Galleywood A have opened up a healthy eight point lead in division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League after beating Hatfield Peverel A 9-1. Gary Brignall and Peter Barrett were both undefeated whilst James Mullane won twice, only missing out to Alistair Piper (10-12, 7-11, 11-7, 9-11). James Mullane beat Neil Freeman by a last gasp (8-11, 12-10, 11-9, 6-11, 12-10) margin whilst Peter Barrett had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Julie Johnson (9-11, 11-4, 12-14, 12-10, 11-4). Second placed Danbury D fell back, as they could only beat Galleywood B 6-4. Sam Phillips was undefeated for Danbury but Gary Copsey and John Holland both won twice for Galleywood. Chelmsford D did well to beat OCA C 7-3. Nikita Tkachuk and Adi Kamma were both undefeated. Nikita Tkachuk gave his side a winning start by getting the better of Mick Richardson (11-9, 12-10, 6-11, 11-6). Six games were decided in the fifth end as OCA B defeated Danbury E 6-4. Berti Makoli’s three wins gave OCA B the ascendancy and he beat Tony Forster (11-7, 9-11, 11-5, 9-11, 11-8), Neil Want (11-6, 11-8, 11-6) and Tim Cramphorn (9-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-6).  Chelmsford C were bolstered by the inclusion of Robert Shrimpton and his hat-trick helped them beat Writtle C 8-2. Shrimpton scored an all-important victory over John Webber in the opening game (6-11, 11-9, 5-11, 11-6, 11-6).

In the first division the ultra-attacking OCA A side of Mark Mulley, Matt Mulley and Paul Lucas (it’s hard to think of a more attacking trio of players) raced to a 10-0 win over Writtle A. On that showing they will take some stopping. Writtle A were also on the wrong end of a 7-3 defeat against Danbury A. Babul McLeod and Bruce Kettle both bagged hat-tricks.  Babul McLeod defeated Lee McHugh (5-11, 11-8, 12-10, 6-11, 11-8) whilst Bruce Kettle beat McHugh (12-14, 11-7, 11-9, 11-9). Richard Storey made his mark for Writtle with a fine 9-11, 3-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-9 victory over Eric Green.  Danbury B ran out 6-4 winners against Chelmsford B. Sam Lowman’s hat-trick of wins gave Danbury the edge. Sam Lowman was stretched by Victor Chan before he pulled away in the fifth end to win (5-11, 11-9, 16-14, 7-11, 11-7).

A strong Danbury F side of John Tendler, Gus Heath and Chris Buer powered to 10-0 win over Chelmsford F in division three. They top the table with 45 points out of 60. John Tendler was involved in three five enders. He beat Rev Mathews (8-11, 11-6, 7-11, 11-5, 11-5), Takunda Nerutanga (6-11 11-6, 11-5, 8-11, 11-8) and Dave Parker (8-11, 11-8, 8-11, 11-5, 11-8). Other games in this division were closer. OCA D were indebted to Richard Baxter as they beat Danbury H 6-4. Baxter completed his hat-trick with a 11-9, 1-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-7 victory over Peter Hance. It was also 6-4 when Chelmsford E played Writtle E. Dusan Doszkoty’s three wins gave Chelmsford F the edge. He had to dig deep to beat Malcolm Storey (11-8, 12-10, 9-11, 9-11, 11-9).  In yet another 6-4 result Ken Sheard won his three singles as Danbury G beat Danbury K. Sheard completed his hat-trick with a 11-9, 11-5, 11-9 success against Denis Balic; the win that secured his team’s victory. Maldon B (three wins for Dawn Baldry plus two victories for Brian Riedling) ran out 7-3 winners against OCA D. Dawn Baldry beat Richard Upson, the most successful of the OCA players (11-6, 13-11, 12-10). Division three isn’t division three without a 5-5 draw and Writtle D and Danbury H couldn’t be separated. Weittle’s Malcolm Henstock was unbeaten although he had to work hard to get the better of Dave Marsh (11-8, 9-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-8).

Danbury M lead the way in division four but with 34 points from seven games their lead is less than conclusive. Danbury L (33 points from five games) and Chelmsford G (32 points from five games) are clearly better placed. Tim Pulham was undefeated as Danbury M beat Buttsbury A 7-3. Pulham gave his side a winning start by getting the better of Jamie Elliott (5-11, 11-8, 11-7, 9-11, 11-8) in the opening encounter. Danbury M also drew 5-5 with Chelmsford H. Cleon Fernandes won his three games for Chelmsford downing the challenges of Ken Wilding (11-7, 12-10, 11-6), David Smith (11-1, 9-11, 11-9, 12-10) and Paul Thirkettle (11-9, 11-6, 11-5). Danbury L raced into a 4-1 Lead against Chelmsford G before eventually winning 6-4. Dave Powell won his three singles for Danbury whilst Harrison Hill and Alesha Ellis-Austin both won twice for Chelmsford.  A good trio of wins for Dave Powell who has a 92 % record, and he beat Alesha Ellis-Austin (11-5, 11-6, 5-11, 11-9), Harrison Hill (12-10, 11-8, 11-5) (Harrison’s first defeat) and Emilie Guilloux (11-1, 11-6, 11-6). OCA E ran out 7-3 winners against Hatfield Peverel D. David Newman and Farooq Ahmed were both unbeaten for the Old Chelmsfordians side. Farooq Ahmed overcame Bob Hillis (11-9, 7-11, 10-12, 11-5, 11-9) in the closest game of the evening. Hatfield Peverel E defeated Chelmsford H 6-4. Connor Payne’s hat-trick gave his side the ascendancy although he was hard pushed to get the better of Felix Reeve. He eventually triumphed (9-11, 11-8, 7,11, 13-11, 11-9).      

Highwood A made it seven wins out of seven in division five. They beat Hatfield Peverel F 7-3. Keith Fitz-John led the way with three wins beating Jackie Treacy (11-3, 10-12, 11-9, 11-7), Martin Kilbey (11-7, 11-6, 11-9) and Dave Benstead (11-5, 11-9, 11-6). Galleywood D did well to beat Maldon C 6-4. Nathan Blore won his three singles for Galleywood and this included a 13-11, 9-11, 6-11, 11-3, 11-8 win over Ella Sach, the best of the Maldon players. Steve Peacock sealed the Galleywood victory by beating Ross Wheeler (11-3, 8-11, 11-2, 11-8) in the last game of the night. Phil West won his three singles as Hatfield Peverel E beat ARU 8-2. Chris Rollison won twice and this included a hard-fought 7-11, 11-4, 10-12, 11-8, 11-8 success against Douglas Bawuah. “Teamwork” – in the shape of Kath Little (two wins), Phil West (two wins) and Jackie Treacey (one win) was enough to see Hatfield Peverel over the line against Chelmsford J, with a 6-4 victory. Kath Little had to dig deep to beat Shengbing Zhu (3-11, 11-9, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8). In another close game Danbury N beat Buttsbury B 6-4. Graham Naggs and David Smith won twice for Danbury whilst Lucy Elliott and Oscar Hutt both picked up two wins for Buttsbury. Four games were decided in the fifth end and Steve Martin lost two of them. He missed out (11-6, 10-12, 7-11, 11-5, 9-11) to Oscar Hutt and (7-11, 9-11, 11-6, 11-9, 9-11) against Lucy Elliott.

