County Juniors

OCA A produce strong start to the Season

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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

    County Juniors

    Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

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    Nikita Tkachuk makes impressive start to the Season

    With the matches scheduled for Monday 19 September 2022 being postponed for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II this first report of the Season in the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League is much shorter than usual. In addition, since the first division only has seven teams it’s fixtures will start a week later than the other four Senior divisions.

    Chelmsford D are the early leaders in division two. Nikita Tkachuk was undefeated as they beat Writtle C 6-4. Tkachuk gave a clear indication of what his intentions are for the season as he beat Gary Ward (12-10, 11-8, 11-4). Keith Martin provided excellent support with wins over John Gagg and John Parodi. Martin Archie was also on good form and his hat-trick enabled Hatfield Peverel A to share the points with Galleywood B. Archie sealed his third win by beating John Holland 11-9, 11-8, 2-11, 11-8. Gary Copsey played his part for Galleywood by beating Robin Armstrong 11-4, 8-11, 8-11, 11-6, 11-9. OCA C shared the points with Danbury E. Berti Makoli’s three wins held them in good stead and this included a titanic 11-5, 11-5, 15-17, 17-19, 11-9 victory over Tim Cramphorn.

    Danbury K made a very strong start in division three. Denis Balic and Denis Crapnell were both undefeated as they beat Writtle D 9-1. Dave Carter saved the whitewash by beating Mervyn Perriman 5-11, 11-8, 11-13, 11-8, 11-8 in the last game. Chelmsford F also made a winning start. Alex Tkachuk and Dusan Doszkoty were both undefeated against OCA D. Alex Tkachuk had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Richard Upson 11-7, 8-11, 11-8, 16-18, 11-7 in the last game of the night.

    Just one scorecard in division four and Galleywood C scored a convincing 8-2 win over Hatfield Peverel C. Colin Blore led the way with three wins and he received excellent support from Will Goodchild and Steve Peacock who both won twice. Pete Mortensen beat Will Goodchild 11-8, 8-11. 13-11, 7-11, 11-7 in the most evenly contested game of the match.

    Highwood B – always a presence at this level, made a winning start in division five. Martin Goddard was unbeaten in their 6-4 win over Writtle F. Goddard secured the victory for his side by beating Paul Aarons 12-10, 11-8, 11-8 in the last game of the evening. Newcomer Ian Leff made his mark for Writtle by beating Russell Downton 11-6, 7-11, 11-6, 7-11, 12-10. Buttsbury B ran out 7-3 winners against Hatfield Peverel E. Gary Carr and Steve Webster were both undefeated in a hard fought match which featured five hard fought five enders. Steve Webster had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Kath Little 12-14, 11-8, 8-11, 11-4, 12-10.

      County Juniors, Tournaments

      Report – Chelmsford Junior/Cadet 1 Star Ranking Tournament

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      Congratulations to Alex Attew and Vairavel Ramkumar who won the Junior and Cadet event respectively. Well done to Harry Buckle and Joseph Buscombe who were the runner-ups. But really, it is a big well done to all entrants, no matter where you placed. It was a pleasure to have such great kids play in the tournament and we hope everyone enjoyed the tournament – that’s the main thing.

      Tournament Organiser David Gatheral has produced a comprehensive report of events which took place on Saturday 3rd September at Mildmay Sports Hall at Anglia Ruskin University. Click on the following link to view 15 pages of fantastic detail including match results / scores / player names.

      Chelmsford – Junior/Cadet 1 star Ranking Tournament

      County Coaching, County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+

      CHELMSFORD X – UNDISPUTED SUMMER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

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      It’s been over a month since the last report but the Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League has been concluded. Matches were delayed due to people being advised not to travel on those days when temperatures broke UK records.

      The refreshingly youthful Chelmsford X are the first division Champions and their 5-0 win over second placed Chelmsford A gave them a substantial winning margin of seven points. Harry Buckle and Saul Chivers were both undefeated with Saul Chivers’ 13-11, 3-11, 16-14, 11-4 victory over Wilson Tram catching the eye. Harry Chivers was also an integral part of this team and he was undefeated in his eight singles.  Hockley A (Duncan Taylor and Ian Wall) completed their programme with a 5-0 win against OCA A. Ian Wall saw off Paul Lucas 11-9, 8-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-9 in the game of the night. Lucas was in turn well beaten by ace defender Duncan Taylor on this occasion; 11-7, 11-5, 11-4. Represented by brothers Mark and Matthew Mulley OCA A in turn ran out 5-0 winners against Chelmsford B.     

      Danbury B are division two Champions and they captured the title in style by beating second placed Galleywood A 5-0. Sanjay Saptarshi and Dan Piggott were both undefeated. Sanjay Saptarshi (12 wins out of 12) held this side together and here he beat Bryn Thomas (11-6, 8-11, 13-11, 11-0) and James Hicks (11-9, 8-11, 9-11, 8-11, 11-9). Neil Freeman impressed for Ramsden A who beat Danbury E 3-2. He beat both Gus Heath (6-11, 11-7, 8-11, 15-13, 11-8) and John Tendler (9-11, 12-10, 11-9, 9-11, 11-5) – two very hard fought wins. Danbury D completed their fixtures with a 3-2 win over Cold Norton. Chris Buer led the way with wins over Dick Wyman (11-6, 11-9, 11-9) and Neil Want (11-9, 9-11, 6-11, 13-11, 11-5).

