Dulwich lost to Sussex County 3-4

[<<] [>>] by Daphne Gaitley at Dulwich
18th June 2007 (GC - Inter-Club)

The Southwick team were greeted warmly on arrival at Dulwich after its long journey, and were offered refreshments before play began. Contrary to the gloomy forecasts of persistent rain, the weather remained fine and dry, and the lawns were in good order, particularly the recently laid one. Play started and both teams fought hard, with games being won on each side by narrow margins, until the break for lunch at which point Southwick were just in the lead, having secured the doubles and one of the two singles contests, with Dulwich having taken one of the singles.

Play resumed after lunch, with Dulwich fighting back hard to reclaim earlier lost ground, and by teatime, had levelled the overall score to three games each, with one singles match still to be played, thus the result of the tournament hinged on the outcome of this final game between Daphne Gaitley and David Collins. In the first game, a very tough and close contest ensued culminating in a victory for Daphne at the final, thirteenth hoop to give Southwick the edge and she then went on to win the second game fairly comfortably at 7-3 to ensure triumph for Southwick in the first heat of this knockout competition.

Both teams then settled down to tea, cakes and strawberries and cream, and to reflect that all players had been required to work very hard for their victories, but had nevertheless participated in a thoroughly enjoyable day's play. The Southwick team would like to convey their thanks to Dulwich for their hospitality and look forward to meeting them in competition again.

The teams were comprised of Simon Carter, Ed Dymock, David Collins and Julian Stair for Dulwich, whilst Southwick fielded Daphne Gaitley, Alan Cottle, Paul Castell and Bill Arliss.