Buttsbury Bears took a giant step towards the Junior division 1A title. Callum Walker and Lucy Elliott won all four singles in their 4-1 win over Chelmsford Lions. Callum Walker got his team off to a winning start with a very hard-fought (11-8, 10-12, 6-11, 11-6, 12-10) victory against Luka Ha. Chelmsford Lions returned to winning ways by beating Danbury Dragons 3-2. Amir Chetitah won twice beating Oliver Martin (9-11, 13-11, 11-6, 11-8) and Alex Wilson (11-7, 11-7, 4-11, 11-3). Danbury Dragons also tasted success. Alex Wilson and Oliver Martin ran out 5-0 winners against Buttsbury Bulldogs.     

Junior division 1 B leaders Buttsbury Bees won twice and they lead the way with 16 points from five games with Chelmsford Cougars (15 points from four games) breathing down their necks.  Noah Middleton won twice as they beat Buttsbury Badgers 3-2 whilst Charlie Ware won twice as they saw off Chelmsford Antelopes 3-2. Buttsbury Bats also won 3-2. Thomas Lewis was their match-winner against Danbury Griffins with wins over Oscar Wyman (11-7, 11-3, 11-4) and Felix Ride (11-3, 11-6, 11 -4). Buttstbury Bats didn’t fare so well against Chelmsford Antelopes and lost 4-1. Jayden Bandari won twice with two hard fought victories – beating Torsten Greenan (5-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-6) and Thomas Lewis (12-14, 9-11, 11-9, 13-11, 11-6) .  

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

OCA A represented by their best team of Matt Mulley, Mark Mulley and Paul Lucas returned to winning ways in the first division of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League by beating Danbury B 8-2. Matt Mulley was undefeated for OCA A whilst Sam Lowman impressed for Danbury. He beat Mark Mulley 11-3, 8-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-8.

Six scorecards for division two this week which reflects the fact that this division has 12 teams. Where’s a the best place to start ?……….  Second placed Danbury D were held to a draw by Hatfield Peverel A. There was a first defeat for Danbury’s Sanjay Saptarshi who missed out 2-11, 7-11, 11-6, 11-5, 12-14 to Martin Archie who bagged a fine hat-trick of wins. Archie also defeated David Gatheral 11-8, 8-11, 11-6, 11-8. Leaders Galleywood A took advantage to pull further ahead by beating Chelmsford C 9-1. Ever-presents James Hicks and Gary Brignall were both unbeaten whilst Victor Chan was on target for the losers with a 11-7, 11-7, 16-14 win over Steve Kerns.  It was honours even between Danbury E and Writtle C. No one player remained undefeated, and Dick Wyman excelled for Danbury E. He beat both John Webber (11-7, 11-9, 6-11, 6-11, 11-6) and Gary Ward (12-10, 3-11, 11-7, 5-11, 12-10). Evergreen John Holland was on commanding form as he led Galleywood B to a 7-3 win over Maldon A – a team they have struggled against in the past. Not this time. Holland beat Brian Riedling (11-4, 11-5, 11-6), Dawn Baldry (11-8, 11-8, 13-11) and Hamish Innes (11-7, 11-6, 11-3). OCA C ran out 8-2 winners over a two-man OCA B side. Mick Richardson was undefeated for the C side whilst Berti Makoli picked up two wins for the B team. The fast-improving Nikita Tkachuk won his three singles as Chelmsford D edged out Writtle A 6-4. Tkachuk was poised at 2-2 against Paul Sturton but he made no mistake in the decider, powering to a 11-9, 11-5, 10-12, 7-11, 11-1 success.   

Danbury G stay top in division three after beating a two-man Danbury F 6-4, although they have played a game more than Danbury F and third placed Hatfield Peverel B. Alan Scammell defeated Steve Buer 7-11, 2-11, 11-4, 11-9, 12-10 in the closest game of the night. Hatfield Peverel B ran out 6-4 winners against Chelmsford F in a match where five games were decided in the fifth end and Chelmsford won four of them. Neil Freeman was unbeaten for Hatfield Peverel with wins over Andy Swales (9-11, 11-4, 11-3, 11-5), Luke Richardson (11-3, 10-12, 11-7, 11-5) and Alex Tkachuk (11-6, 8-11, 11-4, 11-9). Ryan Pitt, so impressive in division one last week wasn’t the first player to suffer the “curse” of the Press Officer. He was beaten by both Charlie Donald (aged 11) (6-11, 11-6, 6-11, 16-14. 9-11) and by Aiden Lees (aged 14) (11-9, 4-11, 1-11, 9-11) although Malcolm Henstock’s trio of wins ensured that Writtle D won 6-4 against Chelmsford E.  Aiden Lees had to pull out all the stops to beat the wily Peter Layzell (11-6, 13-11, 8-11, 7-11, 13-11). Team work, in this case two wins for each of Malcolm Storey, Neil Thompson and Dave Moles enabled Writtle E to beat Danbury K 7-3. None of them were able to beat Denis Balic.    

Division four is low scoring and Hatfield Peverel C jumped into second place (with 28 points) by beating OCA E 7-3 although with six games on the board they have played more games than all of their opponents. Connor Payne, in his first game of the Season was undefeated with wins over David Newman (7-11, 11-3, 11-6, 11-5), Russell Hall (11-4, 11-5, 13-11) and Farooq Ahmed (7-11, 11-8, 11-5, 11-6). Having used nine players to date Hatfield Peverel C are on target to set a record for the largest number of players to turn out for a team in a Season. Full marks to their Team Captain – Andy Simmonds for making efforts to turn out a full team each week. Danbury L also won 7-3, and Dave Powell led them to victory over Galleywood C. Powell beat Will Goodchild, the most successful of the Galleywood players (11-9, 11-1, 9-11, 9-11, 11-5).  

Division five leaders Highwood C (Nicola Pippen, Melanie Bonnett and Keith Fitz John) scored an impressive 10-0 win over Maldon C. Nicola Pippen won all three of her games in a deciding set. She beat Ross Wheeler (6-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-6, 11-6), Kym Eames (11-9, 9-11, 10-12, 11-5, 11-9) and Ella Sach (8-11 11-9, 11-4, 9-11, 11-6). Danbury N are second and they beat Writtle F 7-3. Dave Smith won his three singles and he was well supported by Steve Martin and Graham Naggs who both won twice.

Danbury Dragons (Alex Wilson and Oliver Martin) beat Buttsbury Bulldogs 5-0 in Junior division 1A, their first win of the season.

Chelmsford Cougars (Atharv Srivastava and Pankil Sharma) beat Danbury Griffins 5-0 in Junior division 1B. They lead the way with 15 points from four matches. 

