FTC men rediscover their winning ways

It was an early start in glorious sunshine when Andre the giant, Chris Gosden, Phil Tite and Tom Craddock set sail for their men’s Sussex League match against West Chiltington.  With everyone in good spirits and no one sporting a hangover the omens were good, and Andre our very own in-car sat nav ensured we got there in good time!

Phil and Chris got things off to a strong start with a 6-0 6-0 win in their first rubber. Chris’s return of serve, deep and to the backhand, set up Phil for some lovely angled volleys which proved too much for their opponents.

Andre and Tom were equally strong with a 6-1 6-1 win in their first rubber. Just moments into their encounter Andre took a tumble which involved his knee kissing the Tarmac! A short break to get him patched up and he was good to go! Let it not be said that we don’t give blood sweat and tears for the cause! Back to the game and consistent hitting from the baseline from both our guys wore down their opponents slowly but surely.

The reverse rubber saw Phil and Chris have a slow start but picked things up to run out 6-2 6-0 winners. Chris’s serving was impressive, hitting three aces whilst keeping his first serve percentage high. Phil’s angles with the volley, again finding space between the opposing pair, proved too strong.

Andre and Tom’s reverse rubber saw them run out 6-2 6-2 winners. Super consistent hitting teamed with big serving from Tom helped secure the first set. The second set saw the Fishbourne pair become more adventurous, pressing the net more frequently and coming up trumps.

Fishbourne ran out 4-0 winners overall. Great to get back to winning ways, our first in five matches!

A lovely spot of lunch after  was enjoyed in perfect sunshine, not bad for an early October day! Our hosts were a great bunch, a really lovely club to play against. We wish them all the best for the rest of the season.

For us it’s upward and onwards!

Chris Gosden