OCA B’s 7-3 win over Hatfield Peverel A in division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League represented a top-class performance by the OCA side. Kevin Worthington bagged a hat-trick and Gareth Joice and Trevor Carter both won twice. However it was Hatfield Peverel A who had the greater cause to celebrate. The three points they picked up meant they finish second with 95 points, ahead of Chelmsford D (who also scored 95 points) by virtue of that fact that they won more matches. In a totally unprecedented evenly matched division Writtle C finished fourth with 94 points. Carrying the flag for Hatfield Peverel A were Martin Archie (73% ) with backing from Neil Freeman (49 %) and Gareth Davies (48 %).
There were still some outstanding games in division three. Maldon A, the runners-up, turned on the style to hammer fourth placed Chelmsford E 9-1. Lloyd Bennett-Smith (88 %) and Hamish Innes (84 %) were both undefeated. Adi Kamma showed up well for the losers with a 11-9, 13-11, 11-8 win over Brian Riedling. Danbury K did well to beat the higher placed Writtle D 6-4. Nicky Reece-Ford was unbeaten with wins over Malcolm Henstock (14-16, 11-5, 11-2, 11-7), Peter Layzell (11-7, 10-12, 11-7, 11-3) and Colin Barham (11-8, 6-11, 11-9, 9-11, 11-5).
Buttbury Bees edged ahead 3-2 against Chelmsford Leopards in division 2A of the Junior League. Jamie Elliott won both of his singles beating Jishaant Shah (10-12, 11-3, 11-5, 11-7) and Cleon Fernandes (11-13, 11-7, 11-9, 11-7).
Chelmsford Antelopes (Samaksh Sirohi and Arnav Kumar) stay second in division 2B of the Junior League after beating Chelmsford Jaguars 5-0. They trail Buttsbury Badgers by 10 points but intriguingly they have two games in hand.
Chelmsford B (Harry Buckle, Charlie Craig and Josh Bickles) were 5-0 winners against Chelmsford D In the Open KO Cup. Sudheep Kamma did well to take a game off Harry Buckle before succumbing 7-11, 11-9, 4-11, 5-11. Chelmsford B now face a mouth-watering semi final clash against Danbury A.
The Division two Cup final will be an all Danbury affair. The division two Champions – Danbury G (Sanjay Saptarshi, Daniel Piggott and Eamon Hall) beat Writtle B 5-1. Daniel Piggott impressed greatly downing the challenges of Paul Sturton (11-6, 11-8, 11-6) and Trevor Collin (11-3, 11-8, 11-7). They will meet Danbury D (Chris Buer, Gus Heath and Ian Cranstone) in the final. Danbury D did well to beat Chelmsford D 5-2. Gus Heath excelled beating Harry Chivers (11-7, 11-4, 11-7) and Vineeth Kamma (9-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-7); the win over Vineeth sealing their victory.
Writtle E are through to the Division four Cup final. They beat OCA E 5-4 in a roller coaster semi-final, fighting back from 2-0 and 4-3 down. The last two games were tense affairs. Neil Thompson (who had previously pipped David Bishop 10-12, 11-7, 11-9, 10-12, 11-8) beat David Newman (11-5, 15-13, 11-9) and in a nail-biting concluding doubles Neil Thompson / Dave Moles saw off David Newman / Russell Hall (11-7, 11-8, 3-11, 9-11, 11-8). The great comeback was repelled.
Chelmsford J (Peter Davenport, Jacqui Smith and Paul Bullock) have fought their way through to the Division five Cup final. They beat Danbury M 5-3 after a hard fought semi-final. Jacqui Smith was involved in two five enders. She beat Ken Wilding (6-11, 12-10, 9-11, 16-14, 12-10) but missed out (14-12, 4-11, 9-11, 11-5, 5-11) to Anne Mills. Peter Davenport was undefeated with wins over Martin Knights (11-6, 11-2, 11-7) and Ken Wilding (11-5, 11-6, 11-6).
Buttsbury B are through to the Handicap KO Cup final. Their team of Jamie Elliott (handicap of 48), Oscar Hutt (handicap of 21) and Lucy Elliott (handicap of 8) always had the edge against Maldon C. Ella Sach (handicap of 29) gave Maldon a life line by beating Oscar Hutt (18-21, 21-15, 22-20) but Buttsbury were in the driving seat and Jamie Elliott defeated 2022 Chelmsford Ladies Champion Dawn Baldry (handicap of 67) 20-22, 21-12, 21-13 to give his team a convincing 5-1 victory.
