The Masters winter series got under way at Fishbourne on Thursday 12 November with a visit from Ryde Lawn Tennis Club on the Isle of Wight.

Representing Fishbourne 2 were Gay Collins and Sue Groves, and Nick Downey and Robin Coghlan. Four rubbers were played, two mixed and a men’s and ladies’ doubles.

Ryde Lawn 2 showed their match fitness from the start – they are regulars in LTA Masters tournaments (that’s women over 45, men over 50) and regularly practise in their match pairs. None of the Fishbourne members had  played with each other before.

Despite this a tense men’s doubles ended in a well earned victory for Fishbourne. Nick and Robin came out on top 6-7, 6-1 and then 10-4 in the championship tie break that is played in lieu of a third set.

All Fishbourne players put on some great tennis and showed real determination against the strong opposition, the Ryde ladies being especially difficult to beat.

The weather was kind (ish), the lunch in the Bull’s Head, hosted by the Fishbourne players, was excellent, and a jolly time was had by all. We look forward to visiting Ryde next year for a return match.

RESULTS:

Mixed doubles

Nick and Sue were def 5-7, 1-6

Robin and Gay were def 5-7, 0-6

Ladies’ doubles

Sue and Gay were def 0-6, 0-6

Men’s doubles

Nick andRobin won 6-7, 6-1, 10-4 (tiebreak)

Next match: Fishbourne 2 vs Rowlands Castle at Fishbourne, 3 December