      Division three has been quite low scoring and Hockley B have taken the title with 18 points from six matches. They finished one point ahead of Chelmsford D who they lost to 2-3 in their last match. Nikita Tkachuk (nine wins out of 10) was unbeaten for Chelmsford and he saw off Dan Patynski (11-4, 9-11, 11-6, 12-10) and Stuart Adshead (11-5, 11-8, 8-11, 11-7). OCA C finished just one point back in third place. They finished the Season strongly by beating Danbury G 4-1. Richard Baxter came through a widely fluctuating five ender against Dave Marsh (6-11, 12-10, 11-3, 5-11, 12-10). Ramsden B ran out narrow 3-2 winners against Chelmsford F. John Gagg won twice for Ramsden B whilst newcomer Aidan Lees pipped John Parodi 13-11, 11-6, 9-11, 5-11, 12-10 in the closest game of the evening.

      Blackwater A (Alan Scammell – 88 %, Denis Balic – 75 % and Roger Slade – 50 %) top the division four table with 22 points out of 30. Chelmsford E finished second with 18 points and they beat Danbury H 4-1.   Rev Matthews (88 %) showed up well with wins over Alan Dadswell (8-11, 11-6, 11-5. 11-4) and Denis Crapnell (6-11, 14-12, 11-5, 7-11, 11-9). Buttsbury A ran out 5-0 winners against Ramsden C. Caroline Cole had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Kevin Smart (9-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8, 12-10). OCA E completed their Season in style by beating the higher placed Buttsbury A 4-1. David Porter dominated proceedings. OCA D came out on top 3-2 in the inter club battle against OCA E. Farooq Ahmed was undefeated for the E side and he beat Tom Barker (11-1, 10-12, 12-10, 11-7) and Mick Hayes (11-7, 5-11, 5-11, 11-9, 11-8).

      Buttsbury B (21 points) are the division five champions and they finished one point ahead of OCA F. When the two teams met it was OCA F who came out on top 3-2. Jamie Elliott was undefeated for Buttsbury and he retained his 100 % record with a last gasp 10-12, 11-7, 10-12, 11-5, 12-10 win over Farooq Ahmed. Buttsbury B also beat Danbury K 3-2. Roy Gandy was on target for Danbury with a 11-9, 17-15, 11-8 win over Ben Brown. OCA F finished their Season with a 3-2 win over Chelmsford Leopards. Mick Hayes fought back from 2-0 down to defeat Jishant Shah 4-11, 4-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-8. Chelmsford Leopards also lost 3-2 to Danbury K. Martin Knights defeated Felix Reeve 12-10, 10-12, 9-11, 11-9, 11-9 in the closest game of the evening. Galleywood B scored their third win of the Season by beating Blackwater B 4-1. Kath Little was on target for Blackwater B with another really hard fought win. She beat Will Goodchild 12-14, 11-9, 9-11, 11-9, 12-10.

      Chelmsford G (Alesha Ellis-Austin – 88 %, Emilie Guiloux – 38 %, Ben Chivers – 100 % and Todd Martin – 100 %) duly claimed the division six title with 27 points out of 35, although they missed out 3-2 to Writtle. They lost three five enders on this occasion. Emilie Guilloux lost out to Paul Aarons over five fluctuating ends (6-11, 11-4, 4-11, 11-6, 8-11). Buttsbury C (Lucy Elliott and Callum Walker) finished strongly to beat Chelmsford Lions 5-0 and Danbury L (Ron Tam and Nigel Barrick) ran out 5-0 winners against Chelmsford Tigers. Danbury L who finished with a flourish also beat Chelmsford Lions 4-1. Felix Reeve gave the Lions a great start by beating Ron Tam 13-15, 11-3, 4-11, 11-6, 11-8 in a well contested opening singles. Blackwater C were 4-1 winners over Writtle. Colin Griffiths gave Writtle a winning start on this occasion by getting the better of Dave Benstead 5-11, 11-8, 11-2, 8-11, 11-7.

      Steve Kerns Press Officer Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League

        County Coaching, County Juniors, Essex Schools

        Chelmsford hosts first 1* tournament for cadets and juniors

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        On Saturday 3 September, Chelmsford is holding its first official computer ranked 1* junior and cadet tournament. It is at a great venue at Mildmay Sports Hall at Anglia Ruskin University with 8 good tables and large 5m by 10m courts. There is free parking, changing rooms with showers and lockers and we will have some refreshments for the players and parents. Spectators are welcome!  

        The great thing about computer ranked tournaments is that players earn national ranking points and will be included in the England & Wales national rankings list each month so they can see where they fit in the national context and try to get a higher ranking than their friends. Another great thing about 1* tournaments is that players get to play new people from different places and that can help them develop as players. The Chelmsford 1* aims to be generous – there will be prizes for the best junior, best cadet best female junior, best female cadet, best U13, best U11 as well as some consolation prizes for others that do well. If we get a full entry of 48 players, the total prize fund will be £300. Above all, our tournaments should be fun events for players to compete with friends and make new friends. 

