Season 2017
Grand Final
Lions 19(62) defeated Gladiators 17(58)
In one of the closest Grand Finals in years, Lions snatched victory in the last match of the night. Lions gained a slender lead after the first round, with crucial wins to Ernie Bauer, Jesse Marcel, Martin Sheridan and Ben Schillabeer who claimed a five set thriller over Bill Broughton 15-13 in the fifth. While for Gladiators their wins came from Nicholas Bates, Joe Perone, Shane Stockham and Fred Ettridge. In the next round of doubles this is often where it is won or lost . Father and son, Jason and James Regan lead the way for Lions, with Martin Sheridan winning both his games with partners Ben Schillabeer and Marc Haning over more experienced players, and young Eythyn Harrison, who came into the side replacing his brother Luke who suffered a broken ankle, won both his doubles. Scores at the halfway mark showed Lions ahead 10-8 . Gladiators sprung into action as Cath Trowse claimed a tight win over Eythyn Harrison and Nicholas Bates narrowly defeated Jesse Marcel, while the ever reliable Joe Perone put away Martin Sheridan in straight sets and Lance Barnett played an impressive match to defeat Ben Schillabeer who had been on fire early while the standout match for Lions went to Marc Haning. Just one rubber separated the two sides (14-13) going into the final round as Gladiators Clarissa Barnett won over Eythyn Harrison in five sets, Nicholas Bates claimed a fine win over Ernie Bauer and Lance Barnett won another five set thriller over the much improved Marc Haning while for Lions it was Martin Sheridan and Jesse Marcel who lifted. With the last matches on the tables, the large crowd were held spellbound as each game unfolded. Corey Stephens played a great match for Lions to defeat Fred Ettridge in four sets , James Regan saved his best for last hanging on in five sets to win over Sally Kunze, and finally Jason Regan defeated his opposing number one Shane Stockham in three tight sets to give Lions the 2017 Premiership.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer. Best for Gladiators were Nicholas Bates, Joe Perone and Lance Barnett
Preliminary Final
Lions 27(80) defeated Dodgers 9(44)
As was the case a couple of weeks ago in their final minor round meeting, Lions dominated from start to finish to move themselves through to the grand final. Lions top order set the tone early with early wins to Jason and James Regan over Kody Rosalia and Slav Kolega respectively. It was the doubles though when they too full control, sweeping all three on offer to open up a strong lead of four. That lead continued to grow through the final singles matches to lead by six. Lions middle order have been going from strength to strength this season, improving with every match played. Tonight was no exception as Martin Sheridan especially made light work of Dodgers, extending their lead to an insurmountable twelve with still the bottom order matches to play. It was more of the same for Lions though as they pushed through to the finish line, with Luke De Leso having one of his better nights of the season with fine wins over more experienced opponents.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Martin Sheridan. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Fiona Rosalia.
Round 15
Lions 25(74) defeated Dodgers 11(46)
Lions finished the minor round matches in the strongest of wins with a dominant win over Dodgers to push them into third, while despite the loss Dodgers remained in second position on the ladder. Lions top order had them off to the perfect start, opening a lead of four. Jason Regan was pushed but held firm to win all his singles matches for Lions, while Darren Atkins was the best of the Dodgers resistance. It was the middle order though that Lions really took a stranglehold of the contest, winning an incredible eleven of the twelve matches on offer. It took until the final match for Dodgers to get on the board through Fiona Rosalia, but the damage had already been done. With the win wrapped up and their finals spot confirmed, Lions cruised to the finish line with an easy victory. Lions’ Ernie Bauer again defying his age with four wins.
Best for Lions were Martin Sheridan and Marc Hanning. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins, Bob Gibbes and Bev Atkins.
Tigers 19(69) defeated Panthers 17(61)
With both teams still a mathematical change of making finals, Tigers came out on top of a hotly fought contest. Tigers burst out of the blocks recording nine in the first round, with Brandon Rosalia a surprise performer to win all his matches for Tigers as a reserve, along with the consistent Joseph Harris. Panthers hit back with nine of their own through the middle order to level the scores, with Slav Kolega the star performer for Panthers, remaining undefeated. With the result coming down to the bottom order, it was anyone’s guess who would come out on top. Tigers’ Jayden Townsend in his first season of senior competition won the decisive game in an upset win over the more experienced Cheryl King to clinch the win for Tigers and fourth spot on the ladder in the process. Panthers season is now over and finish with the wooden spoon.
Best for Tigers were Brandon Rosalia and Joseph Harris. Best for Panthers were Slav Kolega and Ryan Richards.
Gladiators 20(62) defeated Croppos 16(59)
Gladiators celebrated their minor premiership with a solid win against top four aspirant Croppos. As a result of the loss Croppos slip from third to fifth to miss out on finals action only by percentage. Matches were shared evenly in the top order as nothing could separate the two sides. Simon Strycharski finished his season off in style with three singles. As has been the case for the majority of the season, Gladiators middle order took control of the contest and opened up an almost unassailable lead of six. Despite their best efforts, Croppos could not peg back the margin and end the season in disappointment after such a promising second half of the season.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Nicholas Bates. Best for Croppos were Gary Weetra and Simon Strycharski.
Round 14
Croppos 19(67) defeated Tigers 17(60)
Croppos all but secured their position in the finals with a close win over Tigers, who remain in fifth but are still a mathematical chance of September action. Matches were split evenly in the top order with Croppos’ Joseph Harris again performing strongly by winning all of his matches for the night, but found resistance in the form of Tigers’ Wade Gray. Croppos opened up a lead of two through the middle order matches with veterans Sam Perin and Barry Hancock leading the way for their respective sides. Tigers needed their bottom order to fire to steal victory, and despite the best efforts of Ralph Sandford, Croppos held firm to keep their lead and claim the points.
Best for Croppos were Barry Hancock and Wade Gray. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Ralph Sandford.
Panthers 19(53) defeated Lions 17(53)
In an unusual contest, Panthers withstood a firm challenge from Lions to claim a much-needed win, but unfortunately remain at the foot of the table out of finals contention. Due to a shortage of players, Lions were forced to forfeit all of their top order matches, handing Panthers a twelve rubber head start. Lions middle order took the challenge on board though and played some inspired table tennis to win ten of their matches on offer to close the gap to just four, with the bottom order to play. Lions continued to close the gap through the evergreen Ernie Bauer, but fell just short as Panthers clung on to victory at the death.
Best for Panthers were Cheryl King and Dannen Blacker. Best for Lions were Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Dodgers 19(57) defeated Gladiators 17(57)
Dodgers sealed their finals spot and have one hand on a top two position with a surprising win over top side Gladiators, who have looked vulnerable in recent weeks. Dodgers were off to the perfect start in the top half, opening up a lead of two, with Kody Rosalia continuing his good form of recent weeks. As has been the case all season, Gladiators middle order responded and turned the deficit of two into a lead of two, with Joe Perone again proving hard to get by. Dodgers were not able to back down and their bottom order, in particular Bob Gibbes and Bev Atkins, steered their team to a pivotal win with finals just around the corner.
Best for Dodgers were Kody Rosalia, Bob Gibbes and Bev Atkins. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone, Shane Stockham and Nicholas Bates.
Round 12
Lions 19(62) defeated Gladiators 17(57)
Lions moved themselves into the top two for the first time this season with an upset win over top side Gladiators, who have started to look vulnerable of late. Lions took the early lead of two through the top order, lead by Jason Regan who had a fine win over fellow top player Shane Stockham. Lions doubled their lead in the middle order matches, despite the best efforts of Joe Perone, who won all of his matches for Gladiators. Gladiators needed to win eight of the final twelve matches to snatch victory from Lions, but fell just short as they could only manage seven, but remain clear in top spot by three games.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Nicholas Bates.
Croppos 21(69) defeated Panthers 15(50)
Croppos continued their excellent recent form to Win their fifth match in a row and resign Panthers to the foot of the table. Croppos burst out of the blocks in the top order with the Strycharski brothers again leading the charge, with only Daniel Challinger providing much resistance for Panthers. It was Croppos middle order who took control of the contest though, winning their matches nine to three and extending the lead out to an almost insurmountable ten, with only the bottom orders’ twelve matches to play. With the odds stacked heavily against them, Panthers dug deep and managed to narrow the margin, but it was a mountain too high to climb as Alex Hale steered Croppos home to victory.
Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski, Brenton Stagg and Alex Hale. Best for Panthers were David Hall and Daniel Challinger.
Dodgers 20(64) defeated Tigers 16(61)
Dodgers moved a game clear inside the top four with a hard-fought win over Tigers, who in recent week have dropped from second position to now outside the top four. Dodgers set up their night through the top order, with Kody Rosalia playing particularly well, especially in defeating Joseph Harris in five sets. With a lead of four, the middle order matches were shared evenly. Dodgers’ Fiona Rosalia was the leading light with three singles for the night. Tigers had some ground to catch up in the bottom order if it was going to snatch the points, but despite the best efforts of Ralph Sandford, Tigers were unable to bridge the gap and Dodgers were home.
Best for Dodgers were Kody Rosalia and Fiona Rosalia. Best for Tigers were Ralph Sandford and Joseph Harris.
Round 11
Gladiators 25(76) defeated Tigers 11(45)
Third-placed Tigers, who were without their number two player, came up against the top side Gladiators. Tigers number one player, Joseph Harris who is fresh back from the National Championships in Hobart, put away Fred Ettridge in straight sets to post the only score in the first half, while Gladiators pair Shane Stockham and Sally Kunze locked away scores for their side. In the doubles Gladiators steamrolled Tigers taking all three. In the second half, Fred Ettridge bounced back from two sets down to snatch victory over Brandon Rosalia and kept his form to also win over Geoff Nottle in five tight sets. It was a one-sided affair in the middle order, Gladiators winning 11-1 without much resistance. Vic Ellul was the lone wolf to claim the only score for Tigers. It was a much tighter affair in the lower order as Ralph Sandford posted a win for Tigers before they outclassed Gladiators in all the doubles, but Lochie Day and Nicholas Bates came home strongly for Gladiators. In the match of the night a large crowd gathered to watch the top two players of the club do battle over five sets, with the younger Joseph Harris taking the points on this occasion over Shane Stockham in a brilliant display of table tennis.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham, Joe Perone, Bill Broughton and Nicholas Bates. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Ralph Sandford.
Dodgers 19(59) defeated Panthers 17(53)
Dodgers came up with an unexpected victory over Panthers, pushing them down to the bottom of the table while moving themselves up to third place. Dodgers were on the front foot early with Darren Atkins accounting for Zoey Fordham and Kody Rosalia posting a tight win in five sets over Daniel Challinger. With improved play in the doubles, Dodgers claimed two to take the lead. In the second half Darren Atkins collected two important wins over Russell Fordham and Daniel Challinger but Russell Fordham hit back over Kody Rosalia in five sets. Holding a lead of 8-4 Fiona Rosalia began building onto the score for Dodgers, but it was not all one way as the Kolega’s posted wins for Panthers. Ellen Challinger chipped in with two singles wins for Dodgers but Panthers pegged back the lead to give themselves a chance in the last round. Both teams could not break away as Cheryl King and Cath Trowse did their best for Panthers but Dodgers combined the better in the doubles with Bev Atkins and Bob Gibbes claiming important wins in the final stages to take victory.
Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins, Fiona Rosalia and Bev Atkins. Best for Panthers were Russell Fordham, Slav Kolega and Cheryl King.
Croppos 18(64) defeated Lions 18(61)
As it turned out, this was the upset of the round, considering Croppos did it without their number one player, Simon Strycharski. Croppos were bottom of the table and with their fourth win a row are now serious finals contenders in fourth place, while Lions nervously remain in second place as three other teams on same number of wins are eagerly waiting to take their place. Lions got away to the better start in the top order through Jason Regan and James Regan while Croppos’ Mark Strycharski made a good start defeating Corey Stephens in three tight sets. Lions extended their lead in the doubles which proved important as the remainder of the round came out even with three wins each. For Croppos a great victory was had by Mark Strycharski over Lions number one in Jason Regan, while James Regan won the longest match of the night defeating Wade Gray in five sets. In the middle order Croppos were impressive early with Brenton Stagg defeating Marc Haning before the team won all doubles on offer. Barry Hancock added one for Croppos but it was the Lions pair Martin Sheridan and Ben Schillabeer who pulled off two outstanding wins each to level the scores. In the final round Gary Weetra and Alex Hale led the way for Croppos while Ernie Bauer remained strong for Lions. Croppos took the upper hand in the doubles with Leanne Clark winning two, but Jesse Marcal and Ernie Bauer hit back for Lions. It was not enough though to take the win. A great contest with only sets determining the result.
Best for Croppos were Mark Strycharski, Brenton Stagg, Alex Hale and Gary Weetra. Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Ben Schillabeer, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Round 10
Dodgers 19(60) defeated Lions 17(60)
Dodgers scrapped out a crucial win against fellow top four aspirant Lions. Scores were level after the top order, only separated by a single game to the advantage of Lions. Scores remained tight through the middle order, remaining locked together. Fiona Rosalia was a shining light for Dodgers, winning all her matches. With only the bottom order to play, the result could have gone either way, but a dominant doubles round by Dodgers led the way to sneak them over the line and still in finals contention.
Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Ernie Bauer.
Croppos 21(67) defeated Gladiators 15(52)
Bottom team Croppos scored the upset of the round with a strong win against top side Gladiators. Croppos stormed out of the blocks through the top order, opening a lead of four with Simon and Mark Strycharski leading the way. Gladiators middle order stemmed the flow but were unable to make any headway as the lead remained the same. Croppos finished off the night strongly, with the bottom ordered extending the lead further to gain a crucial two points and in a three-way tie for fourth.
Best for Croppos were Alex Hale and Mark Strycharski. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Shane Stockham.
Tigers 19(62) defeated Panthers 17(62)
With these two sides fighting for second spot and the important double chance, Tigers edged Panthers in a tense contest. Tigers started the better of the two sides, opening an advantage of two after the top order matches. Fresh from his silver medal performance with the under 13 state team, Joseph Harris had a solid night winning all three of his singles matches. Matches were shared in the middle order as Panthers tried without luck to narrow the gap. With only the bottom order matches to play, Panthers fought hard and at one stage levelled the scores, but both Wayde Heidenreich and Jayden Townsend won their final matches in five sets to seal the win and second position for Tigers.
Best for Tigers was Joseph Harris. Best for Panthers was David Hall.
Round 8
Gladiators 18(59) defeated Panthers 18(64)
In the closest contest of the evening, Gladiators scrapped home against fellow top four side Panthers by only five games. Gladiators top order had their side off to the perfect start by opening a lead of two. Panthers looked to have things under control until Shane Stockham, Sally Kunze and Fred Ettridge all won their final single for Gladiators to snatch the lead. That lead was extended further through the middle order lead by Joe Perone. With a lead of six going into the bottom order, Gladiators looked like they had the points in the bag, but Panthers had a stirring upset to fall just short of a miraculous recovery.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Shane Stockham. Best for Panthers were Cheryl King and Daniel Challinger.
Croppos 20(67) defeated Dodgers 16(60)
Croppos scored their second win of the season as Dodgers blew a chance to move into the top four for the first time this season. The night began evenly with scores split evenly after the top order play. Croppos took the lead through the middle order as Brenton Stagg had one of his best nights of the year to win all of his singles. The bottom order has been Dodgers strength this season, and Croppos have struggled of late but the tables were turned as Alex Hale continued his fine season to lead his side to victory.
Best for Croppos were Alex Hale, Brenton Stagg and Simon Strycharski. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Kody Rosalia.
Lions 24(75) defeated Tigers 12(55)
Lions had their biggest win of the season to demolish Tigers. Tigers started the better of the two sides in the top order to lead by two. The complexion of the night completely changed through the middle order as Lions won eleven of the twelve matches on offer, which has been unheard of this season. With the points all but wrapped up, Lions continued on with their percentage boosting run and outscored Tigers by a further four in the bottom order to push them to the top two, their highest position so far this season.
Best for Lions were Ernie Bauer, Martin Sheridan and Marc Hanning. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Ralph Sandford.
Round 7
Gladiators 21(66) defeated Lions 15(56)
Gladiators cemented their position at the top of the ladder with a steady win over Lions, who’s team performances have been improving by the week. Gladiators top order gave them an early lead of four. Shane Stockham was again consistent to lead his team. Lions limited the damage through the middle order, but were unable to make any headway into Gladiators lead, leaving the bottom order with a huge task if there was to be an upset. It wasn’t to be as Gladiators managed to extend their lead further to add to their percentage and remain firm favourites for the premiership.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham and Joe Perone. Best for Lions were Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Panthers 22(68) defeated Croppos 14(56)
Panthers jumped into second position on the ladder with an easy win over bottom side Croppos. Croppos took an early lead through the top half where the Strycharski bothers in Simon and Mark did the damage, despite the best efforts of Daniel Challinger. Panthers middle order responded against tough opposition, in particular Peter Southam, to level up the scores. Slav Kolega continued his recent good form to record another three singles. Any chance Croppos had of recording their second win of the season was soon gone as Panthers bottom order blew away their opposition, with Alex Hale winning the only two matches for his side down the stretch.
Best for Panthers were Slav Kolega and Cheryl King. Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski and Peter Southam
Dodgers 20(69) defeated Tigers 16(48)
Dodgers took advantage of an undermanned Tigers side to record back to back wins for the first time this season. Tigers started the better of the two sides with their top order easily accounting for Dodgers. Joseph Harris continues to get better and better and remained undefeated for the night, despite tough opposition in Kody Rosalia, with the two playing one of the matches of the season. Dodgers reduced the margin to two, lead by Fiona Rosalia, but Dodgers still had work to do to snatch the win. Dodgers bottom order has been their most consistent performers of the season and they quickly made the most of Tigers weakened side to turn the deficit of two into a win by four and leave them within touch of the top four.
Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia and Bev Atkins. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Marc Joosten.
Round 6
Tigers 21(67) defeated Gladiators 15(63)
Gladiators suffered their first loss of the season, going down to Tigers but remaining one game clear on top of the ladder. Tigers top order had their team off to a perfect start with a convincing performance to lead by four. Joseph Harris was again the leader for Tigers and played particularly well to defeat Shane Stockham in straight sets. Mike Van Doorn’s recent return to table tennis continued to gain momentum with two wins of his own. As had been their strength all year, Gladiators hit back through the middle order to level the scores. Joe Perone was again unstoppable with Bill Broughton and Lance Barnett providing able assistance. With the bottom order to decide the night, Tigers stormed home, winning the final matches of the night nine to three. Jayden Townsend, Wayde Heidenrich and Ralph Sandford all won two singles and two doubles. Several five set losses hurt Gladiators chances down the stretch.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Jayden Townsend, Wayde Heidenrich and Ralph Sandford. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Shane Stockham.
Dodgers 20(68) defeated Panthers 16(60)
In a surprise result, Dodgers recorded their second win for the season and in the process moved them within reach of the top four. The top order was split evenly, with neither side able to take an advantage. Daniel Challinger was the best performed for Panthers to keep his team on level terms. Dodgers made their move through the middle order to open up a lead of four, with Fiona Rosalia having her best night of the year so far to win all of her matches, with able resistance shown by Panthers’ Slav Kolega with two wins of his own. Dodgers bottom order has been their strength in recent weeks and in a tight contest did enough to hold Panthers at bay, despite Cheryl King’s best efforts, to secure some important points as they near the halfway stage of the season.
Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia and Bev Atkins. Best for Panthers were Daniel Challinger and Cheryl King.
Lions 21(64) defeated Croppos 15(51)
Lions has found form in recent weeks and have now found themselves in third position on the ladder, defeating bottom side Croppos. Croppos started the better of the two sides with their top order taking an advantage of two. Lions’ Jason Regan did his best to limit the damage two win all of his singles matches. Lions reversed the scores to level things up through the middle order with Ben Schillabeer and Martin Sheridan both performing particularly well. Veteran Barry Hancock continues to defy his years with another solid performance for Croppos. With the scores level and only the bottom order to play, the result was anyone’s guess, but Lions quickly changed that as they dominated the final matches to put the result beyond doubt and build some handy percentage.
Best for Lions was Jason Regan. Best for Croppos was Alex Hale.
Round 5
Gladiators 24(70) defeated Croppos 12(43)
Gladiators continued their unbeaten start to the season with a comprehensive victory over Croppos, which has sent them to the foot of the table. Croppos held the lead by two after the top order, with Simon and Mark Strycharski again leading their team from the front, assisted by Wade Gray. Shane Stockham performed well for Gladiators though and in high class match defeated Simon Strycharski in five sets. The contest was turned on its head through the middle order though with Gladiators completely dominating proceedings to turn a deficit of two into a lead of six. The trio of Joe Perone, Bill Broughton and Lance Barnett were hard for Croppos to overcome, with Brenton Stagg showing the only resistance. With the night all but decided, Gladiators left nothing to chance in the bottom order matches with another strong performance to extend their lead further to a handy percentage boosting win. With all teams now playing each other once, Gladiators remain undefeated and must be the early premiership favourites.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Nicholas Bates. Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski and Wade Gray.
Lions 18(65) defeated Dodgers 18(60)
Lions moved into the top four with a win over Dodgers in the closest result of the season to date. The top order matches were split completely even down to the set. Lions held the early advantage before Dodgers clawed their way to the lead, with Lions then in turn finishing the better in the final singles to level the scores. The middle order was again extremely close, with only sets countback handing Lions the narrow lead. Dodgers held a lead throughout before Lions finished strongly to win four of the last six matches. The bottom order would decide the night and this time it was Lions who took the lead before Dodgers fought back to take the lead themselves. Lions held firm though and won the required amount to level the scores but take the night on sets countback.
Best for Lions were Ernie Bauer and Jason Regan. Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia and Darren Atkins.
Panthers 13(48) defeated Tigers 11(42)
Due to missing players, the two sides competed under the old format, with Panthers sneaking home. Matches were shared evenly in the first round of singles with Panthers jumping to an early lead winning the first three matches of the night, before Tigers pegged them back. Scores remained locked together at the halfway mark, with the night anyones for the taking. The contest continued to be keenly fought through the second round of singles, but neither team could take a decisive advantage. On his return to competition after many years Mike Van Doorn showed he had lost nothing in defeating Russell Fordham in four sets, while Daniel Challinger overcame Joseph Harris in five sets. With the night to be decided in the final round of doubles, it was Panthers who finished the stronger winning three of the final four matches available to take the points and consolidate their position in the top three.
Best for Panthers were Gary Weetra and Dannen Blacker. Best for Tigers were Geoff Nottle and Vic Ellul.
Round 4
Tigers 20(67) defeated Croppos 16(63)
Tigers had a strong win over Croppos and moved themselves into second position on the ladder. Croppos lead early by two through the top order with Mark and Simon Strycharski again getting the job done for their side, while Joseph Harris was again consistent for Tigers. Croppos extended their lead to four in the middle order with Brenton Stagg and Barry Hancock playing especially well against difficult opposition. Tigers bottom order had a tough task ahead of them to narrow the margin, but they were up to the challenge, winning six matches in a row at one stage to storm over the top of Croppos to not only reduce the margin but charge over the top to end comfortable winners with Ralph Sandford and Jayden Townsend the chief destroyers.
Best for Tigers were Jayden Townsend, Ralph Sandford and Joseph Harris. Best for Croppos Barry Hancock and Brenton Stagg.
Lions 21(71) defeated Panthers 15(50)
Lions won their first match of the season in a surprise result over Panthers. Lions moved to an early lead of two through the top order with Jason Regan playing well and as would become a trend for the night, strong doubles play. Lions doubled their lead to four with the middle order. Panthers had the better of the singles matchups but Lions doubles combinations got them over the line. Panthers needed a response from the bottom order to snatch a win and were given some hope through the efforts of Charlie Day and Ryan Richards, but Lions finished strongly to run out comfortable winners.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Martin Sheridan. Best for Panthers were Daniel Challinger, Ryan Richards and Charlie Day.
Gladiators 19(60) defeated Dodgers 17(58)
Gladiators remained undefeated and at the top of the ladder as they accounted for Dodgers. The top order was a closely fought battle with Gladiators jumping away early through wins to Shane Stockham and Sally Kunze before Darren Atkins responded with a win for Dodgers. Gladiators extended their lead through the doubles to lead by two and despite signs of a comeback by Dodgers, Gladiators top order finished ahead by two. Gladiators wrapped up the night through the middle order with a dominating nine to three scoreline. To Dodgers credit though they fought back hard in the bottom order to respond with a nine to three round of their own to limit the percentage damage but not enough to prevent them from being anchored to the bottom of the ladder.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham, Joe Perone and Bill Broughton. Best for Dodgers were Bev Atkins, Eythyn Harrison and Darren Atkins.
Round 3
Dodgers 19(63) defeated Croppos 17(58)
Dodgers won their first match of the season in a close contest against Croppos. The top order matches were shared at six each with Croppos holding a slight sets advantage. The Strycharski brothers in Mark and Simon performing strongly for Croppos, while Dodgers’ Kody Rosalia won four of his five matches. The middle order was much the same with this time Dodgers narrowly taking the lead on sets. Croppos Barry Hancock won all of his matches and Ellen Challinger and Fiona Rosalia did the damage for Dodgers. With the night coming down to the bottom order, Bev Atkins and Lachie Day steered Dodgers to the win, lifting them off the bottom of the ladder in the process
Best for Dodgers were Kody Rosalia and Lachie Day. Best for Croppos were Barry Hancock and Simon Strycharski.
Tigers 20(69) defeated Lions 16(45)
A strong middle order performance from Tigers prevented Lions from scoring their first win of the season. The top order was a closely fought contest with Tigers narrowly leading on sets. Joseph Harris again lead his side from the front with three singles wins, while Lions strength was in its doubles, sweeping all three on offer. Tigers took control of the contest through the middle order, opening up a lead of four. Jerome Ahkit Burgoyne was a constant threat for Tigers, winning four of five, while Martin Sheridan fought bravely for his side. Lions needed a response from its bottom order, and were given some hope with early wins to Jesse Marcal and Ernie Bauer, but Tigers proved to be too strong and prevented Lions from making any headway in the final round.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Jerome Ahkit Burgoyne. Best for Lions were Ernie Bauer and Jason Regan.
Gladiators 20(66) defeated Panthers 16(50)
Gladiators returned to the top of the ladder and remain the only undefeated side for the season as they defeated fellow top two side Panthers. Gladiators jumped to a strong early lead, with their top order too good, especially in the doubles. Panthers hit back in the middle order to level up the scores. Ben Schillabeer again showed how much he has improved this season with another three singles wins, backed up well by Slav and Lesley Kolega. Another momentum swing was still to take police through with Gladiators bottom order swinging the contest back in their favour with Lance Barnett the chief destroyer with four matches for his side.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham and Lance Barnett. Best for Panthers were Ben Schillabeer and Slav Kolega.
Round 2
Gladiators 20(66) defeated Lions 16(52)
Gladiators secured their second win of the season with a good win over Lions. Lions started the better of the two sides with the top order coming out in front eight to four. Lions were consistent throughout with Jason Regan leading the charge, while Shane Stockham provided some resistance for Gladiators. Gladiators turned things around in the middle order to level the scores overall, with Bill Broughton and Peter Southam both impressive. With the night on the line the bottom order for Gladiators steered their side to victory, overcoming a shaky first round of singles to win seven of the next nine matches to run over the top and stay undefeated.
Best for Gladiators were Bill Broughton, Peter Southam and Lance Barnett. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Ernie Bauer.
Panthers 23(69) defeated Croppos 13(56)
Panthers moved to the top of the ladder with a comprehensive win over Croppos. The top order was even with wins shared at six apiece. Simon Strycharski performed well, winning all three of his singles, while Dan Challinger won four of his five matches for Panthers. Panthers jumped to the lead in the middle order Ben Schillabeer again playing extremely well to win all of his singles with Slav Kolega also playing well. Barry Hancock kept Croppos in touch, but with a lead of two, Panthers remained in the box seat. The bottom order was all one way traffic for Panthers with ten of the twelve matches on offer falling their way to put the result beyond doubt and a healthy percentage boost to go with it.
Best for Panthers were Dan Challinger, Ben Schillabeer and Cheryl King. Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski and Barry Hancock
Tigers 24(79) defeated Dodgers 12(47)
Tigers took advantage of a dominating top order with a strong win over Dodgers, who now sit bottom of the ladder. Tigers started out in amazing fashion to almost put the result beyond doubt early. Joseph Harris won all of his matches, while Darren Atkins won two singles for Dodgers. Dodgers fought back through the middle order but were unable to reduce the margin with the matches shared at six each. Business resumed as usual though in the bottom order with Tigers further extending their lead to hand themselves a nice early percentage boost, with Jayden Townsend winning four matches on his senior debut.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Jayden Townsend. Best for Dodgers were Bev Atkins and Peter Lee.
Round 1
Panthers 21(69) defeated Dodgers 15(55)
With a new format kicking off the 2017 season, Panthers secured their first points of the season with a solid win over Dodgers. The top order was a tightly fought contest, with the two sides only being separated by games. Panthers led early through wins to Daniel Challinger and Russell Fordham, before Dodgers responded through the doubles to level the scores. Dodgers pushed ahead in the second round of singles to lead for the first time in the night. Geoff Nottle gave Dodgers an advantage of two with two matches to play, but again it was Daniel Challinger and Russell Fordham with wins to ensure the top half was squared up.
The middle order was a much more one sided affair, with Panthers winning the contest by four. The scene was set early with the first four matches going the way of Panthers. Dodgers struggled to catch up from that point and despite fighting hard, the combination of Peter Southam, Lesley Kolega and Ben Shillabeer proved too strong.
The bottom order, although closer, was another win to Panthers. They took the lead early in the first round of singles, consolidated in the doubles before Dodgers fought back in the second round of singles to narrow the lead to just one with the final round of singles to play. Dodgers tied the scores through Eythyn Harrison, but that appeared to spur Panthers on as they won the final two matches of the round to seal the win.
Best for Panthers were Daniel Challinger, Peter Southam and Cheryl King. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Bev Atkins.
Gladiators 22(71) defeated Tigers 14(46)
Gladiators are the first team to sit atop the premiership ladder by comfortably accounting for Tigers. Tigers narrowly had the better of the top order matches, with only two games between the sides. Tigers burst out of the blocks with two wins in both the first round of singles and doubles. Gladiators finally sprung to action firstly with Sally Kunze defeating Angelika Sederstrom in five sets, followed by Shane Stockham accounting for Josh Phillips in straight sets. Gladiators kept coming, but just felt short.
The middle order appeared to be Tigers for the taking, and they lead all the way to the final round of singles before a clean sweep by Gladiators trio Joe Perone, Bill Broughton and Max Williams snatched the lead at the final post to give Gladiators the advantage.
If there was any doubt in the night’s result, the bottom order erased that doubt with a dominating performance. They won all four rounds to extend their lead at every turn to push their side to victory, with Lance Barnett particularly impressive.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham, Joe Perone and Lance Barnett. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Jerome Ahkit Burgoyne.
Croppos 21(67) defeated Lions 15(56)
Croppos had the perfect start to the season with a good win over a solid Lions side. Croppos top order did the damage for their side, outclassing Lions throughout to win by four. Early wins to Simon Strycharski and Wade Gray set the tone for their side, with Jason Regan proving to be a lone hand in resistance for Lions. Only in the doubles would Lions show what they are capable of.
The middle order was a much tighter affair, with Croppos gaining the upper hand by a solitary game. Lions outscored Croppos in each of the first three rounds, quickly erasing the deficit created by the top order, but a final round flourish by Croppos Barry Handcock, Brenton Stagg and Alex Hale ended all that good work to leave Croppos with a healthy advantage.
The bottom order extended Croppos lead further, thanks to a dominating doubles round, where they won all on offer. Ernie Bauer did his best to give Lions a chance, but Croppos all round game proved too strong and ensured a round one win to their side.
Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski, Wade Gray and Barry Hancock. Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Lions 19(62) defeated Gladiators 17(58)
In one of the closest Grand Finals in years, Lions snatched victory in the last match of the night. Lions gained a slender lead after the first round, with crucial wins to Ernie Bauer, Jesse Marcel, Martin Sheridan and Ben Schillabeer who claimed a five set thriller over Bill Broughton 15-13 in the fifth. While for Gladiators their wins came from Nicholas Bates, Joe Perone, Shane Stockham and Fred Ettridge. In the next round of doubles this is often where it is won or lost . Father and son, Jason and James Regan lead the way for Lions, with Martin Sheridan winning both his games with partners Ben Schillabeer and Marc Haning over more experienced players, and young Eythyn Harrison, who came into the side replacing his brother Luke who suffered a broken ankle, won both his doubles. Scores at the halfway mark showed Lions ahead 10-8 . Gladiators sprung into action as Cath Trowse claimed a tight win over Eythyn Harrison and Nicholas Bates narrowly defeated Jesse Marcel, while the ever reliable Joe Perone put away Martin Sheridan in straight sets and Lance Barnett played an impressive match to defeat Ben Schillabeer who had been on fire early while the standout match for Lions went to Marc Haning. Just one rubber separated the two sides (14-13) going into the final round as Gladiators Clarissa Barnett won over Eythyn Harrison in five sets, Nicholas Bates claimed a fine win over Ernie Bauer and Lance Barnett won another five set thriller over the much improved Marc Haning while for Lions it was Martin Sheridan and Jesse Marcel who lifted. With the last matches on the tables, the large crowd were held spellbound as each game unfolded. Corey Stephens played a great match for Lions to defeat Fred Ettridge in four sets , James Regan saved his best for last hanging on in five sets to win over Sally Kunze, and finally Jason Regan defeated his opposing number one Shane Stockham in three tight sets to give Lions the 2017 Premiership.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer. Best for Gladiators were Nicholas Bates, Joe Perone and Lance Barnett
Preliminary Final
Lions 27(80) defeated Dodgers 9(44)
As was the case a couple of weeks ago in their final minor round meeting, Lions dominated from start to finish to move themselves through to the grand final. Lions top order set the tone early with early wins to Jason and James Regan over Kody Rosalia and Slav Kolega respectively. It was the doubles though when they too full control, sweeping all three on offer to open up a strong lead of four. That lead continued to grow through the final singles matches to lead by six. Lions middle order have been going from strength to strength this season, improving with every match played. Tonight was no exception as Martin Sheridan especially made light work of Dodgers, extending their lead to an insurmountable twelve with still the bottom order matches to play. It was more of the same for Lions though as they pushed through to the finish line, with Luke De Leso having one of his better nights of the season with fine wins over more experienced opponents.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Martin Sheridan. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Fiona Rosalia.
Round 15
Lions 25(74) defeated Dodgers 11(46)
Lions finished the minor round matches in the strongest of wins with a dominant win over Dodgers to push them into third, while despite the loss Dodgers remained in second position on the ladder. Lions top order had them off to the perfect start, opening a lead of four. Jason Regan was pushed but held firm to win all his singles matches for Lions, while Darren Atkins was the best of the Dodgers resistance. It was the middle order though that Lions really took a stranglehold of the contest, winning an incredible eleven of the twelve matches on offer. It took until the final match for Dodgers to get on the board through Fiona Rosalia, but the damage had already been done. With the win wrapped up and their finals spot confirmed, Lions cruised to the finish line with an easy victory. Lions’ Ernie Bauer again defying his age with four wins.
Best for Lions were Martin Sheridan and Marc Hanning. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins, Bob Gibbes and Bev Atkins.
Tigers 19(69) defeated Panthers 17(61)
With both teams still a mathematical change of making finals, Tigers came out on top of a hotly fought contest. Tigers burst out of the blocks recording nine in the first round, with Brandon Rosalia a surprise performer to win all his matches for Tigers as a reserve, along with the consistent Joseph Harris. Panthers hit back with nine of their own through the middle order to level the scores, with Slav Kolega the star performer for Panthers, remaining undefeated. With the result coming down to the bottom order, it was anyone’s guess who would come out on top. Tigers’ Jayden Townsend in his first season of senior competition won the decisive game in an upset win over the more experienced Cheryl King to clinch the win for Tigers and fourth spot on the ladder in the process. Panthers season is now over and finish with the wooden spoon.
Best for Tigers were Brandon Rosalia and Joseph Harris. Best for Panthers were Slav Kolega and Ryan Richards.
Gladiators 20(62) defeated Croppos 16(59)
Gladiators celebrated their minor premiership with a solid win against top four aspirant Croppos. As a result of the loss Croppos slip from third to fifth to miss out on finals action only by percentage. Matches were shared evenly in the top order as nothing could separate the two sides. Simon Strycharski finished his season off in style with three singles. As has been the case for the majority of the season, Gladiators middle order took control of the contest and opened up an almost unassailable lead of six. Despite their best efforts, Croppos could not peg back the margin and end the season in disappointment after such a promising second half of the season.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Nicholas Bates. Best for Croppos were Gary Weetra and Simon Strycharski.
Round 14
Croppos 19(67) defeated Tigers 17(60)
Croppos all but secured their position in the finals with a close win over Tigers, who remain in fifth but are still a mathematical chance of September action. Matches were split evenly in the top order with Croppos’ Joseph Harris again performing strongly by winning all of his matches for the night, but found resistance in the form of Tigers’ Wade Gray. Croppos opened up a lead of two through the middle order matches with veterans Sam Perin and Barry Hancock leading the way for their respective sides. Tigers needed their bottom order to fire to steal victory, and despite the best efforts of Ralph Sandford, Croppos held firm to keep their lead and claim the points.
Best for Croppos were Barry Hancock and Wade Gray. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Ralph Sandford.
Panthers 19(53) defeated Lions 17(53)
In an unusual contest, Panthers withstood a firm challenge from Lions to claim a much-needed win, but unfortunately remain at the foot of the table out of finals contention. Due to a shortage of players, Lions were forced to forfeit all of their top order matches, handing Panthers a twelve rubber head start. Lions middle order took the challenge on board though and played some inspired table tennis to win ten of their matches on offer to close the gap to just four, with the bottom order to play. Lions continued to close the gap through the evergreen Ernie Bauer, but fell just short as Panthers clung on to victory at the death.
Best for Panthers were Cheryl King and Dannen Blacker. Best for Lions were Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Dodgers 19(57) defeated Gladiators 17(57)
Dodgers sealed their finals spot and have one hand on a top two position with a surprising win over top side Gladiators, who have looked vulnerable in recent weeks. Dodgers were off to the perfect start in the top half, opening up a lead of two, with Kody Rosalia continuing his good form of recent weeks. As has been the case all season, Gladiators middle order responded and turned the deficit of two into a lead of two, with Joe Perone again proving hard to get by. Dodgers were not able to back down and their bottom order, in particular Bob Gibbes and Bev Atkins, steered their team to a pivotal win with finals just around the corner.
Best for Dodgers were Kody Rosalia, Bob Gibbes and Bev Atkins. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone, Shane Stockham and Nicholas Bates.
Round 12
Lions 19(62) defeated Gladiators 17(57)
Lions moved themselves into the top two for the first time this season with an upset win over top side Gladiators, who have started to look vulnerable of late. Lions took the early lead of two through the top order, lead by Jason Regan who had a fine win over fellow top player Shane Stockham. Lions doubled their lead in the middle order matches, despite the best efforts of Joe Perone, who won all of his matches for Gladiators. Gladiators needed to win eight of the final twelve matches to snatch victory from Lions, but fell just short as they could only manage seven, but remain clear in top spot by three games.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Nicholas Bates.
Croppos 21(69) defeated Panthers 15(50)
Croppos continued their excellent recent form to Win their fifth match in a row and resign Panthers to the foot of the table. Croppos burst out of the blocks in the top order with the Strycharski brothers again leading the charge, with only Daniel Challinger providing much resistance for Panthers. It was Croppos middle order who took control of the contest though, winning their matches nine to three and extending the lead out to an almost insurmountable ten, with only the bottom orders’ twelve matches to play. With the odds stacked heavily against them, Panthers dug deep and managed to narrow the margin, but it was a mountain too high to climb as Alex Hale steered Croppos home to victory.
Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski, Brenton Stagg and Alex Hale. Best for Panthers were David Hall and Daniel Challinger.
Dodgers 20(64) defeated Tigers 16(61)
Dodgers moved a game clear inside the top four with a hard-fought win over Tigers, who in recent week have dropped from second position to now outside the top four. Dodgers set up their night through the top order, with Kody Rosalia playing particularly well, especially in defeating Joseph Harris in five sets. With a lead of four, the middle order matches were shared evenly. Dodgers’ Fiona Rosalia was the leading light with three singles for the night. Tigers had some ground to catch up in the bottom order if it was going to snatch the points, but despite the best efforts of Ralph Sandford, Tigers were unable to bridge the gap and Dodgers were home.
Best for Dodgers were Kody Rosalia and Fiona Rosalia. Best for Tigers were Ralph Sandford and Joseph Harris.
Round 11
Gladiators 25(76) defeated Tigers 11(45)
Third-placed Tigers, who were without their number two player, came up against the top side Gladiators. Tigers number one player, Joseph Harris who is fresh back from the National Championships in Hobart, put away Fred Ettridge in straight sets to post the only score in the first half, while Gladiators pair Shane Stockham and Sally Kunze locked away scores for their side. In the doubles Gladiators steamrolled Tigers taking all three. In the second half, Fred Ettridge bounced back from two sets down to snatch victory over Brandon Rosalia and kept his form to also win over Geoff Nottle in five tight sets. It was a one-sided affair in the middle order, Gladiators winning 11-1 without much resistance. Vic Ellul was the lone wolf to claim the only score for Tigers. It was a much tighter affair in the lower order as Ralph Sandford posted a win for Tigers before they outclassed Gladiators in all the doubles, but Lochie Day and Nicholas Bates came home strongly for Gladiators. In the match of the night a large crowd gathered to watch the top two players of the club do battle over five sets, with the younger Joseph Harris taking the points on this occasion over Shane Stockham in a brilliant display of table tennis.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham, Joe Perone, Bill Broughton and Nicholas Bates. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Ralph Sandford.
Dodgers 19(59) defeated Panthers 17(53)
Dodgers came up with an unexpected victory over Panthers, pushing them down to the bottom of the table while moving themselves up to third place. Dodgers were on the front foot early with Darren Atkins accounting for Zoey Fordham and Kody Rosalia posting a tight win in five sets over Daniel Challinger. With improved play in the doubles, Dodgers claimed two to take the lead. In the second half Darren Atkins collected two important wins over Russell Fordham and Daniel Challinger but Russell Fordham hit back over Kody Rosalia in five sets. Holding a lead of 8-4 Fiona Rosalia began building onto the score for Dodgers, but it was not all one way as the Kolega’s posted wins for Panthers. Ellen Challinger chipped in with two singles wins for Dodgers but Panthers pegged back the lead to give themselves a chance in the last round. Both teams could not break away as Cheryl King and Cath Trowse did their best for Panthers but Dodgers combined the better in the doubles with Bev Atkins and Bob Gibbes claiming important wins in the final stages to take victory.
Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins, Fiona Rosalia and Bev Atkins. Best for Panthers were Russell Fordham, Slav Kolega and Cheryl King.
Croppos 18(64) defeated Lions 18(61)
As it turned out, this was the upset of the round, considering Croppos did it without their number one player, Simon Strycharski. Croppos were bottom of the table and with their fourth win a row are now serious finals contenders in fourth place, while Lions nervously remain in second place as three other teams on same number of wins are eagerly waiting to take their place. Lions got away to the better start in the top order through Jason Regan and James Regan while Croppos’ Mark Strycharski made a good start defeating Corey Stephens in three tight sets. Lions extended their lead in the doubles which proved important as the remainder of the round came out even with three wins each. For Croppos a great victory was had by Mark Strycharski over Lions number one in Jason Regan, while James Regan won the longest match of the night defeating Wade Gray in five sets. In the middle order Croppos were impressive early with Brenton Stagg defeating Marc Haning before the team won all doubles on offer. Barry Hancock added one for Croppos but it was the Lions pair Martin Sheridan and Ben Schillabeer who pulled off two outstanding wins each to level the scores. In the final round Gary Weetra and Alex Hale led the way for Croppos while Ernie Bauer remained strong for Lions. Croppos took the upper hand in the doubles with Leanne Clark winning two, but Jesse Marcal and Ernie Bauer hit back for Lions. It was not enough though to take the win. A great contest with only sets determining the result.
Best for Croppos were Mark Strycharski, Brenton Stagg, Alex Hale and Gary Weetra. Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Ben Schillabeer, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Round 10
Dodgers 19(60) defeated Lions 17(60)
Dodgers scrapped out a crucial win against fellow top four aspirant Lions. Scores were level after the top order, only separated by a single game to the advantage of Lions. Scores remained tight through the middle order, remaining locked together. Fiona Rosalia was a shining light for Dodgers, winning all her matches. With only the bottom order to play, the result could have gone either way, but a dominant doubles round by Dodgers led the way to sneak them over the line and still in finals contention.
Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Ernie Bauer.
Croppos 21(67) defeated Gladiators 15(52)
Bottom team Croppos scored the upset of the round with a strong win against top side Gladiators. Croppos stormed out of the blocks through the top order, opening a lead of four with Simon and Mark Strycharski leading the way. Gladiators middle order stemmed the flow but were unable to make any headway as the lead remained the same. Croppos finished off the night strongly, with the bottom ordered extending the lead further to gain a crucial two points and in a three-way tie for fourth.
Best for Croppos were Alex Hale and Mark Strycharski. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Shane Stockham.
Tigers 19(62) defeated Panthers 17(62)
With these two sides fighting for second spot and the important double chance, Tigers edged Panthers in a tense contest. Tigers started the better of the two sides, opening an advantage of two after the top order matches. Fresh from his silver medal performance with the under 13 state team, Joseph Harris had a solid night winning all three of his singles matches. Matches were shared in the middle order as Panthers tried without luck to narrow the gap. With only the bottom order matches to play, Panthers fought hard and at one stage levelled the scores, but both Wayde Heidenreich and Jayden Townsend won their final matches in five sets to seal the win and second position for Tigers.
Best for Tigers was Joseph Harris. Best for Panthers was David Hall.
Round 8
Gladiators 18(59) defeated Panthers 18(64)
In the closest contest of the evening, Gladiators scrapped home against fellow top four side Panthers by only five games. Gladiators top order had their side off to the perfect start by opening a lead of two. Panthers looked to have things under control until Shane Stockham, Sally Kunze and Fred Ettridge all won their final single for Gladiators to snatch the lead. That lead was extended further through the middle order lead by Joe Perone. With a lead of six going into the bottom order, Gladiators looked like they had the points in the bag, but Panthers had a stirring upset to fall just short of a miraculous recovery.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Shane Stockham. Best for Panthers were Cheryl King and Daniel Challinger.
Croppos 20(67) defeated Dodgers 16(60)
Croppos scored their second win of the season as Dodgers blew a chance to move into the top four for the first time this season. The night began evenly with scores split evenly after the top order play. Croppos took the lead through the middle order as Brenton Stagg had one of his best nights of the year to win all of his singles. The bottom order has been Dodgers strength this season, and Croppos have struggled of late but the tables were turned as Alex Hale continued his fine season to lead his side to victory.
Best for Croppos were Alex Hale, Brenton Stagg and Simon Strycharski. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Kody Rosalia.
Lions 24(75) defeated Tigers 12(55)
Lions had their biggest win of the season to demolish Tigers. Tigers started the better of the two sides in the top order to lead by two. The complexion of the night completely changed through the middle order as Lions won eleven of the twelve matches on offer, which has been unheard of this season. With the points all but wrapped up, Lions continued on with their percentage boosting run and outscored Tigers by a further four in the bottom order to push them to the top two, their highest position so far this season.
Best for Lions were Ernie Bauer, Martin Sheridan and Marc Hanning. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Ralph Sandford.
Round 7
Gladiators 21(66) defeated Lions 15(56)
Gladiators cemented their position at the top of the ladder with a steady win over Lions, who’s team performances have been improving by the week. Gladiators top order gave them an early lead of four. Shane Stockham was again consistent to lead his team. Lions limited the damage through the middle order, but were unable to make any headway into Gladiators lead, leaving the bottom order with a huge task if there was to be an upset. It wasn’t to be as Gladiators managed to extend their lead further to add to their percentage and remain firm favourites for the premiership.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham and Joe Perone. Best for Lions were Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
Panthers 22(68) defeated Croppos 14(56)
Panthers jumped into second position on the ladder with an easy win over bottom side Croppos. Croppos took an early lead through the top half where the Strycharski bothers in Simon and Mark did the damage, despite the best efforts of Daniel Challinger. Panthers middle order responded against tough opposition, in particular Peter Southam, to level up the scores. Slav Kolega continued his recent good form to record another three singles. Any chance Croppos had of recording their second win of the season was soon gone as Panthers bottom order blew away their opposition, with Alex Hale winning the only two matches for his side down the stretch.
Best for Panthers were Slav Kolega and Cheryl King. Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski and Peter Southam
Dodgers 20(69) defeated Tigers 16(48)
Dodgers took advantage of an undermanned Tigers side to record back to back wins for the first time this season. Tigers started the better of the two sides with their top order easily accounting for Dodgers. Joseph Harris continues to get better and better and remained undefeated for the night, despite tough opposition in Kody Rosalia, with the two playing one of the matches of the season. Dodgers reduced the margin to two, lead by Fiona Rosalia, but Dodgers still had work to do to snatch the win. Dodgers bottom order has been their most consistent performers of the season and they quickly made the most of Tigers weakened side to turn the deficit of two into a win by four and leave them within touch of the top four.
Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia and Bev Atkins. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Marc Joosten.
Round 6
Tigers 21(67) defeated Gladiators 15(63)
Gladiators suffered their first loss of the season, going down to Tigers but remaining one game clear on top of the ladder. Tigers top order had their team off to a perfect start with a convincing performance to lead by four. Joseph Harris was again the leader for Tigers and played particularly well to defeat Shane Stockham in straight sets. Mike Van Doorn’s recent return to table tennis continued to gain momentum with two wins of his own. As had been their strength all year, Gladiators hit back through the middle order to level the scores. Joe Perone was again unstoppable with Bill Broughton and Lance Barnett providing able assistance. With the bottom order to decide the night, Tigers stormed home, winning the final matches of the night nine to three. Jayden Townsend, Wayde Heidenrich and Ralph Sandford all won two singles and two doubles. Several five set losses hurt Gladiators chances down the stretch.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris, Jayden Townsend, Wayde Heidenrich and Ralph Sandford. Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Shane Stockham.
Dodgers 20(68) defeated Panthers 16(60)
In a surprise result, Dodgers recorded their second win for the season and in the process moved them within reach of the top four. The top order was split evenly, with neither side able to take an advantage. Daniel Challinger was the best performed for Panthers to keep his team on level terms. Dodgers made their move through the middle order to open up a lead of four, with Fiona Rosalia having her best night of the year so far to win all of her matches, with able resistance shown by Panthers’ Slav Kolega with two wins of his own. Dodgers bottom order has been their strength in recent weeks and in a tight contest did enough to hold Panthers at bay, despite Cheryl King’s best efforts, to secure some important points as they near the halfway stage of the season.
Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia and Bev Atkins. Best for Panthers were Daniel Challinger and Cheryl King.
Lions 21(64) defeated Croppos 15(51)
Lions has found form in recent weeks and have now found themselves in third position on the ladder, defeating bottom side Croppos. Croppos started the better of the two sides with their top order taking an advantage of two. Lions’ Jason Regan did his best to limit the damage two win all of his singles matches. Lions reversed the scores to level things up through the middle order with Ben Schillabeer and Martin Sheridan both performing particularly well. Veteran Barry Hancock continues to defy his years with another solid performance for Croppos. With the scores level and only the bottom order to play, the result was anyone’s guess, but Lions quickly changed that as they dominated the final matches to put the result beyond doubt and build some handy percentage.
Best for Lions was Jason Regan. Best for Croppos was Alex Hale.
Round 5
Gladiators 24(70) defeated Croppos 12(43)
Gladiators continued their unbeaten start to the season with a comprehensive victory over Croppos, which has sent them to the foot of the table. Croppos held the lead by two after the top order, with Simon and Mark Strycharski again leading their team from the front, assisted by Wade Gray. Shane Stockham performed well for Gladiators though and in high class match defeated Simon Strycharski in five sets. The contest was turned on its head through the middle order though with Gladiators completely dominating proceedings to turn a deficit of two into a lead of six. The trio of Joe Perone, Bill Broughton and Lance Barnett were hard for Croppos to overcome, with Brenton Stagg showing the only resistance. With the night all but decided, Gladiators left nothing to chance in the bottom order matches with another strong performance to extend their lead further to a handy percentage boosting win. With all teams now playing each other once, Gladiators remain undefeated and must be the early premiership favourites.
Best for Gladiators were Joe Perone and Nicholas Bates. Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski and Wade Gray.
Lions 18(65) defeated Dodgers 18(60)
Lions moved into the top four with a win over Dodgers in the closest result of the season to date. The top order matches were split completely even down to the set. Lions held the early advantage before Dodgers clawed their way to the lead, with Lions then in turn finishing the better in the final singles to level the scores. The middle order was again extremely close, with only sets countback handing Lions the narrow lead. Dodgers held a lead throughout before Lions finished strongly to win four of the last six matches. The bottom order would decide the night and this time it was Lions who took the lead before Dodgers fought back to take the lead themselves. Lions held firm though and won the required amount to level the scores but take the night on sets countback.
Best for Lions were Ernie Bauer and Jason Regan. Best for Dodgers were Fiona Rosalia and Darren Atkins.
Panthers 13(48) defeated Tigers 11(42)
Due to missing players, the two sides competed under the old format, with Panthers sneaking home. Matches were shared evenly in the first round of singles with Panthers jumping to an early lead winning the first three matches of the night, before Tigers pegged them back. Scores remained locked together at the halfway mark, with the night anyones for the taking. The contest continued to be keenly fought through the second round of singles, but neither team could take a decisive advantage. On his return to competition after many years Mike Van Doorn showed he had lost nothing in defeating Russell Fordham in four sets, while Daniel Challinger overcame Joseph Harris in five sets. With the night to be decided in the final round of doubles, it was Panthers who finished the stronger winning three of the final four matches available to take the points and consolidate their position in the top three.
Best for Panthers were Gary Weetra and Dannen Blacker. Best for Tigers were Geoff Nottle and Vic Ellul.
Round 4
Tigers 20(67) defeated Croppos 16(63)
Tigers had a strong win over Croppos and moved themselves into second position on the ladder. Croppos lead early by two through the top order with Mark and Simon Strycharski again getting the job done for their side, while Joseph Harris was again consistent for Tigers. Croppos extended their lead to four in the middle order with Brenton Stagg and Barry Hancock playing especially well against difficult opposition. Tigers bottom order had a tough task ahead of them to narrow the margin, but they were up to the challenge, winning six matches in a row at one stage to storm over the top of Croppos to not only reduce the margin but charge over the top to end comfortable winners with Ralph Sandford and Jayden Townsend the chief destroyers.
Best for Tigers were Jayden Townsend, Ralph Sandford and Joseph Harris. Best for Croppos Barry Hancock and Brenton Stagg.
Lions 21(71) defeated Panthers 15(50)
Lions won their first match of the season in a surprise result over Panthers. Lions moved to an early lead of two through the top order with Jason Regan playing well and as would become a trend for the night, strong doubles play. Lions doubled their lead to four with the middle order. Panthers had the better of the singles matchups but Lions doubles combinations got them over the line. Panthers needed a response from the bottom order to snatch a win and were given some hope through the efforts of Charlie Day and Ryan Richards, but Lions finished strongly to run out comfortable winners.
Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Martin Sheridan. Best for Panthers were Daniel Challinger, Ryan Richards and Charlie Day.
Gladiators 19(60) defeated Dodgers 17(58)
Gladiators remained undefeated and at the top of the ladder as they accounted for Dodgers. The top order was a closely fought battle with Gladiators jumping away early through wins to Shane Stockham and Sally Kunze before Darren Atkins responded with a win for Dodgers. Gladiators extended their lead through the doubles to lead by two and despite signs of a comeback by Dodgers, Gladiators top order finished ahead by two. Gladiators wrapped up the night through the middle order with a dominating nine to three scoreline. To Dodgers credit though they fought back hard in the bottom order to respond with a nine to three round of their own to limit the percentage damage but not enough to prevent them from being anchored to the bottom of the ladder.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham, Joe Perone and Bill Broughton. Best for Dodgers were Bev Atkins, Eythyn Harrison and Darren Atkins.
Round 3
Dodgers 19(63) defeated Croppos 17(58)
Dodgers won their first match of the season in a close contest against Croppos. The top order matches were shared at six each with Croppos holding a slight sets advantage. The Strycharski brothers in Mark and Simon performing strongly for Croppos, while Dodgers’ Kody Rosalia won four of his five matches. The middle order was much the same with this time Dodgers narrowly taking the lead on sets. Croppos Barry Hancock won all of his matches and Ellen Challinger and Fiona Rosalia did the damage for Dodgers. With the night coming down to the bottom order, Bev Atkins and Lachie Day steered Dodgers to the win, lifting them off the bottom of the ladder in the process
Best for Dodgers were Kody Rosalia and Lachie Day. Best for Croppos were Barry Hancock and Simon Strycharski.
Tigers 20(69) defeated Lions 16(45)
A strong middle order performance from Tigers prevented Lions from scoring their first win of the season. The top order was a closely fought contest with Tigers narrowly leading on sets. Joseph Harris again lead his side from the front with three singles wins, while Lions strength was in its doubles, sweeping all three on offer. Tigers took control of the contest through the middle order, opening up a lead of four. Jerome Ahkit Burgoyne was a constant threat for Tigers, winning four of five, while Martin Sheridan fought bravely for his side. Lions needed a response from its bottom order, and were given some hope with early wins to Jesse Marcal and Ernie Bauer, but Tigers proved to be too strong and prevented Lions from making any headway in the final round.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Jerome Ahkit Burgoyne. Best for Lions were Ernie Bauer and Jason Regan.
Gladiators 20(66) defeated Panthers 16(50)
Gladiators returned to the top of the ladder and remain the only undefeated side for the season as they defeated fellow top two side Panthers. Gladiators jumped to a strong early lead, with their top order too good, especially in the doubles. Panthers hit back in the middle order to level up the scores. Ben Schillabeer again showed how much he has improved this season with another three singles wins, backed up well by Slav and Lesley Kolega. Another momentum swing was still to take police through with Gladiators bottom order swinging the contest back in their favour with Lance Barnett the chief destroyer with four matches for his side.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham and Lance Barnett. Best for Panthers were Ben Schillabeer and Slav Kolega.
Round 2
Gladiators 20(66) defeated Lions 16(52)
Gladiators secured their second win of the season with a good win over Lions. Lions started the better of the two sides with the top order coming out in front eight to four. Lions were consistent throughout with Jason Regan leading the charge, while Shane Stockham provided some resistance for Gladiators. Gladiators turned things around in the middle order to level the scores overall, with Bill Broughton and Peter Southam both impressive. With the night on the line the bottom order for Gladiators steered their side to victory, overcoming a shaky first round of singles to win seven of the next nine matches to run over the top and stay undefeated.
Best for Gladiators were Bill Broughton, Peter Southam and Lance Barnett. Best for Lions were Jason Regan and Ernie Bauer.
Panthers 23(69) defeated Croppos 13(56)
Panthers moved to the top of the ladder with a comprehensive win over Croppos. The top order was even with wins shared at six apiece. Simon Strycharski performed well, winning all three of his singles, while Dan Challinger won four of his five matches for Panthers. Panthers jumped to the lead in the middle order Ben Schillabeer again playing extremely well to win all of his singles with Slav Kolega also playing well. Barry Hancock kept Croppos in touch, but with a lead of two, Panthers remained in the box seat. The bottom order was all one way traffic for Panthers with ten of the twelve matches on offer falling their way to put the result beyond doubt and a healthy percentage boost to go with it.
Best for Panthers were Dan Challinger, Ben Schillabeer and Cheryl King. Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski and Barry Hancock
Tigers 24(79) defeated Dodgers 12(47)
Tigers took advantage of a dominating top order with a strong win over Dodgers, who now sit bottom of the ladder. Tigers started out in amazing fashion to almost put the result beyond doubt early. Joseph Harris won all of his matches, while Darren Atkins won two singles for Dodgers. Dodgers fought back through the middle order but were unable to reduce the margin with the matches shared at six each. Business resumed as usual though in the bottom order with Tigers further extending their lead to hand themselves a nice early percentage boost, with Jayden Townsend winning four matches on his senior debut.
Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Jayden Townsend. Best for Dodgers were Bev Atkins and Peter Lee.
Round 1
Panthers 21(69) defeated Dodgers 15(55)
With a new format kicking off the 2017 season, Panthers secured their first points of the season with a solid win over Dodgers. The top order was a tightly fought contest, with the two sides only being separated by games. Panthers led early through wins to Daniel Challinger and Russell Fordham, before Dodgers responded through the doubles to level the scores. Dodgers pushed ahead in the second round of singles to lead for the first time in the night. Geoff Nottle gave Dodgers an advantage of two with two matches to play, but again it was Daniel Challinger and Russell Fordham with wins to ensure the top half was squared up.
The middle order was a much more one sided affair, with Panthers winning the contest by four. The scene was set early with the first four matches going the way of Panthers. Dodgers struggled to catch up from that point and despite fighting hard, the combination of Peter Southam, Lesley Kolega and Ben Shillabeer proved too strong.
The bottom order, although closer, was another win to Panthers. They took the lead early in the first round of singles, consolidated in the doubles before Dodgers fought back in the second round of singles to narrow the lead to just one with the final round of singles to play. Dodgers tied the scores through Eythyn Harrison, but that appeared to spur Panthers on as they won the final two matches of the round to seal the win.
Best for Panthers were Daniel Challinger, Peter Southam and Cheryl King. Best for Dodgers were Darren Atkins and Bev Atkins.
Gladiators 22(71) defeated Tigers 14(46)
Gladiators are the first team to sit atop the premiership ladder by comfortably accounting for Tigers. Tigers narrowly had the better of the top order matches, with only two games between the sides. Tigers burst out of the blocks with two wins in both the first round of singles and doubles. Gladiators finally sprung to action firstly with Sally Kunze defeating Angelika Sederstrom in five sets, followed by Shane Stockham accounting for Josh Phillips in straight sets. Gladiators kept coming, but just felt short.
The middle order appeared to be Tigers for the taking, and they lead all the way to the final round of singles before a clean sweep by Gladiators trio Joe Perone, Bill Broughton and Max Williams snatched the lead at the final post to give Gladiators the advantage.
If there was any doubt in the night’s result, the bottom order erased that doubt with a dominating performance. They won all four rounds to extend their lead at every turn to push their side to victory, with Lance Barnett particularly impressive.
Best for Gladiators were Shane Stockham, Joe Perone and Lance Barnett. Best for Tigers were Joseph Harris and Jerome Ahkit Burgoyne.
Croppos 21(67) defeated Lions 15(56)
Croppos had the perfect start to the season with a good win over a solid Lions side. Croppos top order did the damage for their side, outclassing Lions throughout to win by four. Early wins to Simon Strycharski and Wade Gray set the tone for their side, with Jason Regan proving to be a lone hand in resistance for Lions. Only in the doubles would Lions show what they are capable of.
The middle order was a much tighter affair, with Croppos gaining the upper hand by a solitary game. Lions outscored Croppos in each of the first three rounds, quickly erasing the deficit created by the top order, but a final round flourish by Croppos Barry Handcock, Brenton Stagg and Alex Hale ended all that good work to leave Croppos with a healthy advantage.
The bottom order extended Croppos lead further, thanks to a dominating doubles round, where they won all on offer. Ernie Bauer did his best to give Lions a chance, but Croppos all round game proved too strong and ensured a round one win to their side.
Best for Croppos were Simon Strycharski, Wade Gray and Barry Hancock. Best for Lions were Jason Regan, Martin Sheridan and Ernie Bauer.
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