The last County match of the year saw the Cambs IInd team trekking North to face Lincs I. Spirits were high, as the team sought to maintain a run of good results and a position at the top of the Division. The quality and quantity of the baking on show by the team was also top drawer.
However, as soon as the singles began, it was clear that the match was going to be tough, and taking points a great challenge. Lincs were fielding a particularly strong mens team, which would not have been out of place several divisions higher, with Harley Towler (currently ranked 13) and Steve Mumby both accomplished singles players. Although they battled manfully, James Wilson and Kevin Barron fell in straight games. The ladies fared much better however, with Molly Carter (J) continuing her commanding unbeaten run in singles this season, and singles debutante Katie Morton also winning in convincing style.
The level doubles were also split straight down the middle. Unsurprisingly, both men’s pairs of Daniel Bates and James, and Paul Martell and Kevin, lost to the first Lincs pairing. They both redeemed themselves by gaining revenge on the second pair though. In the ladies, the Lincs first pair also proved too strong for Liz Salmon and Molly, and Jessica Sharman (J) and Katie, although Liz and Molly pushed them all the way to 20-22 in the third, having romped through the middle game 21-9! Again, both pairs won their games against the second pairing comfortably.
That left the match 6-6 going into the mixed, but with the strength of the Lincs’ men, still an uphill struggle. James and Katie were put to the sword by Harley and his partner Joanne Wressell, while Kevin and Liz enjoyed a quick and comfortable success over the third Lincs pair. This left the middle mixed game on court last, as it had gone to three ends. Despite a valiant fightback in the middle game, Skipper Daniel and partner Jessica were unable to maintain their superiority against a particularly quick and strong opponent who forced his way back into the game, and they were edged out 21-14 in the third.
That left the game in Lincs’ hands 8-7, although Cambs gratefully banked the bonus point, still leaving them top of the table for Christmas. With only three other teams in the league this year, Cambs II have now faced everyone. Similar successes next year would leave us with a chance of promotion subject to a final home face-off against the same Lincs team, and results between other teams in the mean time…
More information about results of the Cambs II team is available on the Team Page.