PETERBOROUGH & DISTRICT SUMMER LEAGUE DIVISION 1
Stamford win 2-1
Dan Soar lost to Alastair Gunn 1-3 . (7-9) (1-9) (9-3) (6-9)
Monkey Boy lost to Mark Smith 0-3 (3-9) (7-9 (9-10)
Carl 'prolific' Taylor beat Giles Clawson 3-1 (9-6) (9-6) (1-9) (9-2)
PETERBOROUGH & DISTRICT SUMMER LEAGUE DIVISION 1
Stamford for the first time in living memory have put in a Team into the Peterborough & District SUMMER League Division 1 and have so far won 1 and lost 1.
First match was Stamford v Perkins played at Stamford on 14th June.
1. Alastair Gunn lost to Spencer Beresford 0-3
2. Mark Smith lost to Jonathan Hand 1-3
3. Glyn Williams beat Peter Hand 3-0
Stamford LOSING 1 (4pts) Perkins 2 (9)
Next up was against March played at Stamford on the 21st June
1. Alastair Gunn lost to Matt Fiveash 0-3
2. Mark Smith beat Ali Warren 3-0
3. Glyn Williams beat W/O 3-0
Stamford VICTORY 2 (11pts) March 1 (3pts)
STAMFORD vs PORTO, PORTUGAL
Stamford Squash Club achieve 5-1 success against Portuguese
Although many squash clubs find their activities somewhat curtailed during the summer months, with many players opting for the fresh air activities of golf and tennis, Stamford Squash Club seem to be taking the opposite tack.
Having recently returned from a stimulating tour in Edinburgh they found themselves on the receiving end of a challenge from the Monte Aventino Squash Club from Porto, Portugal, currently touring in the UK.
The fixture against Monte Aventino S. C. was arranged by Carlose Correia, of the Peterborough District Squash League. Carlos met Monte Aventino’s No. 1 player and coach Paulo Pinto five years ago when playing in Porto, where Paulo runs his own squash school and since then Carlos has taken several squash teams over to play in Portugal.
The match was played on Friday 2nd June at the Stamford Squash Club courts. The teams, consisting of six players each, were played as follows:
Monte Aventino Squash Club, Porto:
1 Paulo Pinto, 2 Paulo Amorim, 3 Pedro Silva, 4 Francisco Lupi, 5 Luìs Carvalho, 6 Felipe Vitorino
Stamford Squash Club:
1 Alastair Gunn, 2 Glynn Williams, 3 Richard Barker, 4 Ian Burnham, 5 Martin Shippey, 6 Dave Spooner.
Dave Spooner and Felipe Vitorino were first to play, Dave very quickly taking the first game 9-4, and in spite of a very spirited and energetic defence from Felipe, took the next two games 9-3 and 9-3.
The next game, between Martin Shippey and Luìs Carvalho began in much the same way, with a score of 9-3 to Martin, but Luìs, taking better advantage of his speed and agility in the second game, took it 9-6. The third game looked as if it might also go to Luìs had Martin not slowed the pace right down. Lobs and drops produced the desired effect and he took the next two games 9-4, 9-3.
Two games played and two decisive wins to Stamford.
The third game, Ian Burnham against Francisco Lupi, proved itself to be the longest match of the six played. Ian, sensing the younger player’s stamina advantage, decided to play a game of alternating attack and defence. The first game was played with dazzling speed and ferocious drives from Ian, who backed off in the second, allowing Francisco to take an easy game. Ian, coming back in the third with more speed and powerful drives, again backed off in the fourth, giving another easy one to Francisco, and on to the gruelling and crucial fifth game. The final scoreline clearly illuminating Ian’s strategy; 9-7, 0-9, 9-3, 2-9, 9-7 and another win for Stamford.
Playing in the third position, Richard Barker and Pedro Silva exhibited squash playing at another level, this game being characterised by long stamina-sapping rallies, astonishing retrievals, clever reversals and heavily disguised drops and drives, but in the end Richard’s strength proved decisive, giving him a 9-4, 10-8, 9-0 win.
In the second position, Glyn Williams was drawn against Porto’s Paulo Amorim, in Glyn’s words “the craziest squash player Portugal could produce” After Glyn took the first game convincingly, Paulo pulled out an array of court dives to snatch the second 10-8. The third was also closely fought with Paulo, now bleeding as a result of grazes sustained during the dives, taking an early lead. However, Glyn managed to claw the points back and win 10-9. At this point Paulo retired from the match due to his ‘injuries’, giving a final result of 3-1 to Stamford.
So far, Stamford remained unbeaten, but there was one match remaining to be played, against top Portuguese coach Paulo Pinto, who is also nationally ranked. Could Stamford’s no. 1 Alastair Gunn hold the line against a player of such formidable standing?
The first game was played carefully, each player sounding the other out, looking for opportunities and weaknesses, of which there were few on either side. Alastair’s game, which combined superb anticipation with always-disguised and deadly accurate drives down the walls or cross-court, saw him through the first game with a 9-7 win. Paulo came back in the second, relentlessly chasing everything down, returning everything with pace and precision,
At a brief award ceremony which took place at The Dolphin, the Monte Aventino Squash Club team showed themselves to be extremely polite, sportsmanlike and good natured representatives of their country. Cups and medals were awarded to both teams and it was agreed that a return match in Porto would be arranged soon.
Stamford 1 v Peterborough Town 1
The season was to close out with a much anticipated final tie with Town 1. The dream team of Yorky, Oakley, Williams, Gunn and Barker (Snr) against the might of Fiveash, Bird, Hoskin, Soar and Taylor - an awesome prospect - a very difficult one to call.
Could Yorky out do the odds and take the Fiveash scalp?? …… would Barker put an end to Taylor's two year undefeated run???
First on were the Gunn v Dan Soar and Glyn v Neil "don't call me a mother" Hoskin (Swifty's best mate). Glyn's match was away first with the fireman looking out of sorts hitting his own legs more often than the ball. Despite Neil's best efforts to hurt himself the first game was very close with Glyn just edging it 9/7. Glyn then stepped up the pace several gears leaving Neil behind and running away with the next two games 9/1, 9/0……awesome.
There was nothing elegant about Dan and the Gunn's match. With neither player getting anywhere near their usual form the match from start to finish was very scrappy. Having said that there where some flashes of excellent play with Dan (sporting his girlfriend's favourite T shirt) show casing some quality kills and the Gunn demonstrating his ability to retrieve the irretrievable. The balance though weighed in the Stamford captain's favour as he took the rubber 3/0.
Two in the bag - things were looking good …..but too early to celebrate.
Next on was the match of the night between Mr Oakley and Grant Bird. Whilst close, Oakley took the first two games with reasonable comfort. Grant however, with some outstanding touch play fought his way back in to the game and levelled 2 all. The decider was too close for comfort and contested point for point - everybody was feeling the pressure - even the ref's guts (fireman Sam entertaining the balcony with some unbelievably viscous bowel movements). Each player pushing the other harder and harder and the shots getting tighter made some calls very tricky …."oooh ooooh ah eh eh eh …oooh eh ummm….well I thought it was a let oohh eh eh ahhh ya eh b cu….but I'm going to give a stroke" - Crucial.