        The entry form is online and there are lots more details about the tournament on it. It is £20 to enter, and the day will start around 9:30 am and finish in the late afternoon, probably around 4:30pm to 5:30pm – the closing date for entries is Monday 29 August after which the draw will be made – entries after this date are possible but there is a surcharge and no guarantee of entry.  

        Date: Saturday 3rd September 2022 

        Times: 9:30am to 5:30pm
        Venue: Mildmay Hall, Anglia Ruskin University, Alan Cherry Drive, CM1 1QT
        Closing Date: Monday, 29 August 2022 

        Events: Cadet (U15) competition / Junior (U19) competition
        Entry Fee: £20 

        Please find the entry form here: https://forms.gle/B8nVQXpgco5Psbhj7. Email me or call me if you need any help or information.  

        Players will need to have Table Tennis England ‘Compete’ membership which they will also need to play local league and other competitions. Please ensure it is up to date by visiting TTE Compete Membership 

        All the best! 

        David Gatheral 

        CDTTL Coaching Officer 

        07857 718351 

          Local League News

          The X Factor!

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          Chelmsford X – hard hitting brothers Saul and Harry Chivers lead the way in division one of the Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League with a commanding 19 points from five games. A 3-2 win against Danbury A came about via an unbeaten performance from Harry Chivers who got the better of Babul McLeod (11-7, 11-6, 9-11, 11-4) and Eric Green (5-11, 6-11, 12-10, 11-4, 11-5). A 5-0 victory against Chelmsford C puts them firmly in the driving seat. Harry Chivers fought back from 2-0 down to beat Paul Nicol 9-11, 9-11, 11-4, 11-7, 11-5. Chelmsford C produced an inspired performance to beat Hockley A 4-1. Mark Allaway excelled, beating Ian Wall (4-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-9) and Oliver George (11-6, 11-9, 11-8). OCA A’s Paul Lucas retained his 100 % record against Chelmsford A but it was Chelmsford who won 3-2. Lucas was hard pushed to beat Wilson Tram 9-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-7, 11-6. Danbury A emerged as 4-1 winners against Chelmsford B. Eric Green beat Waseem Qureshi (14-12, 11-7, 11-5) and Simon Jarvis after a tight 11-9, 13-11, 9-11, 11-9 encounter.

          Leaders Danbury B made it six wins out of six in division two by beating Ramsden A 4-1. Dan Anderson, in his first appearance of the Season stole the show. He beat Gary Ward (11-5, 9-11, 5-11, 11-5, 11-5) and Trevor Collin (11-4, 8-11, 11-3, 11-7).  Danbury E were very much in charge against Danbury winning 5-0. Gus Heath and John Tendler gave nothing away. Danbury E also beat Galleywood A 3-2. John Holland was undefeated for Galleywood and in a very hard doubles finale  Tendler and Gus Heath beat John Holland and Bryn Thomas 14-12, 10-12, 11-5, 13-15, 11-9.  No less than five other matches were also decided by 3-2 margins in this division. Chris Buer won twice as Danbury D edged out Danbury C, and they beat Ramsden A by the same margin. Chris Buer was again unbeaten whilst Steve Buer had to dig deep to beat Tony Ayliffe 11-6, 5-11, 14-12, 6-11, 11-8.   It was that familiar 3-2 scoreline again as Danbury D beat Cold Norton. Sanjay Saptarshi (10 wins out of 10) retained his 100 % singles record with wins against Neil Want (11-2, 7-11,11-6, 11-9) and Dick Wyman (11-7, 11-4, 11-7). Bryn Thomas was on fine form as Galleywood A defeated Danbury F. He beat Tony Forster (11-9, 6-11, 12-10, 11-6) and Ken Sheard (11-4, 11-7, 11-8). Danbury F in turn did well to beat Danbury D. Good going as Chris Buer was unbeaten for Danbury D with wins against Tony Forster (11-0, 11-8, 12-10) and Ken Sheard (11-6, 14-12, 11-7).   

          Hockley B remain undefeated in division three but four of their five wins have been by 3-2 margins so it is easy to see why this division is still fairly closely balanced. Aaryan Vatsa and Keith Abbott beat John Parodi and Robert Kemp 5-11, 11-9, 11-5, 11-9 in the doubles to secure a 3-2 victory against Ramsden B whilst Joerg Poeschus won twice as they beat OCA B. Poeschus ran out a 13-11, 11-13, 9-11, 11-9, 11-5 winner after a gruelling encounter against Mick Richardson. Chelmsford D were also 3-2 winners against OCA B.  Mick Richardson won twice for the Old Chelmsfordians side beating A lex Tkachuk (11-6, 7-11, 11-7, 11-6) and Nikita Tkachuk (11-8, 11-8, 11-8) – Nikita’s first loss of the Season. Alex Tkachuk pipped Luke Richardson 11-6, 9-11, 11-5, 9-11, 13-11 in the closest game of the night. Danbury G put in a strong performance to beat Chelmsford F 5-0 with David Marsh and David Meah carrying all before them. Ramsden B also ran out 5-0 winners against OCA D, although the doubles could clearly have gone the other way.  John Gagg and John Parodi pipped Amanda Hogger and Richard Upson 13-11, 12-10, 9-11, 8-11, 12-10. Chelmsford F beat Chelmsford D 3-2, although it was Nikita Tkachuk who was unbeaten for Chelmsford D and he has a record of 88 % (seven wins out eight). Here he beat Joachin Mapes (3-11, 11-9, 11-7, 14-12) and Harrison Hill (7-11, 11-2, 11-5, 11-6).  

