TEAM NEWS AT SAWBRIDGEWORTH - updated 02/06/08

The summer Herts League matches have now started. These matches are the most gruelling of all the leagues consisting of two teams of six players. The matches are divided into three, two set rubbers which may be decided by a ten point championship tie-break.

The Ladies 3rd team visited Broxbourne LTC this weekend and had the rare treat of playing on their lovely grass courts.  Unfortunately they lost 6-3 but they did have to play Broxbourne 1st team who until two seasons ago were playing in the Intermediate Division.  All our pairs beat their 3rd pair and despite the defeat were given the usual Broxbourne friendly welcome which allowed the team to come away having had a fun day.

The Ladies 2nd Team are still looking for their first win of the season following their third defeat this weekend.  The team are still a little bemused by their results so far this season which have mostly resulted due to losing too many of the dreaded 3rd set tie-breaks.  With three matches left they certainly need to turn things round if they are to prevent demotion for the 2nd season running.  Despite the losses morale is excellent under the captainship of Felicity Rowe. 

The Mens 2nd team began their campaign on Saturday with a good win against a strong West Herts side.  As usual the level of tennis was extremely high with an oustanding peformance by Ben Oakes & Peter Mott who one all three of their rubbers.  This was especially pleasing for Ben who has returned to the team following a year of injury.  Brett Bird made his 2nd team debut and won his first rubber at this level with partner Ed Marrow a veteran of Herts League tennis.  Martin Taplin pulled of the shot of the match managing a half-volley while diving at full length.  This match also witnessed a historical club first - a complaint against the Bowls Club for noise which adversly affected the finely tuned game of John Morris.  The culprit?  The club cat detector!!  Oh dear John!!

Nick Gowlett's Mixed Mid-Week Team have been successful in two of their opening matches with very close results; winning by two sets in one and by one game in the second!  These are very social matches with a competive edge played at local clubs.  If you would like to play mixed summer tennis why not contact Nick.

Sarah Fryer is running a new ladies team in the Essex Small Clubs League for ladies new or returning to team tennis.  These are very social matches at local clubs.  The first team is run by Carol Arneson who has been complimented by a number of clubs for the excellent welcome we give to our visitors.