It went to wire but when Jonathan finally took match the Stamford boys roared to celebrate their victory.
Still two games left ………..
Yorky was never going to be favourite in his tie against Fiveash but usually puts up a better fight than he did last night. Matt was looking on top form as he slapped the ball to all corners stretching all of the Yorkster's 5 ft 2 inch frame to its limit. Though an entertaining lesson for the rest of us in the art of deception this was a rubber that Stamford were not going to win as Matt closed out the tie comfortably 3/0. Last on then was Simon Barker - his coaching session with the Gunn a few days earlier had clearly paid dividends as the team veteran commanded the court with renewed confidence. Taking the ball early, mixing up the pace and taking his opportunities to kill Simon clearly had the measure of Carl "not been defeated for 2 years" Taylor as took a scalp 3/0 for himself - cementing the Stamford victory.
A 4/1 victory ….a marvellous result - but the Town lads will surely be keen for revenge when we meet them again on 20 March for our semi final Cup clash.
As captain it is my pleasure then to round up on a very enjoyable and successful season of squash. Thanks go to every member of the team for their committed efforts and our sponsors the Greenman and Greenwoods Solicitors LLP for their support.
Everybody who has represented the team has made an invaluable contribution…..to note but a few; Yorky being on hand to give tips and advice to us mere mortals (usually through the medium of video clip and little to do with squash), Oakley, without whose guidance in the world of fashion and insightful criticism of our abilities, we would all be lost, Simon Richardson for his ability to pull something special out of the bag (except for when playing Batterby), Ball for his supportive ear, the Spooner for his good humour and Kai for his Northern bling.
My token award of player of the season though has to go to Brown Wing Commander Glynis who has played mostly against opponents below his ability without complaint and whose ill advised admission of rejecting the advances of three rampant nurses served as a huge source of amusement at many a post match meal.
Well played Stamford.
Stamford 1 v. Oakham 1 (Away)
The first half of the season for the Stamford 1 team had been a slow start but towards the end of it, and going into the beginning of the second, things had started to turn for the better. With a core squad of Yorky, Oakley, Gunn, Williams, Richardson and Hepworth and the quality of the likes of Barker Snr, Ball and the Spooner in the reserves, the boys had become a formidable force.
All was looking good for a recovery and a top 3 position for the end of the season, then came the return leg of our first half catastrophic defeat to Oakham.....
The calls were coming in thick and fast. Both Oakley and Yorky were whinging about supposed back injuries - Oakley had done his in weeding daisies from the front lawn whilst Yorky had torn a muscle "pulling out of something I picked up at the weekend boy!" The excuses from the reserves were no better - Ball wouldn't be back in time from a day out fishing, Barker had to baby sit and the Spooner, perhaps trying to avoid those motivational talkings too that he loves so much (not) was proving impossible to get on the phone. All in all a pretty poor show.
Gunn, Williams, Richardson and Hepworth, deserted by their so called team mates, set off for Oakham with the odds stacked heavily against them.
The "gutted like a fish" feeling that I am left with following the evening's defeat leaves little enthusiasm for the usual colourful account. Having said that there were some fine performances worthy of praise.
First on were Richardson and Hepworth to contest 3rd and 4th strings against Dave Batterby and Mick Coogan.
Despite showing flashes of pure genius Simon finally bowed out 3/1 whilst Kai, always in control, and playing some of his best team squash ever, secured a comfortable 3/1 victory.
Glyn firmly took hold of his opportunity to redress the balance from his first half defeat against Justin Fowler and, ever improving in his game, secured a 3/1 win.
All fell then on the Gunn's shoulders. Whilst the opening game was reasonably well contested the last two were very one sided and a source of huge amusement to those (smug team mates who tittered like little girls on the balcolny) watching as the Gunn was uncharacteristically squashed like a gnat 3/0 by Bez's mighty boots.
Werrington and Town 1 left to play - hopefully better results to follow.
Stamford 3rd Team v Crown
Hoping for an easy return to team match squash Martin Brewin was most surprised to find himself placed into the number 1 position for the 3rd Team. Once he recovered from the shock of being elevated to such a high level - the team clearly being oblivious that he had to dust the cobwebs off the racket because he hadn't played for so long - he was on court first against John who looked like an experienced player. It didn't take long for John to get a 4-0 start in the frist game but Martin soon got into the swing of things and played his traditonal back wall shots, boasts, cross courts, oh and the occasional down the wall shot to creep back into the game. It went all the way to the wire Martin snatching it 10-9. The following 2 games were similar with John being unfortunate to not get a game. The scoreline 3-0 unfairly representing the closeness of the game.
Next up was Adrian Boyden - playing an elderly gentleman, Paul. The young whipper snapper, Adrian kept control of the match from the start to the finish winning 9-2, 9-3, 9-4.
Meanwhile, Martin Shippey was playing Mick and clearly had an idea to help Mick as much as possible by hitting the ball back to him so he didn't have to run too much. Very considerate. This resulted in a somwhat closer match than what probably should have been. Despite Martin attempting to help his opponent as much as possible his fitness saw him through to win 3-1.
Mark Lavers, was playing Tim and unfortunately the match reporter saw very little of it. Though needless to say Mark played his unconventional game moving Tim around the court and winning comfortably 3-0.
With Stamford 4-0 up it was just left to Ian Burnham to play Tom. The game of the hard hitters. The jury is still undecided who hit the ball the hardest - BANG, WHAM, BOOF, SMASH - good squash, down the wall stuff. Though the experts up above (aka Adrian and Mark) were clearly of the view that Ian should've mixed it around more. Anyway - after many WHACKS Ian just took the first game - looking good. Next game continued along a similar theme though Tom took it. WHACK, BAM, CRACK, SMASH - 2-1 to Tom. Not looking good. The younger Tom looking fitter looked like he now had the edge and indeed it proved to be, taking the match 3-1.
Good win for Stamford taking the match 4-1, onwards and upwards with promotion looking promising?
Stamford Mens 1st Team v Cambs
League Cup Competition - 1st Round
The great Jonah Barrington extolled the three crucial fitness, stroke play and mental elements to being a successful squash player. Smithy had clearly failed to take these on board in preparing for last night's crucial opening round of the Cambs League Cup Competition spending the previous evening contemplating his tactics over several dozen pints of Stella and a 3.30am kabab and chips. A day of violent bowel movements and vomiting depleted his chances further - bad news for the team - good news for Sani Flow having received Mark's urgent order for handle bars to be fitted to his down stairs toilet.
