This is Stamford’s second season in division 1 in the Cambs League and with the arrival, on a free transfer from Peterborough Town, of Jonathan Hand to strengthen the team, the Stamford captain was confident of improving on last years mid table position.
First on court was Jon Hand v Mark Cottenham. From the outset it was clear Jon had his work cut out. Andy took the ball very early, volleying at every opportunity and hitting to an excellent length and width with exceptional consistency. Under constant pressure Jon was never able to dominate the court allowing Andy a comfortable 3-0 win.
Next on was Mark Smith (demoted, but not concerned about it, at all, not a bit, to the No4 position by the arrival of Jon Hand), playing Mark Mitchell. Smithy started strongly working Mitchell hard. Mid way through the first though Mitchell settled and played a steady rallying game. Mistakes from Smithy saw the points begin to run away from him as Mitchell took the first. More errors in the second from Smithy – especially off his working boast – cost him dearly allowing Mitchell the chance to take the second. Two down now, Smithy was in trouble and was unable to stop the rot in the third as Mitchell continued with steady, accurate squash to win the third and the tie comfortably.
Simon Barker went next, playing Chris Stone. A tight first game with both players moving well and working hard was just nicked by Simon. The next two games saw Simon play with an elegance never seen before from him, playing more drops in this match than the whole of last season. An outstanding display of control and finesse saw Chris’ game destroyed and a fine 3-0 win for Simon.
Next up was James Treweeeek against an old adversary Vinod Duraikan. This tie could have gone either way and a marathon 30 minute first game saw James take first blood, literally with a finger injury (he didn’t cry) and the first game. Some fantastic rallying ensued with squash played to an outstanding standard. The damage though had been done in the first and James struggling for match fitness began to weaken. Vinod appeared to get stronger and began to dominate allowing him to take the second. More exceptional squash in next two games, interspersed with crys of “no waaaay” from James as Vinod retrieved everything and returned it with interest saw an eventual 3-1 win for Vinod.
With Stamford 3-1 down in ties and the match lost, it was down to Paul York to rescue a few more points playing Andy Deassandro. As the game progressed it was clear Yorkie was in control and able to play within himself as Andy was unable to pressurise at all. Constantly being forced to turn and being moved around the court at every opportunity, Andy was struggling and Yorkie dominated the match for a 3-0 win.
A tough first match for Stamford, losing 3-2, playing their “dream team” for the first time this year. But is their more to come? Watch this space. Many thanks to “The Green Man” and Paul York for sponsorship this year.
Results:-
James Treweek lost to Vinard Duraikan 1-3
Jon Hand lost to Mark Cottenham 0-3
Paul York BEAT Andy Deassandro 3-0
Mark Smith lost to Mark Mitchell 0-3
Simon Barker BEAT Chris Stone 3-0