Cambs II team returned to winning ways, with a victory against northern neighbours Lincolnshire at St Bede's on Sunday 8 November. Things did not look hopeful at the outset, with experience being well and truly aced by youth - The senior members Daniel Bates, Robert Couch (who wished to have it recorded that he was getting over a cold!) and Amanda Godfrey all lost their singles, with youthful Hannah Sharman the only player to take her game. Following a closely fought battle, Hannah's heart rate was monitored to ensure she had not over-exerted herself, but thankfully chocolate digestives were not deemed necessary get her back up for the doubles.
Robert and Daniel were keen to avenge themselves in the doubles and barnstormed their way to two quick wins, one being a victory to 5. Paul and Sam looked like a couple rapidly becoming accustomed to either other, and chose beforehand to play a more aggressive style which also brought them two straight-sets wins. The ladies however, faced stiffer resistance going into the doubles. Amanda and Hannah were overcome by a consistent first Lincs pairing, while taking the second. Sandra Ashcroft and Lisa Hawes fought valiantly but struggled to imposed themselves, and lost both despite taking the second game into a third end.
With the scores tied at 6-6, the game went to a nailbiting mixed decider, with all three games going the full length. Rob and Amanda slipped into gear and won to 19 in the third, and Paul and Sandra secured the win by settling into their groove after two very close ends to finish a fading Lincs pair 21-7. New pairing Daniel and Hannah won the first end, but failed to capitalise and faded once the match was secure. So the result of 8-7 means Cambs II get on the scoreboard, and move to a mid-table position. This is a team with some potential, once the members have settled into their roles and had more experience together. Chocolate digestives and Guiness may need to be rationed for the season though.