          4-1 results were the order of the day in division four with five of the six games decided by that margin. The leaders Blackwater A were involved in three such matches. They beat Danbury H 4-1 with Alan Scammell winning his two singles. It was a hard slog against Gordon Gatheral but Scammell finally won 8-11, 11-7, 8-11, 11-6, 11-8.  They also beat Ramsden C 4-1 with Denis Balic winning two very close games. He beat Sue Body (7-11, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9, 11-8) and Colin Barham (11-9, 9-11, 11-5, 7-11, 14-12). However they were on the wrong end of a 4-1 result against Chelmsford E. Rev Mathews beat both Alan Scammel (3-11, 11-9, 11-8, 8-11, 11-8) and Roger Slade (11-5, 11-5, 4-11, 11-6). Chelmsford E with Keith Martin unbeaten were 4-1 winners against OCA E whilst Buttsbury A beat OCA D 4-1. Paul Sturton beat Tom Barker 11-6, 11-7, 11-7. Denis Crapnell’s two wins gave Danbury L the upper hand as they got the better of Ramsden C 3-2. Crapnell beat Kevin Smart (11-8, 11-4, 11-6) and Dave Carter (11-7, 7-11, 11-4, 11-5).

          Buttsbury B – 5-0 winners against Chelmsford Leopards have a healthy five point lead in division five. Alex Ware and Ben Brown called the shots although Ben Brown had to work hard to beat Jishant Shah 8-11, 12-10, 11-6, 6-11, 11-7. Chelmsford Leopards did better against Blackwater B and Dion Fernandes and Cleon Fernandes won comfortably 5-0. Blackwater B in turn beat Danbury K 3-2. Kath Little gave them an important winning start by beating Martin Knights 9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 9-11, 13-11.   OCA F beat Galleywood B 4-1. Stuart Wintle defeated Steve Peacock 12-10, 9-11, 15-13, 11-7. Galleywood B also lost 3-2 against Chelmsford Leopards. Dion Fernandes defeated Ron Salton narrowly 11-2, 10-12, 9-11, 11-9, 11-8 after Salton had suffered a heavy first end set-back. OCA F were 4-1 winners against Ken Wilding. Matthew Porter beat Ken Wilding 10-12, 11-9, 5-11, 6-11, 13-11 in a game that went all the way “to the wire”.     

          Chelmsford H and Chelmsford G are tied on 25 points in division six, although it is Chelmsford G who have a game in hand who are in the driving seat. When the two teams met it was Chelmsford H who won 3-2. No single player remained undefeated and Peter Davenport and Jacqui Smith beat Alesha Ellis -Austin and Emilie Guilloux 7-11, 11-9, 11-7, 12-10 in the deciding doubles.  Chelmsford G returned to winning ways by beating Blackwater C 4-1. Todd Martin had to pull out all the stops to beat Dave Benstead 7-11, 11-9, 5-11, 13-11, 11-8. Chelmsford H were even bigger winners. Peter Davenport and Shengbing Zhu defeated Chelmsford Lions 5-0. However Chelmsford H missed out 3-2 against Danbury L, despite the fact that Jacqui Smith won her two singles. She beat Jo Hart 11-3, 11-7, 11-9 and Ron Tam 11-2, 11-4, 11-9.  Danbury L in turn beat Writtle 3-2. Danbury’s Ron Tam was involved in two epic games. He beat Paul Arrons (9-11, 7-11, 11-1, 11-6, 11-9) and Colin Griffiths (11-9, 11-5, 21-19) Yes 21-19 !. Danbury L met their match against Blackwater C where they lost 4-1. Blaydon Farmer was unbeaten for Blackwater. Blackwater C were also on form against Buttsbury C with Dave Benstead and Anne Brewer giving nothing away. Buttsbury C emerged as 3-2 winners against Chelmsford Tigers. Noah Middleton beat Atharv Gupta 10-12, 11-8, 7-11, 11-5, 14-12 in the closest game of the evening. Chelmsford Lions scored their first win of the Season, beating Chelmsford Tigers 5-0. William Guilloux and Emilie Guyilloux were in control here. Blackwater C (Chris Rollinson) and Dave Benstead) did well to beat Writtle 4-1 despite losing the first game when Colin Griffiths beat Dave Benstead (5-11, 11-8, 11-2, 8-11, 11-7).     

          Steve Kerns Press Officer Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League

            County Coaching, County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+

            Unbeaten start for Hockley’s ‘newcomer’ Andy Cunningham

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            A very strong Hockley A side produced the most eye catching result in the top division of the Central Essex Summer League this week with a 4-1 win over Danbury A. It was Danbury A who drew the first blood with Eric Green beating Duncan Taylor 11-5, 9-11, 11-3, 11-9. What a good start. However, it was Hockley who had the ace in the pack – Andy Cunningham – former Kent Men Singles Champion and new to the Southend area. He defeated Keith Adams 4-11, 11-5, 8-11, 11-9, 11-8 and Eric Green 11-4, 11-6, 9-11, 12-10. One suspects he will make quite an impact on local Table Tennis. OCA A were bolstered with the appearance of Paul Lucas against Chelmsford C. Lucas’ 3-0 wins over Victor Chan and Paul Nicol gave them the edge and they won 3-2. OCA A also beat Chelmsford C 4-1 after a fiercely fought match where all four singles were decided in the fifth end. Joshua Bickles excelled to beat Mark Mulley 6-11, 2-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-8 whilst Paul Lucas had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Saul Chivers (5-11, 11-8, 11-6, 3-11, 11-6) and Joshua Bickles (11-5, 9-11, 7-11, 11-8, 11-9). Simon Jarvis won twice to give Chelmsford B the ascendancy against Chelmsford A with wins against James Donald (11-6, 6-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-7) and Wilson Tram (11-7, 13-11, 11-5).  The table isn’t conclusive at this stage and although Chelmsford C are top with 13 points they have played five matches and all other teams have game(s) in hand.   

            Danbury B lead the way in division two and Sanjay Saptarshi (eight wins out of eight) was undefeated as they beat Danbury C 3-2. Galleywood A have moved into second position and they beat Danbury D 4-1. John Holland and James Hicks won all four singles and they both did well to beat Chris Buer. Hicks beat Chris Buer narrowly 11-9, 10-12, 11-9, 11-8 whilst Holland triumphed in five ends (11-6, 6-11, 11-8, 9-11, 11-8). Danbury F ran out 4-1 winners against Cold Norton. Ken Sheard and Tony Forster won all four singles with Forster pipping Tim Cramphorn 11-6, 7-11, 6-11, 11-8, 13-11.

            Division three leaders Danbury G lost 4-1 to Hockley B and Hockley only trail them by one point and they have a game in hand to boot. Dan Patynski gave them a lift with wins against David Marsh (11-6, 11-7, 9-11, 11-2) and David Meah (8-11, 11-9, 11-3, 7-11, 11-7). Ramsden B edged a close match 3-2 against OCA B, although Michael Richardson won his two singles for the Old Chelmsfordians side. John Gagg beat Luke Richardson in five ends (4-11, 11-6, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7). OCA C also came out on top 3-2, edging out Chelmsford E. Richard Baxter had to dig deep to beat Joachim Mapes 11-7, 9-11, 11-5, 12-14, 11-8.

            Blackwater A made it four wins out of four in division four by beating Buttsbury A 4-1. They have a massive seven point lead over Chelmsford E. Roger Slade led the way with wins over Caroline Cole (11-5, 11-8, 11-7) and Jamie Elliott (3-11, 14-12,11-4, 11-8). OCA D beat Chelmsford E 3-2 in a match where no one player stayed undefeated. OCA D sealed their victory in the all important doubles encounter with Tom Barker and Mick Hayes getting the better of Dave Parker and Charlie Donald 4-11, 12-10, 11-9, 7-11, 11-9.  OCA E also won 3-2. Dave Porter dominated against Danbury K, beating Alan Dadswell (11-9, 11-2, 9-11, 11-6) and Denis Crapnell (11-6, 11-7, 11-6).

            Buttsbury B suffered their first loss in division five, a 3-2 setback against Galleywood B. No one player remained undefeated and Galleywood’s Nathan Blore and Stephen Peacock beat Lucy Elliott and Keith Cullen 8-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-8 in the doubles to seal a Galleywood victory. Danbury J raced into a 2-0 lead against Danbury K but Danbury K hit back. A 11-9, 11-7, 11-9 doubles win for Ken Wilding and David Smith over Graham Naggs and Roy Gandy eventually sealed the 3-2 victory for Danbury J.

            Just one result in division six with the leaders Chelmsford G overpowering Buttsbury C 5-0. Emilie Guilloux and Todd Martin carried all before them. With 23 points out of 25 Chelmsford G are in a class of their own in this division.

            Steve Kerns Press Officer Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League

              County Coaching, County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+

              Summer League kicks off with big wins!

              Gallery

              The Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League is underway with six mini divisions and as usual it features teams from the Chelmsford League and as well as neighbouring Leagues. Often you find very familiar opponents playing for teams you wouldn’t necessarily associate them with.

              There have been a surprisingly high number of 5-0 scorelines in the first division, four to be exact. Chelmsford A (James Donald and Wilson Tram) scored a fine 5-0 win over Chelmsford C. James Donald beat Shirish Basant Rai 13-11, 7-11, 8-11, 11-7, 11-8 in the opening game and they never looked back after this. Chelmsford X were even more dominant against Hockley. Brothers Saul and Harry Chivers not only won 5-0 but they captured all five games 3-0. Chelmsford X repeated the feat against Chelmsford B. Harry Buckle and Harry Chivers were the aggressors this time. No mean feat as the Chelmsford B side included Simon Jarvis. Danbury A also won 5-0 (with the five 3-0 wins) against OCA A. Eric Green and Babul McLeod were the inform players.  Danbury A did well to beat Chelmsford A 3-2. Eric Green excelled. He beat James Donald (11-5, 11-9, 3-11, 6-11, 11-7) and Wilson Tram (11-5, 11-9, 11-7). Chelmsford C beat Chelmsford B 3-2. Shirish Basant Rai dominated with excellent wins over Waseem Qureshi (11-7, 12-10, 11-3) and Simon Jarvis (11-7, 11-5, 9-11, 11-7).  Perhaps the result of this round occurred at the Melbourne Centre where Chelmsford C beat Danbury A 4-1. Shirish Basant Rai had another match to remember. He beat Eric Green 7-11, 11-9, 11-7, 11-8 and Babul McLeod 11-9, 11-9, 11-8.  In the game of the night Babul McLeod retrieved a 6-10 deficit in the fifth end to beat Paul Nicol 2-11, 13-11, 11-8, 12-14. 17-15. Quite a battle !.

              Danbury B have made a good start in division two. Sanjay Saptarshi and Eamon Hall raced to a 5-0 win over Danbury D. Well played Eamon Hall. He scored two superb wins against Steve Buer (3-0) and Chris Buer (3-1). Sanjay Saptarshi was also on form against Danbury F. He defeated both Tony Forster (3-1) and Ken Sheard (3-1) as Danbury B won 3-2. The last game of the match went all the way and Forster and Sheard pipped Dan Pigott and Sanjay Saptarshi 11-9, 3-11, 11-9, 3-11, 12-10 in a widely fluctuating doubles. Danbury B made it three wins out of three by beating Danbury C 3-2. Sanjay Saptarshi retained his 100 % record with wins over Sam Phillips and David Gatheral.  Galleywood A notched up two wins. John Holland and Mark Glenister defeated Danbury C 3-2 after John Holland had won twice. He beat David Gatheral 4-11, 11-7, 11-7, 11-8. With James Hicks replacing Holland they beat Cold Norton 5-0. Mark Glenister scored a five game win over Tim Cramphorn (11-8, 6-11, 12-10, 6-11, 11-5). Galleywood lost narrowly 3-2 to Ramsden A. Gary Ward was the Ramsden sharp shooter. He saw off Bryn Thomas (11-9, 10-12, 6-11, 11-7, 11-8) and John Holland (5-11, 11-5, 11-6, 11-5).  Cold Norton ran out 4-1 winners against Danbury E with Dick Wyman and Neil Want taking all four singles. The match between Danbury C and Danbury F saw no single player remain undefeated. Danbury C won 3-2 courtesy of a 11-6, 11-7, 10-12, 11-8 doubles victory for David Gatheral and Sam Phillips against Tony Forster and Peter Lucraft. Danbury E did well to beat Danbury D 3-2; good going as Chris Buer was unbeaten for Danbury D. John Tendler pipped Steve Buer 11-7, 6-11, 8-11, 11-7, 12-10 after a real nail-biter.        

              Division three looks like being closely fought. Of the seven scorecards received six matches were decided 3-2. The exception was the 4-1 win that Chelmsford D recorded against Ramsden B. Nikita Tkachuk beat John Gagg (3-1) and Rob Kemp (3-1). Where do you start when you report on the other games ?.  Chelmsford D also beat Danbury G 3-2. Nikita Tkachuk was again to the fore with wins over Dave Marsh (3-1) and Dave Meah (3-0). Nikita and Alex Tkachuk sealed the victory by beating Dave Marsh and Dave Meah 8-11, 11-4, 5-11, 11-9, 11-7 in a well contested doubles encounter. The match between Chelmsford D and OCA C saw three games decided in the fifth end. Richard Baxter was undefeated for the Old Chelmsfordians team and Richard Upson came through a five end thriller against Adi Kamma (11-8, 11-7, 5-11, 10-12, 16-14). Robert Kemp was undefeated for Ramsden B against Danbury G but it was Danbury who emerged as 3-2 winners. Kemp prevailed against Dave Marsh, just, 12-10, 12-10, 10-12, 11-7. Chelmsford F edged home 3-2 against OCA B. Charlie Donald (two wins) and Harrison Hill (one win) came out on top in the singles. Michael Richardson drew a rare blank losing 8-11, 11-8, 9-11, 6-11 to Harrison Hill and 7-11, 11-8, 9-11, 10-12 to Charlie Donald. Luke Richardson did well to beat Harrison Hill 11-9. 9-11, 12-10, 11-6. Hockley B led by an undefeated Joerg Poeschus beat Chelmsford F whilst Hockley B beat OCA C. Dan Patynski beat Richard Baxter 7-11, 11-1, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9; Richard’s first loss of the Season.   

              Blackwater A are off to a flying start in division four. Alan Scammell and Denis Balic beat OCA D 5-0 and OCA E 4-1. Farooq Ahmed was on target for OCA E with a hard-fought 8-11, 11-9, 11-6, 8-11, 11-9 victory against Denis Balic. Buttsbury A did well to beat Chelmsford E 4-1. Kevin Willis was undefeated beating Dave Parker 11-6, 8-11, 11-8, 11-7 and Rev Mathews by a last gasp 6-11, 7-11, 11-9, 11-9, 12-10 margin. Chelmsford E did better against Ramsden C, wining 3-2. This time Rev Matthews won his five ender. He beat Dave Carter 11-7, 12-10, 7-11, 7-11, 11-8.  Danbury L won twice, 3-2 on each occasion. Denis Crapnell was undefeated against both OCA D and Buttsbury A. Caroline Cole was on target for Buttsbury A, defeating David Smith 9-11, 11-6, 11-4, 9-11, 13-11. OCA D surged into a 3-0 lead against Ramsden C. Three five enders went their way with Tom Barker giving them a winning start with a 11-8, 12-10, 9-11, 3-11, 16-14 victory against Colin Barham.  Ramsden C hit back with Dave Carter defeating Tom Barker 11-7, 11-18, 12-10 and they eventually lost 2-3. Ramsden C in turn beat OCA E 3-2. No one player dominated and the Ramsden players – Kevin Smart and Colin Barham and the OCA duo – Farooq Ahmed and Dave Bishop shared the singles.

              Buttsbury B made a winning start in division five. Jamie Elliott and Ben Brown ran out 5-0 winners against Blackwater B and with Lucy Elliott replacing Ben Brown they beat Danbury J 4-1. Galleywood B were 4-1 winners against Danbury K. in a match where Will Goodchild was undefeated. Nathan Blore edged out Steve Martin 8-11, 11-7, 11-9, 8-11, 11-9. In another 4-1 result Chelmsford Leopards beat Danbury J. Cleon Fernandes led the way with an unbeaten outing.  It was 4-1 again when OCA F beat Danbury K. Matthew Porter was poised at two games all with Martin Knights but he raced away with the fifth end to win 11-7, 7-11, 9-11, 11-9, 11-2, not a result you might have expected after four evenly contested games. Danbury J (Ken Wilding and Graham Naggs) called the shots against Blackwater B and they ran out 5-0 winners.  In a closer game Blackwater B beat OCA F 3-2. Phil West gave Blackwater a winning start by beating Matt Porter 11-5, 11-5, 8-11, 8-11. 12-10.

              Chelmsford G look to be the team to beat in division six. Ben Chivers and Alesha Ellis-Austin ran out 5-0 winners against Chelmsford Tigers and Todd Martin and Ben Chivers saw off Danbury L, again, 5-0. Todd Martin had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Jo Hart 11-8, 11-9, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9. Chelmsford G made it three wins out of three by beating Chelmsford Lions 4-1. Pavanaj Srinavasamurthy was on target for the losers with a 5-11, 11-6, 7-11, 12-10, 11-9 win over Emilie Guilloux. Blackwater C are in second place and Dave Benstead and Jackie Treacy also won 5-0, beating Chelmsford Tigers.  Blackwater C won a closer game, 3-2 against Chelmsford Lions. Luv Goel was undefeated for Chelmsford Lions with wins over Chris Rolison (11-7, 11-7, 12-10) and Blaydon Farmer (11-6, 17-15, 11-5). In another close game Blackwater C beat Chelmsford H 3-2 – Dave Benstead winning twice. He had to dig deep to get the better of Peter Davenport 11-7, 7-11, 15-13, 12-10.   Chelmsford H impressed against Buttsbury C with Sheng Bing Zhu and Jacqui Smith carrying all before them, winning 5-0, whilst Writtle won all four singles against Buttsbury C but missed out in the doubles. Noah Middleton / Viraan Babbar did well to beat Paul Aarons / Paul Cockrell 11-5, 11-4, 5-11, 11-9.  Buttsbury C also missed out 4-1, against Danbury L. Callum Walker came good, with a hard fought 8-11, 11-9, 11-5, 7-11, 11-9 win against Jo Hart.  Chelmsford H added three points to their tally by beating Writtle 3-2. Sheng Bing Zhu won the tightest game of the night; 12-10, 11-3, 8-11, 10-12, 13-11 against Barry Gould. Writtle in turn beat Chelmsford Tigers 5-0, with Barry Gould and Paul Arrons calling the shots.  

              Steve Kerns Press Officer Central Essex Summer Table Tennis League

                County Coaching, County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+, General, Inter League, Local League News

                Nikita Tkachuk gives Chelmsford F the edge

                Gallery

                Chelmsford F did well to beat Danbury J in the division three knock out cup final in the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League having finished 17 points behind them in the league competition. In what was a very hard fought final the Chelmsford F team – Nikita Tkachuk, Alex Tkachuk and Luke Richardson prevailed 5-3. Nikita Tkachuk scored a vital 11-4, 7-11, 11-9, 15-17, 11-8 victory against John Robinson and he sealed the win for his side by beating Dave Marsh 11-4, 6-11, 11-6, 11-7. Dave Meah will consider himself unlucky to have been on the losing side as he beat both Luke Richardson (11-4, 18-16, 3-11, 11-1) and Alex Tkachuk (5-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-8, 11-5).  

                Danbury L secured the league and cup double in division four by beating second placed Writtle E 5-1. It wasn’t plain sailing but the Danbury L side (Mervyn Perriman, Denis Crapnell and Denis Balic) raced into a 4-0 lead before the Writtle duo of Neil Thompson and Dave Moles gave their side a lifeline by beating Mervyn Perriman and Denis Crapnell 11-8, 6-11, 2-11, 11-7, 11-9 in the middle doubles. It wasn’t enough and Maldon’s “Mr. Reliable” Denis Crapnell (who had a 100 % singles success rate in league matches) sealed the Danbury victory by defeating Malcolm Storey 11-6, 11-8, 11-4.

                Buttsbury also made it a league and cup double by beating Chelmsford H 7-2 in the division five knock out cup final. Frances Hutt, Jamie Elliott and Oscar Hutt raced into a 5-0 lead. Frances Hutt had been poised at 2-2 against Peter Davenport but she made no mistake in the decider winning 14-12, 7-11, 6-11, 11-8, 11-4. Oscar Hutt played his part with a 4-11, 11-8, 1-16, 11-9 success against Paul Bullock whilst Jamie Elliott had done well to beat Jacqui Smith 11-2, 11-3, 11-7.

                At the recent Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League AGM the Chelmsford League Committee have said “good bye” to Arthur Clark who has retired as Junior Match Secretary and Tournament Organiser after many years of service. The fact that Arthur was made a Life Member of the League in 1993 tells you just how long he has been involved. He is also a three time recipient of the League’s Rosebery / Pope & Smith Award – in 1988, 2002 and 2012. Lee McHugh replaces Arthur as Junior Match Secretary with David Gatheral taking over as Tournament Organiser. Matthew Brown, a recipient of the Rosebery / Pope & Smith award in 2011 has retired as League Treasurer and Competitions Secretary.  Discussions are ongoing to fill these positions.

                Belated congratulations are extended to John Holland who won the Over 80s Mixed Singles title at the VETTS National Championships at Aldersley, Wolverhampton in May. John recovered from 10-7 down in the fifth end to pip Ray Dixon (Staffs) 11-7. 10-12, 11-5, 9-11, 13-11 in a thrilling final. Former Chelmsford Mens Singles Champions Lorestas Trumpauskas (Chelmsford Champion in 1999, 2000 and 2001) and Neil Charles (Chelmsford Champion in 2008, 2010 and 2011) contested the Over 50s Mens Singles Final with Lorestas coming out on top 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-5.  Rather annoyingly neither of them look much different from when they played in the Chelmsford League.

                 Anyone who has lost two decent bats with Butterfly Roundel Rubbers is requested to contact Kath Little (mobile no. 07762 312838). Kath reports that the bats “were placed in someone else’s bag probably by mistake, perhaps a couple of months ago, and probably at Danbury TTC, West Maldon TTC or at a tournament”. Kath has been given the task of reuniting them with their rightful owner.

                Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

                  County Juniors

                  Writtle A win Open Knock Out Cup Final

                  Gallery

                  Writtle A are the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League 2021/2 Open Knock out Cup Champions after beating Chelmsford B 5-4 in a top-class final.  It was a match the young Chelmsford side came very close to winning having stormed into a stunning 4-2 lead. The opening doubles is always a vital encounter if a team is planning an upset and Chelmsford B (Harry Buckle and Saul Chivers) made a great start by beating Lee McHugh / Arron Chandler 11-5, 7-11, 11-7, 11-6. Game on. Writtle hit back in the second game – Duncan Taylor arguably the most experienced player in the League, despatched Charlie Craig (10-12, 11-8, 11-2, 11-8). The third game was a big one and Harry Buckle restored the Chelmsford lead with a fine 11-9, 11-3, 6-11, 11-6 win over Lee McHugh. Game four was another big one, and Arron Chandler levelled the scores, to 2-2, by fighting back from 2-0 down to beat Saul Chivers 9-11, 4-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-5. The middle doubles saw Harry Buckle and Charlie Craig secure a fine 12-10, 13-11, 11-8 win over Duncan Taylor and Lee McHugh and Charlie Craig extended his side’s lead to 4-2 by defeating Arron Chandler 11-6, 11-5, 9-11, 9-11, 11-7. Chelmsford B had one hand on the trophy. However,  Writtle were far from finished and they fought back strongly. Lee McHugh beat Saul Chivers 11-9, 3-11, 11-8, 11-8 and Duncan Taylor defeated Harry Buckle 11-6, 11-8, 9-11, 15-13.  It all came down to the final doubles and Duncan Taylor and Arron Chandler sealed the victory for their team with a 12-10, 11-8, 11-8 win over Charlie Craig and Saul Chivers. What a good final !.  Lee McHugh, the Chelmsford League Coaching Officer deserves the final word on what was a great match – “Competing against those I coach (especially juniors) is not an experience I can say I genuinely enjoy, however what I can say is that I’m very proud of how far they have come in the sport…….”. Hear, hear.

                  The Chelmsford Junior Knock Out Cup Final was between Chelmsford A and Chelmsford B and  Chelmsford A (Harry Buckle, Charlie Craig and Josh Bickles) ran out 5-1 winners. All games were well contested and Saul Chivers was on target for the B team with a 11-6, 8-11, 12-10, 11-3 victory over Charlie Craig. Charlie Craig / Josh Bickles had given their side a vital winning start by beating Saul  Chivers / Nikita Tkachuk 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9 in a hard fought opening doubles encounter. Josh Bickles eventually sealed the win for his side with a very hard fought 11-9, 2-11, 19-17, 11-9 victory over Harry Chivers. With Chelmsford Mens Singles Champion Daniel Young also eligible it has to be said that the strength in depth of the Junior players at the Chelmsford Club is fantastic.

                  All players are reminded that the 2022 Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Annual General Meeting will take place at 19.30 hours at Old Chelmsfordians Association, Lawford Lane, Roxwell Road on Thursday 26 May 2022. All clubs should be represented.