With Jonathan Hand having dropped out at the 11th hour with a near fatal sore throat our hopes earlier in the week of a sneaky victory were fading fast. Victory was clearly going to depend upon the lower ranks pulling through - Gunn, Williams and Barker had much to do.
First on were Alastair and Glyn at 3 and 4 respectively - the young Gunn (or "Angus" as it seems he has been inexplicably renamed) to battle it out with Neil "Mutha the ball" Hoskin (only the third time they have met in recent times) and Glyn to take on Ali Warren.
The early long and hard rallies of Alastair and Neil's opening game indicated that this rubber wasn't going to be over quickly. The first game saw both players hitting the ball well, with some outrageous retrievals and fine finishes. The pace on the warm court was punishing but saw Hoskin edge out the first game. The second was equally pacey and closely fought - Neil sneaking to 8-6 and looking likely to take a 2-0 lead only to see Alastair fight back to snatch the game 10-8 and level at 1 a piece. Hoskin perhaps slightly losing his concentration went off his game in the next two playing more of a defensive game and leaving Alastair to dominate and take the tie 3/1.
Some great squash was also being fought out between Glyn and Ali. Despite a fine performance from Ali, Glyn always looked to have the slight edge and took the 4th rubber 3/1.
2 up - things were looking good. Barker and Smithy next on.
Smithy really did not look like a well man. Unable to run properly (well nobody could clenching their buttocks together that tightly to avoid an embarrassing follow through), resembling at times a panicked duck, Mark could do little to counter Ed Lefevre's measured attack. As with Jonathan's last miserable performance it would be unfair to print the score - to give you a clue though Mark scored as many points as Freddie did runs the morning after receiving his Sports Personality of the Year Award. Quack ….quack
The outcome of Simon's match against Phil Godfrey then was to prove critical. Phil was always going to be a tricky opponent and his trade mark brand of delicate wrong footing shooting made it difficult for Barker Snr to get out of the starting blocks. Once Simon had started to read his opponent's game a fantastic battle ensued - at 2 all things were getting very tense on the balcony. Simon raced to a 5/0 nil lead and at 6/2 looked to have done for the boys. Phil was not going to be defeated without a fight and Simon's team mates' excitement soon turned to sorrow as Godfrey edged his way back into it. Godfrey showing some serious determination closed out the decider taking a third crucial rubber for March - Stamford were left gutted.
Captain Yorky was left to fight on only for personal glory in his tie against Matt Fiveash. In his second match back from injury (not counting his recent 3/2 loss to Gunn) the Yorkster was looking sprightly and up for the challenge and really not showing any signs of loss of match fitness. The crowd were treated to a quality match with both players pushing the other hard. Matt however just had the edge in the big points and was able to notch up the gas just that bit more when needed and romped home with a 3/0 victory.
A good performance from Stamford but well played March.
The boys retired to a local boozer for much needed refreshment and were treated to a fine early Crimble nosh up - although some or Yorky's jelly (definitely not for kids) and ice cream would have gone down well.
Stamford v Abbotsley
Tonight’s match saw the return of captain Paul “chopper” York. His first match since a calf injury stopped him during the 1st match of the season. Strangely the team have had some good results in the first half of the season currently mid table. With Yorkie now back at 1 who knows what will happen.
First up was Simon B playing Simon Scott. Barker again was slow off the mark and quickly found himself 8-0 down in the first after some outstanding kills from Simon S. Barker battled away though and got back into the game but had left too much to do. First to Abbotsley 9-5. The second was a proverbial nightmare for Barker as Simon S found every nick on court and cleaned up 9-1. 2-0 down and things were not looking good for Barker senior. The third game saw good squash from Barker playing at 110% capacity just to stay in the game. Still not enough though as Simon S went through to win 9-6.
Next on court was Alistair Gunn V Colin Usher. Colin started strongly, retrieving well and put Alistair under significant pressure. Some good attacking squash from Colin worked Ali hard. Ali was not quite on the pace and always under pressure. An error free match from Colin saw him go through to win 9-1, 9-3 and 9-2.
Richard B v Tony Barker was the best match of the evening. Tony had the edge in the first two games playing a better length game and forcing the errors from Richard. The third saw a change in tactics from Richard as he started using the short game to excellent effect catching Tony on numerous occasions with the boast or drop. Richard took the next two to level the tie. The fifth was a hard battle with errors creeping back into Richards’s game. Tony, covering the front of the court better, cut down Richards short winners and after a very good battle came through to win 9-6 in the fifth. 3-0 to Abbotsley Stamford were not looking good.
Next on was Smithy V Mark Emery. Mark had a very up and down game, playing outstanding squash at one point then rubbish shots at another. Smithy, still struggling to find his speed around court, struggled to find a length and when Mark was on song, put the ball away. This was the pattern for three games with Mark edging them all 9-6, 9-7,9-7.
Last on was captain “Chopper” York v Chris Reeve. The first was a hard battle with Yorkie covering some mileage but seemingly in control of the rallies. He couldn’t find the finishing shot and Chris stole it 10-8. The second and third went in a blur as Chris was lightening around the court. He was like a rash on Yorkie; all over him. “Chopper” just couldn’t find the shot to get the ball past Chris as he cleaned up 9-1 and 9-2 to win the tie 3-0.
A pretty rubbish night for Stamford, picking up only 2 points. Chopper York (played two lost two!) decided that action had to be taken and promptly dropped both Barkers for the next match, consigning them to squash scrap yard. Some excuse about having to put out his best team as it was a cup match. That’s it for this half of the season. More reports to come next year.
Stamford 1st Team v Cambridge University Press
Despite some good performances (apart from Jonathan) Stamford go down 3/2.
Several of the usual faces were missing from the evening's line up. Our captain Yorky is still injured and appears in fact to have diverted his interests to other sports. Many have been rather concerned by his recently acquired horrific "David Dickinson" like glow and increasingly bulging forehead veins - looking not so much these days like a squash player than a female body builder.
Smithy is deep into his training for next weekend's marathon and was reluctant to put in an appearance for fear of acquiring yet another injury and Simon Barker was also absent still receiving counselling after last week's knee trembler - unable to get the vision of that pink skirt out of his mind.
The team then consisted of Alastair, Barker Junior, a rare appearance from Glyn (aka "Hilda Hand"), and Jonathan and Peter Hand - a fine balance of youthful impetuousness tempered with well matured wisdom.
A detour was required on the route down the A1 via some secluded car park at Norman's Cross to pick up Jonathan (apparently he wanted to find out what this "dogging craze" is all about) - but we all arrived safely in Cambridge eager to get down to business.
First on were Peter and Richard playing at 5 and 4 respectively.
Peter's opponent, the young Will Blower, had us all worried in the warm up striking the ball well and demonstrating some fine touches and took the opening game 9/7. Peter was looking a little concerned but plenty of "come on daddy" shouts of encouragement from Hand Jnr saw the wiry old fox's spirits lifted. Peter started to find his feet and employing his trade mark brand of steady safe play, peppered with wrong footing deception, stepped up to take the next three 9/3 9/7 9/0.
