Tavistock Squash 1

West Country Squash 4

TAVISTOCK got the new season underway with a home fixture against their old rivals.

Pete Middleton, playing at number five, got off to a fine start taking the first game 10-9 against the talented and fit Claire Bulford, who ran every ball down.

During the second game the tide turned in Claire's favour and she started winning the bulk of crucial points in a match that could have gone either way. Claire eventually won three games to one.

Tavistock skipper Stuart Cox had no real problems in overcoming the awkward left-hander Mike Nuttall. Once Stuart had come to terms with Mike's cross-court and drop game, he had the West Country man chasing the game and eased to a fine victory. This proved to be the home side's only success of the evening.

Colin Grice was soundly beaten by West Country youngster Tony Tremain in an ill-tempered game. Tony's speed and fine shot selection proved a winning combination as he won in straight games.

Tim Wallis, who has moved up the playing order from number four to number two, was beaten in a tight game by Tony Brown, who after losing the first game to Tim fought back to take the rubber by three games to one.

The last game was between Andy Gauler and the highly rated West Country number one Guy Phillpots. Guy won the first game with relative ease 9-2, but Andy fought back to take the second 9-6.

Unfortunately for the Tavistock man, Guy's class proved too much for him and he ran out a worthy winner by three games to one.

This rounded off a poor start to the season for the Tavistock club after gaining promotion last year — all team members realise there will be no room for relaxation this season.