A theoretical 3/2 loss for the Swans but in reality forfeited by the O&C Club due to failure to provide a no. 2 string.
First on Warner vs Wall. Unfortunately, Wall was a Warner virgin and had not yet worked out that one must not feed the Warner backhand volley nor the forehand boast…..both of which proved devastating. Wall did well to get a game. Nicholas, despite recovering mobility, was too strong for Ng but Clara had her opportunities. She played too much on the leftie’s forehand side. Howard vs Morris, not beautiful but a contrast of styles. Howard striking the ball cleanly but carrying an extra 2 stone. Morris, lean, fast, technically unsound but strategically aware. Just when one thinks Morris has no idea where he is hitting the ball he plays an unconventional but well-placed drop. This combined with his speed makes him a tricky opponent. Morris went a close fought 2 up. Howard then outplayed him for 2, only to succumb to Morris’ fitness in the 5th. Gemmell was always going to be too physically strong for a somewhat overweight Kynoch. However, the fact that Kynoch led in all 3 games with 6 points to his name suggested that once the 2 stone is shed he would be a very difficult opponent even for likes of Gemmell. Highlight of the night was Simpson vs Steedman. Simpson has been playing like a headless chicken of late and so it was quite a surprise to see quite a lot of accuracy as well as well-chosen shots. Well-timed drops, slightly deceptive cross-courts from front on backhand, some excellent backhand volley return of serves. To some extent Steedman got dragged into Simpson’s fast and furious style but to be fair, Simpson played well and deserved his win.