Highwood A were narrow 5-4 winners against their club mates Highwood B in the Handicap KO Cup. Roger Patient ((handicap of 51) won his three singles to keep the B team in contention. With the match tied at 4-4 Keith Pallett (36) scored his second win with an emphatic 21-7, 21-10 victory over Martin Goddard (47). Buttsbury C – Francesca Hart (22). Freya Hart (20) and Calum Walker (34) were 7-2 winners against Butttsbury D. Callum Walker gave his team a winning start by beating Will Fullerton (21) 15-21, 21-18, 21-14. Chelmsford F are also safely through to the next round. Alex Tkachuk (51), Cleon Fernandes (40) and Dion Fernandes (37) defeated Buttsbury A 5-2. Cleon Fernandes sealed the victory by getting the better of Oscar Hutt (38) 21-13, 21-19.

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

With only seven teams in the first division of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League some weeks have seen a distinct shortage of action. This week we have three matches to report on. Writtle A scored an eye catching 10-0 win over Chelmsford B. Leading players Duncan Taylor and Kevin Read were joined by reserve Ryan Pitt and it was Pitt who excelled with a superb hat-trick of wins. He beat Nikita Tkachuk (11-9, 15-13, 11-7), Charlie Donald (2-11, 11-7, 11-8, 11-8) and he rounded off a memorable evening by beating Wiktor Delimat (9-11, 11-7, 11-8, 11-13, 11-9).   OCA A, tipped to do well, were unable to field their best team against Chelmsford B and lost 6-4. Paul Lucas was undefeated but Simon Jarvis, Wiktor Delimat and Kevin Gray all won twice for Chelmsford. Wiktor Delimat pipped Berti Makoli in five games (14-12, 11-9, 6-11, 11-13, 11-7). Danbury A beat Danbury B 6-4. Super veteran Babul McLeod excelled with a superb hat-trick of wins. He saw off the challenges of Matt Stringer (11-3, 11-8, 11-4), Dan Anderson (11-8, 11-8, 11-6) and Sam Lowman (11-13, 12-10, 8-11, 11-9, 11-6).

Ryan Pitt was to the fore again as Writtle B lost 7-3 to Chelmsford C in division two. Mike Johnston, Victor Chan and Mark Allaway all won twice for Chelmsford but Pitt proved to be a major stumbling block.  He beat Mike Johnston after an epic struggle (10-12, 10-12, 11-4, 24-22, 11-4), Mark Allaway (again in five hard fought ends; 12-10, 11-9, 8-11, 8-11, 11-8) and Victor Chan (11-8, 11-6, 11-8). Writtle C’s John Webber was undefeated against Galleywod B but it was Galleywood who shaded the match 6-4. John Parodi fought back after losing the first two ends to beat Mark Glenister (5-11, 3-11, 11-8, 11-4, 13-11).  Chelmsford D also won 6-4 In a match where no single player was undefeated, and they beat OCA B. Alex Gorshkov and Alex Tkachuk won twice for Chelmsford whilst Gareth Joice and Richard Baxter both won twice for OCA B. Alex Gorshkov beat Trevor Carter (13-11, 9-11, 10-12, 11-4, 13-11) in the closest game of the night.   

A very strong Danbury F team powered to a 10-0 win over Writtle E in division three and they lead this division with 31 points from four matches. John Tendler, Steve Buer and Chris Buer were all undefeated. Danbury H were indebted to Peter Hance as they beat Writtle E 6-4. Hance secured wins over Ian Hockley (11-7, 11-6, 10-12, 11-9), Malcolm Storey (11-9, 11-6, 9-11, 11-9) and Neil Thompson (11-4, 11-3, 11-9). It was honours even between Chelmsford E and Danbury G. Ken Sheard was unbeaten for Danbury G and he completed his hat-trick with a 11-9, 6-11, 11-9, 11-4 win over Rev Matthews – the most successful of the Chelmsford players.

Division four produced three clearcut sets of winners. Hatfield Peverel D powered to a 9-1 win over OCA C. Bob Hillis (three wins), Deb Ginn (two wins) and Gary Simmons (three wins) all played their part. Stuart Wintle was extended to five games before he beat Deb Ginn (11-8, 11-5, 7-11, 9-11, 11-8) but he missed out over five ends against Bob Hillis (11-6, 11-5, 8-11, 9-11, 12-14). Chelmsford G with the hugely promising Harrison Hill staying unbeaten ran out 8-2 winners against Danbury M. Hill saw off the challenges of Graham Naggs (11-5, 12-10, 11-6), Tim Pulham (11-6, 2-11, 6-11, 11-3, 11-4) and Ken Wilding (12-10, 11-6, 11-4). Danbury L also won 8-2. Dave Powell led the way by remaining undefeated against Chelmsford H and he was well supported by Robert Kneale and Alan Dadswell who both won twice. Powell beat Cleon Fernandes (who won twice for Chelmsford) 11-3, 11-1, 6-11, 11-8 to secure his hat-trick.

Buttsbury Bears are the early leaders in Junior division 1A. Joseph Hutt and Callum Walker ran out 3-2 winners against Buttsbury Bulldogs although Lucy Elliott was unbeaten for the Bulldogs. She beat Callum Walker (11-8, 11-3, 11-3) and Joseph Hutt (12-10, 11-5, 11-6).

Chelmsford Cougars moved into top position in Junior division 1B after beating Buttsbury Bees 4-1. Atharv Srivastava and Amir Chetitah were both undefeated in their singles. Amir Chetitah gave his side a winning start by beating Noah Middleton (9-11, 11-3, 7-11, 11-7, 11-7) in the opening game.  Buttsbury Bats ran out 5-0 winners against Buttsbury Beavers. Thomas Lewis and Torsten Greenan carried all before them. Will Fullerton and Thomas Lewis were poised at 2-2 before Thomas Lewis surged clear in the fifth end to win 11-5, 11-13, 11-8, 10-12, 11-2.

The League’s popular Handicap Cup is underway. Games are played under the “old” 21 points scoring system. Galleywood, represented by James Hicks (handicap of 73), Colin Blore (58) and Nathan Blore (41) beat OCA C 5-2. Mick Richardson beat James Hicks (21-18, 12-21, 21-18) in the closest game of the evening.   Danbury K – Mervyn Perriman (59), Denis Crapnell (58) and Greg Cooper (56) are safely through to the next round. They beat Writtle F 5-0. Greg Cooper recorded two three game wins, beating Ian Leff (35) 14-21, 21-17, 21-16 and Ron Tam (36) 18-21, 21-17, 21-14). The first division line-up of Danbury A beat Buttsbury 5-3. Sam Lowman (81), Eric Green (81) and Ian Whiteside (73) all played their part in this win. Eric Green scored an important 21-19, 22-20 win over Alex Ware (44) who won twice for the Buttsbury team.

