Results:
The number 1 and 5 strings kicked off in our first match against Middlesex. Despite some good squash from both players, Adrian found it difficult to move out of first gear doing just enough to secure the first two games and then level pegging to 8-8 in the third. However, with two penalty points being awarded against him to lose this game, and (justifiably) his temper, this was the spur he needed to motivate himself into action and win the match 9/1 in the fourth. Rhys Thomas, at just 14 and playing an age group up, rallied well putting up very credible performance at U17 but lost out on both strength and experience to an older player. Jonathan Fuller did well to keep his composure against his verbal opponent who was warned by the referee to stop continually looking for lets and stokes and get on with the game. At number 4, Ben Andrews efficiently disposed of his opponent for the loss of only 4 points as did Oliver Dixon at number 3. Overall, Herts went to lunch with a very satisfactory 4 – 1 win against Middlesex but knowing they had their work cut out that afternoon in a crunch match against Essex for the top spot. Adrian and Rhys again opened for our tie against Essex. With Adrian now firing on all cylinders from the start he left very little room for his opponent, Scott Gledhill, to get into the match, outclassing him for just 6 points. Rhys gave 100% but once again was drawn against an older, stronger and more experienced player. Jonathan game against Scott Legg was contentious and it was disappointing that the referee did not stamp out the swearing, racket abuse and dangerous play of his Essex opponent choosing to ignore the behaviour. Herts complained to the organiser after the match but were comforted by the 3 – 0 win. Ben Andrews failed to get going in the afternoon and lost convincingly to a strong Essex number 4 leaving the match score poised at 2-2 and just the numbers 3 to play. Oliver Dixon’s match against Chris Sherman was a thrilling finale both playing out some superb rallies. Dixon lost the first 2 games and Essex were cheering and looking smug from behind the glass-back court. However, Ollie showed typical determination and dug in for some exhausting rallies that seemed to sap Chris energy more than his own to take the next three games and the match for only 5 points. Herts beat Essex 3-2 to claim the top spot in this tie. Although Essex was still to play Middlesex even if they won 5-0 to acquire 20 points, they could not dislodge us from first position. Final order and points to date:
[Report by: Dudley Fuller, U17 Team Manager (Designate)] |
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