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
Maldon A and Galleywood B – the two outstanding teams in division three of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League went head-to-head for a second time, and Maldon A again came out on top. They produced a really determined display to win 7-3 with Dawn Baldry, Hamish Innes and Lloyd Bennett-Smith all winning twice. Maldon A also won three fiercely fought five setters. Lloyd Bennett-Smith beat Gary Copsey 12-14, 11-4, 11-7, 7-11, 11-8 and Dawn Baldry defeated John Holland 9-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-5, 11-8. Hamish Innes got in on the act by beating Mark Glenister 7-11, 11-5, 7-11, 11-7, 11-9. Maldon A added eight points to their total by beating Danbury H 8-2. It looked like being another very intense match with the first two games decided at deuce in the fifth end. Danbury’s Richard Allen beat Brian Riedling by a wildly fluctuating 5-11, 16-14, 11-8, 2-11, 12-10 margin and Lloyd Bennett-Smith equalised by beating Dave Hancox (11-4, 4-11, 3-11, 11-6, 12-10) but thereafter it was Maldon who called the shots. Meanwhile Galleywood B also won, beating Chelmsford F 7-3. The talking point here was the outstanding hat-trick which Nikita Tkachuk scored. Nikita was on sparkling form, downing the challenges of Gary Copsey (12-10, 4-11, 11-5, 11-7), Mark Glenister (11-9, 7-11, 4-11, 11-3, 15-13) and John Holland (6-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-2) – a superb display. Despite their second loss of the season Galleywood B still lead the way with 127 points from 17 games with Maldon B second on 114 points from 16 games. Chelmsford F also drew 5-5 with Danbury K. League stalwart Peter Hance excelled this time winning his three singles which included a well executed 11-5, 11-13, 11-3, 11-5 victory against the afore-mentioned Nikita Tkachuk. Bottom placed Hatfield Peverel B did well to beat Writtle D 6-4. Paul Mulley led the way with three wins whilst Michael Lucey won twice. Lucey beat Colin Barham 15-13, 11-9, 3-11, 6-11, 12-10 in the closest game of the night. Chelmsford E – Joachin Mapes (three wins), Adi Kamma (two wins) and Dave Parker (two wins) produced a strong team performance to beat OCA D 8-2. Danbury J were another side who hit top form. John Robinson (two wins), Dave Meah (three wins) and Dave Marsh (two wins) ran out 8-2 winners against Danbury K. Another League stalwart (and former League Press Officer) Mo Hardy rolled back the years by beating John Robinson (4-11, 11-8, 11-8, 4-11, 11-9).
OCA A moved into second place in division one by beating Chelmsford C 7-3. Matthew Mulley (21 wins out of 21) led the way and he received good support from Bertie Makoli who won twice. Both sides fielded reserves and it was Robin Armstrong who fared best. He beat Braintree League team-mate Mike Johnston (6-11, 11-4, 11-5, 9-11, 11-6). Chelmsford C were also in action against Chelmsford B, and they again lost 7-3. Chelmsford Mens Singles Runner-Up Harry Buckle turned in a power house performance beating Mark Allaway (11-2, 11-6, 11-5), Wiktor Delimat (11-6, 11-9, 11-7) and Victor Chan (8-11, 11-8, 11-7, 11-2). Mark Allaway made his mark with a superb 11-9, 7-11, 16-14, 5-11, 14-12 win over Charlie Craig.
The competitive nature of division two was demonstrated perfectly this week. Top placed Danbury G were held to a draw by bottom placed Danbury F. No single player remained unbeaten and Gordon Gatheral won twice for the F side – good wins as well. He beat Sanjay Saptarshi (11-9, 11-6, 7-11, 11-8) and his son David (12-10, 11-7, 6-11, 11-9). Danbury G remain favourites to win this division with 96 points from 16 games but the champagne remains on hold. Writtle C and Chelmsford D share second place with 92 points. Writtle C lost 6-4 to Danbury E despite the fact that Gary Ward won his three singles. John Gagg chipped in with a battling 11-8, 11-7, 3-11, 3-11, 11-7 win over Tony Forster. In another close finish Tony Forster prevailed 8-11, 11-3, 11-5, 11-13, 13-11 against John Parodi. Chelmsford D were on the right side of a 6-4 win against Writtle B; Sudheep Kamma, Harry Chivers and Victor Chan all won twice to counter the excellent of hat-trick of wins that Trevor Collin picked up. Collin beat Harry Chivers (9-11, 7-11, 11-7,11-8, 11-8), Victor Chan (8-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-5) and Sudheep Kamma (9-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-9) – three very good wins and each one achieved after having lost the first end. Writtle B also lost 6-4 to Danbury K. Danbury’s Colin Napper excelled this time. He notched up three excellent wins, downing the challenges of Phil Smith (6-11, 11-3, 8-11, 11-7, 11-9), Trevor Collin (3-11, 11-6, 11-4, 13-11) and Matthew Brown (8-11, 12-10, 11-7, 11-7). The dependable Mick Richardson won his three singles as OCA C drew 5-5 with OCA B. Team-mate Mick Hayes chipped in with a fine 11-6, 10-12, 11-6, 4-11, 11-9 win over Gareth Joice.
Danbury L are division four Champions and it was fitting that it was their talisman – Denis Crapnell (30 wins out of 30) who dominated the evening in their 5-5 draw against Highwood B. Anne Mills in her first appearance of the Season won once beating Russell Downton 11-4, 8-11, 7-11, 11-8, 11-6. Writtle E stay second despite losing 6-4 against OCA E. David Newman led the way with three wins and Farooq Ahmed secured the victory for his side by beating Ian Hockley 10-12, 12-14, 11-9, 14-12, 11-7 in the last game. Quite a battle !. Highwood A did well to beat Highwood B 6-4, good going as Roger Patient was unbeaten for Highwood B. Patient opened proceedings with a 16-14, 11-4, 12-10 victory over Keith Fitz-John. Highwood A also drew 5-5 against Chelmsford G. No one player remained undefeated and the Chelmsford duo of Todd Martin and Harrison Hill and the Highwood pairing of Melanie Bonnett and Keith Fitz-John all won twice. Todd Martin’s win over Keith Pallett couldn’t have been much closer. Martin prevailed 14-16, 13-11, 9-11, 11-6, 11-9. Elsewhere OCA E ran out 8-2 winners against Chelmsford H. David Newman was on top form and he was undefeated for OCA E whilst Cleon Fernandes won twice for the losers.
Hatfield Peverel C (96 points from 15 matches) look good for second place in division five. They beat Maldon C 9-1, after Mick Carter and Karen Braney were both undefeated. Victoria Farrell beat Kath Little 11-6, 11-9, 11-7 for the loser’s sole success. OCA F (89 points from 15 games) consolidated second place by beating Danbury N 6-4. Their leading player Stuart Wintle (84 %) won his three singles. Mike Morecroft pipped Steve Martin by a last gasp 12-10, 9-11, 11-8, 3-11, 12-10 scoreline.
