U17s V Oxford Shires League

Match report 30^th October 2011

U17s: Shires League vs Oxford:                  Won 11-9

Team:   Henley, Brendan, Peter, Luke

                Anna, Kirby, Sally, Louise

The second match for the U17s, who were keen to improve on the losses incurred last week. The Oxford team were looking very sharp and confident on home territory. This was reflected in the mixed with Pete and Sally the only winners; Henley & Kirby, Brendan & Anna both went to 3 ends, but were narrowly squeezed out in the last rubber. 1-3 to Oxford.

Singles was a different story with the top three boys claiming victory. The girls similarly won three of the four ties. Special mention goes to Sally and Louise who both put in heroic effort to deservedly each win their singles in the third end.  Sally simply wore her partner out, and Louise skilfully changed her game and reaped the benefits. Running total 7-5 to Avon!

The Oxford boys were desperate to avenge their singles losses, but Henley and Brendan kept their cool playing a steady attacking game and took both matches. Pete and Luke battled hard but found the experienced opposing doubles pairs just too strong.

In the girls doubles, Sally and Louise were a bit unlucky to lose to the second pair 19-21 in the third end. Anna and Kirby played at their best gaining confidence with a convincing win over the second pair. This was good preparation for the game against the identical Langford twins – a hard-fought game which our girls took in two. Final score 11-9 J.

So, the myth that Avon aren’t at their strongest in singles is dispelled!

Thanks to Oxford for such a good-spirited match and for the delicious lunch provided and again to all the parents for their unstinting support and helpful advice to the players during the match.