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

The top two in the Premier division of the Southend & District Table Tennis League both had convincing wins this week, but both did drop the odd point or two along the way. First up was Thorpe Bay A who beat Rawreth C 7-2. Skipper John Poysden was undefeated against Eric Green, Bruce Kettle and Babul Mcleod, but Mark Stones and Paul Whatton dropped a game each against Kettle and McLeod respectively.Zayd and Yas Mauthoor were in solid form for Rawreth A as they were victorious over Thorpe Bay B 8-1. The only blot on the Rawreth A copybook was a good win for Kieran Skeggs over Kevin Read.Their clubmates Rawreth B had a good 7-2 win this week against Hadleigh Forum A with Arron Chandler and Andrew Halling winning all their games against Jim Stait, Dave Bassett and Berti Makolli. The Hadleigh wins came from Makolli and Bassett who both got the better of Paul Brown, in the former’s case 11-9 in the 5th game.There was one whitewash this week and that came for Brand Identity A, much to the chagrin of the two-man Rayleigh Mill side of Rob Harris and Steve Maltby. Simon and David Jacob and Steve Muth proving too strong on this occasion. Division 1.  A strong Hockley B side ramped up their push for the top of the league with an impressive 7–2 away win at Hadleigh Forum B. Unbeaten David Colwill was the Player of the Match. However, he was well supported by both Joerg Poeschus and Dennis Squirrell each taking two victories. Tony Jacks was the star for the home side, gaining both their victories.Invicta A maintained the top spot, though, with an 8–1 home win over Rawreth E. Both Lee Marson and Tony Ayliffe had hat tricks whilst the visitor’s Chris Aukett came from behind to beat Steve Marr in five sets and claim Rawreth’s only success and deny Steve his triple.It’s proving a bit of a struggle so far this season for Stanford Le Hope A. This week saw them visit Mapledene. A treble from POM Mike Johnston, aided by two from Steve Woodley and one from Lin Roff gave the home side a 6–3 win. Ian Sangster got two for Stanford and Peter Weatherall chipped in with a single.Despite only having two players (not for the first time this season) for their trek to Canvey A, Rawreth D’s Justin Jeffery and Charlie Kauders Boothby were more than a match for their hosts’ three players. Justin’s performance was outstanding – winning all three, whilst Charlie managed two wins to take the match 5–4.Lentern again put out a strong side for their visit to Hockley C. However, they hadn’t planned for the fine form of the home side’s Tarun Goel. His POM hat trick, with two wins from Aaryan Vatsa, gave his side a 5–4 win. Gus Heath took two for Lentern, and both Ian Cranstone and Paul Sims got one each. Division 2.  It may be early days in the League, but already there seems to be a gap appearing at the top of the table, where RESSC have opened up a six point gap from Hadleigh Forum C in second place and they, in turn, are six points clear of Stanford B. At the bottom, and excepting Rawreth F who have only played one game, bottom of the table Hullbridge A are nine points adrift of Canvey B two places above them. John Holland, Bob Skews and Ron Coutts made up the winning RESSC team as they beat Canvey B 7-2, with John and Bob both recording hat tricks. Terry Giddens and Kevin Walsingham both got the better of Ron who just edged out Des Duffield in five sets for his point. Terry had a 2-1 lead against Bob but lost the last two sets 11/1/ 12/10.Despite a man of the match performance from Stanford B’s Robert Salvage, Hadleigh Forum C ran out 6-3 winners with Mark Everard, Satwant Gill and David Thomas sharing the points. Mark Downey of Stanford can count himself somewhat unlucky to come away without a win, losing two of his games in five sets. Rawreth F finally got their season underway against Hullbridge A but unfortunately fielded only two players Mike Hayes and Simon Neale. These two were, however, more than a match for Hullbridge winning 6-3 and only dropping one set all night.                                     Division 3.  The closest match of the week was the encounter between Stanford C and Invicta C which resulted in a 5-4 win for the home side.  Stanford skipper Mark Farley was the player of the match with a perfect, straight sets, maximum.  He was well supported by Randy Santiago who picked up a brace of wins.  Although all the Invicta players made contributions, it was not quite enough.The Invicta B side enjoyed better fortunes, with a 6-3 victory over Canvey C.  David Barnes led the way with a hat-trick, but he was pushed all the way by Trevor Hayes, eventually getting over the line 11-9 in the final set.  This was a good team performance by Invicta as Steve Lennox, with two wins, and Sarah Ball, with one win, also chipped in.  Che Martin was Canvey’s best player, recording two wins.Hockley D made it five wins from five games, and head the table, after overcoming Hockley E 6-3.  Anthony Molisso and Ron Rogerson were both unbeaten, although Ron was taken to the deciding set by both Ellis Marley and Graham Gregory before eventually coming out on top.  Ellis and Graham, along with teammate Keith Denyer ending up with a win apiece after beating Ben Brown.Jean Catley took the individual honours with a maximum for her side as Hadleigh Forum D visited Hullbridge B and left with a 6-3 win.  She had good support from newcomer Tom Adcock who picked up two wins and Sineh Ball with a single.  Dan Stewart was the best player on the night for the young Hullbridge side.  He recorded two wins and pushed Jean all the way before falling short at 7/11 in the final set.  Ollie Milchard secured the other point for the home team.

Leading sides are setting a hot pace in division two

The two leading sides in division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League continue to set a fierce pace. Galleywood A made it 33 points out of 40 by beating Danbury E 9-1. James Hicks and Peter Barrett were both undefeated. Hicks who had beaten Neil Want 11-5, 11-3, 11-5 in his opening singles defeated Tim Cramphorn 11-3, 11-7, 9-11, 11-8 to complete an excellent evening’s work. Danbury D made it four wins out of four by beating Maldon A 8-2. Sanjay Saptarshi (12 wins out of 12) and David Gatheral (eight wins out of nine) were both on top form. Gatheral powered home against Lloyd Bennett-Smith (11-8, 11-5, 13-11), Dawn Baldry (11-8, 16-14, 16-14) and Hamish Innes (11-5, 11-8, 11-7). Maldon A returned to winning ways against Chelmsford D, with an 8-2 success.  Hamish Innes was undefeated downing the challenges of Keith Martin (11-2, 5-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-7), Adi Kamma (9-11, 5-11, 11-7, 11-7, 11-4) and Paul Nicol (11-9, 11-6, 11-6).  Hatfield Peverel A are third and they beat Chelmsford C 6-4. Alastair Piper impressed with wins over Mark Allaway (8-11, 11-7, 11-7, 11-8) and Rob Shrimpton (11-9, 11-8, 12-10). In a another closely fought game Writtle B defeated OCA B 6-4. Bertie Makoli did well to beat Rod Maclennan (11-9, 11-7, 7-11, 11-5) and Richard Storey (11-9, 12-10, 7-11, 11-8). Chelmsford D, well served by Adi Kamma and the fast-improving Nikita Tkachuk ran out 9-1 winners against Galleywood B.  Nikita Tkachuk defeated Mark Glenister (11-7, 13-11, 11-8), Gary Copsey (6-11, 11-9, 11-7, 12-10) and Bryn Thomas (11-5, 11-4, 11-8). OCA C also impressed by beating Writtle C 8-2. Mick Richardson won his three singles in a match where the Old Chelmsfordians side won three encounters at 11-9 in the fifth end. John Webber just missed out against Mick Richardson (11-7, 11-7, 8-11, 4-11, 9-11) whilst John Gagg went equally close against Dave Porter before succumbing (9-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-7, 9-11).  