Division 2A of the Chelmsford Junior League produced three clear-cut sets of winners this week. Chelmsford Leopards (Harrison Hill and Alesha Ellis Austin) ran out 5-0 winners against Buttbury Bats. A different Chelmsford Leopards side (Cleon Fernandes and Dion Fernandes this time) also beat Writtle Rattlesnakes 4-1. Archie Pummell emerged as a fifth set winner (11-9, 11-9, 5-11, 6-11, 11-7) over Dion Fernandes. Leaders Chelmsford Pumas made it five wins out of six by beating Buttsbury Bats 4-1. Harrison Hill was unbeaten for the Pumas whilst Jamie Elliott was on target for Buttsbury, and he beat Ben Chivers 11-9, 11-5, 11-7. The other game was closer and Chelmsford Pumas beat Chelmsford Leopards. Cleon Fernandes was undefeated for the Leopards with two hard fought wins. He beat Harrison Hill (3-11, 11-9, 7-11, 12-10, 11-7) and Alesha Ellis-Austin (11-6, 9-11, 11-8, 11-5).
In Junior division 2B the leaders Buttsbury Badgers (Oscar Hutt and Lucy Elliott) made it four wins out of four by beating Chelmsford Wildcats 4-1. Oscar Hutt won both of his singles whilst Harel Choo showed up well by beating Lucy Elliott (11-9, 11-4, 11-6).
Oscar Hutt and Lucy Elliott were also in action in Junior division 2C. Representing the leaders Buttsbury Bulldogs they defeated Chelmsford Lions 4-1. Oscar Hutt was again unbeaten. They lead the way with 17 points out of 20.
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
Runaway leaders Chelmsford A have been crowned Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League first division Champions and such is their level of dominance that they still have two matches left to play. Galleywood A put up a fight before losing 8-2. Gary Brignall powered his way to a quick fire 11-7, 11-5, 11-6 win over Kim Shead and James Mullane excelled. He beat James Liddiard 9-11, 8-11, 11-9, 11-7, 13-11 – a gem of a win !. James Hicks wasn’t able to register a victory but he pushed Mens Singles Champion Dan Young all the way before succumbing 11-8, 11-5, 5-11, 6-11, 9-11. OCA A jumped into second place. The brothers Mulley – Matthew and Mark were undefeated as they beat Danbury A 8-2. Mathew Mulley made it 18 wins out of 18 and he powered his way to three singles wins. He beat Eric Green (11-4, 12-10, 11-7), Bruce Kettle (11-8, 11-8, 11-7) and Dave Richardson (11-5, 11-7, 12-10). A strong Writtle A side dented the hopes of Danbury B of finishing second by beating them 7-3. Lee McHugh and Duncan Taylor were both undefeated. Lee McHugh was pushed by Sam Lowman before he prevailed 11-6, 11-8, 7-11, 9-11, 11-7. Chelmsford B, who are fifth, scored their sixth win of the Season, a narrow 6-4 victory over Danbury A. Harry Buckle led the way with three wins whilst Eric Green and Dave Richardson both won twice for Danbury. Richardson pipped Charlie Craig 6-11, 11-7, 5-11, 12-10, 12-10 in the closest game of the night.
With six scorecards to account for in division two it’s hard to know where to start. The battle at the bottom of the table couldn’t be closer with a mere two points covering fifth placed Writtle B and ninth placed Danbury E. The leaders Danbury G took a step closer to the title by beating second placed Writtle C 6-4. Sanjay Saptarshi was again their match winner and he beat Gary Ward 11-9, 9-11, 11-6, 6-11, 11-7 – Gary’s second defeat of the Season. Another player to turn in a top-notch performance was Harry Chivers and his excellent hat-trick helped Chelmsford D draw 5-5 with Danbury D. Rising star Chivers gave Chelmsford the best possible start, by beating Chris Buer 12-10, 11-7, 7-11, 11-7. Fourth placed Hatfield Peverel A defeated Danbury E 8-2. Martin Archie led the way with a hat-trick but he had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Tony Forster (11-4, 6-11, 11-13, 11-7, 11-9) and Dick Wyman (11-5, 11-5, 3-11, 4-11, 11-9). The match between OCA B and Danbury D finished tied at 5-5. OCA‘s Kevin Worthington and Trevor Carter and Danbury’s Gus Heath and Ian Cranstone all won twice. Trevor Carter defeated Gus Heath in five ends (4-11, 11-5, 11-13, 11-9, 11-6). Chelmsford D did well to beat OCA C 6-4, good going as Mick Richardson was undefeated for OCA C. Dave Porter beat Sudheep Kamma 11-9, 12-10, 5-11, 4-11, 11-9 in the closest game of the evening. OCA B ran out 7-3 winners against Danbury E. Kevin Worthington led the way with three wins. He pipped Dick Wyman 12-10, 11-4, 6-11, 12-14, 11-8.
In division three Danbury J consolidated third place by beating Hatfield Peverel B 8-2. Dave Marsh led the way with three wins which included a hard-fought 7-11, 11-8, 11-7, 3-11, 11-9 victory over Paul Mulley. OCA D ran out 7-3 winners against Danbury H. Richard Baxter led the way with three wins and Richard Upson won twice. The match between Writtle D and Chelmsford E was a 5-5 draw. Jarek Pietraszuk won his three singles for the Chelmsford side and this included a hard-fought 7-11, 11-7, 11-5, 10-12, 11-8 success against Peter Layzell.
