THE new squash season has begun and Tavistock?s first game was against Newton Abbot 3rd team.
Richard Baxter, playing for the first time in a regular team spot produced some long rallies, however he allowed his opponent to dominate the T and therefore the match. He lost in three straight games.
Towards the end of last season Stuart Cox?s game showed continued improvement at the front of court. He started this season where he left off last year by demonstrating a strangle hold on the match from the outset. His opponent had no answer to Stuart?s quick movement around the court and his now more varied game.
Colin Grice playing at number 3 once again, found himself up against al old adversary. The hard fought but good natured match got off to a good start for the Newton Abbot player as he took the first two games 10-8 10-8.
Colin, ever ready for a long struggle stepped up the pace to win the third game. Newton Abbot began to tire with every point contested and Colin was able to take the final two games and thus the match.
Arriving from a day on the golf course, Andy Gauler at number 2 made a quick start, taking the first game 9-1. His opponent started to adjust to Andy?s fast running game and he improved his score but was still unable to take the second game. The third game proved to be the closest of the match, eventually going to Newton Abbot after several hand-outs at the vital state. Andy replied with a convincing fourth game and he won by 3 games to 1.
Jim Massey and his opponent produced a quality demonstration on which to end the night. Jim?s variation of pace, ability to read his opponents game, his retrieving and decisive drop shots were excellent. The score of 9-1, 9-2, 9-2 reflected this.
Tavistock gained 17 points out of a possible 20, an excellent way to start the season.
Wednesday club nights continue at the Pixon Lane courts (all abilities) and a monthly competition begins in October for all levels. New members welcome.