In contrast to division two, division three is quite low scoring. Danbury G lead the way with 26 points from four matches. Ken Sheard was undefeated in their 8-2 win against Writtle D. He was well supported by Alan Scammell and Peter Lucraft who both won twice. Hatfield Peverel B who are second, beat Danbury K 6-4. Neil Freeman and Paul Mulley both won twice for Hatfield Peverel whilst Mervyn Perriman and Denis Crapnell picked up two wins apiece for Danbury K. Mervyn Perriman secured a fine 11-9, 11-3, 11-9 win over Neil Freeman.  Chelmsford E also won 6-4. Rev Matthews’ hat-trick gave them the ascendancy against OCA D. Alesha Ellis-Austin impressed for Chelmsford E.  She succumbed narrowly to Amanda Hogger (11-8, 9-11, 11-3, 6-11, 9-11) but she excelled to get the better of Richard Upson (11-8, 11-7, 3-11, 11-6).

Hatfield Peverel C lead the way in division four but their total of 21 points hides the fact that they have played five matches. They made no mistake against Hatfield Peverel D, winning 9-1. Davina Brazier and Richard Drozd were both undefeated. Davina Brazier pipped Bob Hillis (11-7, 11-7, 9-11, 11-13, 14-12). Buttsbury A (Jamie Elliott, Frances Hutt and Kevin Willis) gave nothing away as they defeated Galleywood C 10-0. Frances Hutt beat Nathan Blore (6-11, 11-7, 8-11, 11-8, 12-10) in the closest game of the night. OCA E did well to beat Danbury M 6-4, good going as Tim Pulham was undefeated for Danbury M. Pulham completed his hat-trick with a 11-7, 11-4, 12-10 victory against Dave Newman. It was honours even between OCA F and Chelmsford H.  Dave Bishop and Stuart Wintle bagged two wins for the OCA side with Felix Reeve and Jishaant Shah winning twice for the Chelmsford team. The last game of the night was a thriller, and Dave Bishop claimed victory (9-11, 11-9, 11-5, 4-11, 12-10) against Felix Reeve.      

Highwood A stay top in division five with 37 points. Nicola Pippen (three wins), Melanie Bonnett (two wins) and Keith Pallett (two wins) defeated Highwood B 8-2. Keith Pallett pipped Martin Goddard (10-12, 6-11, 11-8, 11-9, 13-11) in the closest game of the night. Writtle F are second with 30 points and they drew 5-5 with Chelmsford J. Ron Tam won his three singles beating John Wickens (11-7, 11-7, 11-4), Jacqui Smith (7-11, 11-7, 11-4, 11-9) and James Grimston (11-3, 11-6, 11-9).  Anglia Ruskin University scored their first win of the Season, beating Buttsbury B 6-4. Ben Brown was undefeated for Buttsbury whilst Douglas Bawuah and Bobby Sutthisa both won twice for the University E team.  Douglas Bawuah fought back from 2-0 down to beat George Standish (8-11, 7-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-9).  Hatfield Peverel E ran out 7-3 winners against Hatfield Peverel F. Kath Little, Davina Brazier and Phil West all won twice as they countered the hat-trick that Karen Braney picked up for Hatfield Peverel F. Phil West beat Jackie Treacey (7-11 6-11, 11-6, 11-9, 12-10) in the closest game of the evening. Hatfield Peverel F were also beaten 9-1 by Buttsbury B. Oscar Hutt and Steve Webster were both undefeated whilst Veteran campaigner Alistair Brown picked up the consolation victory for Hatfield Peverel F by beating Lucy Elliott (15-17, 11-7, 11-9, 11-9). Danbury N ran out 10-0 winners against Galleywood D. David Smith, Graham Naggs and Steve Martin carried all before them. David Smith was hard pushed to get the better of Paul Cockrell (11-5, 10-12, 11-5, 8-11, 11-9) in the last game of the night.

The early leaders Chelmsford Tigers scored their second win of the Season in Junior division 1A, beating Danbury Dragons 3-2. Gil Martins led the way with wins over Oscar Wyman (8-11, 11-6, 2-11, 11-3, 11-5) and Alex Wilson (11-2, 11-8, 10-12, 11-5).

Buttsbury Bats beat Chelmsford Cougars 3-2 in Junior division 1B. Joshua Freeman won twice for the Cougars beating Torsten Greenan (11-6, 17-15, 12-10) and Thomas Lewis (5-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-6).

Steve Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

First up this week in the Southend Premier Division is a late result to bring you from last week and that was a 9-0 whitewash for Hockley A over Hadleigh Forum A. Three wins a piece for Andy Cunningham, Matthew Stringer and Daniel Patynski against Dave Bassett, Berti Makoli and Hamish Innes. Hockley A followed that impressive display with a comprehensive win this week against Rawreth C with an 8-1 victory. 3 wins again for Andy Cunningham, as there was for teammate Ian Wall. Matt Stringer won two against Eric Green and Tim Cramphorn but fell to Babul McLeod in the second game of the evening for the Rawreth’s Consolation win. Richard Jackman was in good form this week as he won his two games against Thorpe Bay B’s Kieran Skeggs and Richard Stubbington, these wins and one for Steve Muth over Richard Stubbington helped Brand Identity A to a 6-3 win as the Bay were only able to field two players. The top two teams were in great form this week as we saw Rawreth A and Thorpe Bay A win 9-0 and 8-1 over Hadleigh Forum A and Irons A respectively. Maximums in the Rawreth game for Kevin Read (who was playing two matches on the same night), George Reeves and Zayd Mauthoor and for Thorpe Bay, there were three wins a piece for Paul Sayer and John Poysden. The one blot on the ‘top two copybook’ was a good win for Reece Seddon over Paul Whatton. Duncan Taylor DRS Premier Division Division 1 Mick Tappenden continued his run of good form this week with another maximum, this time in his Hadleigh Forum B side’s 7-2 home win over Stanford A. Tony Jacks was also undefeated and Paul Fawell added the other success for Forum. Peter Weatherall and Saad Abdullah won one each for Stanford.The youngsters of Rawreth D had a night to forget at Invicta A. Hat tricks from POM Tony Ayliffe and Steven Marr, plus two from Lee Marson, gave the home side a comfortable 8-1 win. Charlie Kauders Boothby saved Rawreth’s blushes with a single success. In a close match at Canvey A, visitors Lentern edged it 5-4, thanks to a hat trick from Player of the Match Martin Archie. He was aided by Susan Body and Wayne Farmer who added one win each. Peter Cray and Ray Wilson got two each for Canvey. Due to health / injury problems, this week’s match between Hockley B and Rawreth E has had to be postponed. Hockley’s other team in this division, Hockley C, were only able to find two players for their home match against Brand Identity B. Given this, home players Joerg Poeschus and Brian Bissenden did well to take three games off their visitors, Joerg winning two, and Brian one, in a 6-3 defeat for the home side. Jenny Harrison was Brand Identity’s star, being undefeated, whilst Dale Gutteridge and Mick Grout contributed. David Barnes Drs Div 1 Division 2 Stanford B chalked up one of the biggest wins of the week beating Hullbridge A 8-1. The scores actually stood at 1-1 after two games as Ben Stewart picked up his first win for Hullbridge beating John Handscombe in five sets after Robert Salvage had given Stanford the lead. After that though, it was pretty much plain sailing for the Stanford team of John, Robert and Chris Crooks with only three games going beyond three sets. RESSC came through 6-3 against Runnymede with John Holland making the difference between the two sides. His hat trick was confirmed in a tight five set match against Dmitry Kisil. Dmitry led 2-1 before the crucial fourth set which John eventually won 18-16. Another close game in the fifth before John won 12-10 to give RESSC a winning 5-2 lead. Richard Gill with a brace and Mike Worship with one got the other points for the winning team, whilst Dmitry also picked up two wins for Runnymede and Tony Millward one. Hadleigh Forum C matched Stanford’s win as they beat Selbourne 8-1. David Thomas and Graham Farmer both picked up hat tricks and Mark Everard weighed in with two. Only one match went to five sets as Andy Roff surrendered a two set lead against David, whilst Jenne Siebolt got the consolation point beating Mark. Wakering and Canvey B produced a close fought match which finally ended in a 5-4 win for Wakering. Stewart Mills and Zac England both won two games with a single for Paul England, but it was Canvey’s Terry Giddens who took the man of the match honours winning all his games. He had to fight hard to do that though as two of his matches went to five sets and he had to come back from 2-1 down against Paul and then beat Zac in the fifth after losing the fourth set 11-1 .Spare a thought here for Rawreth F who have yet to play a game three weeks into the Season! their first match being postponed due to our Late Queen’s funeral, followed by 2 vacancies. Paul Strutt Drs Div 2 Division 3 Stanford C came up against Megazone this week and can consider themselves a bit unfortunate to end up on the wrong side of a 6-3 scoreline. Four of their games went the full distance, with Megazone the winners in each of them. Richard Kidd took the individual honours with a maximum but was ably supported by Jaspreet Singh with a brace and Mike Webb with one win.  Mark Farley with two wins was the best player for the home side, just missing his hat-trick when he lost 11-9 in the fifth end to Richard. The match between Invicta B and Hockley D was tied at 4-4 as Michael Keeble took on John George in the final game. This was a see-saw affair that eventually saw John emerge as the winner. The 11-8, 9-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-9 score line, certainly the closest match of the night, earned his Hockley side a narrow 5-4 victory. Bad luck to David Barnes whose straight sets maximum for Invicta was to no avail. The youngsters of Hullbridge B turned in good performances in a 7-2 win over Canvey C. A hat-trick from Alex Bowden was backed up with a brace each from Tom Buscombe and Max Mayo. Che Martin was the best on the night for Canvey with two wins. Dave Woolmer Drs Div 3