Danbury L with 105 points can’t be overtaken in division four. They could only field two players against second placed Writtle E but with Denis Crapnell (27 wins out of 27) carrying all before him they won 6-4. Crapnell looked a class apart, racing to 3-0 wins over Malcolm Storey (11-5, 11-3, 11-5), Colin Griffiths (11-5, 11-5, 12-10) and Dave Moles (11-7, 11-2, 11-6). Writtle E also lost 6-4 to Highwood A. This match saw Keith Fitz-John turn in a masterful display. He beat Colin Griffiths (11-13, 11-4, 11-5, 8-11, 11-6) in his opening singles and followed this up with two more cracking wins – 11-6, 11-7, 14-12 against Neil Thompson and 11-4, 12-10, 11-6 against Malcolm Storey. In yet another match decided 6-4 Galleywood C beat Maldon B. Colin Blore led the way with three wins. Galleywood also lost 7-3 to Chelmsford H. Harrison Hill gave yet another glimpse of his huge potential by staying unbeaten. He defeated Colin Blore 11-6, 11-8, 11-6.
Buttsbury remain on target to win division five. Oscar Hutt, Frances Hutt and Alex Ware ran out 9-1 winners against Hatfield Peverel E and Jamie Elliott, Ray Horton and Oscar Hutt defeated Danbury M 7-3. Jamie Elliott stayed unbeaten and with 20 wins out of 20 he has had an outstanding Season. He beat Ken Wilding (6-11, 11-9, 11-3, 11-4), Martin Knights (11-8, 11-3, 11-7) and Paul Thirkettle (7-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-2). Buttsbury also beat Maldon C 9-1. Ben Brown and Jamie Elliott were both undefeated this time. Danbury N were 8-2 winners against Chelmsford J. Steve Martin and Graham Naggs both won their three singles. John Wickins fought back from 2-0 down to defeat Ron Tam 4-11, 6-11, 11-5, 11-9, 12-10. Ella Sach, was another player to win her three singles and she led Maldon C to a 6-4 win against Hatfield Peverel D. Ella trailed Phil West in her third singles but she came through very strongly to win 12-10, 7-11, 8-11, 11-6, 11-1. Hatfield Peverel C beat OCA F 6-4 in a match where no one player stayed undefeated and no one went home empty handed. Suzanne Shaw made her mark with a fine 11-7, 6-11, 5-11, 11-6, 12-10 victory against Richard Drozd.
Buttsbury Bees beat Writtle Rattlesnakes 3-2 in Junior League division 2A. Ben Brown defeated Archie Pummell (11-8, 11-7, 11-7) and Mimi Pummell (11-8, 11-5, 11-4).
Buttsbury Badgers, leaders of Junior League division 2B scored their third win by beating Chelmsford Antelopes 4-1. Harry Hutt beat both Richard Carter (11-8, 11-7, 11-8) and Samaksh Sirohi (8-11, 4-11, 11-6, 11-7, 11-6). Chelmsford Antelopes in turn ran out 5-0 winners over Chelmsford Wildcats. Richard Carter beat Harel Choo in five games (11-7, 11-9, 9-11, 9-11, 11-4).
Both games in Junior League division 2C resulted in 4-1 wins. Chelmsford Eagles (Yishai Choo and Freya Hart) beat Chelmsford Lions. Aarav Toshniwal was on target for the losers with a 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 3-11, 12-10 win over Yishai Choo. Buttsbury Beavers (Tommy Hudd and Lucy Elliott) were also successful. They defeated Fraser Holmes and William Guilloux 11-7, 8-11, 11-9, 9-11, 12-10 in a gripping doubles encounter.
In the Handicap KO Cup Danbury M (Paul Thirkettle, Ken Wilding and Martin Knights) came out on top 5-3 against Chelmsford E even though Rev Mathews was undefeated for Chelmsford. Playing off a handicap of 60 Matthews did well to beat Ken Wilding (handicap of 25) 13-21, 22-10, 21-18, Paul Thirkettle (handicap of 40) 14-21, 21-18, 21-17 and Martin Knights (handicap pf 40) 23-21, 6-21, 21-14. Buttsbury B – Lucy Elliott (handicap of 8), Oscar Hart (handicap of 21) and Jamie Elliott (handicap of 48) ran out 7-2 winners against Danbury N. Jamie Elliott gave them a winning start with a 21-11, 13-21, 21-10 win over Roy Gandy (handicap of 49) and they never looked back after that. Maldon C are also safely through to the next round. Andrea Alleyne (handicap of 47), Ella Sach (handicap of 24) and Kym Eames (handicap of 29) ran out 5-1 winners against Danbury J. Andrea Alleyne clinched their victory with a convincing 21-14, 21-8 win over Dave Marsh (handicap of 66).
Chelmsford B (Josh Bickles, Charlie Craig and Saul Chivers) progressed in the Open KO Cup by beating Chelmsford D 5-1. The last two games produced stirring battles. Harry Chivers / Sudheep Kamma beat Josh Bickles / Charlie Craig in the middle doubles by a mind-blowing scoreline of 13-11, 11-5, 7-11, 9-11, 24-22 (yes 24-22) and Charlie Craig had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Victor Chan (14-12, 5-11, 11-5, 9-11, 15-13). Writtle A (Lee McHugh, Aaron Chandler and Richard Storey) ran out 5-1 winners against Chelmsford C. Aaron Chandler showed up well with a fine five game win over Simon Jarvis (8-11, 7-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-7).
