Match Report
After a delayed start to our season, Taverners played their first match last night at the VH against one of the likely title challengers, Newton Abbot Ravens.
Having experienced an interesting season in Division 3 in 23/24, it was good to be back playing in Division2. We know that this season will be challenging with some very strong teams around but we will do our best to remain competitive, play hard, win some matches and try and stay in Div 2!!
Our first fixture was a good template of what life will be like in 24/25. The Ravens have a strong lineup with Ollie Malin and Stephen Hugh leading the way supported by Chris Baron (it is good to see Chris playing well and enjoying his table tennis) + Mike Dummett who has not played so far so there is plenty of depth to come! They are sure to be title contenders demonstrated by a strong performance against Grove Guerrillas (6-4 win) in their first match.
With Ollie winning his 3 sets and Player of the Match for his consistent and "all round" play and Stephen just losing to Martin in 5 games but winning 2 sets, Ravens came out as deserved 7-3 victors on the night.
For Taverners, Martin beat both Stephen and Chris in 5 and has started his season in very good form. Colin was competitive and on another evening would surely have had some reward for his efforts. He also combined well with Martin in the Doubles set only losing out in the final game. Having lost to Chris in a very close set the last time we played each other, I managed to win in 3 this time. I think Chris's level of play faltered a bit against me and I was able to stop his strong attacking shots for most of the set. It was good to get on the scoreboard!
Next up is NA Raptors at Teign School which is always an enjoyable encounter. I now feel that season 24/25 has really started!!
Geoff
Written by: Tony Halse
