Report For 29/3/08

Division Two
Title Fight Goes To Final Week
Cheltenham C almost certainly claimed the Division Two title with a 7-3 win over nearest rivals Newlands Park B. The outstanding John Gaskill won all three of his games to remain undefeated on the night and throughout the season. He was ably supported by Simon Pratten, who also claimed a maximum, and according to team captain Dave Green, played an ‘absolute blinder’. Anand Keshav was unfortunate not to win any of his singles, including a nail-biter against Andy Richards, in which he lost 11-9 in the deciding fifth set. Cheltenham C secured a fantastic win in the doubles having been 2 sets to 0 down to record a winning margin that guarantees them the maximum number of points Newlands Park B can earn, with one game remaining against Tirley Tigers to play. Well done to the whole team on their success, including those players who did not play on their victorious evening, Dave Green, Nick Scott and Christine Williams. A big well done too to runners-up Newlands Park B, Andy East, Ken Smith, Andy Richards, and Chris White, who turned out on the odd occasion for the team.

Cheltenham C edged to a hard-fought 7-3 win over club counterparts Cheltenham D in a re-arranged penultimate game of the season. John Gaskill was the only player to claim a maximum, whilst young Dominic James once again grabbed the spotlight. Playing up for the D team from the Third Division, he stunned second-ranked Simon Pratten with a five-set win, and also condemned Anand Keshav to defeat. His father, Chris James, was also victorious against a rather shell-shocked Pratten.

Newlands Park C endured a torrid encounter with an inspired CCS A and forced a draw, thanks to a win in the doubles. Dave Hart was in imperious form for CCS A, winning all three matches in easy straight sets, forcing opponent Chris White to say, “He is the most gifted player in the second division”. Praise indeed, but he was well supported by a resurgent Steve Murton, whose impressive form continued with good wins over Graham Chandler and Paul Singh. Chris White won twice for Newlands Park C.

Saracens D claimed an impressive draw against two-man Newlands Park D. Chris Ball won all three for Newlands Park, but Dave Foulser and Dave Cosnette both picked up exceptional straight sets wins over Mike Gleeson.