Danbury D emerged as 5-2 winners against Writtle C in the 2 Down KO Cup. Chris Buer, Gus Heath and Ian Cranstone all played a part in this win with Chris Buer scoring a vital 12-10, 4-11, 7-11, 11-5, 12-10 win over John Webber which stopped his side falling two games behind. It wasn’t John Webber’s night as he also lost a second five setter against Ian Cranstone (11-5, 9-11, 6-11, 11-6, 9-11). Writtle B (Paul Sturton, Phil Smith and Trevor Collin) came through 5-2 against OCA . Trevor Collin made his mark with an impressive 11-7, 11-6, 11-7 win over Dave Porter.
In the 4 Down Knock Out Cup OCA E (David Newman, David Bishop and Russell Hall) beat Highwood A 5-1. Russell Hall played his part with a last gasp 8-11, 11-5, 8-11, 11-4, 12-10 win over Keith Fitz-John. Writtle E (Neil Thompson, Ian Hockley and Malcolm Storey) ran put 5-0 winners over Highwood B. Neil Thompson put them 2-0 ahead by beating David Cockrell 11-5, 11-9, 11-13, 6-11, 11-9.
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
Writtle C moved into second place in division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League by beating fourth placed Hatfield Peverel A 6-4. Without their leading player Gary Ward it was John Webber who held them together with three wins. He beat Martin Archie (11-9, 11-4, 11-6), Neil Freeman (11-7, 11-4, 11-9) and Gareth Davies (9-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-4). John Gagg played his part by getting the better of Neil Freeman (11-9, 11-6, 8-11, 3-11, 12-10). OCs C (Mick Richardson, Mick Hayes and David Porter) did well to beat Danbury F 7-3, good going as Sam Phillips won his three singles for the Danbury side. Phillips prevailed over five fluctuating ends against Mick Richardson (6-11, 11-5, 6-11, 11-4, 11-8). Danbury F also drew 5-5 against Danbury D. Chris Buer was undefeated for Danbury D although he had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Sam Phillips (10-12, 11-5, 10-12, 11-8, 11-9).
Danbury B, back in sixth place in division one but with two games in hand on some of their rivals could still conceivably challenge for second place. Sam Lowman was undefeated as they beat a two-man OCA A side 7-3. Lowman had to battle hard for his two wins and he beat Terry Dowsett (11-7, 8-11, 12-10, 8-11, 11-7) and Robbie Burton (11-9, 11-13, 11-4, 9-11, 12-10). Danbury reserve Gus Heath made his mark with an excellent 11-5, 11-3, 11-9 win over Robbie Burton. A very strong Danbury C side of Keith Adams, Ian Whiteside and Trevor Lloyd powered to a 9-1 win over Chelmsford C. Simon Jarvis was Chelmsford’s sole winner with a 11-7, 11-4, 11-8 win over Ian Whiteside. Leaders and Champions elect – Chelmsford A were a player short against Writtle A. However, with Mens singles Champion Daniel Young remaining undefeated they won 6-4. Daniel Young beat Lee McHugh (11-4, 10-12, 11-7, 12-10) whilst McHugh made his presence felt with a 11-9, 7-11, 11-8, 13-11 victory against James Liddiard.
Galleywood B, with 14 wins out of 15 – took another step towards the division three title by beating OCA D 8-2. Mark Glenister’s win over Connor Payne could hardly have been closer with Glenister edging it 13-11, 10-12, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9. The records of their three regular players indicate what a consistent side they have been – John Holland (91 %), Mark Glenister (74 %) and Gary Copsey (89 %). Hatfield Peverel B and Danbury K couldn’t be separated. No one player stayed unbeaten and Hatfield Peverel’s Roger Slade and Paul Mulley and Danbury’s Nicky Reece Ford and Peter Hance all won twice. Peter Hance’s game against Phil Shippen “went to the wire” with Peter Hance finally taking it 11-1, 11-4, 9-11, 7-11, 12-10. Peter Layzell stayed undefeated as Writtle D beat Danbury H 7-3. Layzell had to work hard to overcome Dave Powell 3-11, 11-5, 8-11, 11-8, 12-10. Chelmsford E beat the higher placed Danbury J 6-4. Adi Kamma led the way with three wins. He beat Kevin Willis (11-4, 10-12, 11-7, 12-10), Dave Marsh (11-2, 11-9, 9-11, 11-4) and Dave Meah (11-8, 11-9, 7-11, 11-9).
In division four the leaders Danbury L took another step towards the title by beating Chelmsford H 8-2. Dennis Balic was unbeaten whilst Cleon Fernandes won twice for the losers. He beat Mervyn Perriman (12-10, 2-11, 1-18, 11-4) and Derrick Pearson (11-9, 8-11, 8-11, 1-18, 11-9). Chelmsford G ran out 7-3 winners against Highwood B. Dusan Doszkoty won his three singles whilst Harrison Hill chipped in with a 9-11, 12-10, 11-9, 9-11, 11-9 win over Dave Cockerell. Quite a battle.
In division five Hatfield Peverel C returned to pole position by beating Chelmsford J 10-0. Andy Whiley, Richard Drozd and Andy Simmonds gave nothing away. Richard Drozd looked to be in trouble against Paul Bullock after losing the first two games quite comfortably, but he eventually pulled through 4-11, 6-11, 12-10, 11-7, 11-7. Paul Thirkettle stayed unbeaten as Danbury M defeated Danbury N 7-3. Graham Naggs was on target for Danbury N with a hard earned 9-11, 11-7, 6-11, 13-11, 11-7 win over Ken Wilding. League stalwart Stuart Wintle has hit top form and is undefeated for five matches. His three wins helped OCA F beat Hatfield Peverel D 6-4. Kath Little did well to beat David Bishop 3-11, 15-13, 13-11, 15-11, 11-8.