Richard on the other court struggled also in the opening game against Tim Rieth going down 2/9. He lifted his game well in the second upping the pace and exploiting his opponent's weaker back hand to take the second 10/8. However, his second run in this month with budgie flu left him with not quite enough in the tank to see the match out and despite showing some good form let Tim in to take the next two 9/5 9/4.
Glyn had a tricky game to say the least against Mark Mitchell coloured by far too many strange let calls and even stranger decision making from the ref. Glyn was finding it difficult to contain his temper and to concentrate on playing his game. 4 closely fought games saw the tie poised at 2 games each. The decider was very tense and with Mark 8/7 up at match ball it looked to be over. Glyn dug in snatched the serve back and marched home to take the 5th 10/8 - good man.
Glyn had spent much of the remainder of the evening trying to dispel the growing concerns over his sexuality (brought on by his recent refusal to take up an "offer" from three nurses - just in case you'd forgotten). Not doing himself any favours Glyn was heard asking Richard if he could feel his bottom on the way home.
At number 1 Jonathan really should have led his team home with a good win and with a fine display of delicate finishes looked to be capable of leading by example taking the opening game 9/2 against Vinod Duraikan. What followed was a Hand Jnr trade mark collapse. Lacking in fitness and dragging his lungs behind him Jonathan couldn't quite find a reply as Vinod stepped up the pace giving Jnr little time to play his own game. The scores of the last three games are best left unprinted.
Last on then was Alastair against Andy Dellasandro. Some cracking squash ensued (you can tell that Simon isn't writing this report) as the two battled for control of the area about 3 feet behind the T. Alastair (wearing Jonathan's favourite pink shirt) was unlucky not to have taken the first game having had game ball at 8/7 and which Andy some how sneaked 10/8. Not quite getting forward enough Alastair let Andy dictate the pace in the next which he took 9/2. With renewed focus Alastair refound some of his form to take the 3rd 9/6. A five set thriller was on the cards and then a very unfortunate catalogue of lucky nicks and questionable decisions saw Andy sneak to an 8/2 lead. A change a racket and a brief fight back came too late in the day as Andy closed out the game 9/3.
Stamford 1 v Hunts County
Fresh from maximum points last week Stamford were feeling optimistic. That is until team captain Yorkie was picked up and his opening line as he climbed into the car was “We’re in for a **%&* tonking tonight boys”. Apparently he’s due for a refresher course on motivational techniques!
So suitably depressed the team arrived at the courts for a photo shoot. Tonight’s team was weakened by the absence of Jon Hand (washing his hair) and Yorkie (girly calf muscle problem) who incidentally appears to have contracted the inverse of the Michael Jackson syndrome. This according to medical experts is where a normal white male starts to develop dark pigmentation in their skin. In Yorkie's case though this disease has not yet fully developed and at first glance you would think he spends an hour and a half a day under the sun bed. But who would do such a thing in November?? On hearing that it was team photo night, Angus (Ali) Gunn managed to worm his way into the team looking to complete another successfully defeat and a return by “Top Gun” Glynn Williams taking over tales of “derring do” from James Treweek – well known to all the Stamford Chicks as that aeronautical demon.
Anyway I digress. First on court tonight was Simon Barker playing the lovely Carrie Hastings. For some strange reason this match attracted a lot of spectator interest – Simon could only assume it was to witness his awesome array of shots. The game started well for Simon as he kept the pace of the game high, preventing Carrie from capitalising on her slow pace but very accurate game plan. The first went to Simon 9-2. The second went the similar way but it was noticeable half way through that as soon as Simon slowed the pace Carrie gained the upper hand and worked Simon hard front to back. This put her ahead in the second before Simon stepped the pace up and took it 9-6. The third was much closer and the back of the court was becoming very slippery with drool from the spectators. The match was temporarily halted while the marker told the lads to close their mouths and wipe their chins! Carrie was playing some very good squash now as she dominated the Tee and put Simon under pressure. A very tight third saw Simon rally round just enough to steal it 10-8 and the tie 3-0.
Next on was Glynn Williams playing Andy Slade. Andy started strongly taking the ball early and hitting good width shots that Glynn struggled to step into. A quick first game saw Andy dominate and an easy win 9-2. The second saw a much sharper Glynn as he got into the rallies and began to hand out his own pressure in the form of tight and accurate squash. The roles reversed Andy found himself in trouble and unable to deal with Glynn's retrieving and accuracy. Second to Glynn 9-3. The third and fourth were both well fought games but Glynn retained his dominance keeping Andy consistently under pressure and forcing mistakes to win them 9-7 and 9-2 and take the tie 3-1.
Stamford two up and a glimmer of light was appearing at the end of the victory tunnel. Richard Barker on next against Duncan Colquhoun. Although a few years Richards senior Duncan has considerable experience – would this make a difference? Richard started the first playing superbly hitting winners from everywhere and stormed to a 7-2 lead. Duncan was in trouble. Then he metamorphed into the player of old. An immediate game plan change to start drilling the ball to the back with great pace changed the fortunes as Richard started to make mistakes and struggled to change his game to counter Duncan’s new attack. The points drifted away and at 7-7 you knew Duncan had the edge. Sure enough he went on to take the first 9-7. He continued this attacking, hard hitting squash and Richard just couldn’t get the right shot selection at the critical times and Duncan, now reading Richards game well took the next 3-9. The third commenced in the same way with Duncan developing a lead. Tiredness was starting to kick in though and at 7-0 up it seemed Duncan’s legs had gone as Richard started to gain some control. Back to 7-2 but then a big effort from Duncan was enough the snatch the remaining two points and the game 9-2 winning the tie 3-0.
Alistair on next looking for a shock victory. (Not just tonight but any match would do). Ali was playing James Dampney and it seems that they were playing to the new ISPA rules, which state, “During a rally it is illegal to play the ball so that it lands short of the half court line”. This was clearly a sponsored hitathon and with both players only having to move left and right could have gone on some time. In the players defence there was some lovely up and down the wall tight rallying, but the ball was very warm with both players leathering everything, and a good length was proving elusive. James though, showed he had that bit more accuracy as he steadily amassed the points and the three games went to him 9-6, 9-4, 9-2. This squared the match at 2-2.
Mark Smith was playing Neil Rossin and when Mark had finally finished listing all of his current injuries the match finally got under way. After the first couple of points this was clearly going to be a hard game for Smithy who stepped his own game up in response to Neil’s onslaught. Excellent squash ensued with Smithy under intense pressure yet able to hit tight accurate shots and displaying a wide variety of shots. This though, was not enough as Neil blitzed his way through with lightening court movement and outstanding retrieving resulting in no unforced errors and very few forced errors. With the ball continually coming back, Mark made the errors that saw the points run away from him as Neil took the tie 9-0, 9-2, 9-1. A very entertaining game to watch, (though not quite as entertaining as Simon v Carrie).
Stamford Premier 5 (20), Oundle III 0 (3)
A comfortable win for Stamford Premier, with Ian making short work of his opponent and Martin making heavy work out of edging Ken Chung, who despite having some cute shots eventually gave up out of sheer exhaustion. Adrian, playing his debut for Premier, dropped only one game in a not-very-closely fought tie and Debbie continued her unbeaten-this-season run with her deceptively neat but powerful game. Ferlin, with no opponent on this occasion, continues to motivate, inspire and plot his team’s continuing success.
Ian Burnham beat Greg Bateman 3-0
Martin Shippey beat Ken Chung 3-2
Adrian Boyden beat Jeff Pyatt 3-1
Debbie Bowen beat Paul Adams 3-0
Ferlin Barnard beat W/O given by Oundle II 3-0
Stamford v Oakham
Stamford go down 5 nil.
In general terms the least that is said about last night's drubbing the better. Report writing this week is even further impinged as the writer was first on and the length of that tie was such that all other matches other than Glyn "the Gaylord" Williams' had been played on the other court by the time his match was over.
First on were Alastair Gunn and Simon Richardson playing at 2 and 4 respectively.
Alastair seemed to ignore the fact that his opponent was a lefty and proceeded to try and out rally Dylan Ross for most of the match on his extremely powerful forehand. Having said that Alastair sneaked to an 8/7 lead in the first but despite approximately 82 game balls failed to close it out. A mighty effort in the 2nd saw Alastair take the second 9/7 having been 0/6 behind and then take the third 9/5. Dylan then snuck back into the game dictating the pace from the front with accurate and deceptive play to take the next two 9/4 9/3.
Simon battled hard against Dave Batterby and despite a hard push to take the second struggled to cope with Dave's droppy lobby game and went down 2/9 10/8 3/9 1/9.
It took the time that Simon was in the shower for Mike Coogan to see off Dave Spooner 1/9 3/9 1/9. Dave was seen after the 7 minute 15 second tie rubbing tap water into his shirt to make it look as if he had done some running.
Fine performances were put in by both Jonathan Oakley and Glyn Williams who were both unlucky not to get a result the other way. Jonathan lost to Paul Partington 2/9 9/4 7/9 5/9 and Glyn was narrowly defeated by Justin Fowler 7/9 9/6 2/9 9/6 2/9.
Stamford 1st v St.Ivo
First on court tonight was Richard Barker (RB) playing his namesake Richard Craven (RC)– a young pretender from St Ivo. First game was played at a leisurely pace as RB knocked the ball around the court with no real conviction as he struggled to get out of second gear. RC took advantage and playing some good squash hit too many wide winners past RB. First game to RC. Second saw RB must quicker out of the traps as he started attacking the game and put RC under pressure. Good retrieving and some excellent cross court winners saw RB take the second. Much of the same in the third saw RB go 2-1 up. The fourth saw some great squash with both players retrieving outrageously. Long hard rallies ensued seeing possibly the best game of the evening. RC stole it though to put RB back under pressure going into the fifth. Both came out for the fifth fired up but RBs experience (he was 25yrs his senior) showed as continued pressure from RB saw RC starting to make mistakes. Frustration started to set in and RB took control to wrap the match up 3-2. First one to Stamford.
Next door was the battle of the youngsters -Alistair (aged 22 and 7 months) (or Angus as team captain Yorkie, informed me he had selected for tonights match ????) playing Peter, another young pretender at only 13 yrs old and a possible upcoming star playing some very nice squash. Alistair though, always looked in control of the tie with some good rallying and an unprecedented number of kills played by him (two I think it was). Peter stayed in touch throughout the tie, taking the second, but too much pressure saw a good win from Alistair (breaking his duck for the team). Well played and much toy swapping between Ali and Peter was seen in the changing rooms after.
Simon on next against Liam. With the first game under way it was scarily apparent that Simon could actually play worse than last week. A shocking first game from Simon which would have seen more court movement and vision by a blind snail. Liam comfortably wrapped the first 4-9. A stiff talking to from Bro during the break saw a renewed fight back min the second with Simon cruising through 9-2 with much running and recovering but still not much in the way of quality squash. Same for the third as Simon took a 2-1 lead but never looking comfortable as as his straight length turned out to be better cross courts than his cross courts! More torture in the fourth with drop shots literally dropping of Simons racket, nicely into the tin and an accuracy problem that had Simon questioning the material his racket was strung with??? Simon managed to hang in there, robbing the fourth and winning the tie 3-1.
On now was Smithy playing Nick Sabey. Mark started strongly moving Nick from front to back and using an attacking boast from the back of the court found Nick just a split second to slow of the mark. Smithy capitalised on this and picked up points from the short ball. Smithy cruised through the first two games staying comfortably in control. Nick fought back in the third playing a physical game that had Smithy in trouble and allowed Nick to storm away with the third. A change in strategy to keep the ball away from himself saw Smithy counter the problem in the fourth and with Nick tiring the short attacking game put the tie away for Mark winning 9-3 in the fourth.
Last on court was John Hand playing Adam Armiger. A slow start from John, playing up and down the walls squash, saw Adam dominate, playing tight squash and forcing the errors from John. A quick three course meal for John in the 90 second break saw a renewed attack as he went back to the tried and tested, lobby droppy squash that everyone loves to play against. Some killer trickle boasts and reverse angles tied Adam in knots and gave John a comfortable run through the next three games.
John Hand V Adam Armiger 3-9, 9-7, 9-1, 9-1
Mark Smith V Nick Sabey 9-2, 9-6, 1-9, 9-3
Alistair Gunn V Peter Dickinson 9-4, 6-9, 9-4, 9-6
Simon Barker V Liam Walsh 4-9, 9-2, 9-1, 9-6
Richard Barker V Richard Craven 6-9, 9-6, 9-7, 7-9, 9-2
A top result for the team, taking maximum 20 points for the first time this season. Well played team. Same again next week!
Stamford 1st v March
Matt Fiveash v John Hand 9-1, 10,9 9-4Ed Lefevre v Mark Smith 9-1, 9-0, 9-4
Neil Hoskins v Alistair Gunn 10-8, 9-6, 9-4
Ali Warren v Simon Barker 9-3, 9-4, 9-1
Phil Godfrey v Richard Barker 108, 4-9, 9-3, 9-1
One of the toughest matches of the season historically and again tonights results showed it. Not the best team performance ever with the bottom order playing badly and losing whilst the top order played Ok and lost! Alistair in the middle had the best game of the night but struggled to neutralise Neil Hoskins power. Lets hope we can put up a better performance on the return leg. Finally, apart from Alistairs hideous collection of pastel clothing worn on court and pyjama outfits worn to the pub there was one other shock of the evening, and this just goes to show the level of team depression post match - Jon Hand was unable to eat his meal!
Sponsored by Pizza Hut
Back row left to right: Martin Shippey, Ferlin Barnard, Kai Hepworth
Front row left to right: Ian Burnham, Debbie Bowen
Stamford Juniors v Stamford Premier (3rd)
A 5-0 win for Stamford Premier
Ian I’Anson lost to Ian Burnham 7/9, 3/9, 6/9
Mike Blissett lost to Kai Hepworth 1/9, 0/9, 0/9
Tom Crees lost to Martin Shippey 2/9, 2/9, 2/9
Dom Pollard lost to Debbie Bowen 4/9, 0/9, 5/9
Fifth game was a walkover to Ferlin Barnard
A fine effort from Stamford Juniors who were a man down, and our special thanks to Dom and Tom for preparing and serving an excellent post-match supper.
Stamford A v St Neots II
We finished the match at 9.15pm, as we arrived on time at 7.30pm courtesy of Tim Schumacher. It is obvious that we gave them a good stuffing!
The highlight of the evening for some, may have been the cross dressing by Tim and John in the changing rooms, but the squash was more important for me. However I must admit that John was dashing in his new briefs and Tim was all the rave, with his yawning posterior gaping out from John's delicious castaways!
Anyway back to squash - Me, John and Paul hardly broke sweat and were looking for a game afterwards. Dave tried to break sweat with some deft underhits and I couldn't be bothered to ask for the let tactics, but with cunning experience, he wafted away the pensioner he was playing with (his opponent).
Tim had the only game worth playing and what a game! Down 2/9 and 4/9, he dug out an incredulous comeback to 2-2. Unfortunately he pulled a knee ligament and became a hobbling cripple. All seemed lost as Tim went down 0-7 and a hobble became a worse hobble, and we all said from the balcony 'you can do it Tim' yeah. And believe it or believe it not Lazarus was born, with grit, graft, determination, courage, bravery, and team spirit (do you like all this crap?), Tim was magnificent and point by point got to 7-7, then 7-7, 8-7 and 9-7 to complete a most remarkable recovery, which must go down in the record books!
For the record the results were:
Paul Swift beat Mike Biggs 9/4, 9/2, 9/2
Dave Spooner beat Colin Taylor 9/5, 9/7, 9/7
John Fields beat Andy Beattie 9/2, 9/2, 9/2
Paul Redfern beat Dave Bettany 9/4, 9/0, 9/0
Tim Prior beat Andy Fenner 2/9, 4/9, 9/1, 9/7, 9/7
Match Report by Paul Redfern
Stamford 1 v Perkins 1
This was always going to be a tricky tie and a real team effort was going to be required to pull off a victory.
First on court first were Kai and Simon, again playing respectively at 4 and 5.
Kai showing the sharpness around the court that had won him the invite to join the ranks of the Stamford 1 team cruised comfortably to a 9/4 9/3 9/2 victory against Chez Alenanno. Kai's clear enthusiasm for the game must be causing some concern for his very pregnant wife at the moment. Not only is the young man constantly out playing for every Stamford team in the Peterborough leagues but he is clearly spending all of the nappy fund on flashy new bats and go faster hair highlights.
Kai's solid performance was followed by an equally masterful display by Glyn Williams who comfortably dispensed with his opponent Martin Meadows 9/1 9/0 9/2.
Meanwhile Simon Richardson was battling hard for what proved to be the pivotal tie. His opponent Dave Reweder tested Simon with a closely fought first game which Simon just managed to squeeze 10/8. Some great squash ensued, good hard length broken up with delicate finishes from both players. Dave took the 2nd 9/6 and whilst the next two games were closely contested Simon (who can always pull something special out of the bag when the pressure is on) held it together taking the last two 9/6 9/4.
Three matches having been won the victory was in hand with only Alastair and Jonathan Oakley left to play.
A number of supporters had turned up to watch the evening's play - none more interested in the outcome of the next match than Lawrence and Dave (having been left out of this week's line up).
The captain dragged himself onto court barely recovered from a weekend spent on the large white (well more aubergine) porcelain telephone whilst the vultures gathered eagerly on the balcony. What followed, to the eye of the knowledgeable squash follower, was a tear jerking tragedy. The usual display of powerful penetrating squash just wasn't there. Whilst bravely fought and distracted by the cries of "drop him" from Dave "ten bellies" Spooner the result was inevitable as Edd Hale snatched a 9/1 9/5 9/5 victory.
The two Jonathans were left then to educate and demonstrate their court prowess. For the first game, at least, the older looking of the two (Mr Oakley) looked like having a sniff of a chance and top spun dropped his way to a 9/6 opening game victory. The next couple of games were coloured a little - JO, shielding his embarrassment at being constantly wrong footed in front of a packed house, bitched like an old woman. The petulant display, normally associated with teenage spottiness, however did nothing to improve his game (the under sized ladies shorts can't have helped either). Increasingly tired the old timer could do nothing to hold back the tide as Jonathan (the younger) closed out the remaining three games in decisive fashion 9/3 9/4 9/3.
The team retired to the Green Man for a well earned celebratory pint allowing Mr Hand to eat his third dinner of evening and Mr Oakley to whinge about the unfairness of being expected to thank his sponsor by wearing the team shirt.
Stamford 1 V Cambridge 1
Things were looking bleak for the first team, with Captain Yorkie still out with a poorly calf, Smithy with a bad Achilles/ankle/calf/leg etc etc and Jon Hand struggling to find time to play squash in between eating some serious conversation was required from the captain to pull his team together. Smithy - under orders of “if you’re 50% fit you’re playing” and Jon – “step away from the fridge” both made it to tonight’s match with a celebrity appearance from Tania – putting in a well needed (for the team that is) guest appearance before heading off to Monte Carlo or was it Hong Kong. It’s a tough life at the top!
First on court were the Barker boys. Richard was playing Andy Davies. Richard still clearly on a high from his recent lucky victory against bro continued on his new found purple patch where the ball seemingly kept jumping off his racket into the nick/to a good length/width/drop and really did not let Andy into the game at all. A conclusive 9-2, 9-1, 9-3 result for Richard. The man’s on fire!
Next door saw Simon playing Sebastian Lewis. Sebastian played some steady up and down the wall stuff and was very quick around the court but couldn’t produce the winners necessary on a warm court and Simon took full advantage. A comfortable first two games for Simon 9-6 and 9-0. Sebastian mounted a fight back in the third steeping up the pace, volleying more but Simon was up to it and after a close first few rallies Simon again dominated to take the third 9-5. Stamford go 2-0 up and the tie was looking promising for a Stamford result.
Mark Smith on next playing Russ Lewis. This turned into a closely fought battle as smithy edged the first but then lost the next two. Looking a bit ring rusty early on, Smithy was loose and struggled to find a good length allowing Russ to control the rallies. 2-1 down and the fourth saw Mark finally find a bit of form as he started to move Russ using his working boast from the back of the court and hitting tighter and better length shots. Russ couldn’t prevent the errors and Smithy took the fourth 9-6. The fifth saw both players battling hard with some good tight squash before Mark eventually saw it to out to win 9-7 and the tie 3-2. A good result.
Tania went next playing at 1 but going on early because Jon was late! Something to do with struggling to extract his face from a hamburger. Tania, playing Rob Baddley came out with all guns blazing with an awesome display of squash, consistently hitting excellent length with power and accuracy, retrieving everything Rob could throw at her and demonstrating why she is one of the best in the world. The first two games went in a blur 9-0, 9-0 with Tania not looking like she was likely to drop a point. The third started the same way but finally Rob grabbed a point. Tania continued to work hard keeping Rob on the back foot all the time rarely giving him an opportunity to attack and when one appeared either Rob made the error or Tania fought her way back into the rally to again take control. The third game to Tania 9-2. An excellent match and well played to Rob.
With the tie well and truly won last on court was Jon Hand. He was playing Alistair Dawson. As the tie began both players used the short game to excellent effect and as both players anticipated the others short shot it got very crowded on court with a lot of lets being asked for. Both players retained their cool though and some good squash ensued. Jon working exceptionally hard stole the first two games 10-9 and 10-8. Things were looking for Jon until the third point in the third game when Jon apparently ran out of food as his whole body shut down. Legs went, lungs went and what followed was the biggest collapse seen on court since Alistair Gunn last played first team squash. Jon was in all sorts of trouble as he lost the next two 9-1 and 9-3. The fifth started the same way but as Alistair closed in for the kill, his shots failed him and error after error suddenly saw Jon in with a chance at 4-4, but needing to move around the court again. This was clearly not going to happen and with Jon begging Alistair for a mercy killing and the crowd rushing round looking for de-fibrillators, Alistair finally finished the tie 9-4 to win 3-2. Jon was helped of court and quickly dispatched to the pub to get some curry inside him.
An excellent result for Stamford with their second win, 4-1 on the night. Thanks to the sponsors, Tony Shilling at the Green Man in town and Yorkie. Thanks also to the many spectators who turned up watch Tania and barrack the rest of the team including “Awesome” Gunn in his loungewear and Ade Chappell who could tell us a few squash stories of his day. Finally thanks to Jon Hand who turned up late, lost, didn’t pay and didn’t mark. (Oh and ate all the food!)
Stamford Premier v Spalding III 27/10/05
CLOSE MATCH BUT STAMFORD WIN 3-2
Ian Burnham lost to Dave Mowvlen 2/9, 9/2, 8/10, 2/9
Kai Hepworth beat Stuart Piccaver 9/3, 9/5, 9/5
Martin Shippey beat Wynn Jones 9/6, 9/1, 9/0
Ferlin Barnard lost to Simon Faulkner 5/9, 4/9, 3/9
Debbie Bowen beat Greg Marsters 9/6, 1/9, 10/9, 9/0
Better news this week!
Stamford 1 v Peterborough Town II 18th Oct 05
A 4-1 VICTORY FOR STAMFORD
Alastair Gunn beat Dan McGinn 3/2
Glyn Williams beat Kevin Fletcher 3/2
Lawrence Ball lost to Simon King 1/3
Kai Hepworth beat Andy Ruff 3/0
Simon Richardson beat Graham Simms 3/0
Stamford Premier v St Neots 20th Oct 05
ANOTHER 4-1 VICTORY FOR STAMFORD
Alastair Gunn beat Andy Evans 3/0
Ian Burnham beat Paul Beck 3/0
Martin Shippey beat Andy Fenner 3/2
Ferlin Barnard lost to Craig Jackson 1/3
Debbie Bowen beat Bob Simmons 3/2
Stamford A Team v Peterborough City Club 26th Oct 05
A 3-2 WIN FOR STAMFORD
Dave Spooner lost 0-3
Paul Swift lost 2-3
Mike Ferreira won 3-0
Paul Redfern won 3-0
Eamonn Treanor won 3-0
Sorry, no opponents names for above.
Stamford v Fenland
Second match of the season and with Stamford off to a shaky start last week with defeat and an injury to Yorkie (who is going for the record off least amount of matches played for a team captain - due to having calf muscles made of plasticine) we needed a result.
First on court was Richard B playing Tim. Richard looked much more lively moving around the court from the start, having recovered from a bout of budgie flu last week, and was soon dominating the T and working Tim hard. It appeared Richard had a moment of clarity as he suddenly started playing a solid length game interspersed with great winners, giving the impression of a complete squash player. Tim couldn’t deal with this and Richard gained a comfortable 2-0 lead. Both players out for third except Richard seemed to have forgotten his newly found squash brain and allowed Tim back into the match. 2-1 now and nerves on the balcony were beginning to be smelt felt. Richard recovered in the fourth though and found from to put the game to bed with a very conclusive 3-1 victory.
Next on was Barker senior playing Andy Prendergast. After an unlucky 3-2 defeat last week Simon was looking for a result with the racket turned up to full volume started flat out. Andy struggled to deal with the pace of the ball and hit a lot of very loose shots around. Unfortunately most were too loose for Simon’s immaculate positioning for the expected shot and in his haste, mainly fired most of these loose shots straight into the tin. Undaunted Simon continued and stayed ahead of Andy managing to steal a 2-0 lead. A look at the balcony in the break for some encouragement only found comments such as “come on Simon, you can play better than that” or “hit it straight – less cross courts!” Looking forward to more constructive advice and encouragement next week. Anyway I digress. More of the same in the third with at least one less crosscourt shot from Simon saw a sound 3-0 win and Stamford take a 2-0 lead in the match.
Next on was Alistair G against Paul Scarrow. Alistair who has clearly taken over Jon Oakley’s role as trendsetter and best?? dressed player arrived wearing a Gucci knitted tank top and sporting some designer stubble. He was looking cool and every woman’s dreamboat as he minced onto court, looking for some recompense from last weeks stuffing. With the match underway Paul immediately took control. Tight, accurate and retrieving well Paul was putting Ali under a lot of pressure. “Come on Ali” we cried in vain as his opponent smashed another one into the nick. Ali ran and ran but was unable to gain any control of the rallies and Paul continued to stretch his lead. The first two games went to Paul and Ali even changed his tank top but to no avail as the third saw Paul ravage him into submission and it was another 3-0 stuffing for Alistair.
Smithy was on next against Dave Grant. A win here would take the pressure off Stamford and secure the tie. Smithy won the serve and play began. Dave has some serious plans of his own on not allowing Stamford an easy ride and looked comfortable in controlling the pace of the game as he moved Smith around the T. Too many shots and too accurate for Smithy on the night as Dave took an easy 2-0 lead. Could Smithy do anything in the third? The balcony held its breath as the third got underway and suddenly crisis! We thought Smithy had fully recovered from his nasty twisted sock injury from last season - but no. It was back! What a disaster and without an iron in the building to straighten it out Smithy had no choice but to retire. Another 3-0 defeat for Stamford levelling the tie at 2-2.
Last to go on now was John Hand v Andy Short. Andy looked no slouch in the knock up and was quick around the court for a big player, capable of cracking the ball to length. John was having none of this rallying lark and quickly proceeded to cut everything short using boasts, drops and a selection of other mincy shots that only John could ever play. To his credit though, John clearly upset Andy’s rhythm and was unable to get a rally going. Andy fell apart with frustration as John relentless moved him to the front of the court creating winners or simply causing Andy to tin it out of desperation. 2-0 to John and the tie was looking safe. The third began the same but mid way through tiredness saw John ease off a tad allowing Andy some room to attack. Suddenly the game could have changed as Andy clawed some points back but John stepped back up and ground Andy back down to secure a 3-0 victory and the match to Stamford 3-2. The first win of the season with hopefully more to come.
Any resemblance in this report to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Stamford 1 v Frank Lee 1
Stamford survived div 1 last year and lives to fight another season. This was the first match of the Cambs season and saw a couple of new faces to the Stamford line up. Captain again this year is Paul York, and Alistair Gunn and Glyn Williams are welcomed into the team.
First on court was Richard Barker having arrived on time (unlike the captain who was collecting the rest of the team and somewhat behind schedule. Just ask Glyn – waiting in the rain for 20 minutes after his supposed pick up time!) Richard though, was suffering from a rare outbreak of bird flu and was in very poor condition. Normally seen “flying” around the court he was a shadow of his normal self. He worked hard in the first two games, but just didn’t have the legs to capitalise on poor shots from his opponent Dave Bloxham, and lost both games 9-7 and 9-7. The third started well but again Richard’s legs deserted him halfway through allowing Dave in for a 3-0 win.
Next on court was Glyn Williams playing Gavin Peterson. The 20 minute wait in the rain seemingly failed to dampen Glyn’s spirits as he steamrollered his way through Gavin. Glyn played some excellent squash, hitting straight and to a good length and moving well around the court. He put Gavin under too much pressure and walked away with a comfortable 3-0 victory levelling the match at 1-1.
Simon Barker on next against Frazer Allen. This was a closely fought tie with both players battling hard. Exceptionally warm courts made it difficult to control the ball, especially for Simon who only has one speed. Frazer nicked the first 9-7 but Simon came back taking the next two 9-6 and 9-4. Looking good for victory, Simon came on court for the fourth only to be swiftly dispatched 9-0. 2-2 and shell shocked, Simon came out blasting in the fifth but Frazer was up to it and a closely fought last game saw Frazer just edge it to take the tie 3-2.
Alistair Gunn was on next door playing John Hankins. Some good squash ensued with both players finding good width and length. John looked very sharp around the court managing to stay in front of Alistair controlling the “T” and dominating the court. Alistair played well but couldn’t find the winning shots and John ran away with the tie to win comfortably 3-0.
With match lost it was just down to Paul York to try and rescue some more points. Yorkie was playing Simon Gardener. An excellent first game saw both players rallying hard and playing good squash. Yorkie looked sharp around the court, retrieving superbly and playing great recovery shots putting Simon under continual pressure. A hard first game saw Yorkie take it 9-6. The second saw Simon finding that extra bit and turning the tables as he applied the pressure to Yorkie. Excellent length and width finally saw Simon take it 9-3 after some awesome rallies. The third saw catastrophe for Stamford though as Yorkie pulled up with a pulled calf muscle. Game over! 1st match of the season and this was not what Stamford needed. So defeat for the 1st team collecting only 6 points. Must do better. Will Yorkie play again? Tune in next week.
Stamford ‘A’ (away) v Oundle II
Stamford met a very strong Oundle team and lost 3-2
Results:
Alistair Gunn lost to Nick Simms 9/5 9/4 9/4
Paul Swift lost to Bob Grayson 9/7 9/4 9/3
John Fields beat Phillip Wallis 9/10 6/9 9/6 9/4 9/2
Paul Redfern lost to Tim Morrison 5/9 8/9 9/7 10/8 2/9
Eamonn Treanor beat Mike Keogh 9/3 10/9 9/6 9/6
It was a good perfomance and Stamford will be gunning for them at home!
sponsored by Greenwoods Solicitors LLP.
Back row left to right: Jonathan Oakley, Alastair Gunn and Lawrence Ball
Front row left to right: Glyn Williams, David Spooner
Not pictured - Simon Richardson
Stamford 1 v Spalding 1 (Away)
Spalding secure 3-2 victory but a promising start for Stamford
Having been promoted to Division 1 the team had much to prove as we set of for our first fixture of the season away against Spalding 1.
Lawrence Ball kicked off the tie against a canny looking Garry Harrison. The first two games were largely a one sided affair with Harrison dominating the opening rallies. Lawrence showed some intelligent play having recognised and playing on his opponent’s weakness getting himself into the match towards the end of the second and took the third game comfortably. Lawrence continued with his tactic of driving it long and hard and cutting it off early in the fourth to take a promising 6/2 lead only to return to the love affair which he developed in the first game with the tin. Harrison took full advantage of Lawrence’s lapse of concentration to close out the match 2/9, 6/9, 9/1, 7/9. An unfortunate loss which put the home team ahead.
On the other court Dave Spooner was either desperately trying to prove what a top bloke he is by trying to make friends with his opponent or employing the underhand tactic of trying to distract him with excessive small talk and pleasantries between rallies. Whatever was going on his opponent Carl Pybus made off with the match 5/9, 5/9, 6/9 before Dave had had the chance to get his phone number.
Alastair Gunn next to go on. Stamford two down but all still to play for.
As for Alastair's game – what can be said – a tense five set thriller with the young Gunn entertaining the spellbound crowd with his usual blend of masterful cunning play and dubious let calls. His resolute determination closing out the deciding game and taking the tie against Ian Brown 6/9, 9/6, 5/9, 9/7, 9/1.
The 2nd rubber in hand, Stamford’s fate lay in Simon Richardson and Jonathan Oakley's trembling hands.
Simon, recovering from a heavy weekend of debauched shenanigans in Nottingham, looked weary under the strain of the expectation of his team mates. He put in a solid performance, saving match balls in the fourth, only to run out of steam in the decider going down to Clyde Finch 9/2, 6/9, 7/9, 10/9, 5/9.
Jonathan last on, the tie already decided in Spalding's favour; the job in hand to claim precious points. Ever the rebel, JO went on court clearly wearing his wife's shorts and refusing to don the new team shirt. He quickly got into his rhythm and demonstrated the form that had won him the No1 spot with a masterful display of squash peppered with his trade mark disguised drops – 100% of which were winners. His opponent, Paul Taylor, was never really in the match and JO closed out the tie comfortably 9/5, 9/2, 9/2.
Despite Spalding securing a 3/2 victory, all in all it was a match which we should have won. Nevertheless a promising start with some good performances.
Report by Alastair Gunn