Danbury D and Galleywood A both produced top class performances in division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League and their 10-0 wins have propelled them both to the head of the table with impressive totals of 24 points from three games. Danbury’s David Gatheral, Sanjay Saptarshi and Dan Piggott carried all before them against Chelmsford C. Dan Piggott was pushed hard by Victor Chan before he won 11-13, 11-4, 12-10, 8-11, 13-11. Galleywood A were equally impressive against OCA C. Gary Brignall, James Hicks and James Mullane all played their part although Hicks had to dig deep to beat David Porter 11-9, 6-11, 10-12, 11-3, 12-10. Danbury E were also convincing winners against Chelmsford C. They won 9-1 after Neil Want and Tim Cramphorn had both bagged hat-tricks. Tony Forster won the last game of the evening with a hard fought 7-11, 12-10, 15-13, 7-11, 11-9 success against Alex Gorshkov.  Writte C impressed by defeating Writtle B 7-3. Gary Ward was on top form racing to wins over Phil Smith (11-4, 11-7, 11-6), Trevor Collin (11-5, 11-6, 11-4) and Paul Sturton (15-13, 11-5, 11-8). Galleywood B recorded their third draw of the Season against OCA B. Gareth Joice was unbeaten for OCA B and he earned his side a share of the points by beating John Holland 9-11, 11-5, 8-11, 14-12, 11-5 in the last game of the evening. In another drawn match Danbury E and Hatfield Peverel A couldn’t be separated. Martin Archie won twice for Hatfield Peverel whilst Dick Wyman and Neil Want both picked up two wins for Danbury E. Dick Wyman’s 8-11, 11-7, 11-7, 7-11, 11-5 opening match win over Martin Archie stood out.   

In the first division clash between Danbury B and Chelmsford A no one player dominated but no one went home empty handed. The match fittingly finished tied at 5-5. Sanjay Saptarshi lost to James Donald (9-11, 11-9, 7-11, 5-11) but he more than made up for it with resounding wins over Josh Bickles (11-3, 11-6, 11-6) and Saul Chivers (11-8, 11-2, 11-8). Saul Chivers pipped Dan Anderson (11-7, 11-9, 8-11, 9-11, 12-10) after a classic attack versus defence encounter.

Neil Freeman was on superb form for Hatfield Peverel B in division three. His outstanding hat-trick earned his side a share of the spoils against leaders Danbury F. Freeman excelled to get the better of Gus Heath (14-12, 5-11, 12-10, 11-13, 11-6) and in a rousing last game of the evening he defeated Chris Buer (11-6, 7-11, 3-11, 12-10, 11-9).  Danbury G produced a really strong performance to beat Maldon B 10-0. Peter Hance, Alan Scammell and Ken Sheard dominated. In another close match Danbury K defeated Chelmsford F 6-4, although Alex Gorshkov won his three singles for the Chelmsford side in dominant fashion. He beat Mervyn Perriman (11-3, 11-5, 11-8), Denis Balic (11-8, 11-4, 13-11) and Denis Crapnell (11-8, 11-7, 11-5). Ian Hockley was undefeated for Writtle E who beat Writtle D 7-3. Hockley secured five game wins over Peter Layzell (9-11, 11-5, 11-8, 9-11, 11-9) and Dave Carter (6-11, 11-9, 11-4, 9-11, 11-6). Newcomer Aidan Lees starred for Chelmsford E who beat Maldon B 6-4. He defeated Shirley Carroll (11-5, 11-5, 11-6), Andrea Alleyne (11-4, 11-4, 12-10) and Dawn Baldry (11-9, 11-8, 11-6). OCA D also won 6-4. Richard Baxter and Tom Barker were both unbeaten against Danbury G. Tom Barker sealed his third win of the evening with a 12-10, 12-10, 11-5 victory over Peter Lucraft.  

Chelmsford G lead the way in division four. Harrison Hill dominated as they beat Chelmsford H 6-4. Hill appeared to be in trouble against Dion Fernandes but he fought back strongly to win 13-15, 8-11, 11-9, 11-3, 11-5 and he beat Cleon Fernandes 6-11, 11-6, 7-11, 11-5, 11-5 in the last game of the evening to seal the Chelmsford G victory. It was 6-4 as well, when Danbury M beat Hatfield Peverel C. Paul Thirtkettle was undefeated for Danbury whilst Peverel’s Richard Drozd beat Tim Pulham 6-11, 11-7, 6-11, 11-6, 12-10 in the closest game of the evening. Danbury L with Robert Kneale picking up maximum wins defeated Hatfield Peverel D 8-2. Bob Hillis was on target for the losers with a 11-6, 7-11, 5-11, 11-4, 11-9 success against Dave Powell.

Highwood A recorded their fourth win of the Season to head the division five table with 29 points. Melanie Bonnett was undefeated against Hatfield Peverel D who they beat 7-3. She defeated Karen Braney, the best of the Hatfield Peverel players; 11-5, 8-11, 11-8, 7-11, 11-7. Highwod B are second and they beat Maldon C 8-2. Roger Patient retained his 100 % record with three wins. He defeated Ross Wheeler in five ends (14-12, 11-7, 6-11, 3-11, 11-7) in his toughest encounter.  Chelmsford J were “big” winners. Peter Davenport and Jacqui Smith were both undefeated as they saw off Galleywood D 9-1. Peter Davenport beat Arran Goodridge 11-7, 11-8, 10-12, 12-10 to seal his third win of the evening.

Chelmsford Lions (Luka Ha and Aryan Gupta) scored their first win of the Season in Junior division 1A. They beat Buttsbury Bulldogs 5-0. Aryan Gupta had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Freya Hart 11-13, 12-10, 9-11, 11-9, 12-10. Quite a battle !.

Buttsbury Bees lead the way in Junior division 1B. Thomas Lewis and Charlie Ware were 5-0 winners against Danbury Griffins. However, Danbury Griffins did better against Buttsbury Beavers and they won 4-1. They came through two five setters. Oliver Martin beat Will Fullerton (4-11, 12-10, 9-11, 11-1, 11-4) and Felix Ride defeated Vivaan Babbar after a really hard-fought encounter (13-11, 7-11, 7-11, 11-9, 14-12). Buttsbury Beavers also lost 5-0 against Chelmsford Antelopes but they again missed out in the five enders. Oli Jones lost to Ethan Li (11-7, 6-11, 13-11, 4-11, 9-11) and Jones and Francesca Hart succumbed (6-11, 11-9, 11-7, 3-11, 9-11) to Jayden Bandari and Ethan Li in the doubles. Buttsbury Bees scored their second win by defeating Buttsbury Bats 4-1. Charlie Ware was unbeaten with wins over Torsten Greenan (11-8, 11-4, 11-5) and Oli Jones (11-1, 11-5, 14-12).            

Steve Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

There was little to separate Danbury C and Writtle A this week in the first division of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League. No one player stayed undefeated and Trevor Lloyd and Keith Adams both won twice for Danbury whilst Duncan Taylor and Lee McHugh both picked up two wins for Writtle. Lee McHugh was involved in two hard fought five enders. He missed out 4-11, 14-12, 7-11, 11-7, 6-11 to Trevor Lloyd but he came up trumps 9-11, 11-7, 2-11, 13-11, 12-10 against Keith Adams. Danbury C eventually emerged as 6-4 winners. Writtle A paraded another top notch signing against Danbury B – Kevin Read. No stranger to the Chelmsford League – Read was on top form, powering his way to wins against Ian Whiteside (11-4, 11-3, 11-7), Dan Anderson (11-4. 11-3, 11-8) and Sam Lowman (11-6, 11-7, 11-7).  The match finished tied at 5-5. If Writtle field the trio of Duncan Taylor, Lee McHugh and Kevin Read in the same side they will be very difficult to beat. Danbury A did well to beat Chelmsford B 7-3. Eric Green and Babul McLeod were both undefeated. McLeod impressed greatly beating Simon Jarvis (5-11, 11-4, 11-9, 11-6), Kevin Gray (8-11, 11-7, 12-14, 11-8, 11-6) and Kim Shead (11-6, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9).

There were no fewer than six sets of results in division two this week. Two games produced 9-1 scorelines. Galleywood A (Gary Brignall, James Mullane and James Hicks) beat Writtle B 9-1, whilst Danbury E (Tony Forster, Neil Want and Tim Cramphorn) were similarly dominant against Chelmsford D.  Tony Forster missed out against Victor Chan (1-3) and he had to pull out all the stops to get the better of newcomer Alex Gorshkov 7-11, 12-10, 15-13, 7-11, 11-9. Maldon A served by an unbeaten Colin Napper beat OCA B 8-2. OCA’s Trevor Carter did well to beat Hamish Innes 2-11, 6-11, 11-7, 11-5, 11-8.  Maldon A also defeated Writtle C 6-4. Colin Napper made his mark with a fine 11-7, 8-11, 10-12, 11-5, 11-5 win over Gary Ward whilst Ward had to dig deep to beat Hamish Innes 4-11, 9-11, 11-5, 15-13, 11-9. Dawn Baldry impressed by beating John Webber 11-7, 11-5, 11-5. Team work was the order of the day as Hatfield Peverel A defeated OC-C 6-4. League Chairman David Porter fought back from 2-0 down to get the better of Alastair Piper 4-11, 5-11, 11-7, 11-6, 11-3 whilst Martin Archie, Neil Freeman and Alastair Piper all won twice for the Hatfield Peverel side. Last but not least Danbury D beat Chelmsford D 7-3. Sanjay Saptarshi and Sam Phillips were both undefeated with Phillips pipping Nikita Tkachuk 11-7, 6-11, 11-8, 7-11, 11-9 in the closest game of the night. 

Danbury F (Chris Buer, Steve Buer and Gus Heath) were the week’s big winners in division three. Their 10-0 win over Chelmsford F hides the fact that five games were decided in the fifth end. Steve Buer clinched his hat-trick with a 11-4, 11-5, 5-11, 9-11, 11-4 win over Alex Tkachuk. Danbury F top the table with 16 points from two games.  OCA D were 9-1 winners over Writtle E. Richard Baxter and Richard Upson both bagged hat-tricks. Richard Baxter was pushed hard by Neil Thompson before he won 11-13, 13-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-9.  Danbury H (David Meah, David Marsh and Peter Hance) ran out 7-3 winners against Chelmsford E.  David Marsh saw off Joachin Mapes, just, 11-8, 9-11, 9-11, 11-7, 12-10. Danbury H added a further six points to their total by beating Danbury G 6-4. David Marsh clinched the victory for Danbury H by beating Peter Lucraft in five ends, 11-5, 11-4, 9-11, 5-11, 11-7.

A refreshingly young-looking Chelmsford G side scored a fine 8-2 win over OCA E in division four. Match comments advised that Alesha Ellis-Austin’s powerful forehand and Richard Upson’s serves played a significant part in proceedings. Harrison Hill and Alesha Ellis-Austin were both unbeaten. The last two games were fiercely fought. Alesha Ellis-Austin beat Suzanne Shaw 10-12, 11-5, 11-8, 5-11, 11-9 and Harrison Hill defeated Richard Upson 12-10, 11-8, 4-11, 3-11, 11-8. Buttsbury A shaded a close match against Danbury G 6-4. Jamie Elliott, Kevin Willis and Caroline Cole all won twice with Kevin Willis getting the better of Dave Goody 8-11, 11-9, 11-7, 3-11, 14-12.   OCA F were another side to impress, and Stuart Wintle and David Bishop were both undefeated in their 8-2 victory against Hatfield Peverel C. Stuart Wintle bested Andy Simmonds over five ends – 11-9, 8-11, 11-8, 8-11, 11-9.

Highwood A with 22 points from three matches are the early leaders in division five. Melanie Bonnett led the way as they beat Buttsbury B 8-2. They are followed by Highwood B on 19 points. Highwood B beat Buttbsury B 6-4 courtesy of a hat-trick of wins from Roger Patient. Highwood B also beat Hatfield Peverel E 7-3, and again it was Roger Patient calling the shots with an undefeated performance. League stalwart Francis Whitbread secured two last gasp wins; seeing off Kath Little (7-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-8, 12-10) and Davina Brazier (11-7, 9-11, 4-11, 11-5, 12-10).   A closely fought match between Maldon C and Danbury N finished all square. Five games were decided in the fifth end and Tom Elder, a hugely experienced campaigner (at this or indeed any level) was involved in three of them. He beat David Smith (13-11, 6-11, 11-9, 4-11, 11-4), Steve Martin (11-9, 10-12, 7-11, 11-6, 11-3) and Graham Naggs (11-6, 11-6, 9-11, 9-11, 11-8). In another closely fought match (and again five games were decided in the fifth end) Chelmsford G beat Hatfield Peverel C 6-4. The last four games were five setters and Alesha Ellis-Austin sealed the win for her team by beating Pete Mortensen 6-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-7, 11-4 in the last game of the night. Writtle F made no mistake against Hatfield Peverel F, winning 9-1.  Jackie Treacy beat Jo Hart 11-6, 11-9, 11-7 in the opening game, but thereafter Writtle dominated with Paul Aarons and Ron Tam carrying all before them.   Last but not least Chelmsford J and Maldon C drew 5-5. Peter Davenport was unbeaten for Chelmsford whilst Ella Sach and Kym Eames won twice for Maldon. Peter Davenport earned his side a share of the points by beating Ella Sach 11-6, 11-8, 11-4 in the last game of the night.  

The Chelmsford Junior Leagues are under way. In division one Chelmsford Tigers and Buttsbury Bears both made winning starts. Chelmsford Tigers aided by two wins from Pavanaj Srinavasmurthy  beat Chelmsford Lions 4-1.  Pavanaj Srinavasmurthy beat Luka Ha (4-11, 8-11, 11-8, 11-7, 11-6);  a case of one of the longest surnames in the League history beating what must surely be one of the shortest. Buttsbury Bears beat Danbury Dragons 4-1. Oscar Hutt was undefeated for Buttsbury.

Could all players please ensure that the boxes on the top of the scorecards for the number of games a player has won are completed. With a large number of matches this week seeing no one player from either side winning all three singles there is a much larger chance of the Press Officer failing to capture the results correctly in his report if these boxes aren’t completed.  Your co-operation will be greatly appreciated.    

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

OCA A opened their campaign with a top class performance in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League. Their 8-2 win over Danbury A gives a clear indication of what their potential is. Brothers Matt Mulley and Mark Mulley were both unbeaten whilst Paul Lucas won twice. Danbury’s new signing Chris Penrose – better known in the Romford League marked his debut with an excellent 3-0 win over Paul Lucas. Chelmsford A ran out 6-4 winners over Chelmsford B. Kevin Gray and Kim Shead both won twice for the B side whereas Josh Bickles and Harry Chivers both picked up two wins for the A team. Ace defender Kevin Gray, a former Cambridgeshire County player had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Harry Chivers 11-8, 11-8, 6-11, 9-11, 11-9 whilst Chivers pipped Kim Shead 5-11, 11-9, 11-6, 9-11, 12-10.

Danbury D impressed in division two by beating Danbury E 7-3. Sanjay Saptarshi led the way with three wins although his 11-6, 11-13, 11-1, 9-11, 12-10 victory over Dick Wyman could have gone either way. OCA C ran out 6-4 winners against Chelmsford C. The OCA team came through three five enders with Mick Richardson beating Victor Chan (11-13, 11-8, 8-11, 11-6, 11-9), David Porter defeating Mike Johnston (11-5, 2-11, 15-13, 9-11, 11-6) and David Porter getting the better of Victor Chan (13-11, 11-8, 7-11, 5-11, 11-9). A well contested match between Galleywood A and Galleywood B ended in a 5-5 draw. Gary Copsey impressed by beating Gary Brignall 11-13, 11-6, 11-8, 14-16, 13-11. Quite a battle. Mark Glenister made his mark with an excellent 12-10, 9-11, 8-11, 11-9, 11-5 win over James Hicks. An equally well contested match between Writtle B and Hatfield Peverel A also finished level. The first two games were crackers and Writtle won both of them. Trevor Collin beat Gareth Davies 11-9, 11-7, 7-11, 7-11, 12-10 and Richard Storey (who was undefeated) pipped Martin Archie 11-9, 11-8, 8-11, 8-11, 12-10.

Hatfield Peverel B were the week’s big winners in division three. Paul Mulley (farther of the afore-mentioned Matt and Mark) and Neil Freeman were both undefeated and Roger Slade won twice as they beat OCA D handsomely 9-1. Tom Barker was on target for the OCA side with a 7-11, 11-8, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9 win over Roger Slade. By contrast the match between Chelmsford F and Writtle D finished tied at 5-5. Ryan Pitt was undefeated for Writtle and he won’t lose many at this level. Danbury F ran out 6-4 winners against Danbury K. Chris Buer was unbeaten for Danbury F and he definitely won’t lose many in this division. Mervyn Perriman won twice for the K team and this included a fine 8-11, 10-12, 11-4, 11-7, 11-9 win over Gus Heath.

Two results in division four and both matches finished 6-4. Farooq Ahmed’s hat-trick enabled OCA E to beat Galleywood C. Ahmed downed the challenges of Ron Salton (11-2, 9-11, 7-11, 11-7, 11-2), Nathan Blore (11-6, 11-8, 11-4) and Will Goodchild (11-5, 11-6, 8-11, 11-7). Two wins for the OCA F trio of Richard Upson, Stuart Wintle and Mike Morecroft saw them edge out Danbury M 6-4. They all lost to Tim Pulham who beat Morecroft (11-3, 11-6, 15-13), Upson (12-10, 2-11, 11-8, 3-11, 11-6) and Wintle (11-9, 10-12, 11-6, 11-5).

Danbury N made a great start in division five by beating Chelmsford J 8-2. Steve Martin and Graham Naggs were both unbeaten. Graham Naggs had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Jacqui Smith (11-4, 9-11,11-13, 11-7, 11-9).  Highwood A also won 8-2, beating Galleywood D and they top the table.  Keith Fitz-John was undefeated and this included a last gasp 11-6, 11-7, 9-11, 1-12, 11-9 victory against Paul Cockrell. Highwood A added a second win by beating Writtle F 6-4. Team-work was the order of the day and Nicola Pippen, Keith Fitz-John and Keith Pallett all won twice. Galleywood D tasted success and Steve Peacock won his three singles as they beat Hatfield Peverel F 7-3. Peacock was pushed all the way by Jackie Treacy before he sneaked home 8-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-9, 12-10. A hard fought match between Maldon C and Hatfield Peverel E finished tied at 5-5. Davina Brazier won her three singles for the Hatfield Peverel side beating Ella Sach (6-11, 11-5, 11-5, 7-11, 11-7), Ross Wheeler (9-11, 11-7, 11-7, 5-11, 11-9) and Kym Eames (11-5, 11-8, 11-4).   

Players are requested to note that the new format of scorecard includes a comments box. Please feel free to use it. Hopefully it should lead to more informative press releases.

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League