Buttsbury Bees are the early leaders in division 2A of the Junior League. Ben Brown and Jamie Elliott raced to a 5-0 win over Buttsbury Bats although Ben Brown had to work hard to beat George Hagland 7-11, 11-6, 12-10, 12-10. Chelmsford Pumas are in second place and they beat Chelmsford Leopards 3-2. Todd Martin won both of his singles. The Leopards hit back and Cleon Fernandes and Jishant Shah did well to beat Todd Martin / Alesha Ellis-Austin 16-14, 12-10, 11-9 in a very hard fought doubles encounter. Writtle Rattlesnakes emerged as 3-2 winners against Buttsbury Bats; good going as George Hagland won his two singles for Buttsbury Bats. Mimi Pummell beat George Standish 8-11, 11-6, 11-9, 9-11, 11-9 in the closest game of the night.
Chelmsford Cougars (Felix Reeve and Daniel Lewis) made it three wins out of three by beating Chelmsford Eagles 5-0. With Joshua Lewis replacing Felix Reeve they also beat Chelmsford Lions 4-1. Joshua Lewis gave his side a winning start by getting the better of Jaithra Bommu 11-5,11-7, 7-11, 12-14, 11-9. Buttsbury Bulldogs (Joseph Hutt and Callum Walker) ran out 4-1 winners against Buttsbury Beavers. Callum Walker prevailed over five fluctuating ends against Tommy Hudd (11-5, 11-3, 12-14, 4-11, 11-7).
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
Danbury A jumped into second place in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League by beating Danbury C 10-0. Danbury C weren’t at full strength and Danbury A took full advantage. Eric Green, Dave Richardson and Babul McLeod powered their way to a 10-0 win. Danbury A are now well placed to finish second. They have 68 points, three more than third placed OCA A, and it is Danbury A who have a game in hand. Galleywood A produced their best display of the Season to beat Chelmsford C 7-3 – a result that lifts them off the bottom. Peter Radford was unbeaten for Galleywood whilst Gary Brignall also showed up well. He beat Wiktor Delimat (14-16, 13-11, 2-11, 11-7, 11-6) and most impressively Simon Jarvis (11-9, 14-12, 11-5). OCA A beat Writtle A 7-3. The brothers Mulley – Matthew and Mark turned in another power-house display and won all seven games. In the pick of the night’s action Arron Chandler pipped Bertie Makoli 11-4, 12-10, 10-12, 8-11, 12-10. Danbury B ran out 6-4 winners against Chelmsford B. Sam Lowman led the way with a hat-trick whilst Dan Anderson impressed as well. He beat Saul Chivers (11-8, 11-8, 12-10) and Josh Bickles (13-11, 11-9, 11-7). Match of the evening, was arguably the high-octane clash between Charlie Craig and Sam Lowman where Sam prevailed 11-8, 6-11, 11-3, 9-11, 13-11.
Leaders Danbury G scored their eighth win of the Season in division two by beating OCA C 6-4, and Sanjay Saptarshi again led from the front. He won his three singles. His record of 89 % (32 wins out of 36) is outstanding. David Porter won twice for OCA C and this included a fine 11-6, 9-11, 11-3, 9-11, 11-8 win over David Gatheral. Sanjay Saptarshi showed up well in his third singles powering his way to a 11-3, 11-3, 8-11, 11-3 win over Mick Richardson. Chelmsford D excelled by beating Danbury E 8-2. Harry Chivers (three wins), Victor Chan (three wins) and Sudheep Kamma (two wins) all played well whilst players of the calibre of Danbury’s Tony Forster and Neil Want drew blanks. Harry Chivers was outstanding. He beat Neil Want (9-11, 11-4, 11-4,11-5), Tim Cramphorn (11-8, 13-11, 11-6) and Tony Forster (11-7, 11-6, 11-7). Team-work saw Writtle C prevail 6-4 against Writtle B. John Webber, Dave Carter and John Parodi all won twice. Dave Carter, playing up from division three performed exceptionally well, beating Phil Smith (11-7, 11-9, 5-11, 3-11, 11-9) and Rod Maclennan (10-12, 11-5, 7-11, 13-11, 11-9).
Maldon A, second in division three, were 8-2 winners this week against OCA D. Hamish Innes and Dawn Baldry were both undefeated. Amanda Hogger won a close encounter12-14, 11-3, 11-9, 9-11, 11-7 against Garry Eames for the losers. Danbury K ran out narrow 6-4 winners against Chelmsford E. No player was undefeated and no one went home empty handed. Dave Parker pipped Peter Hance 2-11, 11-6, 10-12, 11-6, 12-10 in the closest game of the night. Danbury J (Alan Dadswell, Dennis Crapnell and David Meah) dominated against Danbury H, so much so that they won 10-0. Alan Dadswell was pushed in the last game but he eventually eased home 15-17, 11-7, 7-11, 11-7, 11-8 against Dave Hancox. Elsewhere, Chelmsford F – Nikita Tkachuk (three wins), Andy Swales (two wins) and Luke Richardson (two wins) beat Hatfield Peverel B 8-2.
The eye-catching performance in division four went to 11 year-old Harrison Hill who made the transition from the Junior League to division four look seamless. He won his three singles for Chelmsford G in their 3-7 defeat against Maldon B. Shirley Carroll, Victoria Farrell and Ella Sach all won twice for Maldon B. Writtle E led by a trio of wins from Neil Thompson beat Highwood B 7-3. Thompson posted wins against Russell Downton (11-6, 11-4, 11-3), Roger Patient (11-9, 14-12, 8-11, 11-9) and Dave Cockerill (13-11, 8-11, 11-5, 11-5). The match between Galleywood C and OCA E finished tied at 5-5. Will Goodchild had to pull out all the stops to get the better of David Newman 7-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-6, 16-14. Cleon Fernandes was another player from the Chelmsford Junior League to excel this week. He won his three singles as Chelmsford H edged out Highwood A 6-4. He had quite a battle with Keith Fitz-John before sneaking home 11-7, 10-12, 11-7, 9-11, 13-11.
