Season 2013
GRAND FINAL
Division I
Tigers 12(48) defeated Dodgers 9(35)
Tigers finished off their year in style to finish 2013 premiers over Dodgers. As they have done all through the finals series, Tigers jumped out of the blocks fast with Julien Poissonnier and Nathan Sincock both recording wins. Dodgers’ Daniel Challinger was lucky to escape against Corey Stephens, coming from two sets down to claim victory. Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham finished off the round for Tigers to lead by two after the first round. Dodgers quickly levelled the scores, with Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins defeating Nathan Sincock and Corey Stephens respectively. Kevin Westbury held on in five sets against Tigers’ Russell Fordham to move Dodgers into the lead for the first time for the night, but that lead was soon extinguished by Brandon Rosalia to leave scores level at the halfway mark. Tigers again used their doubles strength to their advantage to gain back the lead, but it was still anybody’s premiership for the taking. Tigers extended their lead out to two through Reece Fordham overcoming Ellen Challinger, but Adam Butterworth responded for Dodgers after having the better of Russell Fordham. In a crucial match, Brandon Rosalia moved Tigers to within one of victory with a four set victory over Kevin Westbury, but there was still some fight left in Dodgers with Angelika Sederstrom sneaking over the line against Corey Stephens. So the final two matches of the night would decide the premiership and it was Tigers who would step up to the challenge with both Nathan Sincock and Julien Poissonnier recording wins to lead their team to grand final glory.
Best for Tigers were Julien Poissonnier and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth.
Division II
Tigers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(38)
In a wonderful Grand Final which was played with competitive spirit and good sportsmanship Tigers just got over the line in a nail-biting finish. A big crowd gathered to witness the two grand finals which added to the atmosphere on the night. Tigers gained the edge in the opening round with Joseph Harris defeating Zoey Fordham in straight sets with Elisa Fletcher and Mick Ferrett also joining the winners list over Sharee Richards and Sharon Phillips, but the highlight was Christian Fletcher's come from behind win over the much improved Nathan Phillips, while Lions scored through Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Lions matched Tigers in the second round with Shane Harris escaping from Christian Fletcher who pushed him all the way and Zoey Fordham claimed Bev Atkins in four sets but Sharon Phillips caused an upset when she won over Elisa Fletcher in four tight sets, while Jack Meaney won an important match over Sharee Richards in five sets. With the doubles up for grabs this is where games can be won or lost and Lions combined the stronger to win two to level the scores before Tigers managed to win one through Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney to sneak ahead by the smallest of margins. With the tension building, Tigers Jack Meaney played the match of his life urged on by his team to come from behind in a critical match to defeat Sharon Phillips, who has improved so much in recent weeks, and Mick Ferrett claimed Sharee Richards to give Tigers a bit of breathing space. Lions came at Tigers again though through Peter Forrest over Elisa Fletcher in another top game and Nathan Phillips was too good for Bev Atkins leaving the final two matches to decide the outcome. So a fabulous match unfolded as Christian Fletcher remained focused under extreme pressure to come from behind to defeat Zoey Fordham in a memorable five sets to give Tigers the Premiership for 2013.
Best for Tigers were Christian Fletcher, Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
PRELIMINARY FINAL
Division I
Tigers 12(45) defeated Lions 9(36)
Back to full strength, Tigers moved through to the grand final with hard fought win over Lions. Tigers led early with Julien Poissonnier, Nathan Sincock and Brandon Rosalia all hitting the scoreboard. Jason Regan and Brenton Stagg responded for Lions but Tigers still held firm to lead by two after the first round. Lions stepped up the pressure through the second round get back into the contest. Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom had the momentum flowing Lions way with wins over Nathan Sincock and Corey Stephens, before Rodney Scharfe and then crucially Brenton Stagg defeated Brandon Rosalia to level the scores leading into the doubles. Tigers have been especially strong of late in the doubles, and this was no exception as they took two of the three on offer to hold the advantage with just the final round of singles to play. Tigers weren’t about to let this chance slip and their bottom half produced the results required. First it was Reece Fordham over Brenton Stagg, followed by Russell Fordham overcoming Rodney Scharfe. Brandon Rosalia put the final nail in the coffin for Lions with a straight sets victory over Sally Kunze sending Tigers through to the grand final. To Lions credit they failed to give in and produced a further two wins for their side, but it was too little too late.
Best for Tigers was Julien Poissonnier. Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom and Benton Stagg.
Division II
Lions 12 (43) defeated Panthers 9 (35)
Lions were first on the board through Nathan Phillips over Ernie Bauer and Shane Harris over Vic Ellul, before Panthers won a couple in return with Ralph Sandford recording a great victory over Zoey Fordham in four sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala was too good for Sharon Phillips to leave the scores all tied up . Lions really stepped up the pace in the second round stringing five wins together with Sharon Phillips playing a standout game to defeat Kye Sorenson in five close sets to lead by four at the halfway mark. Panthers combined well in the doubles to win two and close the gap but remained three behind with one round to play. Panthers were not done with yet though and posted two wins from Robert Charlton and Kye Sorenson, before Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips won important matches for Lions to win the night and put them through to the Grand Final. Vic Ellul was the eventual winner over Zoey Fordham in a tight match to complete a great contest.
Best for Lions were Nathan Phillips and Shane Harris. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton.
SEMI FINALS
Division I
Dodgers 12(44) defeated Lions 9(33)
Reigning premiers Dodgers have given themselves a chance of going back to back by winning their way through to the grand final. The night was set up through the first two rounds with Dodgers opening up a huge lead. Darren Atkins, Daniel Challinger, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth kicked things off for Dodgers, before Barry Sederstrom and Rodney Scharfe hit back for Lions. The second round blew the contest wide open, with five if the six falling Dodgers way, including Daniel Challinger over Barry Sederstrom in five sets and Ellen Challinger over Sally Kunze in straight sets. With a lead of six at the halfway mark, Dodgers held a decisive advantage, but Lions weren’t about to throw in the towel and cut back the margin through the doubles. Still needing all six of the final round to complete the comeback, Lions started in the best possible fashion with Brenton Stagg having the better of Ellen Challinger in five sets. The night was sealed for Dodgers with Adam Butterworth and Kevin Westbury defeating Rodney Scharfe and Sally Kunze respectively. To Lions credit they finished the night off strong with three straight wins, to give them some confidence going into their preliminary final next week.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom.
Tigers 12(42) defeated Gladiators 9(38)
In the closest of finishes, Gladiators threw everything at Tigers but it wasn’t quite enough as Tigers move through to the preliminary final against Lions. Tigers jumped to the better start with four wins in the first round, including Julien Poissonnier over Shane Stockham in four sets. Gladiators stemmed the flow in the second round but couldn’t peg back the margin as the two sides traded matches throughout. The doubles were going to be crucial to Gladiators chances and they used it to their advantage with two going their way. It took a stern effort from Reece Fordham and Wade Gray to hold off Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis in five sets for Tigers to retain their lead, with only the final round of singles to play. With everything on the line and elimination for the loser, both sides played inspired table tennis which resulted in some fantastic contests. The difference came with three Tigers players all coming back from two sets down to defeat their opponents -Brandon Rosalia over Joe Perone, Nathan Sincock over Shane Harris and in the final match of the night, Julien Poissonnier over Rhys Popovic.
Best for Tigers were Brandon Rosalia and Julien Poissonnier. Best for Gladiators was Rhys Popovic.
Division II
Tigers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(33)
In a very tight semi-final Tigers just got over the line ahead of Lions to go through to the grand final. Tigers had the better start in the opening round particularly from their lower order who all recorded wins, while for Lions Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham got them on the scoreboard. Tigers maintained the pressure in the second round with Joseph Harris and Elisa Fletcher both taking second singles wins to add to wins from Mick Ferrett and Christian Fletcher to take an important four rubber lead, while Shane Harris and Peter Forrest added a couple for Lions. Doubles is where games can be won or lost and Tigers proved the stronger in winning two from three on offer. Needing just one for a grand final berth one would think Tigers had it in the bag, but not so easy as Lions got on a roll lead by Sharon Phillips taking a great win over Jack Meaney, Peter Forrest defeated Elisa Heath in five hard sets and Zoey Fordham claimed Christian Fletcher in another top match before Mick Ferrett won the required rubber for Tigers to take victory. In the final match of the night father and son, Shane and Joseph Harris met once again to do battle but this time it was Shane who claimed the win.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Elisa Heath. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Panthers 13(45) defeated Gladiators 8(35)
With the loser being eliminated this contest was played with everything they had and Kane Ingerson wasted no time in getting the first score down for Gladiators followed by Bob Gibbes, before Panthers got on a roll with Ernie Bauer over Cooper Van Doorn, Vic Ellul taking Cheryl King, and Nick Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton defeating Sam Dawson and Jacqui Harding respectively to take a handy lead in the opening stages. Gladiators matched Panthers in the second round with Cooper Van Doorn winning an important match over Ralph Sandford to add to wins from Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes, while the standout match of the round went to Kye Sorenson when he upset Sam Dawson in five tight sets. Panthers combined the stronger in the doubles to win two and extend their lead out to three leaving the final round very interesting. It was Kye Sorenson who led the way again for Lions, narrowly winning in five tight sets and how important that win proved to be, while Sam Dawson scored one for Gladiators over Robert Charlton to stay in touch before Panthers strung three in a row to put them through to the preliminary final. Vic Ellul winning a top match over Cooper Van Doorn in five sets, Kane Ingerson finished off a great night taking his third single but it was the three five setters that Panthers won that was the difference in the end.
Best for Panthers were Nick Jhunjhunwala and Vic Ellul. Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes.
ROUND 17
Division I
Lions 13(48) defeated Panthers 8(34)
Lions confirmed second position, while Panthers wound up their season as Lions ground down Panthers over the course of the night to finish comfortable winners. Panthers fought hard early with Aaron Sincock, Wade Gray and Fiona Rosalia all hitting the scoreboard early. Lions squared the ledger though through Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom and Rodney Scharfe to leave the scores level at three apiece. Lions broke away through the second round with their top two in Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom particularly impressive in defeating Tai Wheadon and Ben Southam respectively. Panthers wanted to finish the season on a high and looked to get back in the contest through the doubles. Amazingly all three went to five sets, but Lions still had the better overall to extend their lead by one and leave Panthers with an uphill task to create an unlikely comeback. Lions kept their composure and finished off strong, with another four wins their way enough to hold out Tigers from second spot. With a win over Tai Wheadon in the last match of the night, Jason Regan also sealed the most singles for the club in 2013.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom. Best for Panthers was Wade Gray.
Tigers 12(46) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Tigers did what was required and won, but it wasn’t quite enough to move Lions from second position, and will now have to play Gladiators in an elimination final next week. Tigers jumped to the lead from the first game of the night as Julien Poissonnier defeated Mike Van Doorn in five tight sets and Nathan Sincock defeated Kye Barber in straight sets. Huey Rosalia responded for Croppos with a win over Corey Stephens, but Tigers held firm to lead by two after the first round. The second round saw the lead change several times as Huey Rosalia and Mike Van Doorn pegged back the margin before Russell Fordham and Brandon Rosalia restored Tigers lead late in the second round to leave the margin at two. Tigers looked to put Croppos away through the doubles, but Croppos fought on, to stay within touch with the final round of singles to play. Cooper Van Doorn and Riki Popovic gave Croppos hope in defeating Reece Fordham and Russell Fordham, but the strength in Tigers top half soon showed as their ran away eventual victors by three.
Best for Tigers were Julien Poissonnier and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Riki Popovic.
Dodgers 15(53) defeated Gladiators 6(28)
Dodgers took advantage of playing an undermanned Gladiators outfit to boost their percentage by enough to finish minor premiers for 2013 and have the double chance against Lions in the first week of finals. Scores were level through the first round as Gladiators top two in Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham had a great start to defeat Angelika Sederstrom and Daniel Challinger respectively. Darren Atkins withstood a fast start by Riley Curtis to put Dodgers on the board for the first time in the night, before being backed up by Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth with wins of their own. Dodgers stamped their authority on the night through the second round, winning five of the six on offer an open up a commanding lead of four at the half way mark. Dodgers kept the pressure on through the doubles round, winning all three, including Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins over Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham in five sets. With the night already won, Dodgers were aware of the importance percentage would have on their final standing, but to Gladiators credit they came out fighting in the final round with Vic Ellul having a fine win over Ellen Challinger in four sets. The night ended with an incredible match played in two halves, as Daniel Challinger came back from two sets down to defeat Rhys Popovic in five sets.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Gladiators was Shane Stockham.
Division II
Panthers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(38)
Panthers have come from nowhere in recent weeks to firstly take some wins and then to actually make the final four to play finals. In defeating second-placed Lions, they now prove a real threat to any of the top four. Games were evenly spread in the opening round as Lions were first to score through Nathan Phillips over Ernie Bauer and Shane Harris over Vic Ellul before Panthers hit back with Ralph Sandford defeating Zoey Fordham in four sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala taking Sharon Phillips in straight sets. The highlight though was Peter Forrest winning a great five setter over Cath Trouse. Lions took a narrow lead in the second round as Zoey Fordham got in the action defeating Ernie Bauer in four sets and Sharon Phillips stepped up to win a close match over Cath Trouse, while for Panthers Vic Ellul was too good for Nathan Phillips. With the all-important doubles up for grabs this is where it can be won or lost as all three matches were fiercely contested, with Panthers combining the better to win two. Lions were ahead by one going into the last round but Panthers levelled the scores with Robert Charlton defeating Sharon Phillips and Sharee Richards added one for Lions before Panthers made a surge to the finish line stringing three in a row with Niket Jhunjhunwala over Peter Forrest in five tight sets. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Tigers 12(48) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Bottom side Croppos pushed Tigers all the way to the finish line, being their final match for season 2013 as they won't make the finals. Games were evenly spread in the opening stages as Ellen Challinger won the first match for Croppos followed by Anne-Marie Schwark over Jack Meaney and Bec Barber over Elisa Heath, while for Tigers Joseph Harris defeated Harry Hood and Christian Fletcher won through over Lance Barnett after a slow start. Tigers picked up the pace in the second round with Tigers bottom half performing strongly to add to Joseph Harris's win over Lance Barnett in four sets, while for Croppos Harry Hood defeated Kent Barber and Ellen Challinger claimed Christian Fletcher. Tigers proved the stronger in the doubles to win two but the upset of the night went to Croppos Bec Barber and Kye Sorenson defeating the undefeated Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett. Tigers lead by three going into the last round but Kye Sorenson played his best match of the season to defeat Jack Meaney in five close sets and Lance Barnett held strong to defeat Kent Barber but Tigers added the wins required through Mick Ferrett, Elisa Heath and Christian Fletcher, while Ellen Challinger finished a great night with a win over Joseph Harris.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Christian Fletcher. Best for Croppos were Ellen Challinger and Kye Sorenson.
Gladiators 14(47) defeated Dodgers 7(34)
Third-placed Gladiators bounced back from their loss last week to be ready for the up-coming finals while Dodgers were put out by Panthers previously. Gladiators burst out of the blocks early with Cooper Van Doorn defeating David Sherry and Cheryl King claiming David Hall, both in five sets, while Darren Wheare was pushed hard by Gay Karger playing for Dodgers. Megan Atkins and James Regan stood up for Dodgers. Dodgers matched Gladiators in the second round as James Regan won a tight match in three sets over Darren Wheare while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson defeated David Hall, Cooper Van Doorn claimed Terry Ison and Bob Gibbes won over Megan Atkins. In three hard doubles matches Gladiators came through stronger in two to lead by three with the last round to play. James Regan added one more for Dodgers but that's where it all ended as Gladiators ran home easy winners stringing five in a row to claim victory.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Megan Atkins.
ROUND 16
Division I
Tigers 13(47) defeated Gladiators 8(34)
Gladiators relinquished top spot and Tigers moved to third place thanks to a strong win set up through the doubles round. Scores were even through the first round as Gladiators jumped out of the blocks through Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham, before being pegged back by Tigers’ Brandon Rosalia and Reece Fordham late in the round. Tigers made the first move in the second round with Julien Poissonnier and Nathan Sincock hitting the scoreboard, followed by Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham opening up a lead of two at the halfway mark. Tigers took control of the contest through the doubles with Russell Fordham and Reece Fordham defeating Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis in five sets and Julien Poissonnier and Nathan Sincock also winning in five sets over Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham. Corey Stephens and Brandon Rosalia made it the trifecta and Tigers were only one win away from sealing the night. Gladiators showed some early fight in the final round through Riley Curtis and Joe Perone, but the inevitable happened and Tigers ran away with the points.
Best for Tigers was Julien Poissonnier. Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone.
Dodgers 14(51) defeated Panthers 7(27)
Dodgers moved back into top position with a percentage boosting win over second bottom Panthers. With positions tight at the top of the table so close to finals, every win was going to count for Dodgers, and they played that way early with four wins to their name in the first round. Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins accounted for Tai Wheadon and Ben Southam respectively, before Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth finished the round off with their first wins of the night. Aaron Sincock fought hard for Panthers with a four set win over Angelika Sederstrom. The second round was almost a repeat of the first, with Dodgers picking up a further four wins to open up their lead to four leading into the doubles. Panthers still felt in the contest, as doubles has been Dodgers weak point in recent weeks, and this showed as Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon overcame Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins in five sets. Dodgers responded though to take the next two and put themselves on the brink of victory with the final round of singles to play. Another four to Dodgers finished the night off as it started and gave Dodgers the required percentage to move into top spot.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Lions 14(48) defeated Croppos 7(34)
Lions took full advantage in playing the bottom side, disposing of Croppos and proving they will be a contender come finals time. Croppos showed steady resistance through the first round with Huey Rosalia, Mark Jesser and Riki Popovic all victorious. Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom and Rodney Scharfe hit back for Lions to leave the scores all square. Lions hit their straps in the second round with their bottom half proving to be their strength, combined with Jason Regan to lead the night by two. The doubles put Lions in a dominating position, taking all three on offer and leaving Croppos with the unenviable task of winning all six in the final round to avoid defeat. It was a task too great for Croppos as Lions ran away with the win to sit in second spot on the ladder.
Best for Lions was Rodney Scharfe. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Division II
Tigers 17(53) defeated Gladiators 4(21)
Gladiators were missing Cooper Van Doorn replaced by Darren Wheare as they met top of the table Tigers and despite their loss they remain third on the premiership table well clear of fourth place. Tigers stormed out of the blocks to claim five wins with Christian Fletcher winning a tight match over Kane Ingerson and Kent Barber won over Cheryl King in four sets, while Sam Dawson put the only score away for Gladiators. Gladiators picked it up in the second round with Kane Ingerson claiming Kent Barber in four sets and Bob Gibbes defeating Jack Meaney, while the match of the round belonged to Elisa Heath as she fought out five sets against the much-improved Sam Dawson to crawl over the line. All the doubles went Tigers way, where they have been strong all season before they ran home taking all but one on offer. Gladiators put up a good fight with Sam Dawson just missing out in five sets against Mick Ferrett, Bob Gibbes defeated Elisa Heath, Darren Wheare played well against Kent Barber and Kane Ingerson pushed Joseph Harris to four close sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Christian Fletcher and Mick Ferrett. Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson.
Panthers 12(45) defeated Dodgers 9(35)
Panthers have been keeping their hopes alive in fifth spot as they met Dodgers who were in fourth place. Both teams had players missing for this important clash. Dodgers were first on the board with David Sherry defeating Ralph Sandford in a classic five set marathon supported by James Regan who claimed Kaye Jaensch, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer and Vic Ellul are still tough to beat, Cath Trouse came out the eventual winner over Coral Myers in five sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala was too consistent for Megan Atkins. Dodgers matched Panthers in the next round as David Sherry defeated Vic Ellul in a long match, Coral Myers won over Kaye Jaensch and Megan Atkins claimed Cath Trouse in straight sets, while for Panthers Ralph Sandford won over David Hall in another standout match. Dodgers combined the better in the doubles winning two but one behind at the last turn where they quickly added two wins through James Regan and Megan Atkins to take the lead for the first time in the night. From here Panthers went up a gear running away with the remaining matches to pinch fourth place from Dodgers.
Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala. Best for Dodgers were David Sherry, Megan Atkins and James Regan.
Croppos 13(47) defeated Lions 8(40)
Bottom of the table Croppos surprised second-placed Lions with a shock defeat but Lions were missing important number two player Zoey Fordham for this clash. Croppos began well in the opening stages with Kody Rosalia leading by taking Peter Forrest in four sets, Lance Barnett came up with one of his best wins over Nathan Phillips, Karina White escaped a close one over Bec Barber and Kye Sorenson won over an improving Sharee Richards, while for Lions Shane Harris was the only one to score. Croppos kept the pressure on in the second round scooping another four wins as Anne-Marie Schwark got among the action and Kody Rosalia claimed Nathan Phillips in four sets, while Peter Forrest had his hands full with Harry Hood but still winning in five. In three hotly contested doubles Croppos combined the better to take two and the night. Lions were playing for some pride now and to prevent a complete white-wash Sharon Phillips stepped up and defeated Kye Sorenson for a fine win as did Sharee Richards for her first win of the season, Peter Forrest had to work hard through five sets to claim Lance Barnett while Kody Rosalia won the match of the night defeating Shane Harris in five spectacular sets.
Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
ROUND 15
Division I
Gladiators 14(45) defeated 7(37)
Gladiators moved to the top of the table with a resounding win over bottom side Croppos. Gladiators jumped out of the blocks early with four wins the first round to open up a lead of two. Riley Curtis came from a set down to overcome Mark Jesser in five sets, while Tyler Ebert continued his good form of late to defeat Mike Van Doorn also in five sets. Gladiators extended their lead in the second round by a further two mainly thanks to Shane Stockham climbing over the top of Kye Barber and Bill Broughton coming from two sets down to overcome Riki Popovic. Croppos needed a response in the doubles to have any chance of staging a comeback, but unfortunately for them it was the opposite that happened. Gladiators swept all three on offer to wrap up the night with still the final round of singles to play. Croppos showed some fight in the final round to prevent any further damage being done, but couldn’t peg back the margin either to leave themselves bottom of the ladder.
Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Tigers 16(54) defeated Panthers 5(23)
In another lopsided result, Tigers dismantled an undermanned Panthers to give them a shot at a top two spot with only two rounds to play. Tigers left nothing to chance as they piled on the wins through the opening round. Aaron Sincock was the only player to hit the scoreboard for Tigers as he defeated Corey Stephens in five sets. Cooper Van Doorn was unlucky to do likewise, narrowly going down to Russell Fordham in five sets also. Tigers continued to build their score through the second round as the Sincock brothers faced off, with Aaron the victor over Nathan on this occasion. The doubles proved to be the straw that broke the camel’s back for Panthers, with Tigers running right over the top to win them all and secure the points six matches from the end of the night. To Panthers credit they came out in the final round and grabbed a couple of wins through Cooper Van Doorn and Mario Piantidosi, but that was where the joy ended as Tigers grabbed the ascendancy again, finishing the night off with four straight wins.
Best for Tigers were Julian Poissonnier and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Dodgers 15(49) defeated Lions 6(29)
Dodgers returned to the top two with a surprising easy victory over top side Lions, who have dropped to third. Dodgers grabbed the lead with Darren Atkins and Daniel Challinger defeating Josh Phillips and Jason Regan respectively. Barry Sederstrom got Lions on the scoreboard with a straight sets win over Geoff Nottle, but Dodgers still managed to lead by two after the first round. Five to Dodgers through the second round saw them take control of the night, with Ellen Challinger having her finest win of the season in defeating Sally Kunze in four sets and Darren Atkins overcoming Barry Sederstrom in five sets. Dodgers have struggled with their doubles in recent weeks, and this was still evident with Lions pushing them hard and two of the three on offer going to five sets. Dodgers still extended their lead by one and finished the night off strong with a further four to build some much needed percentage in the lead up to finals, with the top four now only separated by percentage.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions was Jason Regan.
Division II
Tigers 12(39) defeated Panthers 9(36)
In a very close and competitive night, top of the table Tigers just got over the line against Panthers who remain in fifth place and still with a chance at the finals. Tigers took an early lead after the first round as Joseph Harris defeated Vic Ellul in four tight sets, Christian Fletcher battled hard to win over a consistent Ralph Sandford in five sets and Elisa Heath found Darren Wheare a tough opponent but scraped home in four sets, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala put wins away. Panthers tightened the reins in the second round as Ernie Bauer defeated Christian Fletcher in four tight sets, Vic Ellul was too strong for Bev Atkins, Darren Wheare held firm over Jack Meaney but the standout match went to Ralph Sandford as he pushed young Joseph Harris all the way through five sets but failed to win in which could have been the upset of the night, while for Tigers Mick Ferrett got over Niket Jhunjhunwala and Elisa Heath collected her second win. Panthers closed the gap in the doubles by winning two but Tigers were onto their task early by taking two to reach ten first but Panthers hit back with a couple of their own to reach nine leaving just two matches to decide the winner. It was Christian Fletcher and Joseph Harris though who shut Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer down respectively to take victory for Tigers.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Joseph Harris. Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala.
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Croppos 9(31)
Gladiators maintained their position in third place and will play finals but also have a chance at second place, while Croppos need to win both rounds remaining for any chance at finals. Gladiators broke away for an early lead in the opening round as Kane Ingerson claimed Lance Barnett and Cheryl King defeated Harry Hood, both in straight sets along with Bob Gibbes over Kye Sorensen and Sam Dawson over Anne-Marie Schwark, while for Croppos, Kody Rosalia and Karina White put wins on the scoreboard. Gladiators kept the pressure on in the second round with Cooper Van Doorn playing a standout match to defeat Lance Barnett in five tough sets and Jacqui Harding pushed Anne-Marie Schwark all the way just going down in an incredible match. Croppos came out firing in the doubles to claim two as Kody Rosalia paired with Harry Hood to topple Gladiators top pairing of Kane Ingerson and Cheryl King. Needing five to win, Croppos added one through Kye Sorensen before Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson put the winning scores away for Gladiators topped off by Cooper Van Doorn defeating Harry Hood in straight sets, while Croppos Kody Rosalia won the final match over Kane Ingerson in four sets.
Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson. Best for Croppos was Kody Rosalia.
Lions 12(40) defeated Dodgers 9(34)
Fourth-placed Dodgers put in a good performance against Lions who remain second. It was Dodgers who had the better start, taking four wins in the opening round through Ellen Challinger over Nathan Phillips, Tyler Ingerson in his best win of the season caused an upset by defeating Zoey Fordham in five sets and James Regan won over Sharee Richards, while for Lions, Shane Harris and Peter Forrest came through. Lions then turned the night on its head and completely reversed the trend as Zoey Fordham stepped up a gear to defeat Ellen Challinger, Nathan Phillips claimed David Hall and Sharon Phillips played well to win over Megan Atkins in five sets. Lions combined the better in the doubles to win two and extend their lead out to three. Dodgers kept coming with wins to James Regan and Megan Atkins but Lions added two with Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips to claim victory, while David Hall added one more for Dodgers defeating Zoey Fordham in four sets.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
ROUND 14
Division I
Croppos 13(42) defeated Panthers 8(36)
Croppos secured their second win for the season against fellow bottom-two side Panthers, and in the process give themselves a chance of avoiding the wooden spoon. Scores were even though the first round of singles as both sides fought to gain the ascendancy. Panthers were led by Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon, while Huey Rosalia continue to collect the wins this season. Croppos were the first to make a break through the second round with their bottom half of Barry Hancock, Mark Jesser and Riki Popovic all recording wins and providing the edge. Croppos extended their lead to three through the doubles thanks to Barry Hancock and Riki Popovic dominating the fifth set to overcome Wade Gray and Mario Piantedosi. Panthers needed something special to come back in this one, but it wasn’t to be, as Croppos ran out the night the stronger, finished off by Huey Rosalia defeating Tai Wheadon in five sets.
Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia. Best for Panthers were Tai Wheadon and Fiona Rosalia.
Gladiators 13(44) defeated Lions 8(34)
Gladiators moved into second place on the ladder with victory over top placed Lions. Gladiators set the tone early through Shane Stockham withstanding a comeback from Jason Regan to win in five sets and Tyler Ebert too good for Barry Sederstrom to win in four sets. Gladiators secured the first four matches of the night to lead by two after the first round. Lions tried to peg back the margin in the second round but Gladiators held firm, to still win three for the round and keep the margin at two at the halfway mark. The doubles were going to be crucial for both sides. Lions snatched the first through Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe over Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis, but Gladiators came again to take the next two and extend their lead out to three with only the final round of singles to play. Gladiators weren’t about to let this one slip though and finished the night strongly to wrap up a crucial win.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic, Shane Stockham and Joe Perone. Best for Lions was Rodney Scharfe.
Tigers 14(44) defeated Dodgers 7(33)
Dodgers slipped back to third as Tigers put in a dominating performance after the first round. Dodgers started the better of the two sides and built an early lead through the first round with Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth all hitting the scoreboard. The contest turned on its head in the second round with Tigers piling on five wins to just one. Brandon Rosalia continued his good form to defeat Adam Butterworth in five sets and Reece Fordham had one of his best wins this season with a straight sets victory over Kevin Westbury. Tigers increased their lead through the doubles with Russell and Reece Fordham squandering a two sets to love lead before winning in five over Adam Butterworth and Ellen Challinger. Dodgers needed a response, but Tigers flowed with the momentum and made them pay with another five wins added to the scoreboard in the final round to run out easy winners.
Best for Tigers were Julien Poissonier and Reece Fordham. Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins.
Division II
Panthers 15(50) defeated Croppos 6(29)
Panthers were strengthened this week by the inclusion of new player Darren Wheare, but Croppos were first on the board with Kody Rosalia over Ralph Sandford in four sets and Anne-Marie Schwark won a wonderful match in five sets over Robert Charlton. For Panthers Ernie Bauer had to fight hard to win over Harry Hood and Vic Ellul just got over the line against Lance Barnett, both in five sets. Panthers kept the pressure on in the second round as Niket Jhunjhunwala and Darren Wheare both collected their second single for the night while for Croppos Kody Rosalia defeated Vic Ellul in straight sets and Karina White had to come from behind to win in five sets over an improved Robert Charlton. Panthers combined the better to win two doubles and have a commanding lead on the match. Croppos Kye Sorenson put in a good effort against Robert Charlton going down in five sets but from here Panthers came home strongly with Darren Wheare completing a great first night winning all his matches along with Niket Jhunjhunwala to keep their finals hopes alive.
Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Darren Wheare. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia.
Lions 11(39) defeated Gladiators 10(38)
This was a very competitive night between second and third with Lions holding onto second place by a thread. Lions had a great start in the opening round with Zoey Fordham winning a tight match over Cheryl King in five sets and Miriah Yamamoto on exchange from Japan couldn't wait to try Aussie table tennis showing great style to defeat Bob Gibbes, while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson and Jacqui Harding recorded wins. Gladiators stepped up in the second round to share the matches as Cooper Van Doorn claimed Terry Ison, Bob Gibbes defeated Sharee Richards and Sam Dawson came through in a tight match over Miriah Yamamoto, while Peter Forrest, Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham stood up for Lions. Gladiators combined the stronger in the doubles to win two but Lions held the lead by one with the final round of singles to play. Lions reached ten first with Miriah Yamamoto and Peter Forrest, but Gladiators hit back to level the scores through Sam Dawson, Cheryl King and Cooper Van Doorn played one of his best to defeat Zoey Fordham in five sets. It came down to the final match of the night as Kane Ingerson started well against Shane Harris but the experience came through with Harris taking the match for a Lions victory.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Gladiators were Cooper Van Doorn and Sam Dawson.
Tigers 16(52) defeated Dodgers 5(29)
Top of the table Tigers easily accounted for Dodgers but the result could have been a lot closer as all but one of the five set matches went Tigers way. Tigers stormed out of the blocks winning all six singles in the opening round with Christian Fletcher defeating David Sherry and Mick Ferrett in a close match over Max Williams both in four sets while for Dodgers James Regan just missed out against Elisa Heath and David Hall went down in five sets. David Sherry claimed Dodgers first win for the night over Bev Atkins but Tigers remained strong with Jack Meaney playing a standout match to defeat Max Williams. The doubles were very competitive but again Tigers showed their strength by winning two. To Dodgers credit they fought hard in the final round as James Regan was too strong for Jack Meaney, Max Williams showed determination to win against Elisa Heath and Tyler Ingerson has improved to upset Bev Atkins but the match of the round went to Christian Fletcher as he defeated David Hall 12/10 in five sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Dodgers were Tyler Ingerson and Max Williams.
ROUND 13
Division I
Lions 16(54) defeated Tigers 5(26)
Lions took advantage of an undermanned Tigers side to consolidate top position as the run towards the finals draw near. Tigers fought hard early to keep scores level after the first round of singles. Russell and Reece Fordham defeated Rodney Scharfe and Brenton Stagg respectively while Nathan Sincock accounted for Barry Sederstrom in straight sets. Lions opened the contest right up in the second round as they swept all six singles. Tigers had no answer to Lions dominance with Reece Fordham fairing the best for Tigers, narrowing going down to Sally Kunze in five sets. Tigers could not stop Lions in the doubles as Lions took all three on offer and the night in the process. Lions stretched their run of wins to eleven straight through Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe early in the final round of singles before Russell Fordham finally snapped the streak with a tight win over Sally Kunze in five sets. Brandon Rosalia followed that up with a fine win over Josh Phillips to bring some joy for Tigers, but it was short lived with Barry Sederstrom and Jason Regan finishing off the night for Lions in fine style.
Best for Lions was Jason Regan. Best for Tigers was Russell Fordham.
Dodgers 12(42) defeated Croppos 9(35)
Dodgers had to fight from start to finish to climb over the top of bottom side Croppos, who seem to be finding some form in the second half of the season. Nothing separated the two sides through the first two rounds as Daniel Challinger led the charge for Dodgers and Huey Rosalia did likewise for Croppos. Adam Butterworth, playing in the top half for the first time this season due to the absence of Angelika Sederstrom showed that he can mix it with the best with a straight sets win over Mike Van Doorn. The doubles looked to be crucial in deciding the final outcome to this contest, and it was Dodgers who crept ahead with Geoff Nottle and Kevin Westbury defeating Mike Van Doorn and Mark Jesser in five sets. Dodgers opened up in the final round with three straight wins to Ellen Challinger, Kevin Westbury and Geoff Nottle to seal the night for their side and retain second spot in the process.
Best for Dodgers was Daniel Challinger. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Panthers 9(35)
Panthers’ finals chances are all but over with a close loss to Gladiators on Thursday night. Panthers began the night well with wins going to their top two players in Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon over Shane Stockham and Tyler respectively. Rhys Popovic and Riley Curtis responded for Gladiators to leave the scores level after the first round. Panthers edged ahead through the second round with Tai Wheadon and Aaron Sincock again hitting the scoreboard, supported by Kody Rosalia and Wade Gray with their wins over Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis. Gladiators reduced the margin back to one through the doubles, but were still left with work to do in the final round to complete the win. They came out firing, taking the next four singles to steal the night away from Panthers when it all looked so promising. Rhys Popovic finished the night off well for Gladiators with a straight sets win over Aaron Sincock.
Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone. Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon.
Division II
Tigers 13(46) defeated Lions 8(27)
With the finals just four weeks away Croppos and Panthers still have a chance to make the top four, while Tigers and Lions will be the teams to beat. After a close competitive night Tigers got the points over the Lions to remain top of the table. Lions were first to score in the opening round with Shane Harris too strong for Bev Atkins and Peter Forrest got up over Jack Meaney in four sets, while for Tigers Joseph Harris defeated Zoey Fordham and Christian Fletcher won in a close game over Nathan Phillips. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round collecting a further four wins with Mick Ferrett playing strongly to defeat Peter Forrest in straight sets and Zoey Fordham played well to defeat Bev Atkins in four. As doubles can make or break a team Tigers combined well to win two but Lions pair Shane Harris and Nathan Phillips were too good for Joseph Harris and Bev Atkins. Tigers held a handy lead going into the final round and Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett wrapped up victory for their team early, while Lions managed to storm home with three in a row – Peter Forrest over Elisa Fletcher in five sets, Nathan Phillips in four over Bev Atkins and Zoey Fordham in a marathon match over Christian Fletcher. The best was saved till last as Joseph Harris eventually wore down his father Shane in four sets.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Joseph Harris. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham.
Croppos 13(43) defeated Dodgers 8(37)
Croppos recorded their first win in nine weeks to still give themselves a chance at finals while Dodgers are in danger of missing out clinging to fourth place. Dodgers were away to a brilliant start in the first round with David Hall taking an important win over Lance Barnett and James Regan played well to defeat Anne-Marie Schwark in four, while for Croppos Kody Rosalia and Kye Sorenson both collected wins. Croppos reversed the trend in the second round to level the scores as Kody Rosalia was too good for David Hall, Harry Hood defeated Tyler Ingerson in four close sets and Anne-Marie Schwark came from behind to win over Megan Atkins also in four sets, while James Regan and Max Williams scored for Dodgers. In three very competitive doubles all going to five sets Croppos gained the lead for the first time by winning two while Dodgers managed one. James Regan added one to level the scores again over Kye Sorenson but from here Croppos reeled in all remaining matches for a well-earned victory. Abi Nicholls narrowly defeated Megan Atkins, Anne-Marie Schwark came from two sets down to get up over Max Williams, Harry Hood claimed David Hall and Kody Rosalia saved his best till last to defeat David Sherry in a very tight game.
Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Lance Barnett. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
Gladiators 10(34) defeated Panthers 9(32)
Both these teams were affected by absent players and as a result played with teams of five. Gladiators had the better start in the opening stages as Kane Ingerson defeated Ralph Sandford and Cooper Van Doorn won over Ernie Bauer, while the best for Panthers came from Vic Ellul over Cheryl King. Games came out even in the second round with the standout being Cheryl King as she won a marathon match over Ernie Bauer. Going into the doubles each team claimed one each, but Gladiators maintained their lead of two. Panthers came home strongly in the final run home with Niket Jhunjhunwala claiming Bob Gibbes in five sets and Ralph Sandford was too good for Cheryl King, but it was Cooper Van Doorn and Kane Ingerson who put the icing on the cake for Gladiators, taking brilliant wins over Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer respectively.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Panthers were Ralph Sandford and Niket Jhunjhunwala.
ROUND 12
Division I
Gladiators 13(47) defeated Dodgers 8(33)
Dodgers reign in top position lasted all of one week as Gladiators overcame an early deficit to overrun and outplay their opponents. Dodgers looked the better side through the first round with Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth all securing early wins for their side. Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone kept Gladiators in touch. Gladiators quickly levelled the scores through the second round with Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone again leading the charge, ably supported by Shane Stockham and Bill Broughton. The doubles looked to be crucial in deciding the end result and it was Gladiators who forged ahead with two of the three on offer, including Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham over Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins in five sets. Gladiators were not about to let this match slip as they dominated the final round, winning all but one. Rhys Popovic completed a great individual night for himself with a five set win over Daniel Challinger to finish the night.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone. Best for Dodgers was Adam Butterworth.
Tigers 14(49) defeated Croppos 7(29)
Tigers continued their run of good form to easily account for Croppos. The night was set up from the start thanks to a strong first round of singles where Tigers won five of the six on offer. Reece Fordham had close to his best win of the season with a four set victory over Barry Hancock. Croppos fought back in the second round but were unable to eat into the margin Tigers had built. It was a case of so close yet so far for Nathan Sincock in going down to Croppos’ Huey Rosalia in five sets. Tigers extended their lead through the doubles to all but wrap up the night with still the final round of singles to play. Croppos were hoping for a response to give themselves a chance of an unlikely comeback, but it wasn’t to be as Tigers’ Reece Fordham and Russell Fordham defeated Riki Popovic and Mark Jesser to hand their team the points. Barry Hancock and Kye Barber put some respectability on the scoreboard but the damage had already been done.
Best for Tigers were Julian Poissonnier and Russell Fordham. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Lions 12(40) defeated Panthers 9(37)
Lions returned to top spot on the ladder with a comfortable win over Panthers. Lions set up their win in the first two rounds of singles, recording four wins in each round shared between Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom, Sally Kunze and Kody Rosalia. Panthers struggled to gain any momentum through the night with only the odd win falling their way. This trend continued in the doubles round as Lions again had the upper hand including Kody Rosalia and Zoey Fordham defeating Mario Piantidosi and Wade Gray in four sets. Lions held a great opportunity to build some percentage in the run towards finals, but to Panthers credit they finished the night off strongly, with wins to Fiona Rosalia, Wade Gray, Tai Wheadon and Aaron Sincock all helping their cause.
Best for Lions were Kody Rosalia and Sally Kunze. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon.
Division II
Gladiators 14(48) defeated Dodgers 7(33)
Gladiators broke away for a lead of two in the opening round with Cheryl King defeating David Hall, Bob Gibbes came from behind to claim James Regan and Sam Dawson has improved with extra training to record a fine win over Max Williams, while David Sherry and Megan Atkins scored for Dodgers. Dodgers matched Gladiators in the second round as Tyler Ingerson pushed Cooper Van Doorn out to five sets in a great game and James Regan got the edge over Sam Dawson in four sets. Gladiators combined the better in the doubles to win two and extend their lead out to three, but Dodgers were first to score in the final round before Gladiators came home strongly winning the remaining five matches as Cheryl King defeated Tyler Ingerson in a standout five sets and Kane Ingerson claimed David Sherry in straight sets.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and David Sherry.
Panthers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(40)
In the closest result of the night Panthers made it two in a row for their third win of the season over second-placed Lions. Lions had the better start in the opening stages winning some great matches with Shane Harris over Ralph Sandford, Nathan Phillips in one of his best over Vic Ellul and Sharon Phillips battled long and hard through five sets to win against Coral Myers, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer claimed Zoey Fordham in four tight sets and Kent Barber defeated Sharee Richards. Panthers reversed the trend in the next round to level the scores as Ralph Sandford and Ernie Bauer were pushed to the limits by their young opponents Zoey Fordham and Nathan Phillips respectively and Robert Charlton and Kent Barber also added further scores. In three hard fought doubles Lions took the upper-hand in winning two while Panthers added one. In such a tight contest a good start in the final round was vital and Panthers took the advantage in winning the first two before Lions got one back through Peter Forrest to level the scores. Panthers kept the pressure on in the final three games winning two with Ralph Sandford taking Nathan Phillips in five sets and Vic Ellul overcame Zoey Fordham in four sets for a well-earned victory over the Lions.
Best for Panthers were Robert Charlton and Ralph Sandford. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Tigers 16(54) defeated Croppos 5(25)
Top of the table Tigers were always going to be hard to beat but Croppos did not help themselves losing too many close matches. Croppos were first to score in the opening round as Kody Rosalia came out firing to defeat Bev Atkins in straight sets and Anne-Marie Schwark claimed Jack Meaney in four, while Christian Fletcher was the standout winner for Tigers over Lance Barnett in four sets. Tigers maintained the pressure in the second round adding a further five winners with Bev Atkins too strong for Harry Hood, Mick Ferrett won a close one over Anne-Marie Schwark, Jack Meaney played well to defeat Karina White and Joseph Harris defeated Lance Barnett in straight sets. Kody Rosalia took five sets to defeat Christian Fletcher to be the only scorer for Croppos. Doubles have been Tigers strength this season and again they combined well to win all three but none better than Joseph Harris and Bev Atkins over Kody Rosalia and Harry Hood as they traded amazing rallies to be eventual winners in five sets. With Tigers having already claimed victory players still had something to play for as Jack Meaney completed a great night defeating Kye Sorenson in five, Bev Atkins claimed Lance Barnett in four tight sets and Christian Fletcher won over Harry Hood. The best was saved for last though with Kody Rosalia taking the points over Joseph Harris.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
ROUND 11
Division I
Croppos 12(41) defeated Lions 9(37)
In what has to be the upset of the season, Croppos recorded their first win of the year over top side Lions. Croppos began well with four wins through the first round, including Huey Rosalia, Riki Popovic, Barry Hancock and Kody Rosalia. Josh Phillips kept Lions in touch with a fine win over Mike Van Doorn in five sets. Lions responded with four wins of their own through the second round to level the scores at the half way mark. Barry Hancock and Huey Rosalia continued to perform well for Croppos. Lions edged ahead in the doubles, winning two of the three on offer, and it looked as though they would run away with the night. Croppos had other ideas though, and in an incredible finish won the final four matches of the night, crucially two in five sets. Barry Hancock came from a set down to defeat Sally Kunze and Mark Jesser had one of his best wins of the year in holding out Josh Phillips. Huey Rosalia put the icing on the cake for Croppos, claiming the belt with a strong four set win over Jason Regan
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe.
Tigers 15(51) defeated Gladiators 6(34)
Gladiators struggled to match Tigers power throughout as the extended their lead at every change. Tigers notched up four wins in the first round with Julien Poissonner, Brandon Rosalia, Russell Fordham and Reece Fordham all hitting the scoreboard. It was a carbon copy of the first round in the second, with the same players all recording their second wins for the night. Tyler Ebert kept some hope alive for Gladiators with a five set win over Nathan Sincock. Tigers all but ended the night for Gladiators with two doubles wins, and then put it beyond doubt in the final round of singles with five straight wins claiming the win and building some handy percentage in the process.
Best for Tigers were Reece Fordham, Russell Fordham and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Gladiators was Rhys Popovic.
Dodgers 11(44) defeated Panthers 10(37)
Dodgers held on from a fast finishing Panthers to take top spot on the ladder for the first time this season. Nothing separated the two sides through the first round with wins being shared a three a piece. Dodgers took the advantage through the second round with Darren Atkins and Daniel Challinger defeating Aaron Sincock and Ben Southam respectively. Adam Butterworth edged Dodgers ahead with a straight sets win over Wade Gray. Dodgers extended their lead by a further one in the doubles, but Panthers had hope with Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon coming from two sets down to defeat Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins in five sets. Panthers came with a late rush, and it was the contest between Adam Butterworth and Fiona Rosalia proving critical, with the former sneaking over the line in five sets to hand Dodgers the points.
Best for Dodgers was Adam Butterworth. Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon.
Division II
Lions 12(44) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Croppos pushed second-placed Lions all the way but it was the three five setters they lost that could have brought a different result. The opening round left scores level at three each with Kody Rosalia winning a great match for Croppos over Zoey Fordham in five sets while Nathan Phillips continues to improve defeating Harry Hood in four tight sets and Peter Forrest claimed Kye Sorenson also in four sets. Neither team could break away in the second round as Lance Barnett won a marathon match over Zoey Fordham and Kody Rosalia just had the edge over Nathan Phillips, while for Lions Shane Harris was a cut above the rest claiming his second single and Sharee Richards celebrated her first win in competition over Kye Sorenson in five long sets. Croppos claimed the first double before Lions grabbed the next two for a slender lead. Croppos were first to score in the final round as Kye Sorenson defeated Sharon Phillips and Karina White came from behind to win over Sharee Richards in five to take the lead for the first time but then Lions picked up the pace to grab the next four singles for a narrow victory.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Croppos were Karina White and Kody Rosalia.
Tigers 16(50) defeated Gladiators 5(27)
With everyone coming off a two week break for the school holidays some players were left in holiday mode and consequently a bit off the pace. Top of the table Tigers began in fine form reeling in five wins in the opening round with Christian Fletcher defeating Kane Ingerson in four sets, Bev Atkins just got over the line against Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Mick Ferrett claimed Bob Gibbes in straight sets. Sam Dawson was the only scorer for Gladiators. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round winning a further four as Joseph Harris won his second single, Christian Fletcher claimed Cheryl King in four tight sets and Elisa Heath had to work hard to defeat Sam Dawson in five while Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes added much needed wins for Gladiators. Doubles have been Tigers strength this season winning all three, enough to win the night, but Gladiators did not give up as Sam Dawson defeated Mick Ferrett and Bob Gibbes won over Elisa Heath. Tigers came home strongly with Bev Atkins winning a marathon match over Cheryl King, Christian Fletcher defeating Cooper Van Doorn and Joseph Harris in hot form over Kane Ingerson in straight sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Christian Fletcher. Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson.
Panthers 14(47) defeated Dodgers 7(31)
Bottom of the table Panthers claimed just their second win of the season over Dodgers who remain in fourth place. Panthers are finally winning those close matches they couldn't earlier in the year with Ernie Bauer over Tyler Ingerson, Ralph Sandford over David Hall in five sets, Niket Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton over James Regan and Megan Atkins respectively while Dodgers David Sherry claimed Vic Ellul and Max Williams defeated Marie Liddle. Panthers kept the pressure on in the second round as Ernie Bauer defeated David Hall, Vic Ellul won over Tyler Ingerson and Robert Charlton has improved to defeat Max Williams in five sets. James Regan and David Sherry scored for Dodgers. Holding a lead of four Panthers combined the better in the doubles to win two but James Regan and Megan Atkins added one for Dodgers over Marie Liddle and Robert Charlton. Dodgers were left with the tough task of winning all remaining matches but began well with James Regan taking Robert Charlton and Megan Atkins over Marie Liddle but from here Panthers stormed home winning the last four as Niket Jhunjhunwala defeated Max Williams in a standout five-set match and Ernie Bauer was too strong for David Sherry.
Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and David Sherry.
ROUND 10
Division I
Dodgers 14(47) defeated Lions 7(34)
Second-placed Dodgers continued their hot streak to record a solid win over top of the table Lions, just their second loss since round three. Lions were missing important top order player Barry Sederstrom for the night replaced by Bruce Wright. Games went three apiece in the first round as Dodgers Adam Butterworth accounted for Sally Kunze in four sets and Josh Phillips had a great win for Lions over Geoff Nottle in straight sets. Dodgers lifted to take the lead in the second round as Kevin Westbury won a close one over Rodney Scharfe in five, Daniel Challinger found Josh Phillips much-improved and Adam Butterworth did not drop a set over Brenton Stagg, while for Lions Sally Kunze just got over the line against Ellen Challinger in a standout five sets. In three cracker five set doubles it was Dodgers who combined brilliantly to take all three and broke the spirit of the Lions. Lions needed to win all remaining matches while Dodgers needed just one for victory and Ellen Challinger quickly put that win away defeating Brenton Stagg in four sets. Kevin Westbury, Geoff Nottle and Darren Atkins added further wins to boost the percentage for Dodgers while Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe added a couple for Lions.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe.
Tigers 12(46) defeated Panthers 9(34)
Panthers were weakened without the inclusion of top player Tai Wheadon but the team began well with Aaron Sincock taking Corey Stephens, Ben Southam played one of his best to upset Nathan Sincock in five sets and Shane Harris finally won a marathon match over Reece Fordham. For Tigers Gavin Proude won on a forfeit and Russell Fordham defeated Mario Piantedosi in straight sets. Tigers reversed the trend in the second round to level the scores as the Fordham’s were in the mix again with Reece claiming Wade Gray and Russell defeating Shane Harris both in four sets. With the all-important doubles up for grabs it was Panthers who struck first with Sean Proude and Shane Harris claiming a great match over brother and sister, Reece and Zoey Fordham in five sets while Tigers picked up the other two doubles to take the lead for the first time. Shane Harris added another one for Panthers as he came from two sets down to defeat a consistent Zoey Fordham in five sets but it was all Tigers as they ran home collecting four wins to take victory with Gavin Proude winning a marathon five-set match over Aaron Sincock for a fitting climax.
Best for Tigers were Gavin Proude and Russell Fordham. Best for Panthers were Shane Harris and Ben Southam.
Gladiators 18(56) defeated Croppos 3(23)
In a disappointing lop-sided game bottom side Croppos were no match against third-placed Gladiators. Croppos were again without their number one player Huey Rosalia and coming into the team were two juniors, Nathan Phillips and Cooper Van Doorn who were no match against the Gladiators but gained lots of experience in the process. Gladiators were hot from the start as they won all six singles in the first round as Tyler Ebert won over Kye Barber in four sets and Riley Curtis claimed an upset victory over Mark Jesser. It was more of the same in the second round but Croppos did manage to win two rubbers through Michael Van Doorn and Mark Jesser. The doubles all went Gladiators way and so it was game over but Mark Jesser did collect a second single for Croppos while Gladiators’ Shane Stockham played a great match to defeat Michael Van Doorn in five sets to be the standout match of the round.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic, Shane Stockham, Riley Curtis. Best for Croppos were Mark Jesser.
Division II
Lions 13(43) defeated Dodgers 8(32)
Fourth placed Dodgers put up a great fight against the Lions who remain second. The three five setters made the difference in the end. Lions made a quick get-away in the first round with Nathan Phillips playing a great match to defeat David Sherry in five tight sets and Zoey Fordham claimed Tyler Ingerson in four before Dodgers Max Williams and James Regan defeated Sharon Phillips and Sharee Richards. Dodgers matched Lions in the second round as the two David's, Sherry and Hall claimed their first wins over Zoey Fordham and Nathan Phillips respectively while for Lions Sharon Phillips held on to win over Megan Atkins in five close sets. Dodgers won the first double to edge closer but Lions hit back to claim the other two and extend their lead out to three. Dodgers were now left with the tough task of winning five of the last six singles remaining but they began well as James Regan and Megan Atkins added two before Lions Peter Forrest and Shane Harris put the game out of reach. Zoey Fordham put the icing on the cake as she won a marathon match over David Hall in five sets.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
Tigers 13(45) defeated Panthers 8(35)
Tigers remain top of the table as they accounted for the bottom side Panthers. Panthers matched Tigers in the opening round as Ernie Bauer came through a tight game over Bev Atkins, Vic Ellul had to work hard to defeat Reece Fordham in a long match and Niket Jhunjhunwala claimed Jack Meaney in straight sets. For Tigers Christian Fletcher defeated Ralph Sandford and Elisa Heath claimed Charlotte Nicholls both in four sets. Tigers stepped up the pace in the second round as Reece Fordham and Mick Ferrett got among the action to defeat Ralph Sandford and Niket Jhunjhunwala respectively, while Ernie Bauer and Vic Ellul remained strong to defeat Christian Fletcher and Bev Atkins. Panthers had an opportunity to level the scores in the doubles but Tigers’ strong doubles play saw them extend their lead out to five. Panthers now had to win all remaining matches but gave it their best shot winning three and going down in two others in a close encounter.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Reece Fordham. Best for Panthers were Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer.
Gladiators 13(52) defeated Croppos 8(33)
Gladiators remain in third place keeping Croppos out of the top four. Both teams were missing regular players with Ellen Challinger coming into the side for Croppos to replace Kody Rosalia and Kent Barber replaced Sam Dawson for Gladiators. In the opening game Ellen Challinger claimed Cheryl King in four, Lance Barnett came from behind to take a narrow win over Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Karina White won over Jacqui Harding in four sets. Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes posted wins for Gladiators. Gladiators lifted in the second round winning all but one match as Cheryl King worked hard to get up and claim Harry Hood in five and Jacqui Harding has improved her game to record a win over Kye Sorenson, while Ellen Challinger added one for Croppos. Over three tight doubles it was Croppos who combined the better winning two to reduce the margin to three to still give themselves a chance. Cath Trouse was the first to score for Croppos as she won a long match over Jacqui Harding followed by Lance Barnett who had to play all his shots to defeat Cheryl King also in five but that's where it ended for Croppos as Kent Barber completed a great night winning all his matches, Bob Gibbes claimed Karina White, Cooper Van Doorn played well to win over Harry Hood and Kane Ingerson saved his best till last defeating Ellen Challinger for the first time in four sets.
Best for Gladiators were Kent Barber and Kane Ingerson. Best for Croppos were Ellen Challinger and Lance Barnett.
ROUND 9
Division I
Dodgers 14(53) defeated Tigers 7(28)
Missing their number one player Gavin Proude, Dodgers took full toll to defeat fellow top four rival Tigers on Thursday night. Dodgers showed their intentions early with Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins both recording straight set victories over Russell Fordham and Nathan Sincock respectively. Corey Stephens got Tigers on the scoreboard to defeat Angelika Sederstrom in five sets. With a lead of two after the first round of singles, Dodgers doubled that lead through the second round with Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth both recording their second wins for the night. Tigers fought hard and were rewarded with Nathan Sincock and Reece Fordham both winning in five sets over their respective opponents. Tigers needed a strong doubles round to drag themselves back in the contest, but again it was Dodgers who had the upper hand on the contest. Tigers now needed to win all remaining matches to avoid defeat, and were given some hope when Zoey Fordham outlasted Ellen Challinger in five sets, before Adam Butterworth sealed the night for Dodgers, overcoming a resilient Joseph Harris in five sets also.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins and Kevin Westbury. Best for Tigers were Reece Fordham and Joseph Harris.
Panthers 12(41) defeated Croppos 9(32)
In a close contest right to the end, Panthers overcame Croppos with both sides missing important players. Nothing separated the two sides through the first two rounds as Panthers were led by Tai Wheadon and Croppos likewise by Mike Van Doorn, who scored one of his best victories of the season in five sets over the in form Aaron Sincock. Mark Jesser also played some of his best table tennis of the season with two wins of his own for Croppos. Panthers made the first break of the night through the doubles, as they claimed two to Croppos one. Croppos weren’t out of the contest though, and with wins to Barry Hancock and Mark Jesser, they levelled the scores with only three matches left for the night. Unfortunately that was Croppos final yelp with Panthers top three in Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon and Wade Gray finishing the night off for their side in style.
Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon. Best for Croppos was Mark Jesser.
Lions 12(45) defeated Gladiators 9(36)
Lions continued their charge and retained top spot as they set up their night thanks to a dominating second round of singles. Matches were shared at three apiece through the first round with late wins to Lions Rodney Scharfe and Brenton Stagg levelling the scores. The second round was all Lions as they fashioned a lead of four in the blink of an eye. Rodney Scharfe, Brenton Stagg and Jason Regan all won their second matches of the night, while Sally Kunze and Barry Sederstrom joined the cause. Gladiators needed a response but Lions met the challenge to extend their lead by a further one through the doubles to leave Gladiators with the tough ask of winning all remaining matches for the night. To their credit they never gave in, as Riley Curtis and Bill Broughton both won in four sets over Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe respectively. Sally Kunze wrapped up the night for Lions, but Croppos pushed on regardless with Tyler Ebert and Shane Stockham finishing the night on a high for their side.
Best for Lions were Rodney Scharfe, Brenton Stagg and Sally Kunze. Best for Gladiators was Rhys Popovic.
Division II
Tigers 13(47) defeated Dodgers 8(33)
This was a lot closer night between the top two sides than the scores indicated as Tigers claimed the crucial five setters that made the difference. Tigers were on fire early steam-rolling through the first round as Jack Meaney defeated Max Williams in four sets and Mick Ferrett claimed James Regan in five, while the only score for Dodgers came from David Sherry. Dodgers reversed the trend in the second round with a brilliant win from David Sherry again as he saved match points against Bev Atkins and went on to win, while James Regan came from behind to claim an impressive victory over Elisa Fletcher in five sets along with Megan Atkins with her straight sets win over Jack Meaney. Tigers led by two going into the doubles and were first to strike with Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney ahead of a marathon game as Joseph Harris and Bev Atkins worked their way into the match to just get through over the two David's, Sherry and Hall in a tough match, while Dodgers claimed one double. Behind by three, Dodgers wasted no time striking first with James Regan playing beautifully to win over Jack Meaney in four and Tyler Ingerson claimed his best win of the season over Terri Ison in five sets to give Dodgers eight. From here Tigers ran home but not without a struggle as Elisa Fletcher found Max Williams much improved and Bev Atkins came from behind to climb over David Hall in five close sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Dodgers were David Sherry and James Regan.
Panthers 12(43) defeated Croppos 9(33)
Well at last Panthers could celebrate as they won their first match of the season. Their night did not begin well though as Croppos had all the answers early with Lance Barnett taking Ernie Bauer and Kody Rosalia claiming Vic Ellul both in four sets, while winners for Panthers came from Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ralph Sandford. Panthers picked up their game in the second round as Bauer and Ellul gained revenge on Harry Hood and Lance Barnett along with junior Charlotte Nicholls defeating Gerry Woodroofe in straight sets. Where doubles can make or break a match wide open Panthers made their move in claiming all three but not without a fight. Leading by three Panthers felt their luck changing as Abi Nicholls came from behind for a brilliant win over Gerry Woodroofe in five and Ralph Sandford put the winning score down over Lance Barnett for a well earned victory. Harry Hood and Kody Rosalia had impressive wins for Croppos over Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer respectively but nothing could take the smiles off the faces of the Panthers team.
Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ralph Sandford. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
Lions 12 40) defeated Gladiators 9(33)
Nothing separated the two sides in the opening round as Gladiators’ Kane Ingerson defeated Zoey Fordham and Sam Dawson claimed Cath Trouse both in four sets, while for Lions Nathan Phillips defeated Cooper Van Doorn in straight sets and Gay Karger added one over Jacqui Harding. Scores remained locked together after the second round as Lions’ Shane Harris collected his second single, Zoey Fordham won over Cheryl King and Gay Karger had to battle through five long sets to win over much-improved player Sam Dawson, while for Gladiators Jacqui Harding and Bob Gibbes added scores with Kane Ingerson's. With the all-important doubles up for grabs it was Lions who made the break in winning a crucial match with Zoey Fordham and Gay Karger defeating Cooper Van Doorn and Bob Gibbes in five tough sets. Holding a slender lead of one it was Cath Trouse for Lions who struck first claiming Jacqui Harding in five sets followed by Gay Karger over Bob Gibbes, while Nathan Phillips put the winning score down over Cheryl King in straight sets. Gladiators' young ones Sam Dawson and Cooper Van Doorn finished well defeating Sharee Richards and Zoey Fordham.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Gay Karger. Best for Gladiators were Sam Dawson and Kane Ingerson.
ROUND 8
Division I
Lions 13(44) defeated Tigers 8(34)
Lions withstood an early challenge from Tigers to run over the top and show why they are sitting on top of the ladder. Tigers lead early thanks to a four set victory to Nathan Sincock over Josh Phillips. Jason Regan quickly responded for Lions before the Fordham’s in Russell and Reece helped Tigers to a share of the lead at the end of the first round. Lions made the first break through the second round with four wins to only Tigers two. Nathan Sincock limited the potential damage for Tigers when he recorded his best win of the season with a four set victory over Barry Sederstrom. Tigers showed some fight in the doubles to reduce the margin by one, but Lions weren’t about to let Tigers get any closer as they blew them away in the final round. Sally Kunze came back from two sets down to overrun Russell Fordham, Rodney Scharfe used his experience to defeat Reece Fordham and Jason Regan finished the night off with a straight sets victory over Nathan Sincock.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe. Best for Tigers was Nathan Sincock.
Panthers 13(44) defeated Gladiators 8(37)
Panthers continued their up and down season with a surprise win over top four fancy Gladiators. Matches were split through the first round with a typically tight match between Rhys Popovic and Tai Wheadon the highlight. Tai ran out the victor on this occasion in five sets. The second round provided Panthers with the first lead of the night with Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon, Geoff Nottle and Fiona Rosalia all adding to Panthers total to make the margin two. The big move came through the doubles as Panthers won all three doubles on offer, including Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon defeating Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham in five sets. Gladiators required an unlikely clean sweep of the final round singles to cause an impossible comeback, and it proved just that, with Panthers finishing off their hard work from earlier in the night for a much deserved win.
Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon. Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone.
Dodgers 13(45) defeated Croppos 8(33)
Dodgers moved into second place on the ladder with a comfortable win over an undermanned bottom placed Croppos. Dodgers wasted no time in building their lead with fours wins through the first round. The second round gave more of the same with Dodgers recording another four wins thanks to Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth, while Croppos’ Kody Rosalia had one of his better wins and played beyond his years to account for Ellen Challinger in four sets. Croppos weren’t about to give up without a fight and stormed back into the contest through the doubles, winning all three on offer, including Barry Hancock and Mark Jesser over Angelika Sederstrom and Kevin Westbury in five sets. Dodgers swiftly put an end to the Croppos challenge with five wins through the final round capped off by Daniel Challinger getting the better of Huey Rosalia for the first time in competition.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger and Kevin Westbury> Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Mark Jesser.
Division II
Gladiators 12(43) defeated Panthers 9(31)
Gladiators remain in third place with their win over Panthers who have been competitive but haven't been able to get the points. Panthers matched Gladiators in the opening round as Ernie Bauer defeated Cheryl King, Ralph Sandford had to work hard to overcome Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala won over Charlotte Nicholls, while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson had a strong win over Vic Ellul in straight sets, Bob Gibbes defeated Marie Liddle and Sam Dawson showed much improvement to win over Robert Charlton. Gladiators broke away in the second round taking four wins but the standout match went to Vic Ellul winning over Cheryl King in five long sets. Gladiators combined the better in the doubles winning two to lead by three with one round to play. Panthers were first to score with Robert Charlton backed up by Niket Jhunjhunwala over Bob Gibbes but Cheryl King put the winning match away for Gladiators over Ralph Sandford in straight sets. Cooper Van Doorn defeated Vic Ellul in four sets for an impressive victory adding one more to the score while Ernie Bauer still has what it takes to defeat Kane Ingerson in the final game of the night.
Best for Gladiators were Sam Dawson and Kane Ingerson. Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala.
Tigers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(34)
This was a real catfight right to the end between the top two sides with Tigers facing their biggest challenge yet to just scrape over the line. Tigers got an early break in the opening round with Joseph Harris escaping from Nathan Phillips in five sets, Mick Ferrett taking a great win over Peter Forrest and Jack Meaney defeating Sharee Richards in three, while for Lions Shane Harris won over Christian Fletcher and Zoey Fordham played a top game to win over Bev Atkins. Lions then reversed the trend as Zoey Fordham continued her form to upset Joseph Harris in straight sets and Nathan Phillips claimed an impressive victory over Christian Fletcher in four to be the standout games. With the scores all locked up it was Lions who combined the stronger in the doubles winning two and prevented Tigers from taking a hold on the game. Trailing by one Tigers needed to find something quickly as Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett added scores before Peter Forrest hit back with a great win for Lions over Elisa Heath to tie the game at nine all. With the final three matches up for grabs Bev Atkins dug deep for a narrow win over Nathan Phillips and Christian Fletcher saved his best till last to defeat Zoey Fordham in four sets to claim victory for Tigers by the barest of margins.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham.
Dodgers 11(38) defeated Croppos 10(38)
In another close encounter Dodgers scraped home to stay in the top four while keeping Croppos in fifth place. The night began with a marathon match between Dodgers David Sherry and Lance Barnett, which set the trend for the remainder of the night as Sherry got over the line in five sets. Tyler Ingerson and Max Williams backed up with wins over Terry Ison and Coral Myers, while for Croppos Kody Rosalia, Anne-Marie Schwark and Karina White all won through to level the scores. Croppos gained a slight advantage in the second round as Lance Barnett bounced back for a tight win in five sets over David Hall, supported by Kody Rosalia, Coral Myers and Anne-Marie Schwark. Croppos held a lead of two going into the doubles and over three very tight matches Dodgers managed to level the scores before Croppos pair Kody Rosalia and Lance Barnett claimed the top double over the two David's, Hall and Sherry. Trailing by one Dodgers needed to lift in the last singles round. James Regan won his first single for the night and Max Williams backed up for his second to take the lead for the first time in the match. With four matches remaining Lance Barnett won over Tyler Ingerson and Kody Rosalia claimed David Sherry both in straight sets for Croppos but Dodgers hung on desperately as Megan Atkins put the winning score down after a marathon five sets over Karina White.
Best for Dodgers were Max Williams and David Sherry. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Lance Barnett.
ROUND 7
Division I
Tigers 13(44) defeated Croppos 8(37)
Tigers continued their fine season by leading all the way against Croppos. Tigers started strongly with wins to Gavin Proude, Russell Fordham, Reece Fordham and Brandon Rosalia in a fine five set victory over Mike Van Doorn. Tigers continued to extend their lead through the second round of singles with Nathan Sincock fighting back to defeat Kye Barber and Russell Fordham winning an incredible fifth set over Mark Jesser. Croppos needed a response in the doubles, and Kye Barber and Kody Rosalia provided that briefly over Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham, before Tigers regained the ascendancy to win the next two and leave Croppos with the tough ask of winning the remaining six singles for an unlikely win. They gave themselves some hope with the first two of the final round going their way, but that’s where the challenge ended as Tigers ran out comfortable winners.
Best for Tigers were Gavin Proude and Russell Fordham. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Mark Jesser.
Dodgers 13(44) defeated Gladiators 8(33)
Dodgers recorded their second win in a row thanks to a dominating doubles round. Gladiators jumped out of the blocks early with four wins in the first round. Rhys Popovic held off Darren Atkins in five sets, while Joe Perone had the better of Adam Butterworth in their second meeting for the year. Dodgers fought back and levelled the scores in the second round with Adam Butterworth scoring his first win for the night and Daniel Challinger defeating Shane Stockham in straight sets. The night turned in Dodgers favour through the doubles, taking all three on offer, but crucially two of those in five sets. The night was wrapped up for Dodgers with the first two singles of the final round going their way, but added a bit of percentage by adding a further two before the night was done. Rhys Popovic ended the night for Gladiators on a high with a fine four set win over the in form Daniel Challinger in four sets.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone.
Lions 15(52) defeated Panthers 6(28)
Lions stamped their authority on the contest from the start with five wins in the first round. Aaron Sincock provided the only respite for Panthers with a straight sets victory over Josh Phillips. Panthers stemmed the flow through the second round with Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon and Wade Gray all on the winners list. Jason Regan continued to play well for Lions as did Brenton Stagg to help Lions retain their lead of four. Lions made that lead five through the doubles; largely thanks to Sally Kunze and Josh Phillips five set victory over Ben Southam and Fiona Rosalia. With the result all but decided, Lions put the foot down in the final round to ensure another percentage boosting win for their side.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Brenton Stagg. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock and Wade Gray.
Division II
Tigers 16(54) defeated Croppos 5(20)
Tigers maintained their top position with a strong win over Croppos who are fifth on the premiership table. Croppos began well in the opening round as they matched the Tigers with Kody Rosalia taking an exciting victory over Christian Fletcher in five sets and Harry Hood playing extremely well to narrowly defeat Bev Atkins also in five sets, while Karina White defeated Jack Meaney in straight sets. For Tigers Joseph Harris, Elisa Heath and Mick Ferrett all came through in straight sets. Tigers went up a gear in the second round as Bev Atkins bounced back to defeat Croppos Kody Rosalia in four sets and Jack Meaney worked hard to win over Anne-Marie Schwark, while the only winner for Croppos in this round was Lance Barnett who overcame Christian Fletcher in five sets. Doubles is where Tigers show their strength as they combined well to win all three and victory for the night. Tigers' Jack Meaney, Mick Ferrett and Elisa Heath all added wins in the final round while Lance Barnett scored for Croppos defeating Bev Atkins in straight sets. But the match that everyone was waiting for was the showdown between two young stars, Joseph Harris and Kody Rosalia. A crowd of interested spectators and parents gathered to witness this exciting event as they went head to head showing great skills beyond their years with Joseph being the eventual winner in four sets..
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Elisa Heath and Mick Ferrett. Best for Croppos was Lance Barnett.
Gladiators 15(50) defeated Dodgers 6(31)
With their percentage-boosting win Gladiators climbed into third place pushing Dodgers down to fourth. Gladiators gained a slight advantage in the first round with Kane Ingerson taking David Hall in straight sets, Cooper Van Doorn won over Tyler Ingerson and Sam Dawson claimed James Regan in a marathon match, while for Dodgers David Sherry defeated Cheryl King and Gay Karger won over Jacqui Harding both in straight sets. Gladiators powered away in the second round winning all but one match with brothers Kane and Tyler Ingerson going head to head as older brother Kane got the points and Jacqui Harding finally broke through for her first win of the season over Megan Atkins in a long five set match. In three well contested doubles Dodgers' pair Megan Atkins and James Regan came from behind to win over Sam Dawson and Jacqui Harding, while Gladiators claimed the other two and victory with it. Gladiators kept the pressure on right to the end but James Regan and Tyler Ingerson played well to add two much-needed scores for Dodgers.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Dodgers were Gay Karger and Tyler Ingerson.
Lions 11(37) defeated Panthers 10(41)
In the closest contest of the night bottom team Panthers came oh so close again, in fact winning more sets than second-placed Lions but were not able to get the required rubber for a win. Panthers matched Lions in the opening stages as Ernie Bauer led the way defeating Nathan Phillips, Niket Jhunjhunwala over Sharon Phillips and young Abi Nicholls claimed Sharee Richards all in straight sets, while for Lions Shane Harris, Zoey Fordham and Peter Forrest shone through over Vic Ellul, Ralph Sandford and Linda Bick respectively. Lions failed to break away from Panthers in the second round but the highlight was Nathan Phillips collecting an impressive victory over Vic Ellul in five tight sets. Panthers led by a handful of sets going into the doubles and quickly set about taking the first match with Abi Nicholls and Linda Bick but Lions hit back to win two and take the lead by one for the first time. As the final round got under way Panthers were the first to score with two singles wins from Abi Nicholls and Linda Bick but Lions came again with two wins of their own from Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips to reach ten first. And so it came down to the remaining two matches which Panthers needed to win both but they went one apiece wrapping up a great night of table tennis.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris, Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips. Best for Panthers were Abi Nicholls and Linda Bick.
ROUND 6
Division I
Dodgers 18(59) defeated Panthers 3(19)
After a much-improved performance last week, Panthers were left severely weakened this week with two top order players Tai Wheadon and Ben Southam absent and consequently suffered their worst defeat of the season. Fiona Rosalia and Wade Gray were forced into the top order and performed well against Dodgers number one, Daniel Challinger taking the matches to five and four sets respectively before Aaron Sincock claimed Panthers first win for the night over Darren Atkins in five sets. In the second round it was again Sincock who came from behind to win in five sets over Angelika Sederstrom, while Mario Piantedosi scored a win over Ellen Challinger to lift Panthers score to three. From here it was all Dodgers as they claimed all of the doubles and then stormed home in the final round taking all before them.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Lions 16(53) defeated Croppos 5(33)
In another one-sided game, Croppos were without their number one, Huey Rosalia for the night and found the powerful Lions team too much to handle as Lions moved into second place on the premiership table, leaving Croppos at the bottom without a win. Michael Van Doorn put the first win away for Croppos over a much-improved Josh Phillips, while for Lions Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom both won in four over Kye Barber and Mark Jesser. Lions Sally Kunze was pushed all the way by Kody Rosalia and Rodney Scharfe also had to fight hard to win over Riki Popovic, both in five sets. Lions kept the pressure on in the second round but Kye Barber and Barry Hancock managed to score for Croppos. Lions combined well in the doubles to win two to add to a commanding lead with one round to play, while Croppos were left with the daunting task of having to win all remaining matches. Brenton Stagg sealed the win for Lions and then maintained the pressure right to the end for a percentage boosting win.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom. Best for Croppos were Barry Hancock and Kye Barber.
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Tigers 9(39)
In the closest contest of the night, top team Gladiators cling to first place by a small percentage while Tigers dropped to third. As one would expect games were tight in the first round as Tigers' Gavin Proude won in four over Shane Stockham, Nathan Sincock just scraped in a five set victory over Tyler Ebert and Russell Fordham claimed Bill Broughton in straight sets, while Rhys Popovic, Joe Perone and Riley Curtis added wins for Gladiators. Gladiators gained the edge in the second round winning four matches to two as Bill Broughton found Cooper Van Doorn a challenge and Rhys Popovic came through over Nathan Sincock. Gladiators combined well in the doubles to win two with the standout match being Joe Perone and Tyler Ebert over Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham in five sets. The final round was a tight affair, sharing three apiece with Reece Fordham claiming a great win for Tigers over Bill Broughton and Gavin Proude defeating Rhys Popovic in four, but Gladiators were home after making the break in the second round to set up the win.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Riley Curtis. Best for Tigers were Gavin Proude and Russell Fordham.
Division II
Dodgers 11(43) defeated Panthers 10(37)
Bottom team Panthers gave Dodgers a real scare almost pulling off the upset of the season, coming oh so close to their first win. Games were neck and neck in the first two rounds as Ernie Bauer won a tough five set match over David Sherry, Vic Ellul defeated Tyler Ingerson in four sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala won over Megan Atkins also in four, while for Dodgers Ellen Challinger narrowly escaped with a win over Ralph Sandford, Max Williams came through after five long sets over Robert Charlton and James Regan claimed Marie Liddle in straight sets. Both teams fiercely contested the doubles as each team collected one each before the third went Dodgers way. Panthers were hot on Dodgers' trail and soon levelled the scores again with Robert Charlton winning a tight five set match over James Regan and remained that way after the next two matches. Scores were locked together with the last three matches to play and Panthers grabbed the first with Ralph Sandford saving his best till last against Tyler Ingerson but it was Dodgers David Sherry who clinched the night taking Vic Ellul to five sets while Ellen Challinger defeated Ernie Bauer in straight sets to prevent Panthers taking their first victory.
Best for Dodgers were Ellen Challinger and Max Williams. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ernie Bauer.
Lions 11(42) defeated Croppos 10(37)
In another close encounter fifth-placed Croppos took it right up to second -placed Lions. In the opening round it was Croppos who broke away for a great start with Kody Rosalia having to work hard to defeat Nathan Phillips in a close match, Lance Barnett claimed Zoey Fordham in four sets, Anne-Marie Schwark found Sharon Phillips much-improved to escape in a great match lasting five sets, while Abi Nicholls settled well to win over Sharee Richards. For Lions, Shane Harris and Peter Forrest put scores away. Lions matched Croppos in the second round taking three each before the doubles got under way and Croppos won the first with Karina White combining well with Abi Nicholls to defeat Sharon Phillips and Sharee Richards in four sets, with Lions winning the other two. In the final round Sharon Phillips won an important match over Abi Nicholls to level the scores for Lions before Croppos hit back through Karina White and Lance Barnett to reach ten first. Croppos needed just one of the last two matches on the tables but Zoey Fordham and Shane Harris prevented Croppos from taking the win.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Croppos were Karina White and Abi Nicholls.
Tigers 15(52) defeated Gladiators 6(28)
In what seemed like a one-sided affair it was anything but as top team Tigers were challenged by fourth-placed Gladiators. Tigers were able to take all the close matches which was the difference on the night. Tigers opened the night in top gear with Joseph Harris making short work of Cooper Van Doorn , Christian Fletcher won a great match in five sets over Cheryl King and Elisa Heath and Mick Ferrett put themselves on the winners list too, while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson was too strong for Bev Atkins and Bob Gibbes likewise over Jack Meaney. Tigers kept the pressure on as Bev Atkins bounced back to claim Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Mick Ferrett has improved immensely to defeat Bob Gibbes, while Kane Ingerson won an important match over Christian Fletcher in five sets. Tigers showed their strength lies in their doubles combinations, winning them all and keeping Gladiators from advancing. In the final round Tigers made a surge to the finish line as Gladiators tried their best to close the gap winning two, with Cheryl King over Bev Atkins and Cooper Van Doorn over Christian Fletcher, but also missing out on another two.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Elisa Heath & Mick Ferrett. Best for Gladiators was Kane Ingerson.
ROUND 5
Division I
Gladiators 14(49) defeated Croppos 7(27)
Gladiators withstood an early challenge from Croppos to run over the top of them at the end. The first two rounds of singles were even at six matches apiece. Rhys Popovic, Joe Perone and Riley Curtis scored early wins for Gladiators, while Croppos’ Kody Rosalia scored what could possibly be his best win in Division One with a five set victory over Bill Broughton. He then backed that up with another five set win, this time over Riley Curtis in the second round, backed up by Huey Rosalia and Riki Popovic defeating Tyler Ebert and Bill Broughton respectively. The contest changed complexion in the doubles with Gladiators winning all three and opening up a very handy lead with only six singles to play. It was a margin too great for Croppos as they ran away with the night comfortable victors.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Kody Rosalia.
Lions 14(48) defeated Dodgers 7(30)
Lions continued their good form of late, setting up their win with a strong doubles round. Nothing separated the two sides through the first round as matches were shared at three each. Barry Sederstrom showed a two-week break had done nothing to hurt his form with a four set win over Daniel Challinger. Lions made the first break in the second round of singles with Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom, Sally Kunze and Rodney Scharfe all recording victories. Dodgers have used their doubles pairings most weeks to their advantage, but Lions used it against them, taking all three and all but wrapping up the night with the final round of singles to play. Lions ensured no challenge would come from Dodgers, with Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe sealing the night for their side.
Best for Lions was Barry Sederstrom. Best for Dodgers was Geoff Nottle.
Tigers 12(47) defeated Panthers 9(34)
In a much-improved performance by Panthers, Tigers just did enough on the night to continue their winning streak. The night began with the battle of the Sincocks, with Panthers’ Aaron having the better of brother Nathan in four sets. That set the mood for Panthers early as they levelled the scores through the first round of singles. Tigers clicked into gear through the second round with Gavin Proude and Brandon Rosalia particularly impressive in their performances over Tai Wheadon and Fiona Rosalia respectively. Panthers were not about to lie down though and narrowed the margin to just one through the doubles, with the final round of singles to play. Scores were quickly level with Marion Piantedosi holding on against Reece Fordham in five sets. In what proved to be the turning point of the night, Tigers won the next two matches in five sets, thanks to Russell Fordham and Brandon Rosalia to give them the boost needed to finish the night in front.
Best for Tigers was Brandon Rosalia. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon and Wade Gray.
Division II
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Gladiators moved into third place this week with their win over Croppos who remain in fifth place. Gladiators were first on the board with Kane Ingerson defeating Lance Barnett in straight sets and Cheryl King fought out five sets to wear down Harry Hood, while for Croppos Kody Rosalia accounted for Cooper Van Doorn and Anne-Marie Schwark won over Sam Dawson in four sets. Games remained tightly contested in the second round as Abbey Nicholls picked up her first win for Croppos over Sam Dawson and Cooper Van Doorn won a great match over Lance Barnett to leave the scores all tied up at the halfway mark. Gladiators combined well in all three doubles to take the lead but Croppos kept in touch with another win to Abbey Nicholls over Jacqui Harding and Lance Barnett came from behind to defeat Cheryl King in a tight five sets. Gladiators wrapped it up through wins to Sam Dawson and Bob Gibbes, as Cooper Van Doorn saved his best till last defeating another emerging talent in Harry Hood in five sets.
Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
Lions 11(38) defeated Dodgers 10(37)
In the closest contest of the night Lions picked up their third victory for the season and moved into second place over Dodgers who have been relegated to fourth by percentage. Lions were up and away early with Shane Harris, Nathan Phillips and Gay Karger, while Ellen Challinger, Max Williams and Megan Atkins all scored for Dodgers. Standout matches in the second round went to Ellen Challinger as she scrambled over the line in five sets against a much-improved Nathan Phillips and James Regan defeated Sharee Richards in four to leave the scores all tied up. Doubles become critical in a close contest but Lions claimed two for a slender lead with one round to play. Dodgers quickly closed the gap and took the lead with James Regan coming from behind to defeat Sharon Phillips in five sets and Megan Atkins over Sharee Richards in straight sets, but Lions came at Dodgers again as Gay Karger won a tight match over Max Williams in five and Nathan Phillips won over Tyler Ingerson in four sets. Lions held the lead by one with just two matches to play as David Sherry picked up one more for Dodgers over Zoey Fordham but Shane Harris put the icing on the cake for Lions in the final match of the night to take a very exciting win.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Gay Karger. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Megan Atkins.
Tigers 14(50) defeated Panthers 7(28)
This was the occasion where bottom team Panthers came up against the in-form top team Tigers. Panthers contested very well through the first half as Vic Ellul defeated Bev Atkins in straight sets and Linda Bick played well to win over Jack Meaney in five sets, while for Tigers Joseph Harris continues to beat tough opposition, Christian Fletcher claimed a tight match over the veteran Ernie Bauer and Mick Ferrett is improving every week to win over Nicket Jhunjhunwala. Panthers rallied to collect three important matches with Ralph Sandford over Christian Fletcher, Ernie Bauer came from behind to claim Bev Atkins in a great five set match and Nicket Jhunjhunwala won over Jack Meaney in four sets. Tigers Joseph Harris played all the right shots to defeat Vic Ellul in a marathon match backed up by Mick Ferrett and Elisa Heath. Tigers combined the better in the doubles to win two and take their lead out to three with the final round remaining. From here Panthers lost their grip and allowed Tigers to power away in the final stretch winning all but one for a percentage boosting win.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Panthers were Ralph Sandford.
ROUND 4
Division I
Lions 12(39) defeated Gladiators 9(38)
Lions inflicted Gladiators first loss for the season thanks to a fast start and a solid doubles showing. Lions made the most of early five set matches with Jason Regan coming from two sets down to defeat Shane Stockham, while Josh Phillips fought back to defeat Tyler Ebert and with it the lead by two for his side. The contest tightened up through the second round, but Gladiators were unable to cut into Lions’ lead heading into the doubles. Lions again showed their credentials in five set matches with Sally Kunze and Bruce Wright pegging back a two set deficit to overcome Tyler Ebert and Joe Perone, leaving Gladiators a huge task to keep their undefeated record. Lions were not about to leave anything to chance and quickly wrapped up the night with the first two wins of the final round to Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe over Riley Curtis and Bill Broughton respectively. Gladiators fought on down the stretch but it was too little too late.
Best for Lions was Jason Regan. Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone.
Tigers 12(46) defeated Dodgers 9(36)
Tigers cemented their spot in the top three with a comfortable win over Dodgers. Tigers jumped out of the blocks early with four early wins to Gavin Proude, Nathan Sincock, Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham. They repeated the dose through the second round with another four wins, crucially two of them in five sets to prevent Dodgers from narrowing the margin. Dodgers have been strong in the doubles so far this season, and tonight was no exception as they recorded two of the three to leave the margin at three with the final six singles to play. Tigers snuffed out any chance of a comeback though with the next three singles going their way to seal the result. Dodgers finished off the night well added some respectability to the scoreboard late, with Daniel Challinger handing Gavin Proude his first singles loss for the season in straight sets.
Best for Tigers was Brandon Rosalia. Best for Dodgers was Daniel Challinger.
Panthers 18(58) defeated Croppos 3(24)
In about as one sided as you will see a result, Panthers surprised with their first win of the year over Croppos. Panthers put the writing on the wall early with five wins in the first round of singles. Huey Rosalia provided the lone resistance for Croppos with a straight sets victory over Ben Southam. Incredibly Panthers went one better in the second round of singles and won all six on offer, including Aaron Sincock in five sets over Huey Rosalia. At only the half way point, Panthers already had an unassailable lead, but weren’t satisfied with their nights work just yet. Croppos stemmed the flow somewhat through the doubles but that’s where their joy ended with Panthers recording another six wins in the final round of singles to cap off a great night for their team.
Best for Panthers was Fiona Rosalia. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Division II
Lions 15(45) defeated Gladiators 6(29)
Lions moved into third place this week as they took advantage of Gladiators who were left weakened with the absence of one of their top players. Gladiators kept in touch in the first half as Kane Ingerson continued his good form winning two singles, backed up by Gay Karger coming into the team also collecting two singles. For Lions, Shane Harris remained strong, as did Peter Forrest and Cath Trouse picked up a victory over Jacqui Harding. With the doubles up for grabs there was a chance Gladiators could catch up but after three very close matches, all going to five sets, Lions swept them all with the standout match going to Cath Trouse and Sharon Phillips over Sam Dawson and Jacqui Harding leaving Gladiators to win all remaining matches. Sharon Phillips put the winning score down for Lions followed by Peter Forrest over Gay Karger, Nathan Phillips in straight sets over Bob Gibbes, Zoey Fordham showed better form to defeat Cheryl King in four and Shane Harris was undefeated in beating Kane Ingerson to give Lions a percentage boosting win.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Gay Karger.
Tigers 15(55) defeated Dodgers 6(29)
Dodgers were without their number one Ellen Challinger for the night replaced by Riki Popovic, but to Tigers credit they put in a solid whole team performance to inflict Dodgers first loss for the season. Tigers gained the edge in the opening round as Bev Atkins won a close match over David Sherry, Mick Ferrett defeated Max Williams and Jack Meaney won in five tight sets over Megan Atkins, while for Dodgers Riki Popovic was pushed all the way through five sets over Christian Fletcher and James Regan continues to improve taking a great win over Elisa Heath also in five. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round with Joseph Harris, Christian Fletcher and Elisa Heath all winning as Dodgers Max Williams defeated Jack Meaney in a close one and Riki Popovic escaped with a narrow win over Bev Atkins in five long sets. Tigers have been strong in their doubles play in recent weeks and continued to do so claiming all three and with it victory for the night. James Regan and Max Williams added another two much-needed wins for Dodgers but that's where it all ended as Tigers finished strongly saving their best till last.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
Croppos 13(42) defeated Panthers 8(37)
Panthers were on the back foot from the opening round with Vic Ellul missing from their top order as Croppos stormed out of the blocks with Kody Rosalia taking Ralph Sandford in straight sets, Lance Barnett won a close match over David Hall, Anne-Marie Schwark defeated Robert Charlton and Charlotte Nicholls made her way into senior competition for the first time from juniors, overcoming her nerves quickly to score her first victory over Marie Liddle in four sets. Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala got Panthers scoring underway and repeated their performance in the second round, backed up by Robert Charlton, while Kody Rosalia and Harry Hood added further wins for Croppos. In three tight doubles it was Croppos that combined the better as Coral Myers and Charlotte Nicholls defeated Marie Liddle and Robert Charlton in five close sets. Panthers won two of the next three matches in the final round to still give themselves a chance but it came down to the final matches on offer. In a fitting end, after three five set marathons, Croppos were able to take them all to give them an exciting win, just their second for the season.
Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Harry Hood. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ernie Bauer.
ROUND 3
Division I
Dodgers 12(38) defeated Croppos 9(38)
Dodgers returned to the winners list, surviving a late charge by Croppos to fall over the line. Dodgers began the better of the two sides by recording four wins in each of the first two rounds of matches. Daniel Challinger, Geoff Nottle and Adam Butterworth all leading the way with two wins each. Huey Rosalia did his best to keep Croppos in touch with two wins of his own. Dodgers lead was helped by securing both matches that went to five sets. Dodgers lead was extended in the doubles with Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins overcoming Huey Rosalia and Mike Van Doorn in five sets. Dodgers looked home, but Croppos rallied with four wins down the stretch, but the lead was too great a task to reel in, with Adam Butterworth getting Dodgers over the line with victory over Mark Jesser.
Best for Dodgers were Adam Butterworth and Geoff Nottle. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Gladiators 19(59) defeated Panthers 2(25)
Gladiators took advantage of a severely undermanned Panthers side to record a thrashing not seen for a long time in competition. The signs were ominous from the start with Gladiators taking the first eight matches of the night. Aaron Sincock stopped the rot for Panthers with a four set victory over Tyler Ebert, but the respite was only brief as Gladiators won a further three singles to their name to have the result sown up at the half way mark. Panthers were only playing for respect now and that came in the form of Aaron Sincock and Ben Southam recording a fine win over Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham in four sets. Unfortunately that's where the joy ended for Panthers as Gladiators won the remaining six matches of the night. Unluckily for Panthers four of those went to five sets without getting the result.
Best for Gladiators were Riley Curtis, Bill Broughton and Joe Perone. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Tigers 14(53) defeated Lions 7(35)
In what was predicted to be a close contest, Tigers prevailed over Lions thanks to an astonishing final round that netter them all six wins. Nothing separated the two sides through the first two rounds with matches being shared at 6 apiece. Gavin Proude and Jason Regan led the way for their respective sides. Someone was going to take the lead through the doubles and it was Tigers who made the break first with Gavin Proude and Nathan Sincock overcoming Jason Regan and Josh Phillips in five sets to lead by just one going into the final round. No one would have predicted what was to come next though as Tigers swept the final round, and crucially all four that went to five sets to run out comfortable winners in the end.
Best for Tigers was Gavin Proude. Best for Lions was Sally Kunze.
Division II
Dodgers 13(45) defeated Croppos 8(28)
Dodgers remain undefeated in 2013 to be the only team to have won all three rounds. Croppos put the first score down for the night with Kody Rosalia defeating Tyler Ingerson in four sets supported by Anne-Marie Schwark in a tight game over James Regan before Dodgers claimed four wins through Ellen Challinger, David Sherry, Max Williams and Megan Atkins. Croppos stemmed the flow in the second round as Kody Rosalia won over David Sherry in three tight sets and Harry Hood played well to defeat Tyler Ingerson in four sets, while James Regan picked up his first win for the night over Abby Nicholls, playing her first match in division two. Croppos combined well in the doubles to win two, but trailed by one with the final round to play. From here Dodgers surged towards the finish line winning all but one to post a solid victory.
Best for Dodgers were Ellen Challinger and Max Williams. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
Gladiators 12(46) defeated Panthers 9(35)
Panthers ran into a team in fine form this week and unfortunately were forced to the bottom of the table without a win. Gladiators were up and running early as Kane Ingerson continues to improve taking the scalp of Ralph Sandford in four sets, Cheryl King claimed David Hall in straight sets as Bob Gibbes won over Robert Charlton, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer is still a tough competitor as he defeated Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Linda Bick won in four over Jacqui Harding. The standout match of the second round saw Ralph Sandford hold on to win over Cooper Van Doorn in five sets which left the scores all tied up. With all three doubles going down to the wire Gladiators came out victors in two to lead by one with the last round to play. Panthers gave it their best shot winning two of the first three matches with Robert Charlton and Niket Jhunjhunwala before Gladiators stormed home with Sam Dawson over Linda Bick, Cheryl King over Ralph Sandford and Kane Ingerson saved his best till last defeating veteran Ernie Bauer in four sets.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Sam Dawson. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ernie Bauer.
Tigers 16(51) defeated Lions 5(24)
In the battle of the big cats a lot of fur was flying early as Lion Shane Harris defeated Bev Atkins, Nathan Phillips showed great improvement to take Christian Fletcher in five sets while Tiger Joseph Harris defeated Zoey Fordham in straight sets and Jack Meaney started well but went down to Peter Forrest in four. Tigers picked up the pace in the second round as Bev Atkins upset Zoey Fordham in straight sets, Joseph Harris won over Nathan Phillips in a close one and Elisa Heath defeated a much improved Sharon Phillips to take the lead at the halfway mark. Where doubles can have a big impact on a result Tigers shone through claiming all three to extend their lead out to five leaving Lions the daunting task of winning all six singles in the final round. Tigers remained strong winning all six but not without a fight as Elisa Heath came from behind to win over Peter Forrest in five sets, but the match of the night belonged to an amazing marathon between father and son, Shane and Joseph Harris who had his father scrambling in amazing table tennis to win the match in five gruelling sets. A truly special moment in Table Tennis.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Elisa Heath. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
ROUND 2
Division I
Lions 15(51) defeated Panthers 6(27)
Lions handed Panthers a heavy defeat, dominating the night from start to finish. The writing was on the wall early as Lions’ top two Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom accounting for Ben Southam and Tai Wheadon respectively. Aaron Sincock responded for Panthers before Sally Kunze and Ellen Challinger rounded out a strong round for Lions. Things went from bad to worse for Panthers, with Lions winning five of the six singles on offer in the second round. Panthers needed to find a spark from somewhere in the doubles to stand any chance and Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon provided just that, overcoming strong doubles combination Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom in four sets. Unfortunately the hope ended there with Lions reeling off the next six matches of the night to cruise to an early percentage boosting victory.
Best for Lions were Sally Kunze and Ellen Challinger. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon.
Tigers 13(49) defeated Croppos 8(34)
In another lopsided affair, Tigers led from start to finish, gradually increasing their lead over the course of the night. The first two rounds saw Tigers win four games to two, with Corey Stephens particularly impressive in defeating Mike Van Doorn in five sets, as was Russell Fordham in recording his best win of the season over seasoned veteran Barry Hancock also in five sets. After missing last week through injury Huey Rosalia stepped straight back into action with two wins of his own for Croppos. Croppos showed signs of a comeback with two wins in the doubles providing hope, however Tigers were not about to let this one slip and quickly sealed the points through father and son combination of Russell and Reece Fordham defeating Riki Popovic and Mark Jesser respectively. From there is was all about percentage, but to Croppos credit they fought on and were rewarded with wins to Barry Hancock and Kye Barber down the stretch.
Best for Tigers was Russell Fordham. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Barry Hancock.
Gladiators 11(42) defeated Dodgers 10(36)
In the grand final rematch from the previous year, Gladiators enacted revenge on Dodgers with a hard fought win that went right down to the last match of the night. Nothing could separate the two sides through the first two rounds as they went blow for blow. Darren Atkins and Adam Butterworth had two wins each early for Dodgers, while it was Shane Stockham leading from the front for Gladiators. In a pivotal match, Tyler Ebert held on in five sets against Dodgers Bruce Wright to level the scores at the halfway point. Gladiators made the first break of the night in the doubles, winning two of the three on offer and placing themselves in the box seat with only the final round of singles to play. The task became that much harder for Dodgers when Riley Curtis and Joe Perone both recorded wins, but Gladiators had to wait to the last match of the night for Rhys Popovic to seal the win for his side.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic, Shane Stockham and Joe Perone. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Adam Butterworth.
Division II
Lions 16(50) defeated Panthers 5(31)
After their loss last week Lions were out to put in a better performance this week and began in a strong all team effort with Zoey Fordham defeating Ernie Bauer in five sets, Linda Bick winning a tough match over Niket Jhunjhunwala and Sharon Phillips having her first win over Marie Liddle to be the standout matches, while Vic Ellul was the sole winner for Panthers. Lions kept the pressure on in the second round adding a further five wins with Zoey Fordham taking another top scalp Ralph Sandford in five tight sets. All three doubles were closely contested but Lions claimed two to take their first win of the season while Panthers pair Vic Ellul and Ralph Sandford won the top double from Lions Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham. In the final round junior player Sharee Richards won her first match for Panthers while young Nathan Phillips for Lions recorded a great victory over Ralph Sandford in five sets. It looked like a one-sided affair but if Panthers could have taken the six five-setters they lost the result could have been quite different.
Best for Lions were Linda Bick and Peter Forrest. Best for Panthers were Vic Ellul.
Dodgers 12(40) defeated Gladiators 9(38)
Kane Ingerson put the first score down for the night for Gladiators over brother Tyler, followed by Bob Gibbes over new player Max Williams and Sam Dawson over Megan Atkins, while for Dodgers Ellen Challinger, David Sherry and James Regan leveled the scores. Neither team could break away in the second round as Max Willliams won a tight match over Sam Dawson and Cooper Van Doorn picked up his first win over Tyler Ingerson in straight sets. With the scores locked together doubles can be a turning point but Dodgers combined the better to take two and the lead. In the final round Gladiators needed to start well but lost the first two matches in four close sets to give Dodgers ten. Bob Gibbes and Cooper Van Doorn tried their best to lift their team but Dodgers were just too strong in the end closing it out with Tyler Ingerson and Ellen Challinger to go top of the ladder.
Best for Dodgers were Ellen Challinger, James Regan and Max Williams. Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes, Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn.
Tigers 16(53) defeated Croppos 5(26)
Tigers picked up their first win of the season in a great all round team performance over Croppos. Croppos got the start they were looking for through Kody Rosalia as he took the shots when it counted over Bev Atkins in four tight sets and Anne-Marie Schwark held her concentration to edge out Jack Meaney also in four sets. Tigers Joseph Harris won over Harry Hood, Christian Fletcher defeated Lance Barnett and Elisa Heath claimed Cath Trouse in a tight game. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round winning five of the six on offer as Mick Ferrett won out in a see-sawing game over Anne-Marie Schwark in five sets. In some top class doubles Tigers won out in all three to claim victory for the night. With the sting gone out of the game, young Tiger Jack Meaney played a great last game to get over the line against Kye Sorenson, Bev Atkins accounted for Lance Barnett as did Joseph Harris over Kody Rosalia in straight sets, while Harry Hood won an impressive match for Croppos over Christian Fletcher.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
ROUND 1
Division I
Gladiators 12(45) defeated Tigers 9(36)
Gladiators began season 2013 in the best possible fashion, with a strong doubles round sending them to victory. Tigers were the team to jump out of the blocks the best with four early wins in the first round of singles. Corey Stephens showed his improvement over the summer with a five set victory over Shane Stockham while Reece Fordham recorded his first win in division one buy overcoming the more experienced Bill Broughton. Gladiators hit back in the second round to level up the scores with four wins of their own, with Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone leading from the front. The contest was turned on its head in the doubles though with Gladiators sweeping all three on offer to open up a very handy margin of three with only six matches remaining. It proved a margin too great to peg back as the final round was shared at three all and Gladiators claiming the first points of the season.
Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone. Best for Tigers was Gavin Proude.
Dodgers 13(47) defeated Panthers 8(33)
Reigning premiers Dodgers wasted no time in their premiership defence by finishing strongly to run out comfortable winners. Dodgers had the better of the early contests by opening up an early lead of two in the first round, before Panthers came back and did the same to them in the second round with important five set wins to Aaron Sincock and Fiona Rosalia over Angelika Sederstrom and Jhy Mueller respectively to level the scores. The doubles proved to be the turning point of the night with Dodgers taking all three, including Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins coming from two sets down to defeat Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon in five sets. Panthers needed early wins in the final round to give themselves a chance, but it wasn't to be as Dodgers did enough to hold the advantage and run out victors.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Jhy Mueller. Best for Panthers was
Lions 11(43) defeated Croppos 10(40)
In a contest that went all the way to the wire, Lions finished the stronger of the two sides to sneak home in the closest match of the round. Lions looked good early in winning the first four matches of the night. Croppos needed to respond, and they did just that by claiming six of the next eight matches to level the scores leading into the doubles. The momentum continued for Croppos as they took their first lead of the night with two doubles to one, to lead by one with just the final round of singles to play. Wins to Don Saunders and Barry Hancock had Croppos on the brink of victory, but Lions had other ideas as their top half of Josh Phillips, Barry Sederstrom and Jason Regan, in the final match of the night, all won their matches to sneak Lions home by the barest of margins.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom. Best for Croppos was Barry Hancock.
Division II
Gladiators 15(49) defeated Tigers 6(25)
Don Saunders, Cheryl King and Bob Gibbes got Gladiators off to a great start in the opening round while Tigers Joseph Harrris, Christian Fletcher and Elisa Heath levelled the scores. Gladiators stepped up the pace in the next round running away with five wins while Tigers could only manage one win with Joseph Harris. With the doubles up for grabs, Tigers claimed the first win in five sets and Gladiators won the remaining two but not without a tight battle. Tigers were now left with the daunting task of winning all remaining singles but Gladiators kept the pressure on right to the end with Sam Dawson taking Jack Meaney, Bob Gibbes over Mick Ferrett and Cheryl King in a close one over Elisa Heath. Christian Fletcher stood up for Tigers defeating Cooper Van Doorn in four sets, as Kane Ingerson and Don Saunders wrapped it all up for Gladiators to record a strong win on the first night of the season.
Best for Gladiators were Don Saunders and Cheryl King. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Christian Fletcher.
Dodgers 12(45) defeated Panthers 9(33)
Panthers got the upper hand in the first round over the 2012 premiers by reeling off four wins unanswered with Ernie Bauer, Vic Ellul, Ralph Sandford and Niket Jhunjhunwala, while Megan Atkins and Linda Bick scored for Dodgers. In the second round Dodgers reversed the tables as Ellen Challinger won over Ralph Sandford, Megan Atkins over Niket Jhunjhunwala and young James Regan recorded his first victory in division two coming from juniors, defeating Marie Easton. Scores were level going into the doubles as Dodgers proved the stronger taking two while Ernie Bauer and Vic Ellul combined well to win one for Panthers. Dodgers kept the pressure on in the final round claiming three straight to win the night but Vic Ellul and Ralph Sandford remained strong to score for Panthers.
Best for Dodgers were Linda Bick and Megan Atkins. Best for Panthers were Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer.
Croppos 11(39) defeated Lions 10(36)
Much improved Kody Rosalia has been elevated to number one position in Croppos and he put a strong win down for his team supported by Anne-Marie Schwark and Coral Myers, while Shane Harris, Nathan Phillips and Peter Forrest began well for Lions to level the scores. Croppos broke away in the second round taking four wins with Lance Barnett taking a tight win over David Hall, Kody Rosalia over Nathan Phillips another much-improved youngster and Kye Sorenson battled hard to defeat Cath Trouse in five close sets. Lions combined well to win two of the three doubles and be within reach of the lead. As the final round began Croppos won two to reach ten first but then Peter Forrest stepped up for Lions to add another one as did David Hall and Shane Harris to make the scores ten all but Croppos claimed the vital game through Lance Barnett to seal victory.
Best for Croppos were Kye Sorenson and Coral Myers. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Division I
Tigers 12(48) defeated Dodgers 9(35)
Tigers finished off their year in style to finish 2013 premiers over Dodgers. As they have done all through the finals series, Tigers jumped out of the blocks fast with Julien Poissonnier and Nathan Sincock both recording wins. Dodgers’ Daniel Challinger was lucky to escape against Corey Stephens, coming from two sets down to claim victory. Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham finished off the round for Tigers to lead by two after the first round. Dodgers quickly levelled the scores, with Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins defeating Nathan Sincock and Corey Stephens respectively. Kevin Westbury held on in five sets against Tigers’ Russell Fordham to move Dodgers into the lead for the first time for the night, but that lead was soon extinguished by Brandon Rosalia to leave scores level at the halfway mark. Tigers again used their doubles strength to their advantage to gain back the lead, but it was still anybody’s premiership for the taking. Tigers extended their lead out to two through Reece Fordham overcoming Ellen Challinger, but Adam Butterworth responded for Dodgers after having the better of Russell Fordham. In a crucial match, Brandon Rosalia moved Tigers to within one of victory with a four set victory over Kevin Westbury, but there was still some fight left in Dodgers with Angelika Sederstrom sneaking over the line against Corey Stephens. So the final two matches of the night would decide the premiership and it was Tigers who would step up to the challenge with both Nathan Sincock and Julien Poissonnier recording wins to lead their team to grand final glory.
Best for Tigers were Julien Poissonnier and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth.
Division II
Tigers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(38)
In a wonderful Grand Final which was played with competitive spirit and good sportsmanship Tigers just got over the line in a nail-biting finish. A big crowd gathered to witness the two grand finals which added to the atmosphere on the night. Tigers gained the edge in the opening round with Joseph Harris defeating Zoey Fordham in straight sets with Elisa Fletcher and Mick Ferrett also joining the winners list over Sharee Richards and Sharon Phillips, but the highlight was Christian Fletcher's come from behind win over the much improved Nathan Phillips, while Lions scored through Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Lions matched Tigers in the second round with Shane Harris escaping from Christian Fletcher who pushed him all the way and Zoey Fordham claimed Bev Atkins in four sets but Sharon Phillips caused an upset when she won over Elisa Fletcher in four tight sets, while Jack Meaney won an important match over Sharee Richards in five sets. With the doubles up for grabs this is where games can be won or lost and Lions combined the stronger to win two to level the scores before Tigers managed to win one through Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney to sneak ahead by the smallest of margins. With the tension building, Tigers Jack Meaney played the match of his life urged on by his team to come from behind in a critical match to defeat Sharon Phillips, who has improved so much in recent weeks, and Mick Ferrett claimed Sharee Richards to give Tigers a bit of breathing space. Lions came at Tigers again though through Peter Forrest over Elisa Fletcher in another top game and Nathan Phillips was too good for Bev Atkins leaving the final two matches to decide the outcome. So a fabulous match unfolded as Christian Fletcher remained focused under extreme pressure to come from behind to defeat Zoey Fordham in a memorable five sets to give Tigers the Premiership for 2013.
Best for Tigers were Christian Fletcher, Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
PRELIMINARY FINAL
Division I
Tigers 12(45) defeated Lions 9(36)
Back to full strength, Tigers moved through to the grand final with hard fought win over Lions. Tigers led early with Julien Poissonnier, Nathan Sincock and Brandon Rosalia all hitting the scoreboard. Jason Regan and Brenton Stagg responded for Lions but Tigers still held firm to lead by two after the first round. Lions stepped up the pressure through the second round get back into the contest. Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom had the momentum flowing Lions way with wins over Nathan Sincock and Corey Stephens, before Rodney Scharfe and then crucially Brenton Stagg defeated Brandon Rosalia to level the scores leading into the doubles. Tigers have been especially strong of late in the doubles, and this was no exception as they took two of the three on offer to hold the advantage with just the final round of singles to play. Tigers weren’t about to let this chance slip and their bottom half produced the results required. First it was Reece Fordham over Brenton Stagg, followed by Russell Fordham overcoming Rodney Scharfe. Brandon Rosalia put the final nail in the coffin for Lions with a straight sets victory over Sally Kunze sending Tigers through to the grand final. To Lions credit they failed to give in and produced a further two wins for their side, but it was too little too late.
Best for Tigers was Julien Poissonnier. Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom and Benton Stagg.
Division II
Lions 12 (43) defeated Panthers 9 (35)
Lions were first on the board through Nathan Phillips over Ernie Bauer and Shane Harris over Vic Ellul, before Panthers won a couple in return with Ralph Sandford recording a great victory over Zoey Fordham in four sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala was too good for Sharon Phillips to leave the scores all tied up . Lions really stepped up the pace in the second round stringing five wins together with Sharon Phillips playing a standout game to defeat Kye Sorenson in five close sets to lead by four at the halfway mark. Panthers combined well in the doubles to win two and close the gap but remained three behind with one round to play. Panthers were not done with yet though and posted two wins from Robert Charlton and Kye Sorenson, before Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips won important matches for Lions to win the night and put them through to the Grand Final. Vic Ellul was the eventual winner over Zoey Fordham in a tight match to complete a great contest.
Best for Lions were Nathan Phillips and Shane Harris. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton.
SEMI FINALS
Division I
Dodgers 12(44) defeated Lions 9(33)
Reigning premiers Dodgers have given themselves a chance of going back to back by winning their way through to the grand final. The night was set up through the first two rounds with Dodgers opening up a huge lead. Darren Atkins, Daniel Challinger, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth kicked things off for Dodgers, before Barry Sederstrom and Rodney Scharfe hit back for Lions. The second round blew the contest wide open, with five if the six falling Dodgers way, including Daniel Challinger over Barry Sederstrom in five sets and Ellen Challinger over Sally Kunze in straight sets. With a lead of six at the halfway mark, Dodgers held a decisive advantage, but Lions weren’t about to throw in the towel and cut back the margin through the doubles. Still needing all six of the final round to complete the comeback, Lions started in the best possible fashion with Brenton Stagg having the better of Ellen Challinger in five sets. The night was sealed for Dodgers with Adam Butterworth and Kevin Westbury defeating Rodney Scharfe and Sally Kunze respectively. To Lions credit they finished the night off strong with three straight wins, to give them some confidence going into their preliminary final next week.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom.
Tigers 12(42) defeated Gladiators 9(38)
In the closest of finishes, Gladiators threw everything at Tigers but it wasn’t quite enough as Tigers move through to the preliminary final against Lions. Tigers jumped to the better start with four wins in the first round, including Julien Poissonnier over Shane Stockham in four sets. Gladiators stemmed the flow in the second round but couldn’t peg back the margin as the two sides traded matches throughout. The doubles were going to be crucial to Gladiators chances and they used it to their advantage with two going their way. It took a stern effort from Reece Fordham and Wade Gray to hold off Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis in five sets for Tigers to retain their lead, with only the final round of singles to play. With everything on the line and elimination for the loser, both sides played inspired table tennis which resulted in some fantastic contests. The difference came with three Tigers players all coming back from two sets down to defeat their opponents -Brandon Rosalia over Joe Perone, Nathan Sincock over Shane Harris and in the final match of the night, Julien Poissonnier over Rhys Popovic.
Best for Tigers were Brandon Rosalia and Julien Poissonnier. Best for Gladiators was Rhys Popovic.
Division II
Tigers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(33)
In a very tight semi-final Tigers just got over the line ahead of Lions to go through to the grand final. Tigers had the better start in the opening round particularly from their lower order who all recorded wins, while for Lions Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham got them on the scoreboard. Tigers maintained the pressure in the second round with Joseph Harris and Elisa Fletcher both taking second singles wins to add to wins from Mick Ferrett and Christian Fletcher to take an important four rubber lead, while Shane Harris and Peter Forrest added a couple for Lions. Doubles is where games can be won or lost and Tigers proved the stronger in winning two from three on offer. Needing just one for a grand final berth one would think Tigers had it in the bag, but not so easy as Lions got on a roll lead by Sharon Phillips taking a great win over Jack Meaney, Peter Forrest defeated Elisa Heath in five hard sets and Zoey Fordham claimed Christian Fletcher in another top match before Mick Ferrett won the required rubber for Tigers to take victory. In the final match of the night father and son, Shane and Joseph Harris met once again to do battle but this time it was Shane who claimed the win.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Elisa Heath. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Panthers 13(45) defeated Gladiators 8(35)
With the loser being eliminated this contest was played with everything they had and Kane Ingerson wasted no time in getting the first score down for Gladiators followed by Bob Gibbes, before Panthers got on a roll with Ernie Bauer over Cooper Van Doorn, Vic Ellul taking Cheryl King, and Nick Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton defeating Sam Dawson and Jacqui Harding respectively to take a handy lead in the opening stages. Gladiators matched Panthers in the second round with Cooper Van Doorn winning an important match over Ralph Sandford to add to wins from Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes, while the standout match of the round went to Kye Sorenson when he upset Sam Dawson in five tight sets. Panthers combined the stronger in the doubles to win two and extend their lead out to three leaving the final round very interesting. It was Kye Sorenson who led the way again for Lions, narrowly winning in five tight sets and how important that win proved to be, while Sam Dawson scored one for Gladiators over Robert Charlton to stay in touch before Panthers strung three in a row to put them through to the preliminary final. Vic Ellul winning a top match over Cooper Van Doorn in five sets, Kane Ingerson finished off a great night taking his third single but it was the three five setters that Panthers won that was the difference in the end.
Best for Panthers were Nick Jhunjhunwala and Vic Ellul. Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes.
ROUND 17
Division I
Lions 13(48) defeated Panthers 8(34)
Lions confirmed second position, while Panthers wound up their season as Lions ground down Panthers over the course of the night to finish comfortable winners. Panthers fought hard early with Aaron Sincock, Wade Gray and Fiona Rosalia all hitting the scoreboard early. Lions squared the ledger though through Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom and Rodney Scharfe to leave the scores level at three apiece. Lions broke away through the second round with their top two in Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom particularly impressive in defeating Tai Wheadon and Ben Southam respectively. Panthers wanted to finish the season on a high and looked to get back in the contest through the doubles. Amazingly all three went to five sets, but Lions still had the better overall to extend their lead by one and leave Panthers with an uphill task to create an unlikely comeback. Lions kept their composure and finished off strong, with another four wins their way enough to hold out Tigers from second spot. With a win over Tai Wheadon in the last match of the night, Jason Regan also sealed the most singles for the club in 2013.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom. Best for Panthers was Wade Gray.
Tigers 12(46) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Tigers did what was required and won, but it wasn’t quite enough to move Lions from second position, and will now have to play Gladiators in an elimination final next week. Tigers jumped to the lead from the first game of the night as Julien Poissonnier defeated Mike Van Doorn in five tight sets and Nathan Sincock defeated Kye Barber in straight sets. Huey Rosalia responded for Croppos with a win over Corey Stephens, but Tigers held firm to lead by two after the first round. The second round saw the lead change several times as Huey Rosalia and Mike Van Doorn pegged back the margin before Russell Fordham and Brandon Rosalia restored Tigers lead late in the second round to leave the margin at two. Tigers looked to put Croppos away through the doubles, but Croppos fought on, to stay within touch with the final round of singles to play. Cooper Van Doorn and Riki Popovic gave Croppos hope in defeating Reece Fordham and Russell Fordham, but the strength in Tigers top half soon showed as their ran away eventual victors by three.
Best for Tigers were Julien Poissonnier and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Riki Popovic.
Dodgers 15(53) defeated Gladiators 6(28)
Dodgers took advantage of playing an undermanned Gladiators outfit to boost their percentage by enough to finish minor premiers for 2013 and have the double chance against Lions in the first week of finals. Scores were level through the first round as Gladiators top two in Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham had a great start to defeat Angelika Sederstrom and Daniel Challinger respectively. Darren Atkins withstood a fast start by Riley Curtis to put Dodgers on the board for the first time in the night, before being backed up by Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth with wins of their own. Dodgers stamped their authority on the night through the second round, winning five of the six on offer an open up a commanding lead of four at the half way mark. Dodgers kept the pressure on through the doubles round, winning all three, including Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins over Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham in five sets. With the night already won, Dodgers were aware of the importance percentage would have on their final standing, but to Gladiators credit they came out fighting in the final round with Vic Ellul having a fine win over Ellen Challinger in four sets. The night ended with an incredible match played in two halves, as Daniel Challinger came back from two sets down to defeat Rhys Popovic in five sets.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Gladiators was Shane Stockham.
Division II
Panthers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(38)
Panthers have come from nowhere in recent weeks to firstly take some wins and then to actually make the final four to play finals. In defeating second-placed Lions, they now prove a real threat to any of the top four. Games were evenly spread in the opening round as Lions were first to score through Nathan Phillips over Ernie Bauer and Shane Harris over Vic Ellul before Panthers hit back with Ralph Sandford defeating Zoey Fordham in four sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala taking Sharon Phillips in straight sets. The highlight though was Peter Forrest winning a great five setter over Cath Trouse. Lions took a narrow lead in the second round as Zoey Fordham got in the action defeating Ernie Bauer in four sets and Sharon Phillips stepped up to win a close match over Cath Trouse, while for Panthers Vic Ellul was too good for Nathan Phillips. With the all-important doubles up for grabs this is where it can be won or lost as all three matches were fiercely contested, with Panthers combining the better to win two. Lions were ahead by one going into the last round but Panthers levelled the scores with Robert Charlton defeating Sharon Phillips and Sharee Richards added one for Lions before Panthers made a surge to the finish line stringing three in a row with Niket Jhunjhunwala over Peter Forrest in five tight sets. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Tigers 12(48) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Bottom side Croppos pushed Tigers all the way to the finish line, being their final match for season 2013 as they won't make the finals. Games were evenly spread in the opening stages as Ellen Challinger won the first match for Croppos followed by Anne-Marie Schwark over Jack Meaney and Bec Barber over Elisa Heath, while for Tigers Joseph Harris defeated Harry Hood and Christian Fletcher won through over Lance Barnett after a slow start. Tigers picked up the pace in the second round with Tigers bottom half performing strongly to add to Joseph Harris's win over Lance Barnett in four sets, while for Croppos Harry Hood defeated Kent Barber and Ellen Challinger claimed Christian Fletcher. Tigers proved the stronger in the doubles to win two but the upset of the night went to Croppos Bec Barber and Kye Sorenson defeating the undefeated Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett. Tigers lead by three going into the last round but Kye Sorenson played his best match of the season to defeat Jack Meaney in five close sets and Lance Barnett held strong to defeat Kent Barber but Tigers added the wins required through Mick Ferrett, Elisa Heath and Christian Fletcher, while Ellen Challinger finished a great night with a win over Joseph Harris.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Christian Fletcher. Best for Croppos were Ellen Challinger and Kye Sorenson.
Gladiators 14(47) defeated Dodgers 7(34)
Third-placed Gladiators bounced back from their loss last week to be ready for the up-coming finals while Dodgers were put out by Panthers previously. Gladiators burst out of the blocks early with Cooper Van Doorn defeating David Sherry and Cheryl King claiming David Hall, both in five sets, while Darren Wheare was pushed hard by Gay Karger playing for Dodgers. Megan Atkins and James Regan stood up for Dodgers. Dodgers matched Gladiators in the second round as James Regan won a tight match in three sets over Darren Wheare while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson defeated David Hall, Cooper Van Doorn claimed Terry Ison and Bob Gibbes won over Megan Atkins. In three hard doubles matches Gladiators came through stronger in two to lead by three with the last round to play. James Regan added one more for Dodgers but that's where it all ended as Gladiators ran home easy winners stringing five in a row to claim victory.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Megan Atkins.
ROUND 16
Division I
Tigers 13(47) defeated Gladiators 8(34)
Gladiators relinquished top spot and Tigers moved to third place thanks to a strong win set up through the doubles round. Scores were even through the first round as Gladiators jumped out of the blocks through Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham, before being pegged back by Tigers’ Brandon Rosalia and Reece Fordham late in the round. Tigers made the first move in the second round with Julien Poissonnier and Nathan Sincock hitting the scoreboard, followed by Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham opening up a lead of two at the halfway mark. Tigers took control of the contest through the doubles with Russell Fordham and Reece Fordham defeating Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis in five sets and Julien Poissonnier and Nathan Sincock also winning in five sets over Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham. Corey Stephens and Brandon Rosalia made it the trifecta and Tigers were only one win away from sealing the night. Gladiators showed some early fight in the final round through Riley Curtis and Joe Perone, but the inevitable happened and Tigers ran away with the points.
Best for Tigers was Julien Poissonnier. Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone.
Dodgers 14(51) defeated Panthers 7(27)
Dodgers moved back into top position with a percentage boosting win over second bottom Panthers. With positions tight at the top of the table so close to finals, every win was going to count for Dodgers, and they played that way early with four wins to their name in the first round. Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins accounted for Tai Wheadon and Ben Southam respectively, before Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth finished the round off with their first wins of the night. Aaron Sincock fought hard for Panthers with a four set win over Angelika Sederstrom. The second round was almost a repeat of the first, with Dodgers picking up a further four wins to open up their lead to four leading into the doubles. Panthers still felt in the contest, as doubles has been Dodgers weak point in recent weeks, and this showed as Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon overcame Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins in five sets. Dodgers responded though to take the next two and put themselves on the brink of victory with the final round of singles to play. Another four to Dodgers finished the night off as it started and gave Dodgers the required percentage to move into top spot.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Lions 14(48) defeated Croppos 7(34)
Lions took full advantage in playing the bottom side, disposing of Croppos and proving they will be a contender come finals time. Croppos showed steady resistance through the first round with Huey Rosalia, Mark Jesser and Riki Popovic all victorious. Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom and Rodney Scharfe hit back for Lions to leave the scores all square. Lions hit their straps in the second round with their bottom half proving to be their strength, combined with Jason Regan to lead the night by two. The doubles put Lions in a dominating position, taking all three on offer and leaving Croppos with the unenviable task of winning all six in the final round to avoid defeat. It was a task too great for Croppos as Lions ran away with the win to sit in second spot on the ladder.
Best for Lions was Rodney Scharfe. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Division II
Tigers 17(53) defeated Gladiators 4(21)
Gladiators were missing Cooper Van Doorn replaced by Darren Wheare as they met top of the table Tigers and despite their loss they remain third on the premiership table well clear of fourth place. Tigers stormed out of the blocks to claim five wins with Christian Fletcher winning a tight match over Kane Ingerson and Kent Barber won over Cheryl King in four sets, while Sam Dawson put the only score away for Gladiators. Gladiators picked it up in the second round with Kane Ingerson claiming Kent Barber in four sets and Bob Gibbes defeating Jack Meaney, while the match of the round belonged to Elisa Heath as she fought out five sets against the much-improved Sam Dawson to crawl over the line. All the doubles went Tigers way, where they have been strong all season before they ran home taking all but one on offer. Gladiators put up a good fight with Sam Dawson just missing out in five sets against Mick Ferrett, Bob Gibbes defeated Elisa Heath, Darren Wheare played well against Kent Barber and Kane Ingerson pushed Joseph Harris to four close sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Christian Fletcher and Mick Ferrett. Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson.
Panthers 12(45) defeated Dodgers 9(35)
Panthers have been keeping their hopes alive in fifth spot as they met Dodgers who were in fourth place. Both teams had players missing for this important clash. Dodgers were first on the board with David Sherry defeating Ralph Sandford in a classic five set marathon supported by James Regan who claimed Kaye Jaensch, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer and Vic Ellul are still tough to beat, Cath Trouse came out the eventual winner over Coral Myers in five sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala was too consistent for Megan Atkins. Dodgers matched Panthers in the next round as David Sherry defeated Vic Ellul in a long match, Coral Myers won over Kaye Jaensch and Megan Atkins claimed Cath Trouse in straight sets, while for Panthers Ralph Sandford won over David Hall in another standout match. Dodgers combined the better in the doubles winning two but one behind at the last turn where they quickly added two wins through James Regan and Megan Atkins to take the lead for the first time in the night. From here Panthers went up a gear running away with the remaining matches to pinch fourth place from Dodgers.
Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala. Best for Dodgers were David Sherry, Megan Atkins and James Regan.
Croppos 13(47) defeated Lions 8(40)
Bottom of the table Croppos surprised second-placed Lions with a shock defeat but Lions were missing important number two player Zoey Fordham for this clash. Croppos began well in the opening stages with Kody Rosalia leading by taking Peter Forrest in four sets, Lance Barnett came up with one of his best wins over Nathan Phillips, Karina White escaped a close one over Bec Barber and Kye Sorenson won over an improving Sharee Richards, while for Lions Shane Harris was the only one to score. Croppos kept the pressure on in the second round scooping another four wins as Anne-Marie Schwark got among the action and Kody Rosalia claimed Nathan Phillips in four sets, while Peter Forrest had his hands full with Harry Hood but still winning in five. In three hotly contested doubles Croppos combined the better to take two and the night. Lions were playing for some pride now and to prevent a complete white-wash Sharon Phillips stepped up and defeated Kye Sorenson for a fine win as did Sharee Richards for her first win of the season, Peter Forrest had to work hard through five sets to claim Lance Barnett while Kody Rosalia won the match of the night defeating Shane Harris in five spectacular sets.
Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
ROUND 15
Division I
Gladiators 14(45) defeated 7(37)
Gladiators moved to the top of the table with a resounding win over bottom side Croppos. Gladiators jumped out of the blocks early with four wins the first round to open up a lead of two. Riley Curtis came from a set down to overcome Mark Jesser in five sets, while Tyler Ebert continued his good form of late to defeat Mike Van Doorn also in five sets. Gladiators extended their lead in the second round by a further two mainly thanks to Shane Stockham climbing over the top of Kye Barber and Bill Broughton coming from two sets down to overcome Riki Popovic. Croppos needed a response in the doubles to have any chance of staging a comeback, but unfortunately for them it was the opposite that happened. Gladiators swept all three on offer to wrap up the night with still the final round of singles to play. Croppos showed some fight in the final round to prevent any further damage being done, but couldn’t peg back the margin either to leave themselves bottom of the ladder.
Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Tigers 16(54) defeated Panthers 5(23)
In another lopsided result, Tigers dismantled an undermanned Panthers to give them a shot at a top two spot with only two rounds to play. Tigers left nothing to chance as they piled on the wins through the opening round. Aaron Sincock was the only player to hit the scoreboard for Tigers as he defeated Corey Stephens in five sets. Cooper Van Doorn was unlucky to do likewise, narrowly going down to Russell Fordham in five sets also. Tigers continued to build their score through the second round as the Sincock brothers faced off, with Aaron the victor over Nathan on this occasion. The doubles proved to be the straw that broke the camel’s back for Panthers, with Tigers running right over the top to win them all and secure the points six matches from the end of the night. To Panthers credit they came out in the final round and grabbed a couple of wins through Cooper Van Doorn and Mario Piantidosi, but that was where the joy ended as Tigers grabbed the ascendancy again, finishing the night off with four straight wins.
Best for Tigers were Julian Poissonnier and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Dodgers 15(49) defeated Lions 6(29)
Dodgers returned to the top two with a surprising easy victory over top side Lions, who have dropped to third. Dodgers grabbed the lead with Darren Atkins and Daniel Challinger defeating Josh Phillips and Jason Regan respectively. Barry Sederstrom got Lions on the scoreboard with a straight sets win over Geoff Nottle, but Dodgers still managed to lead by two after the first round. Five to Dodgers through the second round saw them take control of the night, with Ellen Challinger having her finest win of the season in defeating Sally Kunze in four sets and Darren Atkins overcoming Barry Sederstrom in five sets. Dodgers have struggled with their doubles in recent weeks, and this was still evident with Lions pushing them hard and two of the three on offer going to five sets. Dodgers still extended their lead by one and finished the night off strong with a further four to build some much needed percentage in the lead up to finals, with the top four now only separated by percentage.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions was Jason Regan.
Division II
Tigers 12(39) defeated Panthers 9(36)
In a very close and competitive night, top of the table Tigers just got over the line against Panthers who remain in fifth place and still with a chance at the finals. Tigers took an early lead after the first round as Joseph Harris defeated Vic Ellul in four tight sets, Christian Fletcher battled hard to win over a consistent Ralph Sandford in five sets and Elisa Heath found Darren Wheare a tough opponent but scraped home in four sets, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala put wins away. Panthers tightened the reins in the second round as Ernie Bauer defeated Christian Fletcher in four tight sets, Vic Ellul was too strong for Bev Atkins, Darren Wheare held firm over Jack Meaney but the standout match went to Ralph Sandford as he pushed young Joseph Harris all the way through five sets but failed to win in which could have been the upset of the night, while for Tigers Mick Ferrett got over Niket Jhunjhunwala and Elisa Heath collected her second win. Panthers closed the gap in the doubles by winning two but Tigers were onto their task early by taking two to reach ten first but Panthers hit back with a couple of their own to reach nine leaving just two matches to decide the winner. It was Christian Fletcher and Joseph Harris though who shut Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer down respectively to take victory for Tigers.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Joseph Harris. Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala.
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Croppos 9(31)
Gladiators maintained their position in third place and will play finals but also have a chance at second place, while Croppos need to win both rounds remaining for any chance at finals. Gladiators broke away for an early lead in the opening round as Kane Ingerson claimed Lance Barnett and Cheryl King defeated Harry Hood, both in straight sets along with Bob Gibbes over Kye Sorensen and Sam Dawson over Anne-Marie Schwark, while for Croppos, Kody Rosalia and Karina White put wins on the scoreboard. Gladiators kept the pressure on in the second round with Cooper Van Doorn playing a standout match to defeat Lance Barnett in five tough sets and Jacqui Harding pushed Anne-Marie Schwark all the way just going down in an incredible match. Croppos came out firing in the doubles to claim two as Kody Rosalia paired with Harry Hood to topple Gladiators top pairing of Kane Ingerson and Cheryl King. Needing five to win, Croppos added one through Kye Sorensen before Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson put the winning scores away for Gladiators topped off by Cooper Van Doorn defeating Harry Hood in straight sets, while Croppos Kody Rosalia won the final match over Kane Ingerson in four sets.
Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson. Best for Croppos was Kody Rosalia.
Lions 12(40) defeated Dodgers 9(34)
Fourth-placed Dodgers put in a good performance against Lions who remain second. It was Dodgers who had the better start, taking four wins in the opening round through Ellen Challinger over Nathan Phillips, Tyler Ingerson in his best win of the season caused an upset by defeating Zoey Fordham in five sets and James Regan won over Sharee Richards, while for Lions, Shane Harris and Peter Forrest came through. Lions then turned the night on its head and completely reversed the trend as Zoey Fordham stepped up a gear to defeat Ellen Challinger, Nathan Phillips claimed David Hall and Sharon Phillips played well to win over Megan Atkins in five sets. Lions combined the better in the doubles to win two and extend their lead out to three. Dodgers kept coming with wins to James Regan and Megan Atkins but Lions added two with Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips to claim victory, while David Hall added one more for Dodgers defeating Zoey Fordham in four sets.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
ROUND 14
Division I
Croppos 13(42) defeated Panthers 8(36)
Croppos secured their second win for the season against fellow bottom-two side Panthers, and in the process give themselves a chance of avoiding the wooden spoon. Scores were even though the first round of singles as both sides fought to gain the ascendancy. Panthers were led by Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon, while Huey Rosalia continue to collect the wins this season. Croppos were the first to make a break through the second round with their bottom half of Barry Hancock, Mark Jesser and Riki Popovic all recording wins and providing the edge. Croppos extended their lead to three through the doubles thanks to Barry Hancock and Riki Popovic dominating the fifth set to overcome Wade Gray and Mario Piantedosi. Panthers needed something special to come back in this one, but it wasn’t to be, as Croppos ran out the night the stronger, finished off by Huey Rosalia defeating Tai Wheadon in five sets.
Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia. Best for Panthers were Tai Wheadon and Fiona Rosalia.
Gladiators 13(44) defeated Lions 8(34)
Gladiators moved into second place on the ladder with victory over top placed Lions. Gladiators set the tone early through Shane Stockham withstanding a comeback from Jason Regan to win in five sets and Tyler Ebert too good for Barry Sederstrom to win in four sets. Gladiators secured the first four matches of the night to lead by two after the first round. Lions tried to peg back the margin in the second round but Gladiators held firm, to still win three for the round and keep the margin at two at the halfway mark. The doubles were going to be crucial for both sides. Lions snatched the first through Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe over Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis, but Gladiators came again to take the next two and extend their lead out to three with only the final round of singles to play. Gladiators weren’t about to let this one slip though and finished the night strongly to wrap up a crucial win.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic, Shane Stockham and Joe Perone. Best for Lions was Rodney Scharfe.
Tigers 14(44) defeated Dodgers 7(33)
Dodgers slipped back to third as Tigers put in a dominating performance after the first round. Dodgers started the better of the two sides and built an early lead through the first round with Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth all hitting the scoreboard. The contest turned on its head in the second round with Tigers piling on five wins to just one. Brandon Rosalia continued his good form to defeat Adam Butterworth in five sets and Reece Fordham had one of his best wins this season with a straight sets victory over Kevin Westbury. Tigers increased their lead through the doubles with Russell and Reece Fordham squandering a two sets to love lead before winning in five over Adam Butterworth and Ellen Challinger. Dodgers needed a response, but Tigers flowed with the momentum and made them pay with another five wins added to the scoreboard in the final round to run out easy winners.
Best for Tigers were Julien Poissonier and Reece Fordham. Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins.
Division II
Panthers 15(50) defeated Croppos 6(29)
Panthers were strengthened this week by the inclusion of new player Darren Wheare, but Croppos were first on the board with Kody Rosalia over Ralph Sandford in four sets and Anne-Marie Schwark won a wonderful match in five sets over Robert Charlton. For Panthers Ernie Bauer had to fight hard to win over Harry Hood and Vic Ellul just got over the line against Lance Barnett, both in five sets. Panthers kept the pressure on in the second round as Niket Jhunjhunwala and Darren Wheare both collected their second single for the night while for Croppos Kody Rosalia defeated Vic Ellul in straight sets and Karina White had to come from behind to win in five sets over an improved Robert Charlton. Panthers combined the better to win two doubles and have a commanding lead on the match. Croppos Kye Sorenson put in a good effort against Robert Charlton going down in five sets but from here Panthers came home strongly with Darren Wheare completing a great first night winning all his matches along with Niket Jhunjhunwala to keep their finals hopes alive.
Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Darren Wheare. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia.
Lions 11(39) defeated Gladiators 10(38)
This was a very competitive night between second and third with Lions holding onto second place by a thread. Lions had a great start in the opening round with Zoey Fordham winning a tight match over Cheryl King in five sets and Miriah Yamamoto on exchange from Japan couldn't wait to try Aussie table tennis showing great style to defeat Bob Gibbes, while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson and Jacqui Harding recorded wins. Gladiators stepped up in the second round to share the matches as Cooper Van Doorn claimed Terry Ison, Bob Gibbes defeated Sharee Richards and Sam Dawson came through in a tight match over Miriah Yamamoto, while Peter Forrest, Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham stood up for Lions. Gladiators combined the stronger in the doubles to win two but Lions held the lead by one with the final round of singles to play. Lions reached ten first with Miriah Yamamoto and Peter Forrest, but Gladiators hit back to level the scores through Sam Dawson, Cheryl King and Cooper Van Doorn played one of his best to defeat Zoey Fordham in five sets. It came down to the final match of the night as Kane Ingerson started well against Shane Harris but the experience came through with Harris taking the match for a Lions victory.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Gladiators were Cooper Van Doorn and Sam Dawson.
Tigers 16(52) defeated Dodgers 5(29)
Top of the table Tigers easily accounted for Dodgers but the result could have been a lot closer as all but one of the five set matches went Tigers way. Tigers stormed out of the blocks winning all six singles in the opening round with Christian Fletcher defeating David Sherry and Mick Ferrett in a close match over Max Williams both in four sets while for Dodgers James Regan just missed out against Elisa Heath and David Hall went down in five sets. David Sherry claimed Dodgers first win for the night over Bev Atkins but Tigers remained strong with Jack Meaney playing a standout match to defeat Max Williams. The doubles were very competitive but again Tigers showed their strength by winning two. To Dodgers credit they fought hard in the final round as James Regan was too strong for Jack Meaney, Max Williams showed determination to win against Elisa Heath and Tyler Ingerson has improved to upset Bev Atkins but the match of the round went to Christian Fletcher as he defeated David Hall 12/10 in five sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Dodgers were Tyler Ingerson and Max Williams.
ROUND 13
Division I
Lions 16(54) defeated Tigers 5(26)
Lions took advantage of an undermanned Tigers side to consolidate top position as the run towards the finals draw near. Tigers fought hard early to keep scores level after the first round of singles. Russell and Reece Fordham defeated Rodney Scharfe and Brenton Stagg respectively while Nathan Sincock accounted for Barry Sederstrom in straight sets. Lions opened the contest right up in the second round as they swept all six singles. Tigers had no answer to Lions dominance with Reece Fordham fairing the best for Tigers, narrowing going down to Sally Kunze in five sets. Tigers could not stop Lions in the doubles as Lions took all three on offer and the night in the process. Lions stretched their run of wins to eleven straight through Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe early in the final round of singles before Russell Fordham finally snapped the streak with a tight win over Sally Kunze in five sets. Brandon Rosalia followed that up with a fine win over Josh Phillips to bring some joy for Tigers, but it was short lived with Barry Sederstrom and Jason Regan finishing off the night for Lions in fine style.
Best for Lions was Jason Regan. Best for Tigers was Russell Fordham.
Dodgers 12(42) defeated Croppos 9(35)
Dodgers had to fight from start to finish to climb over the top of bottom side Croppos, who seem to be finding some form in the second half of the season. Nothing separated the two sides through the first two rounds as Daniel Challinger led the charge for Dodgers and Huey Rosalia did likewise for Croppos. Adam Butterworth, playing in the top half for the first time this season due to the absence of Angelika Sederstrom showed that he can mix it with the best with a straight sets win over Mike Van Doorn. The doubles looked to be crucial in deciding the final outcome to this contest, and it was Dodgers who crept ahead with Geoff Nottle and Kevin Westbury defeating Mike Van Doorn and Mark Jesser in five sets. Dodgers opened up in the final round with three straight wins to Ellen Challinger, Kevin Westbury and Geoff Nottle to seal the night for their side and retain second spot in the process.
Best for Dodgers was Daniel Challinger. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Panthers 9(35)
Panthers’ finals chances are all but over with a close loss to Gladiators on Thursday night. Panthers began the night well with wins going to their top two players in Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon over Shane Stockham and Tyler respectively. Rhys Popovic and Riley Curtis responded for Gladiators to leave the scores level after the first round. Panthers edged ahead through the second round with Tai Wheadon and Aaron Sincock again hitting the scoreboard, supported by Kody Rosalia and Wade Gray with their wins over Bill Broughton and Riley Curtis. Gladiators reduced the margin back to one through the doubles, but were still left with work to do in the final round to complete the win. They came out firing, taking the next four singles to steal the night away from Panthers when it all looked so promising. Rhys Popovic finished the night off well for Gladiators with a straight sets win over Aaron Sincock.
Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone. Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon.
Division II
Tigers 13(46) defeated Lions 8(27)
With the finals just four weeks away Croppos and Panthers still have a chance to make the top four, while Tigers and Lions will be the teams to beat. After a close competitive night Tigers got the points over the Lions to remain top of the table. Lions were first to score in the opening round with Shane Harris too strong for Bev Atkins and Peter Forrest got up over Jack Meaney in four sets, while for Tigers Joseph Harris defeated Zoey Fordham and Christian Fletcher won in a close game over Nathan Phillips. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round collecting a further four wins with Mick Ferrett playing strongly to defeat Peter Forrest in straight sets and Zoey Fordham played well to defeat Bev Atkins in four. As doubles can make or break a team Tigers combined well to win two but Lions pair Shane Harris and Nathan Phillips were too good for Joseph Harris and Bev Atkins. Tigers held a handy lead going into the final round and Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett wrapped up victory for their team early, while Lions managed to storm home with three in a row – Peter Forrest over Elisa Fletcher in five sets, Nathan Phillips in four over Bev Atkins and Zoey Fordham in a marathon match over Christian Fletcher. The best was saved till last as Joseph Harris eventually wore down his father Shane in four sets.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Joseph Harris. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham.
Croppos 13(43) defeated Dodgers 8(37)
Croppos recorded their first win in nine weeks to still give themselves a chance at finals while Dodgers are in danger of missing out clinging to fourth place. Dodgers were away to a brilliant start in the first round with David Hall taking an important win over Lance Barnett and James Regan played well to defeat Anne-Marie Schwark in four, while for Croppos Kody Rosalia and Kye Sorenson both collected wins. Croppos reversed the trend in the second round to level the scores as Kody Rosalia was too good for David Hall, Harry Hood defeated Tyler Ingerson in four close sets and Anne-Marie Schwark came from behind to win over Megan Atkins also in four sets, while James Regan and Max Williams scored for Dodgers. In three very competitive doubles all going to five sets Croppos gained the lead for the first time by winning two while Dodgers managed one. James Regan added one to level the scores again over Kye Sorenson but from here Croppos reeled in all remaining matches for a well-earned victory. Abi Nicholls narrowly defeated Megan Atkins, Anne-Marie Schwark came from two sets down to get up over Max Williams, Harry Hood claimed David Hall and Kody Rosalia saved his best till last to defeat David Sherry in a very tight game.
Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Lance Barnett. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
Gladiators 10(34) defeated Panthers 9(32)
Both these teams were affected by absent players and as a result played with teams of five. Gladiators had the better start in the opening stages as Kane Ingerson defeated Ralph Sandford and Cooper Van Doorn won over Ernie Bauer, while the best for Panthers came from Vic Ellul over Cheryl King. Games came out even in the second round with the standout being Cheryl King as she won a marathon match over Ernie Bauer. Going into the doubles each team claimed one each, but Gladiators maintained their lead of two. Panthers came home strongly in the final run home with Niket Jhunjhunwala claiming Bob Gibbes in five sets and Ralph Sandford was too good for Cheryl King, but it was Cooper Van Doorn and Kane Ingerson who put the icing on the cake for Gladiators, taking brilliant wins over Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer respectively.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Panthers were Ralph Sandford and Niket Jhunjhunwala.
ROUND 12
Division I
Gladiators 13(47) defeated Dodgers 8(33)
Dodgers reign in top position lasted all of one week as Gladiators overcame an early deficit to overrun and outplay their opponents. Dodgers looked the better side through the first round with Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth all securing early wins for their side. Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone kept Gladiators in touch. Gladiators quickly levelled the scores through the second round with Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone again leading the charge, ably supported by Shane Stockham and Bill Broughton. The doubles looked to be crucial in deciding the end result and it was Gladiators who forged ahead with two of the three on offer, including Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham over Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins in five sets. Gladiators were not about to let this match slip as they dominated the final round, winning all but one. Rhys Popovic completed a great individual night for himself with a five set win over Daniel Challinger to finish the night.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone. Best for Dodgers was Adam Butterworth.
Tigers 14(49) defeated Croppos 7(29)
Tigers continued their run of good form to easily account for Croppos. The night was set up from the start thanks to a strong first round of singles where Tigers won five of the six on offer. Reece Fordham had close to his best win of the season with a four set victory over Barry Hancock. Croppos fought back in the second round but were unable to eat into the margin Tigers had built. It was a case of so close yet so far for Nathan Sincock in going down to Croppos’ Huey Rosalia in five sets. Tigers extended their lead through the doubles to all but wrap up the night with still the final round of singles to play. Croppos were hoping for a response to give themselves a chance of an unlikely comeback, but it wasn’t to be as Tigers’ Reece Fordham and Russell Fordham defeated Riki Popovic and Mark Jesser to hand their team the points. Barry Hancock and Kye Barber put some respectability on the scoreboard but the damage had already been done.
Best for Tigers were Julian Poissonnier and Russell Fordham. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Lions 12(40) defeated Panthers 9(37)
Lions returned to top spot on the ladder with a comfortable win over Panthers. Lions set up their win in the first two rounds of singles, recording four wins in each round shared between Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom, Sally Kunze and Kody Rosalia. Panthers struggled to gain any momentum through the night with only the odd win falling their way. This trend continued in the doubles round as Lions again had the upper hand including Kody Rosalia and Zoey Fordham defeating Mario Piantidosi and Wade Gray in four sets. Lions held a great opportunity to build some percentage in the run towards finals, but to Panthers credit they finished the night off strongly, with wins to Fiona Rosalia, Wade Gray, Tai Wheadon and Aaron Sincock all helping their cause.
Best for Lions were Kody Rosalia and Sally Kunze. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon.
Division II
Gladiators 14(48) defeated Dodgers 7(33)
Gladiators broke away for a lead of two in the opening round with Cheryl King defeating David Hall, Bob Gibbes came from behind to claim James Regan and Sam Dawson has improved with extra training to record a fine win over Max Williams, while David Sherry and Megan Atkins scored for Dodgers. Dodgers matched Gladiators in the second round as Tyler Ingerson pushed Cooper Van Doorn out to five sets in a great game and James Regan got the edge over Sam Dawson in four sets. Gladiators combined the better in the doubles to win two and extend their lead out to three, but Dodgers were first to score in the final round before Gladiators came home strongly winning the remaining five matches as Cheryl King defeated Tyler Ingerson in a standout five sets and Kane Ingerson claimed David Sherry in straight sets.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and David Sherry.
Panthers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(40)
In the closest result of the night Panthers made it two in a row for their third win of the season over second-placed Lions. Lions had the better start in the opening stages winning some great matches with Shane Harris over Ralph Sandford, Nathan Phillips in one of his best over Vic Ellul and Sharon Phillips battled long and hard through five sets to win against Coral Myers, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer claimed Zoey Fordham in four tight sets and Kent Barber defeated Sharee Richards. Panthers reversed the trend in the next round to level the scores as Ralph Sandford and Ernie Bauer were pushed to the limits by their young opponents Zoey Fordham and Nathan Phillips respectively and Robert Charlton and Kent Barber also added further scores. In three hard fought doubles Lions took the upper-hand in winning two while Panthers added one. In such a tight contest a good start in the final round was vital and Panthers took the advantage in winning the first two before Lions got one back through Peter Forrest to level the scores. Panthers kept the pressure on in the final three games winning two with Ralph Sandford taking Nathan Phillips in five sets and Vic Ellul overcame Zoey Fordham in four sets for a well-earned victory over the Lions.
Best for Panthers were Robert Charlton and Ralph Sandford. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Tigers 16(54) defeated Croppos 5(25)
Top of the table Tigers were always going to be hard to beat but Croppos did not help themselves losing too many close matches. Croppos were first to score in the opening round as Kody Rosalia came out firing to defeat Bev Atkins in straight sets and Anne-Marie Schwark claimed Jack Meaney in four, while Christian Fletcher was the standout winner for Tigers over Lance Barnett in four sets. Tigers maintained the pressure in the second round adding a further five winners with Bev Atkins too strong for Harry Hood, Mick Ferrett won a close one over Anne-Marie Schwark, Jack Meaney played well to defeat Karina White and Joseph Harris defeated Lance Barnett in straight sets. Kody Rosalia took five sets to defeat Christian Fletcher to be the only scorer for Croppos. Doubles have been Tigers strength this season and again they combined well to win all three but none better than Joseph Harris and Bev Atkins over Kody Rosalia and Harry Hood as they traded amazing rallies to be eventual winners in five sets. With Tigers having already claimed victory players still had something to play for as Jack Meaney completed a great night defeating Kye Sorenson in five, Bev Atkins claimed Lance Barnett in four tight sets and Christian Fletcher won over Harry Hood. The best was saved for last though with Kody Rosalia taking the points over Joseph Harris.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
ROUND 11
Division I
Croppos 12(41) defeated Lions 9(37)
In what has to be the upset of the season, Croppos recorded their first win of the year over top side Lions. Croppos began well with four wins through the first round, including Huey Rosalia, Riki Popovic, Barry Hancock and Kody Rosalia. Josh Phillips kept Lions in touch with a fine win over Mike Van Doorn in five sets. Lions responded with four wins of their own through the second round to level the scores at the half way mark. Barry Hancock and Huey Rosalia continued to perform well for Croppos. Lions edged ahead in the doubles, winning two of the three on offer, and it looked as though they would run away with the night. Croppos had other ideas though, and in an incredible finish won the final four matches of the night, crucially two in five sets. Barry Hancock came from a set down to defeat Sally Kunze and Mark Jesser had one of his best wins of the year in holding out Josh Phillips. Huey Rosalia put the icing on the cake for Croppos, claiming the belt with a strong four set win over Jason Regan
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe.
Tigers 15(51) defeated Gladiators 6(34)
Gladiators struggled to match Tigers power throughout as the extended their lead at every change. Tigers notched up four wins in the first round with Julien Poissonner, Brandon Rosalia, Russell Fordham and Reece Fordham all hitting the scoreboard. It was a carbon copy of the first round in the second, with the same players all recording their second wins for the night. Tyler Ebert kept some hope alive for Gladiators with a five set win over Nathan Sincock. Tigers all but ended the night for Gladiators with two doubles wins, and then put it beyond doubt in the final round of singles with five straight wins claiming the win and building some handy percentage in the process.
Best for Tigers were Reece Fordham, Russell Fordham and Brandon Rosalia. Best for Gladiators was Rhys Popovic.
Dodgers 11(44) defeated Panthers 10(37)
Dodgers held on from a fast finishing Panthers to take top spot on the ladder for the first time this season. Nothing separated the two sides through the first round with wins being shared a three a piece. Dodgers took the advantage through the second round with Darren Atkins and Daniel Challinger defeating Aaron Sincock and Ben Southam respectively. Adam Butterworth edged Dodgers ahead with a straight sets win over Wade Gray. Dodgers extended their lead by a further one in the doubles, but Panthers had hope with Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon coming from two sets down to defeat Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins in five sets. Panthers came with a late rush, and it was the contest between Adam Butterworth and Fiona Rosalia proving critical, with the former sneaking over the line in five sets to hand Dodgers the points.
Best for Dodgers was Adam Butterworth. Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon.
Division II
Lions 12(44) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Croppos pushed second-placed Lions all the way but it was the three five setters they lost that could have brought a different result. The opening round left scores level at three each with Kody Rosalia winning a great match for Croppos over Zoey Fordham in five sets while Nathan Phillips continues to improve defeating Harry Hood in four tight sets and Peter Forrest claimed Kye Sorenson also in four sets. Neither team could break away in the second round as Lance Barnett won a marathon match over Zoey Fordham and Kody Rosalia just had the edge over Nathan Phillips, while for Lions Shane Harris was a cut above the rest claiming his second single and Sharee Richards celebrated her first win in competition over Kye Sorenson in five long sets. Croppos claimed the first double before Lions grabbed the next two for a slender lead. Croppos were first to score in the final round as Kye Sorenson defeated Sharon Phillips and Karina White came from behind to win over Sharee Richards in five to take the lead for the first time but then Lions picked up the pace to grab the next four singles for a narrow victory.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Croppos were Karina White and Kody Rosalia.
Tigers 16(50) defeated Gladiators 5(27)
With everyone coming off a two week break for the school holidays some players were left in holiday mode and consequently a bit off the pace. Top of the table Tigers began in fine form reeling in five wins in the opening round with Christian Fletcher defeating Kane Ingerson in four sets, Bev Atkins just got over the line against Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Mick Ferrett claimed Bob Gibbes in straight sets. Sam Dawson was the only scorer for Gladiators. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round winning a further four as Joseph Harris won his second single, Christian Fletcher claimed Cheryl King in four tight sets and Elisa Heath had to work hard to defeat Sam Dawson in five while Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes added much needed wins for Gladiators. Doubles have been Tigers strength this season winning all three, enough to win the night, but Gladiators did not give up as Sam Dawson defeated Mick Ferrett and Bob Gibbes won over Elisa Heath. Tigers came home strongly with Bev Atkins winning a marathon match over Cheryl King, Christian Fletcher defeating Cooper Van Doorn and Joseph Harris in hot form over Kane Ingerson in straight sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Christian Fletcher. Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Sam Dawson.
Panthers 14(47) defeated Dodgers 7(31)
Bottom of the table Panthers claimed just their second win of the season over Dodgers who remain in fourth place. Panthers are finally winning those close matches they couldn't earlier in the year with Ernie Bauer over Tyler Ingerson, Ralph Sandford over David Hall in five sets, Niket Jhunjhunwala and Robert Charlton over James Regan and Megan Atkins respectively while Dodgers David Sherry claimed Vic Ellul and Max Williams defeated Marie Liddle. Panthers kept the pressure on in the second round as Ernie Bauer defeated David Hall, Vic Ellul won over Tyler Ingerson and Robert Charlton has improved to defeat Max Williams in five sets. James Regan and David Sherry scored for Dodgers. Holding a lead of four Panthers combined the better in the doubles to win two but James Regan and Megan Atkins added one for Dodgers over Marie Liddle and Robert Charlton. Dodgers were left with the tough task of winning all remaining matches but began well with James Regan taking Robert Charlton and Megan Atkins over Marie Liddle but from here Panthers stormed home winning the last four as Niket Jhunjhunwala defeated Max Williams in a standout five-set match and Ernie Bauer was too strong for David Sherry.
Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and David Sherry.
ROUND 10
Division I
Dodgers 14(47) defeated Lions 7(34)
Second-placed Dodgers continued their hot streak to record a solid win over top of the table Lions, just their second loss since round three. Lions were missing important top order player Barry Sederstrom for the night replaced by Bruce Wright. Games went three apiece in the first round as Dodgers Adam Butterworth accounted for Sally Kunze in four sets and Josh Phillips had a great win for Lions over Geoff Nottle in straight sets. Dodgers lifted to take the lead in the second round as Kevin Westbury won a close one over Rodney Scharfe in five, Daniel Challinger found Josh Phillips much-improved and Adam Butterworth did not drop a set over Brenton Stagg, while for Lions Sally Kunze just got over the line against Ellen Challinger in a standout five sets. In three cracker five set doubles it was Dodgers who combined brilliantly to take all three and broke the spirit of the Lions. Lions needed to win all remaining matches while Dodgers needed just one for victory and Ellen Challinger quickly put that win away defeating Brenton Stagg in four sets. Kevin Westbury, Geoff Nottle and Darren Atkins added further wins to boost the percentage for Dodgers while Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe added a couple for Lions.
Best for Dodgers were Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe.
Tigers 12(46) defeated Panthers 9(34)
Panthers were weakened without the inclusion of top player Tai Wheadon but the team began well with Aaron Sincock taking Corey Stephens, Ben Southam played one of his best to upset Nathan Sincock in five sets and Shane Harris finally won a marathon match over Reece Fordham. For Tigers Gavin Proude won on a forfeit and Russell Fordham defeated Mario Piantedosi in straight sets. Tigers reversed the trend in the second round to level the scores as the Fordham’s were in the mix again with Reece claiming Wade Gray and Russell defeating Shane Harris both in four sets. With the all-important doubles up for grabs it was Panthers who struck first with Sean Proude and Shane Harris claiming a great match over brother and sister, Reece and Zoey Fordham in five sets while Tigers picked up the other two doubles to take the lead for the first time. Shane Harris added another one for Panthers as he came from two sets down to defeat a consistent Zoey Fordham in five sets but it was all Tigers as they ran home collecting four wins to take victory with Gavin Proude winning a marathon five-set match over Aaron Sincock for a fitting climax.
Best for Tigers were Gavin Proude and Russell Fordham. Best for Panthers were Shane Harris and Ben Southam.
Gladiators 18(56) defeated Croppos 3(23)
In a disappointing lop-sided game bottom side Croppos were no match against third-placed Gladiators. Croppos were again without their number one player Huey Rosalia and coming into the team were two juniors, Nathan Phillips and Cooper Van Doorn who were no match against the Gladiators but gained lots of experience in the process. Gladiators were hot from the start as they won all six singles in the first round as Tyler Ebert won over Kye Barber in four sets and Riley Curtis claimed an upset victory over Mark Jesser. It was more of the same in the second round but Croppos did manage to win two rubbers through Michael Van Doorn and Mark Jesser. The doubles all went Gladiators way and so it was game over but Mark Jesser did collect a second single for Croppos while Gladiators’ Shane Stockham played a great match to defeat Michael Van Doorn in five sets to be the standout match of the round.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic, Shane Stockham, Riley Curtis. Best for Croppos were Mark Jesser.
Division II
Lions 13(43) defeated Dodgers 8(32)
Fourth placed Dodgers put up a great fight against the Lions who remain second. The three five setters made the difference in the end. Lions made a quick get-away in the first round with Nathan Phillips playing a great match to defeat David Sherry in five tight sets and Zoey Fordham claimed Tyler Ingerson in four before Dodgers Max Williams and James Regan defeated Sharon Phillips and Sharee Richards. Dodgers matched Lions in the second round as the two David's, Sherry and Hall claimed their first wins over Zoey Fordham and Nathan Phillips respectively while for Lions Sharon Phillips held on to win over Megan Atkins in five close sets. Dodgers won the first double to edge closer but Lions hit back to claim the other two and extend their lead out to three. Dodgers were now left with the tough task of winning five of the last six singles remaining but they began well as James Regan and Megan Atkins added two before Lions Peter Forrest and Shane Harris put the game out of reach. Zoey Fordham put the icing on the cake as she won a marathon match over David Hall in five sets.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
Tigers 13(45) defeated Panthers 8(35)
Tigers remain top of the table as they accounted for the bottom side Panthers. Panthers matched Tigers in the opening round as Ernie Bauer came through a tight game over Bev Atkins, Vic Ellul had to work hard to defeat Reece Fordham in a long match and Niket Jhunjhunwala claimed Jack Meaney in straight sets. For Tigers Christian Fletcher defeated Ralph Sandford and Elisa Heath claimed Charlotte Nicholls both in four sets. Tigers stepped up the pace in the second round as Reece Fordham and Mick Ferrett got among the action to defeat Ralph Sandford and Niket Jhunjhunwala respectively, while Ernie Bauer and Vic Ellul remained strong to defeat Christian Fletcher and Bev Atkins. Panthers had an opportunity to level the scores in the doubles but Tigers’ strong doubles play saw them extend their lead out to five. Panthers now had to win all remaining matches but gave it their best shot winning three and going down in two others in a close encounter.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Reece Fordham. Best for Panthers were Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer.
Gladiators 13(52) defeated Croppos 8(33)
Gladiators remain in third place keeping Croppos out of the top four. Both teams were missing regular players with Ellen Challinger coming into the side for Croppos to replace Kody Rosalia and Kent Barber replaced Sam Dawson for Gladiators. In the opening game Ellen Challinger claimed Cheryl King in four, Lance Barnett came from behind to take a narrow win over Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Karina White won over Jacqui Harding in four sets. Kane Ingerson and Bob Gibbes posted wins for Gladiators. Gladiators lifted in the second round winning all but one match as Cheryl King worked hard to get up and claim Harry Hood in five and Jacqui Harding has improved her game to record a win over Kye Sorenson, while Ellen Challinger added one for Croppos. Over three tight doubles it was Croppos who combined the better winning two to reduce the margin to three to still give themselves a chance. Cath Trouse was the first to score for Croppos as she won a long match over Jacqui Harding followed by Lance Barnett who had to play all his shots to defeat Cheryl King also in five but that's where it ended for Croppos as Kent Barber completed a great night winning all his matches, Bob Gibbes claimed Karina White, Cooper Van Doorn played well to win over Harry Hood and Kane Ingerson saved his best till last defeating Ellen Challinger for the first time in four sets.
Best for Gladiators were Kent Barber and Kane Ingerson. Best for Croppos were Ellen Challinger and Lance Barnett.
ROUND 9
Division I
Dodgers 14(53) defeated Tigers 7(28)
Missing their number one player Gavin Proude, Dodgers took full toll to defeat fellow top four rival Tigers on Thursday night. Dodgers showed their intentions early with Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins both recording straight set victories over Russell Fordham and Nathan Sincock respectively. Corey Stephens got Tigers on the scoreboard to defeat Angelika Sederstrom in five sets. With a lead of two after the first round of singles, Dodgers doubled that lead through the second round with Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth both recording their second wins for the night. Tigers fought hard and were rewarded with Nathan Sincock and Reece Fordham both winning in five sets over their respective opponents. Tigers needed a strong doubles round to drag themselves back in the contest, but again it was Dodgers who had the upper hand on the contest. Tigers now needed to win all remaining matches to avoid defeat, and were given some hope when Zoey Fordham outlasted Ellen Challinger in five sets, before Adam Butterworth sealed the night for Dodgers, overcoming a resilient Joseph Harris in five sets also.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins and Kevin Westbury. Best for Tigers were Reece Fordham and Joseph Harris.
Panthers 12(41) defeated Croppos 9(32)
In a close contest right to the end, Panthers overcame Croppos with both sides missing important players. Nothing separated the two sides through the first two rounds as Panthers were led by Tai Wheadon and Croppos likewise by Mike Van Doorn, who scored one of his best victories of the season in five sets over the in form Aaron Sincock. Mark Jesser also played some of his best table tennis of the season with two wins of his own for Croppos. Panthers made the first break of the night through the doubles, as they claimed two to Croppos one. Croppos weren’t out of the contest though, and with wins to Barry Hancock and Mark Jesser, they levelled the scores with only three matches left for the night. Unfortunately that was Croppos final yelp with Panthers top three in Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon and Wade Gray finishing the night off for their side in style.
Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon. Best for Croppos was Mark Jesser.
Lions 12(45) defeated Gladiators 9(36)
Lions continued their charge and retained top spot as they set up their night thanks to a dominating second round of singles. Matches were shared at three apiece through the first round with late wins to Lions Rodney Scharfe and Brenton Stagg levelling the scores. The second round was all Lions as they fashioned a lead of four in the blink of an eye. Rodney Scharfe, Brenton Stagg and Jason Regan all won their second matches of the night, while Sally Kunze and Barry Sederstrom joined the cause. Gladiators needed a response but Lions met the challenge to extend their lead by a further one through the doubles to leave Gladiators with the tough ask of winning all remaining matches for the night. To their credit they never gave in, as Riley Curtis and Bill Broughton both won in four sets over Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe respectively. Sally Kunze wrapped up the night for Lions, but Croppos pushed on regardless with Tyler Ebert and Shane Stockham finishing the night on a high for their side.
Best for Lions were Rodney Scharfe, Brenton Stagg and Sally Kunze. Best for Gladiators was Rhys Popovic.
Division II
Tigers 13(47) defeated Dodgers 8(33)
This was a lot closer night between the top two sides than the scores indicated as Tigers claimed the crucial five setters that made the difference. Tigers were on fire early steam-rolling through the first round as Jack Meaney defeated Max Williams in four sets and Mick Ferrett claimed James Regan in five, while the only score for Dodgers came from David Sherry. Dodgers reversed the trend in the second round with a brilliant win from David Sherry again as he saved match points against Bev Atkins and went on to win, while James Regan came from behind to claim an impressive victory over Elisa Fletcher in five sets along with Megan Atkins with her straight sets win over Jack Meaney. Tigers led by two going into the doubles and were first to strike with Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney ahead of a marathon game as Joseph Harris and Bev Atkins worked their way into the match to just get through over the two David's, Sherry and Hall in a tough match, while Dodgers claimed one double. Behind by three, Dodgers wasted no time striking first with James Regan playing beautifully to win over Jack Meaney in four and Tyler Ingerson claimed his best win of the season over Terri Ison in five sets to give Dodgers eight. From here Tigers ran home but not without a struggle as Elisa Fletcher found Max Williams much improved and Bev Atkins came from behind to climb over David Hall in five close sets.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Dodgers were David Sherry and James Regan.
Panthers 12(43) defeated Croppos 9(33)
Well at last Panthers could celebrate as they won their first match of the season. Their night did not begin well though as Croppos had all the answers early with Lance Barnett taking Ernie Bauer and Kody Rosalia claiming Vic Ellul both in four sets, while winners for Panthers came from Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ralph Sandford. Panthers picked up their game in the second round as Bauer and Ellul gained revenge on Harry Hood and Lance Barnett along with junior Charlotte Nicholls defeating Gerry Woodroofe in straight sets. Where doubles can make or break a match wide open Panthers made their move in claiming all three but not without a fight. Leading by three Panthers felt their luck changing as Abi Nicholls came from behind for a brilliant win over Gerry Woodroofe in five and Ralph Sandford put the winning score down over Lance Barnett for a well earned victory. Harry Hood and Kody Rosalia had impressive wins for Croppos over Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer respectively but nothing could take the smiles off the faces of the Panthers team.
Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ralph Sandford. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
Lions 12 40) defeated Gladiators 9(33)
Nothing separated the two sides in the opening round as Gladiators’ Kane Ingerson defeated Zoey Fordham and Sam Dawson claimed Cath Trouse both in four sets, while for Lions Nathan Phillips defeated Cooper Van Doorn in straight sets and Gay Karger added one over Jacqui Harding. Scores remained locked together after the second round as Lions’ Shane Harris collected his second single, Zoey Fordham won over Cheryl King and Gay Karger had to battle through five long sets to win over much-improved player Sam Dawson, while for Gladiators Jacqui Harding and Bob Gibbes added scores with Kane Ingerson's. With the all-important doubles up for grabs it was Lions who made the break in winning a crucial match with Zoey Fordham and Gay Karger defeating Cooper Van Doorn and Bob Gibbes in five tough sets. Holding a slender lead of one it was Cath Trouse for Lions who struck first claiming Jacqui Harding in five sets followed by Gay Karger over Bob Gibbes, while Nathan Phillips put the winning score down over Cheryl King in straight sets. Gladiators' young ones Sam Dawson and Cooper Van Doorn finished well defeating Sharee Richards and Zoey Fordham.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Gay Karger. Best for Gladiators were Sam Dawson and Kane Ingerson.
ROUND 8
Division I
Lions 13(44) defeated Tigers 8(34)
Lions withstood an early challenge from Tigers to run over the top and show why they are sitting on top of the ladder. Tigers lead early thanks to a four set victory to Nathan Sincock over Josh Phillips. Jason Regan quickly responded for Lions before the Fordham’s in Russell and Reece helped Tigers to a share of the lead at the end of the first round. Lions made the first break through the second round with four wins to only Tigers two. Nathan Sincock limited the potential damage for Tigers when he recorded his best win of the season with a four set victory over Barry Sederstrom. Tigers showed some fight in the doubles to reduce the margin by one, but Lions weren’t about to let Tigers get any closer as they blew them away in the final round. Sally Kunze came back from two sets down to overrun Russell Fordham, Rodney Scharfe used his experience to defeat Reece Fordham and Jason Regan finished the night off with a straight sets victory over Nathan Sincock.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Rodney Scharfe. Best for Tigers was Nathan Sincock.
Panthers 13(44) defeated Gladiators 8(37)
Panthers continued their up and down season with a surprise win over top four fancy Gladiators. Matches were split through the first round with a typically tight match between Rhys Popovic and Tai Wheadon the highlight. Tai ran out the victor on this occasion in five sets. The second round provided Panthers with the first lead of the night with Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon, Geoff Nottle and Fiona Rosalia all adding to Panthers total to make the margin two. The big move came through the doubles as Panthers won all three doubles on offer, including Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon defeating Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham in five sets. Gladiators required an unlikely clean sweep of the final round singles to cause an impossible comeback, and it proved just that, with Panthers finishing off their hard work from earlier in the night for a much deserved win.
Best for Panthers was Tai Wheadon. Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone.
Dodgers 13(45) defeated Croppos 8(33)
Dodgers moved into second place on the ladder with a comfortable win over an undermanned bottom placed Croppos. Dodgers wasted no time in building their lead with fours wins through the first round. The second round gave more of the same with Dodgers recording another four wins thanks to Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth, while Croppos’ Kody Rosalia had one of his better wins and played beyond his years to account for Ellen Challinger in four sets. Croppos weren’t about to give up without a fight and stormed back into the contest through the doubles, winning all three on offer, including Barry Hancock and Mark Jesser over Angelika Sederstrom and Kevin Westbury in five sets. Dodgers swiftly put an end to the Croppos challenge with five wins through the final round capped off by Daniel Challinger getting the better of Huey Rosalia for the first time in competition.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger and Kevin Westbury> Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Mark Jesser.
Division II
Gladiators 12(43) defeated Panthers 9(31)
Gladiators remain in third place with their win over Panthers who have been competitive but haven't been able to get the points. Panthers matched Gladiators in the opening round as Ernie Bauer defeated Cheryl King, Ralph Sandford had to work hard to overcome Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala won over Charlotte Nicholls, while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson had a strong win over Vic Ellul in straight sets, Bob Gibbes defeated Marie Liddle and Sam Dawson showed much improvement to win over Robert Charlton. Gladiators broke away in the second round taking four wins but the standout match went to Vic Ellul winning over Cheryl King in five long sets. Gladiators combined the better in the doubles winning two to lead by three with one round to play. Panthers were first to score with Robert Charlton backed up by Niket Jhunjhunwala over Bob Gibbes but Cheryl King put the winning match away for Gladiators over Ralph Sandford in straight sets. Cooper Van Doorn defeated Vic Ellul in four sets for an impressive victory adding one more to the score while Ernie Bauer still has what it takes to defeat Kane Ingerson in the final game of the night.
Best for Gladiators were Sam Dawson and Kane Ingerson. Best for Panthers were Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala.
Tigers 11(40) defeated Lions 10(34)
This was a real catfight right to the end between the top two sides with Tigers facing their biggest challenge yet to just scrape over the line. Tigers got an early break in the opening round with Joseph Harris escaping from Nathan Phillips in five sets, Mick Ferrett taking a great win over Peter Forrest and Jack Meaney defeating Sharee Richards in three, while for Lions Shane Harris won over Christian Fletcher and Zoey Fordham played a top game to win over Bev Atkins. Lions then reversed the trend as Zoey Fordham continued her form to upset Joseph Harris in straight sets and Nathan Phillips claimed an impressive victory over Christian Fletcher in four to be the standout games. With the scores all locked up it was Lions who combined the stronger in the doubles winning two and prevented Tigers from taking a hold on the game. Trailing by one Tigers needed to find something quickly as Jack Meaney and Mick Ferrett added scores before Peter Forrest hit back with a great win for Lions over Elisa Heath to tie the game at nine all. With the final three matches up for grabs Bev Atkins dug deep for a narrow win over Nathan Phillips and Christian Fletcher saved his best till last to defeat Zoey Fordham in four sets to claim victory for Tigers by the barest of margins.
Best for Tigers were Mick Ferrett and Jack Meaney. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham.
Dodgers 11(38) defeated Croppos 10(38)
In another close encounter Dodgers scraped home to stay in the top four while keeping Croppos in fifth place. The night began with a marathon match between Dodgers David Sherry and Lance Barnett, which set the trend for the remainder of the night as Sherry got over the line in five sets. Tyler Ingerson and Max Williams backed up with wins over Terry Ison and Coral Myers, while for Croppos Kody Rosalia, Anne-Marie Schwark and Karina White all won through to level the scores. Croppos gained a slight advantage in the second round as Lance Barnett bounced back for a tight win in five sets over David Hall, supported by Kody Rosalia, Coral Myers and Anne-Marie Schwark. Croppos held a lead of two going into the doubles and over three very tight matches Dodgers managed to level the scores before Croppos pair Kody Rosalia and Lance Barnett claimed the top double over the two David's, Hall and Sherry. Trailing by one Dodgers needed to lift in the last singles round. James Regan won his first single for the night and Max Williams backed up for his second to take the lead for the first time in the match. With four matches remaining Lance Barnett won over Tyler Ingerson and Kody Rosalia claimed David Sherry both in straight sets for Croppos but Dodgers hung on desperately as Megan Atkins put the winning score down after a marathon five sets over Karina White.
Best for Dodgers were Max Williams and David Sherry. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Lance Barnett.
ROUND 7
Division I
Tigers 13(44) defeated Croppos 8(37)
Tigers continued their fine season by leading all the way against Croppos. Tigers started strongly with wins to Gavin Proude, Russell Fordham, Reece Fordham and Brandon Rosalia in a fine five set victory over Mike Van Doorn. Tigers continued to extend their lead through the second round of singles with Nathan Sincock fighting back to defeat Kye Barber and Russell Fordham winning an incredible fifth set over Mark Jesser. Croppos needed a response in the doubles, and Kye Barber and Kody Rosalia provided that briefly over Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham, before Tigers regained the ascendancy to win the next two and leave Croppos with the tough ask of winning the remaining six singles for an unlikely win. They gave themselves some hope with the first two of the final round going their way, but that’s where the challenge ended as Tigers ran out comfortable winners.
Best for Tigers were Gavin Proude and Russell Fordham. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Mark Jesser.
Dodgers 13(44) defeated Gladiators 8(33)
Dodgers recorded their second win in a row thanks to a dominating doubles round. Gladiators jumped out of the blocks early with four wins in the first round. Rhys Popovic held off Darren Atkins in five sets, while Joe Perone had the better of Adam Butterworth in their second meeting for the year. Dodgers fought back and levelled the scores in the second round with Adam Butterworth scoring his first win for the night and Daniel Challinger defeating Shane Stockham in straight sets. The night turned in Dodgers favour through the doubles, taking all three on offer, but crucially two of those in five sets. The night was wrapped up for Dodgers with the first two singles of the final round going their way, but added a bit of percentage by adding a further two before the night was done. Rhys Popovic ended the night for Gladiators on a high with a fine four set win over the in form Daniel Challinger in four sets.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone.
Lions 15(52) defeated Panthers 6(28)
Lions stamped their authority on the contest from the start with five wins in the first round. Aaron Sincock provided the only respite for Panthers with a straight sets victory over Josh Phillips. Panthers stemmed the flow through the second round with Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon and Wade Gray all on the winners list. Jason Regan continued to play well for Lions as did Brenton Stagg to help Lions retain their lead of four. Lions made that lead five through the doubles; largely thanks to Sally Kunze and Josh Phillips five set victory over Ben Southam and Fiona Rosalia. With the result all but decided, Lions put the foot down in the final round to ensure another percentage boosting win for their side.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Brenton Stagg. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock and Wade Gray.
Division II
Tigers 16(54) defeated Croppos 5(20)
Tigers maintained their top position with a strong win over Croppos who are fifth on the premiership table. Croppos began well in the opening round as they matched the Tigers with Kody Rosalia taking an exciting victory over Christian Fletcher in five sets and Harry Hood playing extremely well to narrowly defeat Bev Atkins also in five sets, while Karina White defeated Jack Meaney in straight sets. For Tigers Joseph Harris, Elisa Heath and Mick Ferrett all came through in straight sets. Tigers went up a gear in the second round as Bev Atkins bounced back to defeat Croppos Kody Rosalia in four sets and Jack Meaney worked hard to win over Anne-Marie Schwark, while the only winner for Croppos in this round was Lance Barnett who overcame Christian Fletcher in five sets. Doubles is where Tigers show their strength as they combined well to win all three and victory for the night. Tigers' Jack Meaney, Mick Ferrett and Elisa Heath all added wins in the final round while Lance Barnett scored for Croppos defeating Bev Atkins in straight sets. But the match that everyone was waiting for was the showdown between two young stars, Joseph Harris and Kody Rosalia. A crowd of interested spectators and parents gathered to witness this exciting event as they went head to head showing great skills beyond their years with Joseph being the eventual winner in four sets..
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Elisa Heath and Mick Ferrett. Best for Croppos was Lance Barnett.
Gladiators 15(50) defeated Dodgers 6(31)
With their percentage-boosting win Gladiators climbed into third place pushing Dodgers down to fourth. Gladiators gained a slight advantage in the first round with Kane Ingerson taking David Hall in straight sets, Cooper Van Doorn won over Tyler Ingerson and Sam Dawson claimed James Regan in a marathon match, while for Dodgers David Sherry defeated Cheryl King and Gay Karger won over Jacqui Harding both in straight sets. Gladiators powered away in the second round winning all but one match with brothers Kane and Tyler Ingerson going head to head as older brother Kane got the points and Jacqui Harding finally broke through for her first win of the season over Megan Atkins in a long five set match. In three well contested doubles Dodgers' pair Megan Atkins and James Regan came from behind to win over Sam Dawson and Jacqui Harding, while Gladiators claimed the other two and victory with it. Gladiators kept the pressure on right to the end but James Regan and Tyler Ingerson played well to add two much-needed scores for Dodgers.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Dodgers were Gay Karger and Tyler Ingerson.
Lions 11(37) defeated Panthers 10(41)
In the closest contest of the night bottom team Panthers came oh so close again, in fact winning more sets than second-placed Lions but were not able to get the required rubber for a win. Panthers matched Lions in the opening stages as Ernie Bauer led the way defeating Nathan Phillips, Niket Jhunjhunwala over Sharon Phillips and young Abi Nicholls claimed Sharee Richards all in straight sets, while for Lions Shane Harris, Zoey Fordham and Peter Forrest shone through over Vic Ellul, Ralph Sandford and Linda Bick respectively. Lions failed to break away from Panthers in the second round but the highlight was Nathan Phillips collecting an impressive victory over Vic Ellul in five tight sets. Panthers led by a handful of sets going into the doubles and quickly set about taking the first match with Abi Nicholls and Linda Bick but Lions hit back to win two and take the lead by one for the first time. As the final round got under way Panthers were the first to score with two singles wins from Abi Nicholls and Linda Bick but Lions came again with two wins of their own from Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips to reach ten first. And so it came down to the remaining two matches which Panthers needed to win both but they went one apiece wrapping up a great night of table tennis.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris, Peter Forrest and Nathan Phillips. Best for Panthers were Abi Nicholls and Linda Bick.
ROUND 6
Division I
Dodgers 18(59) defeated Panthers 3(19)
After a much-improved performance last week, Panthers were left severely weakened this week with two top order players Tai Wheadon and Ben Southam absent and consequently suffered their worst defeat of the season. Fiona Rosalia and Wade Gray were forced into the top order and performed well against Dodgers number one, Daniel Challinger taking the matches to five and four sets respectively before Aaron Sincock claimed Panthers first win for the night over Darren Atkins in five sets. In the second round it was again Sincock who came from behind to win in five sets over Angelika Sederstrom, while Mario Piantedosi scored a win over Ellen Challinger to lift Panthers score to three. From here it was all Dodgers as they claimed all of the doubles and then stormed home in the final round taking all before them.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Kevin Westbury and Adam Butterworth. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Lions 16(53) defeated Croppos 5(33)
In another one-sided game, Croppos were without their number one, Huey Rosalia for the night and found the powerful Lions team too much to handle as Lions moved into second place on the premiership table, leaving Croppos at the bottom without a win. Michael Van Doorn put the first win away for Croppos over a much-improved Josh Phillips, while for Lions Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom both won in four over Kye Barber and Mark Jesser. Lions Sally Kunze was pushed all the way by Kody Rosalia and Rodney Scharfe also had to fight hard to win over Riki Popovic, both in five sets. Lions kept the pressure on in the second round but Kye Barber and Barry Hancock managed to score for Croppos. Lions combined well in the doubles to win two to add to a commanding lead with one round to play, while Croppos were left with the daunting task of having to win all remaining matches. Brenton Stagg sealed the win for Lions and then maintained the pressure right to the end for a percentage boosting win.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom. Best for Croppos were Barry Hancock and Kye Barber.
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Tigers 9(39)
In the closest contest of the night, top team Gladiators cling to first place by a small percentage while Tigers dropped to third. As one would expect games were tight in the first round as Tigers' Gavin Proude won in four over Shane Stockham, Nathan Sincock just scraped in a five set victory over Tyler Ebert and Russell Fordham claimed Bill Broughton in straight sets, while Rhys Popovic, Joe Perone and Riley Curtis added wins for Gladiators. Gladiators gained the edge in the second round winning four matches to two as Bill Broughton found Cooper Van Doorn a challenge and Rhys Popovic came through over Nathan Sincock. Gladiators combined well in the doubles to win two with the standout match being Joe Perone and Tyler Ebert over Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham in five sets. The final round was a tight affair, sharing three apiece with Reece Fordham claiming a great win for Tigers over Bill Broughton and Gavin Proude defeating Rhys Popovic in four, but Gladiators were home after making the break in the second round to set up the win.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Riley Curtis. Best for Tigers were Gavin Proude and Russell Fordham.
Division II
Dodgers 11(43) defeated Panthers 10(37)
Bottom team Panthers gave Dodgers a real scare almost pulling off the upset of the season, coming oh so close to their first win. Games were neck and neck in the first two rounds as Ernie Bauer won a tough five set match over David Sherry, Vic Ellul defeated Tyler Ingerson in four sets and Niket Jhunjhunwala won over Megan Atkins also in four, while for Dodgers Ellen Challinger narrowly escaped with a win over Ralph Sandford, Max Williams came through after five long sets over Robert Charlton and James Regan claimed Marie Liddle in straight sets. Both teams fiercely contested the doubles as each team collected one each before the third went Dodgers way. Panthers were hot on Dodgers' trail and soon levelled the scores again with Robert Charlton winning a tight five set match over James Regan and remained that way after the next two matches. Scores were locked together with the last three matches to play and Panthers grabbed the first with Ralph Sandford saving his best till last against Tyler Ingerson but it was Dodgers David Sherry who clinched the night taking Vic Ellul to five sets while Ellen Challinger defeated Ernie Bauer in straight sets to prevent Panthers taking their first victory.
Best for Dodgers were Ellen Challinger and Max Williams. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ernie Bauer.
Lions 11(42) defeated Croppos 10(37)
In another close encounter fifth-placed Croppos took it right up to second -placed Lions. In the opening round it was Croppos who broke away for a great start with Kody Rosalia having to work hard to defeat Nathan Phillips in a close match, Lance Barnett claimed Zoey Fordham in four sets, Anne-Marie Schwark found Sharon Phillips much-improved to escape in a great match lasting five sets, while Abi Nicholls settled well to win over Sharee Richards. For Lions, Shane Harris and Peter Forrest put scores away. Lions matched Croppos in the second round taking three each before the doubles got under way and Croppos won the first with Karina White combining well with Abi Nicholls to defeat Sharon Phillips and Sharee Richards in four sets, with Lions winning the other two. In the final round Sharon Phillips won an important match over Abi Nicholls to level the scores for Lions before Croppos hit back through Karina White and Lance Barnett to reach ten first. Croppos needed just one of the last two matches on the tables but Zoey Fordham and Shane Harris prevented Croppos from taking the win.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Croppos were Karina White and Abi Nicholls.
Tigers 15(52) defeated Gladiators 6(28)
In what seemed like a one-sided affair it was anything but as top team Tigers were challenged by fourth-placed Gladiators. Tigers were able to take all the close matches which was the difference on the night. Tigers opened the night in top gear with Joseph Harris making short work of Cooper Van Doorn , Christian Fletcher won a great match in five sets over Cheryl King and Elisa Heath and Mick Ferrett put themselves on the winners list too, while for Gladiators Kane Ingerson was too strong for Bev Atkins and Bob Gibbes likewise over Jack Meaney. Tigers kept the pressure on as Bev Atkins bounced back to claim Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Mick Ferrett has improved immensely to defeat Bob Gibbes, while Kane Ingerson won an important match over Christian Fletcher in five sets. Tigers showed their strength lies in their doubles combinations, winning them all and keeping Gladiators from advancing. In the final round Tigers made a surge to the finish line as Gladiators tried their best to close the gap winning two, with Cheryl King over Bev Atkins and Cooper Van Doorn over Christian Fletcher, but also missing out on another two.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Elisa Heath & Mick Ferrett. Best for Gladiators was Kane Ingerson.
ROUND 5
Division I
Gladiators 14(49) defeated Croppos 7(27)
Gladiators withstood an early challenge from Croppos to run over the top of them at the end. The first two rounds of singles were even at six matches apiece. Rhys Popovic, Joe Perone and Riley Curtis scored early wins for Gladiators, while Croppos’ Kody Rosalia scored what could possibly be his best win in Division One with a five set victory over Bill Broughton. He then backed that up with another five set win, this time over Riley Curtis in the second round, backed up by Huey Rosalia and Riki Popovic defeating Tyler Ebert and Bill Broughton respectively. The contest changed complexion in the doubles with Gladiators winning all three and opening up a very handy lead with only six singles to play. It was a margin too great for Croppos as they ran away with the night comfortable victors.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Kody Rosalia.
Lions 14(48) defeated Dodgers 7(30)
Lions continued their good form of late, setting up their win with a strong doubles round. Nothing separated the two sides through the first round as matches were shared at three each. Barry Sederstrom showed a two-week break had done nothing to hurt his form with a four set win over Daniel Challinger. Lions made the first break in the second round of singles with Jason Regan, Barry Sederstrom, Sally Kunze and Rodney Scharfe all recording victories. Dodgers have used their doubles pairings most weeks to their advantage, but Lions used it against them, taking all three and all but wrapping up the night with the final round of singles to play. Lions ensured no challenge would come from Dodgers, with Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe sealing the night for their side.
Best for Lions was Barry Sederstrom. Best for Dodgers was Geoff Nottle.
Tigers 12(47) defeated Panthers 9(34)
In a much-improved performance by Panthers, Tigers just did enough on the night to continue their winning streak. The night began with the battle of the Sincocks, with Panthers’ Aaron having the better of brother Nathan in four sets. That set the mood for Panthers early as they levelled the scores through the first round of singles. Tigers clicked into gear through the second round with Gavin Proude and Brandon Rosalia particularly impressive in their performances over Tai Wheadon and Fiona Rosalia respectively. Panthers were not about to lie down though and narrowed the margin to just one through the doubles, with the final round of singles to play. Scores were quickly level with Marion Piantedosi holding on against Reece Fordham in five sets. In what proved to be the turning point of the night, Tigers won the next two matches in five sets, thanks to Russell Fordham and Brandon Rosalia to give them the boost needed to finish the night in front.
Best for Tigers was Brandon Rosalia. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock, Tai Wheadon and Wade Gray.
Division II
Gladiators 12(41) defeated Croppos 9(36)
Gladiators moved into third place this week with their win over Croppos who remain in fifth place. Gladiators were first on the board with Kane Ingerson defeating Lance Barnett in straight sets and Cheryl King fought out five sets to wear down Harry Hood, while for Croppos Kody Rosalia accounted for Cooper Van Doorn and Anne-Marie Schwark won over Sam Dawson in four sets. Games remained tightly contested in the second round as Abbey Nicholls picked up her first win for Croppos over Sam Dawson and Cooper Van Doorn won a great match over Lance Barnett to leave the scores all tied up at the halfway mark. Gladiators combined well in all three doubles to take the lead but Croppos kept in touch with another win to Abbey Nicholls over Jacqui Harding and Lance Barnett came from behind to defeat Cheryl King in a tight five sets. Gladiators wrapped it up through wins to Sam Dawson and Bob Gibbes, as Cooper Van Doorn saved his best till last defeating another emerging talent in Harry Hood in five sets.
Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes and Cooper Van Doorn. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
Lions 11(38) defeated Dodgers 10(37)
In the closest contest of the night Lions picked up their third victory for the season and moved into second place over Dodgers who have been relegated to fourth by percentage. Lions were up and away early with Shane Harris, Nathan Phillips and Gay Karger, while Ellen Challinger, Max Williams and Megan Atkins all scored for Dodgers. Standout matches in the second round went to Ellen Challinger as she scrambled over the line in five sets against a much-improved Nathan Phillips and James Regan defeated Sharee Richards in four to leave the scores all tied up. Doubles become critical in a close contest but Lions claimed two for a slender lead with one round to play. Dodgers quickly closed the gap and took the lead with James Regan coming from behind to defeat Sharon Phillips in five sets and Megan Atkins over Sharee Richards in straight sets, but Lions came at Dodgers again as Gay Karger won a tight match over Max Williams in five and Nathan Phillips won over Tyler Ingerson in four sets. Lions held the lead by one with just two matches to play as David Sherry picked up one more for Dodgers over Zoey Fordham but Shane Harris put the icing on the cake for Lions in the final match of the night to take a very exciting win.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Gay Karger. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Megan Atkins.
Tigers 14(50) defeated Panthers 7(28)
This was the occasion where bottom team Panthers came up against the in-form top team Tigers. Panthers contested very well through the first half as Vic Ellul defeated Bev Atkins in straight sets and Linda Bick played well to win over Jack Meaney in five sets, while for Tigers Joseph Harris continues to beat tough opposition, Christian Fletcher claimed a tight match over the veteran Ernie Bauer and Mick Ferrett is improving every week to win over Nicket Jhunjhunwala. Panthers rallied to collect three important matches with Ralph Sandford over Christian Fletcher, Ernie Bauer came from behind to claim Bev Atkins in a great five set match and Nicket Jhunjhunwala won over Jack Meaney in four sets. Tigers Joseph Harris played all the right shots to defeat Vic Ellul in a marathon match backed up by Mick Ferrett and Elisa Heath. Tigers combined the better in the doubles to win two and take their lead out to three with the final round remaining. From here Panthers lost their grip and allowed Tigers to power away in the final stretch winning all but one for a percentage boosting win.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Panthers were Ralph Sandford.
ROUND 4
Division I
Lions 12(39) defeated Gladiators 9(38)
Lions inflicted Gladiators first loss for the season thanks to a fast start and a solid doubles showing. Lions made the most of early five set matches with Jason Regan coming from two sets down to defeat Shane Stockham, while Josh Phillips fought back to defeat Tyler Ebert and with it the lead by two for his side. The contest tightened up through the second round, but Gladiators were unable to cut into Lions’ lead heading into the doubles. Lions again showed their credentials in five set matches with Sally Kunze and Bruce Wright pegging back a two set deficit to overcome Tyler Ebert and Joe Perone, leaving Gladiators a huge task to keep their undefeated record. Lions were not about to leave anything to chance and quickly wrapped up the night with the first two wins of the final round to Brenton Stagg and Rodney Scharfe over Riley Curtis and Bill Broughton respectively. Gladiators fought on down the stretch but it was too little too late.
Best for Lions was Jason Regan. Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone.
Tigers 12(46) defeated Dodgers 9(36)
Tigers cemented their spot in the top three with a comfortable win over Dodgers. Tigers jumped out of the blocks early with four early wins to Gavin Proude, Nathan Sincock, Brandon Rosalia and Russell Fordham. They repeated the dose through the second round with another four wins, crucially two of them in five sets to prevent Dodgers from narrowing the margin. Dodgers have been strong in the doubles so far this season, and tonight was no exception as they recorded two of the three to leave the margin at three with the final six singles to play. Tigers snuffed out any chance of a comeback though with the next three singles going their way to seal the result. Dodgers finished off the night well added some respectability to the scoreboard late, with Daniel Challinger handing Gavin Proude his first singles loss for the season in straight sets.
Best for Tigers was Brandon Rosalia. Best for Dodgers was Daniel Challinger.
Panthers 18(58) defeated Croppos 3(24)
In about as one sided as you will see a result, Panthers surprised with their first win of the year over Croppos. Panthers put the writing on the wall early with five wins in the first round of singles. Huey Rosalia provided the lone resistance for Croppos with a straight sets victory over Ben Southam. Incredibly Panthers went one better in the second round of singles and won all six on offer, including Aaron Sincock in five sets over Huey Rosalia. At only the half way point, Panthers already had an unassailable lead, but weren’t satisfied with their nights work just yet. Croppos stemmed the flow somewhat through the doubles but that’s where their joy ended with Panthers recording another six wins in the final round of singles to cap off a great night for their team.
Best for Panthers was Fiona Rosalia. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Division II
Lions 15(45) defeated Gladiators 6(29)
Lions moved into third place this week as they took advantage of Gladiators who were left weakened with the absence of one of their top players. Gladiators kept in touch in the first half as Kane Ingerson continued his good form winning two singles, backed up by Gay Karger coming into the team also collecting two singles. For Lions, Shane Harris remained strong, as did Peter Forrest and Cath Trouse picked up a victory over Jacqui Harding. With the doubles up for grabs there was a chance Gladiators could catch up but after three very close matches, all going to five sets, Lions swept them all with the standout match going to Cath Trouse and Sharon Phillips over Sam Dawson and Jacqui Harding leaving Gladiators to win all remaining matches. Sharon Phillips put the winning score down for Lions followed by Peter Forrest over Gay Karger, Nathan Phillips in straight sets over Bob Gibbes, Zoey Fordham showed better form to defeat Cheryl King in four and Shane Harris was undefeated in beating Kane Ingerson to give Lions a percentage boosting win.
Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest. Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Gay Karger.
Tigers 15(55) defeated Dodgers 6(29)
Dodgers were without their number one Ellen Challinger for the night replaced by Riki Popovic, but to Tigers credit they put in a solid whole team performance to inflict Dodgers first loss for the season. Tigers gained the edge in the opening round as Bev Atkins won a close match over David Sherry, Mick Ferrett defeated Max Williams and Jack Meaney won in five tight sets over Megan Atkins, while for Dodgers Riki Popovic was pushed all the way through five sets over Christian Fletcher and James Regan continues to improve taking a great win over Elisa Heath also in five. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round with Joseph Harris, Christian Fletcher and Elisa Heath all winning as Dodgers Max Williams defeated Jack Meaney in a close one and Riki Popovic escaped with a narrow win over Bev Atkins in five long sets. Tigers have been strong in their doubles play in recent weeks and continued to do so claiming all three and with it victory for the night. James Regan and Max Williams added another two much-needed wins for Dodgers but that's where it all ended as Tigers finished strongly saving their best till last.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Dodgers were James Regan and Max Williams.
Croppos 13(42) defeated Panthers 8(37)
Panthers were on the back foot from the opening round with Vic Ellul missing from their top order as Croppos stormed out of the blocks with Kody Rosalia taking Ralph Sandford in straight sets, Lance Barnett won a close match over David Hall, Anne-Marie Schwark defeated Robert Charlton and Charlotte Nicholls made her way into senior competition for the first time from juniors, overcoming her nerves quickly to score her first victory over Marie Liddle in four sets. Ernie Bauer and Niket Jhunjhunwala got Panthers scoring underway and repeated their performance in the second round, backed up by Robert Charlton, while Kody Rosalia and Harry Hood added further wins for Croppos. In three tight doubles it was Croppos that combined the better as Coral Myers and Charlotte Nicholls defeated Marie Liddle and Robert Charlton in five close sets. Panthers won two of the next three matches in the final round to still give themselves a chance but it came down to the final matches on offer. In a fitting end, after three five set marathons, Croppos were able to take them all to give them an exciting win, just their second for the season.
Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Harry Hood. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ernie Bauer.
ROUND 3
Division I
Dodgers 12(38) defeated Croppos 9(38)
Dodgers returned to the winners list, surviving a late charge by Croppos to fall over the line. Dodgers began the better of the two sides by recording four wins in each of the first two rounds of matches. Daniel Challinger, Geoff Nottle and Adam Butterworth all leading the way with two wins each. Huey Rosalia did his best to keep Croppos in touch with two wins of his own. Dodgers lead was helped by securing both matches that went to five sets. Dodgers lead was extended in the doubles with Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins overcoming Huey Rosalia and Mike Van Doorn in five sets. Dodgers looked home, but Croppos rallied with four wins down the stretch, but the lead was too great a task to reel in, with Adam Butterworth getting Dodgers over the line with victory over Mark Jesser.
Best for Dodgers were Adam Butterworth and Geoff Nottle. Best for Croppos was Huey Rosalia.
Gladiators 19(59) defeated Panthers 2(25)
Gladiators took advantage of a severely undermanned Panthers side to record a thrashing not seen for a long time in competition. The signs were ominous from the start with Gladiators taking the first eight matches of the night. Aaron Sincock stopped the rot for Panthers with a four set victory over Tyler Ebert, but the respite was only brief as Gladiators won a further three singles to their name to have the result sown up at the half way mark. Panthers were only playing for respect now and that came in the form of Aaron Sincock and Ben Southam recording a fine win over Rhys Popovic and Shane Stockham in four sets. Unfortunately that's where the joy ended for Panthers as Gladiators won the remaining six matches of the night. Unluckily for Panthers four of those went to five sets without getting the result.
Best for Gladiators were Riley Curtis, Bill Broughton and Joe Perone. Best for Panthers was Aaron Sincock.
Tigers 14(53) defeated Lions 7(35)
In what was predicted to be a close contest, Tigers prevailed over Lions thanks to an astonishing final round that netter them all six wins. Nothing separated the two sides through the first two rounds with matches being shared at 6 apiece. Gavin Proude and Jason Regan led the way for their respective sides. Someone was going to take the lead through the doubles and it was Tigers who made the break first with Gavin Proude and Nathan Sincock overcoming Jason Regan and Josh Phillips in five sets to lead by just one going into the final round. No one would have predicted what was to come next though as Tigers swept the final round, and crucially all four that went to five sets to run out comfortable winners in the end.
Best for Tigers was Gavin Proude. Best for Lions was Sally Kunze.
Division II
Dodgers 13(45) defeated Croppos 8(28)
Dodgers remain undefeated in 2013 to be the only team to have won all three rounds. Croppos put the first score down for the night with Kody Rosalia defeating Tyler Ingerson in four sets supported by Anne-Marie Schwark in a tight game over James Regan before Dodgers claimed four wins through Ellen Challinger, David Sherry, Max Williams and Megan Atkins. Croppos stemmed the flow in the second round as Kody Rosalia won over David Sherry in three tight sets and Harry Hood played well to defeat Tyler Ingerson in four sets, while James Regan picked up his first win for the night over Abby Nicholls, playing her first match in division two. Croppos combined well in the doubles to win two, but trailed by one with the final round to play. From here Dodgers surged towards the finish line winning all but one to post a solid victory.
Best for Dodgers were Ellen Challinger and Max Williams. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
Gladiators 12(46) defeated Panthers 9(35)
Panthers ran into a team in fine form this week and unfortunately were forced to the bottom of the table without a win. Gladiators were up and running early as Kane Ingerson continues to improve taking the scalp of Ralph Sandford in four sets, Cheryl King claimed David Hall in straight sets as Bob Gibbes won over Robert Charlton, while for Panthers Ernie Bauer is still a tough competitor as he defeated Cooper Van Doorn in five sets and Linda Bick won in four over Jacqui Harding. The standout match of the second round saw Ralph Sandford hold on to win over Cooper Van Doorn in five sets which left the scores all tied up. With all three doubles going down to the wire Gladiators came out victors in two to lead by one with the last round to play. Panthers gave it their best shot winning two of the first three matches with Robert Charlton and Niket Jhunjhunwala before Gladiators stormed home with Sam Dawson over Linda Bick, Cheryl King over Ralph Sandford and Kane Ingerson saved his best till last defeating veteran Ernie Bauer in four sets.
Best for Gladiators were Kane Ingerson and Sam Dawson. Best for Panthers were Niket Jhunjhunwala and Ernie Bauer.
Tigers 16(51) defeated Lions 5(24)
In the battle of the big cats a lot of fur was flying early as Lion Shane Harris defeated Bev Atkins, Nathan Phillips showed great improvement to take Christian Fletcher in five sets while Tiger Joseph Harris defeated Zoey Fordham in straight sets and Jack Meaney started well but went down to Peter Forrest in four. Tigers picked up the pace in the second round as Bev Atkins upset Zoey Fordham in straight sets, Joseph Harris won over Nathan Phillips in a close one and Elisa Heath defeated a much improved Sharon Phillips to take the lead at the halfway mark. Where doubles can have a big impact on a result Tigers shone through claiming all three to extend their lead out to five leaving Lions the daunting task of winning all six singles in the final round. Tigers remained strong winning all six but not without a fight as Elisa Heath came from behind to win over Peter Forrest in five sets, but the match of the night belonged to an amazing marathon between father and son, Shane and Joseph Harris who had his father scrambling in amazing table tennis to win the match in five gruelling sets. A truly special moment in Table Tennis.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Elisa Heath. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
ROUND 2
Division I
Lions 15(51) defeated Panthers 6(27)
Lions handed Panthers a heavy defeat, dominating the night from start to finish. The writing was on the wall early as Lions’ top two Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom accounting for Ben Southam and Tai Wheadon respectively. Aaron Sincock responded for Panthers before Sally Kunze and Ellen Challinger rounded out a strong round for Lions. Things went from bad to worse for Panthers, with Lions winning five of the six singles on offer in the second round. Panthers needed to find a spark from somewhere in the doubles to stand any chance and Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon provided just that, overcoming strong doubles combination Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom in four sets. Unfortunately the hope ended there with Lions reeling off the next six matches of the night to cruise to an early percentage boosting victory.
Best for Lions were Sally Kunze and Ellen Challinger. Best for Panthers were Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon.
Tigers 13(49) defeated Croppos 8(34)
In another lopsided affair, Tigers led from start to finish, gradually increasing their lead over the course of the night. The first two rounds saw Tigers win four games to two, with Corey Stephens particularly impressive in defeating Mike Van Doorn in five sets, as was Russell Fordham in recording his best win of the season over seasoned veteran Barry Hancock also in five sets. After missing last week through injury Huey Rosalia stepped straight back into action with two wins of his own for Croppos. Croppos showed signs of a comeback with two wins in the doubles providing hope, however Tigers were not about to let this one slip and quickly sealed the points through father and son combination of Russell and Reece Fordham defeating Riki Popovic and Mark Jesser respectively. From there is was all about percentage, but to Croppos credit they fought on and were rewarded with wins to Barry Hancock and Kye Barber down the stretch.
Best for Tigers was Russell Fordham. Best for Croppos were Huey Rosalia and Barry Hancock.
Gladiators 11(42) defeated Dodgers 10(36)
In the grand final rematch from the previous year, Gladiators enacted revenge on Dodgers with a hard fought win that went right down to the last match of the night. Nothing could separate the two sides through the first two rounds as they went blow for blow. Darren Atkins and Adam Butterworth had two wins each early for Dodgers, while it was Shane Stockham leading from the front for Gladiators. In a pivotal match, Tyler Ebert held on in five sets against Dodgers Bruce Wright to level the scores at the halfway point. Gladiators made the first break of the night in the doubles, winning two of the three on offer and placing themselves in the box seat with only the final round of singles to play. The task became that much harder for Dodgers when Riley Curtis and Joe Perone both recorded wins, but Gladiators had to wait to the last match of the night for Rhys Popovic to seal the win for his side.
Best for Gladiators were Rhys Popovic, Shane Stockham and Joe Perone. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Adam Butterworth.
Division II
Lions 16(50) defeated Panthers 5(31)
After their loss last week Lions were out to put in a better performance this week and began in a strong all team effort with Zoey Fordham defeating Ernie Bauer in five sets, Linda Bick winning a tough match over Niket Jhunjhunwala and Sharon Phillips having her first win over Marie Liddle to be the standout matches, while Vic Ellul was the sole winner for Panthers. Lions kept the pressure on in the second round adding a further five wins with Zoey Fordham taking another top scalp Ralph Sandford in five tight sets. All three doubles were closely contested but Lions claimed two to take their first win of the season while Panthers pair Vic Ellul and Ralph Sandford won the top double from Lions Shane Harris and Zoey Fordham. In the final round junior player Sharee Richards won her first match for Panthers while young Nathan Phillips for Lions recorded a great victory over Ralph Sandford in five sets. It looked like a one-sided affair but if Panthers could have taken the six five-setters they lost the result could have been quite different.
Best for Lions were Linda Bick and Peter Forrest. Best for Panthers were Vic Ellul.
Dodgers 12(40) defeated Gladiators 9(38)
Kane Ingerson put the first score down for the night for Gladiators over brother Tyler, followed by Bob Gibbes over new player Max Williams and Sam Dawson over Megan Atkins, while for Dodgers Ellen Challinger, David Sherry and James Regan leveled the scores. Neither team could break away in the second round as Max Willliams won a tight match over Sam Dawson and Cooper Van Doorn picked up his first win over Tyler Ingerson in straight sets. With the scores locked together doubles can be a turning point but Dodgers combined the better to take two and the lead. In the final round Gladiators needed to start well but lost the first two matches in four close sets to give Dodgers ten. Bob Gibbes and Cooper Van Doorn tried their best to lift their team but Dodgers were just too strong in the end closing it out with Tyler Ingerson and Ellen Challinger to go top of the ladder.
Best for Dodgers were Ellen Challinger, James Regan and Max Williams. Best for Gladiators were Bob Gibbes, Kane Ingerson and Cooper Van Doorn.
Tigers 16(53) defeated Croppos 5(26)
Tigers picked up their first win of the season in a great all round team performance over Croppos. Croppos got the start they were looking for through Kody Rosalia as he took the shots when it counted over Bev Atkins in four tight sets and Anne-Marie Schwark held her concentration to edge out Jack Meaney also in four sets. Tigers Joseph Harris won over Harry Hood, Christian Fletcher defeated Lance Barnett and Elisa Heath claimed Cath Trouse in a tight game. Tigers kept the pressure on in the second round winning five of the six on offer as Mick Ferrett won out in a see-sawing game over Anne-Marie Schwark in five sets. In some top class doubles Tigers won out in all three to claim victory for the night. With the sting gone out of the game, young Tiger Jack Meaney played a great last game to get over the line against Kye Sorenson, Bev Atkins accounted for Lance Barnett as did Joseph Harris over Kody Rosalia in straight sets, while Harry Hood won an impressive match for Croppos over Christian Fletcher.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Mick Ferrett. Best for Croppos were Kody Rosalia and Anne-Marie Schwark.
ROUND 1
Division I
Gladiators 12(45) defeated Tigers 9(36)
Gladiators began season 2013 in the best possible fashion, with a strong doubles round sending them to victory. Tigers were the team to jump out of the blocks the best with four early wins in the first round of singles. Corey Stephens showed his improvement over the summer with a five set victory over Shane Stockham while Reece Fordham recorded his first win in division one buy overcoming the more experienced Bill Broughton. Gladiators hit back in the second round to level up the scores with four wins of their own, with Rhys Popovic and Joe Perone leading from the front. The contest was turned on its head in the doubles though with Gladiators sweeping all three on offer to open up a very handy margin of three with only six matches remaining. It proved a margin too great to peg back as the final round was shared at three all and Gladiators claiming the first points of the season.
Best for Gladiators was Joe Perone. Best for Tigers was Gavin Proude.
Dodgers 13(47) defeated Panthers 8(33)
Reigning premiers Dodgers wasted no time in their premiership defence by finishing strongly to run out comfortable winners. Dodgers had the better of the early contests by opening up an early lead of two in the first round, before Panthers came back and did the same to them in the second round with important five set wins to Aaron Sincock and Fiona Rosalia over Angelika Sederstrom and Jhy Mueller respectively to level the scores. The doubles proved to be the turning point of the night with Dodgers taking all three, including Daniel Challinger and Darren Atkins coming from two sets down to defeat Aaron Sincock and Tai Wheadon in five sets. Panthers needed early wins in the final round to give themselves a chance, but it wasn't to be as Dodgers did enough to hold the advantage and run out victors.
Best for Dodgers were Daniel Challinger, Darren Atkins, Kevin Westbury and Jhy Mueller. Best for Panthers was
Lions 11(43) defeated Croppos 10(40)
In a contest that went all the way to the wire, Lions finished the stronger of the two sides to sneak home in the closest match of the round. Lions looked good early in winning the first four matches of the night. Croppos needed to respond, and they did just that by claiming six of the next eight matches to level the scores leading into the doubles. The momentum continued for Croppos as they took their first lead of the night with two doubles to one, to lead by one with just the final round of singles to play. Wins to Don Saunders and Barry Hancock had Croppos on the brink of victory, but Lions had other ideas as their top half of Josh Phillips, Barry Sederstrom and Jason Regan, in the final match of the night, all won their matches to sneak Lions home by the barest of margins.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Barry Sederstrom. Best for Croppos was Barry Hancock.
Division II
Gladiators 15(49) defeated Tigers 6(25)
Don Saunders, Cheryl King and Bob Gibbes got Gladiators off to a great start in the opening round while Tigers Joseph Harrris, Christian Fletcher and Elisa Heath levelled the scores. Gladiators stepped up the pace in the next round running away with five wins while Tigers could only manage one win with Joseph Harris. With the doubles up for grabs, Tigers claimed the first win in five sets and Gladiators won the remaining two but not without a tight battle. Tigers were now left with the daunting task of winning all remaining singles but Gladiators kept the pressure on right to the end with Sam Dawson taking Jack Meaney, Bob Gibbes over Mick Ferrett and Cheryl King in a close one over Elisa Heath. Christian Fletcher stood up for Tigers defeating Cooper Van Doorn in four sets, as Kane Ingerson and Don Saunders wrapped it all up for Gladiators to record a strong win on the first night of the season.
Best for Gladiators were Don Saunders and Cheryl King. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Christian Fletcher.
Dodgers 12(45) defeated Panthers 9(33)
Panthers got the upper hand in the first round over the 2012 premiers by reeling off four wins unanswered with Ernie Bauer, Vic Ellul, Ralph Sandford and Niket Jhunjhunwala, while Megan Atkins and Linda Bick scored for Dodgers. In the second round Dodgers reversed the tables as Ellen Challinger won over Ralph Sandford, Megan Atkins over Niket Jhunjhunwala and young James Regan recorded his first victory in division two coming from juniors, defeating Marie Easton. Scores were level going into the doubles as Dodgers proved the stronger taking two while Ernie Bauer and Vic Ellul combined well to win one for Panthers. Dodgers kept the pressure on in the final round claiming three straight to win the night but Vic Ellul and Ralph Sandford remained strong to score for Panthers.
Best for Dodgers were Linda Bick and Megan Atkins. Best for Panthers were Vic Ellul and Ernie Bauer.
Croppos 11(39) defeated Lions 10(36)
Much improved Kody Rosalia has been elevated to number one position in Croppos and he put a strong win down for his team supported by Anne-Marie Schwark and Coral Myers, while Shane Harris, Nathan Phillips and Peter Forrest began well for Lions to level the scores. Croppos broke away in the second round taking four wins with Lance Barnett taking a tight win over David Hall, Kody Rosalia over Nathan Phillips another much-improved youngster and Kye Sorenson battled hard to defeat Cath Trouse in five close sets. Lions combined well to win two of the three doubles and be within reach of the lead. As the final round began Croppos won two to reach ten first but then Peter Forrest stepped up for Lions to add another one as did David Hall and Shane Harris to make the scores ten all but Croppos claimed the vital game through Lance Barnett to seal victory.
Best for Croppos were Kye Sorenson and Coral Myers. Best for Lions were Shane Harris and Peter Forrest.
Season 2013
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