Fresh from their quarter-final victory at home against Woodhall Spa, the Colchester team of Alex Wood, Chris Clarke, Tony White and Captain Marilyn Wood lost their ‘virtual coin toss’ to decide home or away, and so made the 300+ mile journey to Crake Valley in the Lake District.
Set amongst spectacular scenery in the valley of the River Crake, the lawns are lush, watered by high rainfall and the proximity to the river. We knew we were in for a battle when they turned up in matching team t-shirts (embroidered with their names), and we were told that two of their players had reduced their handicaps the day before!
In a best of 7 games tie, the day started well, with Colchester winning the first doubles match. 1 up – only 3 wins to go and we’re in the final…. The in-form home team hit back by winning the next two games, making it 2-1 to Crake at lunch. Never mind, we only needed to win 3 of the 4 afternoon singles to win the tie …
That didn’t happen. After lunch Crake really showed why they had qualified, and why they are a fast improving team, by winning all 4 matches. They now play Phyllis Court in the Shield final in September.
Well done to the home team. Commiserations but also congratulations to Marilyn and the Colchester team for qualifying for the semi-final, further than we have ever done before. Thanks for making the effort to represent the club so far from home.
With beautiful lawns set in spectacular scenery, perfect weather, and a match played in a competitive and friendly spirit, it would have been nice to win, but if we had to lose, it couldn’t be to a more deserving side. Maybe we’ll go one better next year?