OCA F jumped into second place in division five courtesy of their 9-1 win over Maldon C. Stuart Wintle and Bob Francis were both undefeated whilst Mike Morecroft won twice. Morecroft had to work hard for his two successes. He beat Ross Wheeler (4-11, 11-3, 5-11, 12-10, 11-8) and Kym Eames (5-11, 11-4, 11-2, 12-14, 11-8). The other three games in this division were much closer. Hatfield Peverel E beat Danbury N 6-4 in a match where no one player remained undefeated. Hatfield Peverel’s Deb Ginn and Karen Braney and Danbury ‘s Graham Naggs and Jo Hart all won twice. Chelmsford J and Hatfield Peverel D couldn’t be separated. Peter Davenport won his three singles for Chelmsford J and this included a titanic struggle against Kath Little in the first game where he won 11-4, 12-14, 11-7, 10-12, 12-10. It was honours even as well (5-5) in the match between Danbury M and Hatfield Peverel C. Paul Thirkettle was undefeated for Danbury and Martin Knights chipped in with a 11-6, 11-8, 7-11. 7-11, 15-13 win over Andy Whiley.
Chelmsford Pumas (Alesha Ellis-Austin and Ben Chivers) were 5-0 winners against Writtle Rattlesnakes in division 2B of the Chelmsford Junior League. Allesha Ellis Austin gave her team a winning start by beating Luv Goel 7-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-3 in the opening encounter. Buttsbury Badgers beat Chelmsford Jaguars 3-2 although Emilie Guilloux was unbeaten for Buttsbury in her singles. Emilie defeated Oscar Hutt (11-9, 11-3, 11-7) and Harry Hutt (11-9, 5-11, 11-4, 11-8).
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
This week’s Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League report includes League matches, the first round of the second series of Junior League matches and Cup matches. Thanks are extended to KO Cup Secretary Matthew Brown for his extensive report on the latest round of Cup matches.
In division one Galleywood A did well to draw with Danbury A. However, both Galleywood A and Chelmsford C look to be doomed to relegation. They both trail Danbury B by 15 points and Danbury B have a game in hand. In a match where no one player stayed unbeaten and no one went home empty-handed Eric Green and Dave Richardson both won twice for Danbury as did James Hicks for Galleywood. James Hicks showed up well. He beat Eric Green (6-11, 11-5, 5-11, 11-8, 11-7) and then Dave Richardson (12-10, 10-12, 12-10, 13-11) – they don’t come much closer; before missing out (5-11, 11-5, 16-18, 6-11) against Babul McLeod. Galleywood’s new signing James Mullane made his mark with a fine 9-11, 11-8, 11-4, 12-10 win over Babul McLeod. In yet another high-octane encounter Dave Richardson defeated Gary Brignall 10-12, 11-3, 8-11, 11-8, 11-9.
In division three second placed Maldon A were narrow 6-4 winners against Writtle D. Lloyd Bennett-Smith was undefeated for Maldon and he sealed the win with a 11-5, 11-8, 14-16, 12-14, 11-9 win over Malcolm Henstock. Peter Layzell impressed with his 11-6, 12-10, 11-8 win over Hamish Innes.
The division four match between Highwood B and Chelmsford H finished tied at 5-5. Chelmsford’s Khalid Davis dominated and he beat Martin Goddard (11-8, 16-14, 11-6), Dave Cockeril (11-4, 7-11, 9-11, 14-12, 11-9) and Russell Downton (11-6, 11-7, 10-12, 11-8).
Buttsbury are well placed in division five, one point behind the leaders Hatfield Peverel D but with a game in hand. Jamie Elliott won his three singles as they beat Danbury N 6-4. Steve Martin edged out Ray Horton 11-8, 7-11, 2-11, 11-7, 11-9 for the losers.
Jamie Elliott was in action again for Buttsbury Bees who beat Chelmsford Leopards 3-2 in division 2A of the Chelmsford Junior League. Elliott defeated Dion Fernandes (11-8, 11-5, 11-6) and Cleon Fernandes (11-13, 11-6, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6). Jamie Elliott was also undefeated in singles as Buttsbury Bees lost 2-3 to Chelmsford Pumas. This time he beat Ben Chivers (11-5, 11-8, 11-6) and Todd Martin (8-11, 11-7, 11-9, 8-11, 11-5).
Buttsbury Badgers were 5-0 winners against Writtle Racoons in Junior division 2B. Harry Hutt and Oscar Hutt carried all before them. The match between Chelmsford Antelopes and Chelmsford Jaguars was closer with the Antelopes winning 3-2 despite the fact that Emilie Guilloux was undefeated for Chelmsford Jaguars. Emilie beat Arnav Kumar (11-4, 11-5, 11-4) and Samaksh Sirohi (11-4, 12-10, 9-11, 11-7).
Buttsbury Bulldogs ran out 4-1 winners against Chelmsford Eagles in Junior division 2C. Tommy Hudd led the way with two wins. He beat Francesca Hart (11-3, 11-9, 8-11, 16-14) and Freya Hart (9-11, 11-7, 11-9, 14-12). Chelmsford Cougars also made a successful start. They beat Buttsbury Beavers 3-2. Felix Reeve was their match-winner. He beat Joseph Hutt (11-8, 11-3, 11-7) and Lucy Elliott (11-5, 11-6, 11-9).
Matthew Brown reports on the KO Cup competitions as follows –
The round of 16 in the Handicap Cup was played in January. As always in the Handicap Cup, we seem to either have very closely fought matches or runaway victories.
The Chelmsford H team of Joachin Mapes, Harry Chivers and Saul Chivers were involved in a very tight contest with the more experienced trio of OC’s B’s Connor Payne, Charles Yeung and Richard Baxter. The match see-sawed with never more than a match between the two sides. Richard Baxter opened proceedings for OC’s with a 17-21, 23-21, 21-9 win over Saul Chivers. Joachin Mapes levelled with a 17-21, 21-12, 21-9 win over Charles Yeung. Connor Payne then restored OC’s lead with a 21-23, 21-17, 21-19 win over Harry Chivers but Chelmsford fought back with two straight set wins for Saul and Harry. It was 21-15, 28-26 for Saul over Charles and 21-13, 21-8 for Harry over Richard. OC’s levelled with a 15-21, 13-21 win for Connor over Joachin. Chelmsford took the lead again with a 20-22, 24-22, 21-13 win for Harry over Charles, only for OC’s to level with a 11-21, 4-21 win for Connor over Saul. This left Joachin to play Richard to decide the tie. In two very close sets, Joachin prevailed 23-21, 23-21 to send Chelmsford into the quarterfinals.
Meeting Chelmsford H will be Danbury G or Chelmsford J. In what was another very closely fought contest, Danbury G prevailed by the skin of their teeth as they came back from 2-4 to just about win 5-4 and that included surviving six match points in game eight where Luca Bailey recovered in both sets two and three to squeeze past Peter Davenport, 18-21, 24-22, 22-20. Six of the matches went to deciding sets (a testament to the handicapping?) and every player won at least one game in a match of styles and grit. Jacqui Smith played brilliantly all evening beating Eamonn Hall, and taking Luca Bailey and Sanjay Saptarshi to three sets. The final game was between the unbeaten Paul Bullock and the winless Eamonn Hall, and yes it went to three long sets before Eamonn saw his team through to the next round winning 21-15, 14-21, 21-16.
The tie between OC’s C and Chelmsford E was a little more one-sided with the Chelmsford E side of Adi Kamma, Dave Parker and Chris Young running into a 4-0 lead before OC’s got started. This said, three of those four games were settled in the deciding set, with OC’s Mick Hayes losing out 21-11, 15-21, 27-29 to Chris Young in the opener, Mick Richardson being similarly thwarted 23-21, 20-22, 16-21 by Dave Parker in game two, and Mick Hayes again being on the wrong end of a deuce in the third scoreline, going down 14-21, 21-16, 22-24 to Dave Parker in game four. David Porter and Mick Richardson restored some pride to the score line with straight set wins before Dave Parker finished OC’s off in yet another deciding set, getting the better of David Porter 18-21, 21-13, 21-15.
Chelmsford E’s quarter-final opponents will be Danbury M after they defeated Writtle C 5-4. The Danbury side started well with victories for Ken Wilding and Martin Knights (who got the better of Gary Ward 19-21, 21-10, 25-23) before Writtle levelled with wins for John Webber and John Gagg. Danbury took the lead again with a deciding set win for Ken Wilding over John Webber before Writtle looked to take the initiative with two straight set wins for Gary Ward and John Webber. However, Danbury were not to be thwarted and Paul Thirkettle and Ken Wilding won the last two games in straight sets to prevail 5-4.
The other remaining Writtle team, Writtle D, also came unstuck, losing 2-5 to Buttsbury B. Despite two wins for Malcolm Henstock, the Buttsbury team of Jamie Elliott, Ray Horton and Oscar Hutt were able to run away with the victory.
Buttsbury B’s quarter-final opponents are Danbury N, who completely overpowered the Highwood A team of Melanie Bonnett, Keith Pallett and Keith Fitz-John who commented “Danbury won hands down!”. The Danbury side of Ron Tam, Steve Martin and Graham Naggs were just too strong for their handicaps. Closest match on the night was Keith Fitz-John’s three set loss to Steve Martin (21-19, 10-21, 18-21).
Highwood were on the wrong end of another one-sided match when their B team lost 5-2 to Maldon C. Despite two wins for Highwood’s Roger Patient, the Maldon C team of Ella Sach, Kym Eames and Andrea Alleyne were always in control, leading 2-0 and 3-1, before easing to the 5-2 win in the closest game of the night when Maldon’s Kym Eames prevailed 18-21, 5-21, 19-21 against Highwood’s Roger Patient.
The last match in this round was an all Danbury affair. Their J team hosted the B team and, perhaps unsurprisingly, the match went all the way to a deciding set in game nine. The B team opened proceedings with Eric Green defeating David Meah, only for the J team to hit back and take the next three games with Dave Marsh, John Robinson and David Meah each winning one. The B team did not give up and levelled with a three set win for Eric Green (19-21, 21-13, 21-19) over John Robinson and a straight-sets win for Sam Lowman over Dave Marsh. John Robinson then put the J team in front again with a three sets win over Neil Want (19-21, 21-13, 21-16) before Sam Lowman levelled the tie. So it came down to Dave Marsh against Eric Green, with Dave taking the first set 25-23, Eric fighting back to win the second 21-15, only for Dave to turn the tie in Danbury J’s favour to win 21-12. Their reward is a quarter-final match against Maldon C.
In the quarterfinals this past week Chelmsford H played Danbury G. While Danbury got off to a good start with a three sets win for Sanjay Saptarshi against Saul Chivers (21-18, 13-21, 24-22), it was the Chelmsford team that then took the initiative, with Nyree March, