

Snapping at Arpa's heels is Dennis Mercieca, just 18 pins behind on 3,208, after the highest total of the second session (1,639).

Anastasi will be happy with third place for now, qualifying on 3,130 pins. The others making up the top six male qualifiers are Mark Muscat, Brian Farrugia and Leli Baldacchino.

Melissa Anastasi rules the roost in the ladies section on a fine 3,282 after rolling the highest eight-game set on both days of the qualifying round.

She bowled consistently well in spite of the varying lane conditions, with no fewer than six straight 200+ games.

Doris Camilleri, 2003 champion, is second, 82 pins down on 3,200 - a straight 200 average. Third in the standings is Sue Abela on 3,094. The remaining three qualifiers are Jenny Swift, Joanna Attard and Pamela Demanuele.

The top six from each section will now play a double 'round-robin' final stage.

Bowlers will be awarded 20 bonus pins per match win, and 10 pins for a draw. The top bowler from each section on gross pinfall after the 'round-robin' stage will be declared champion.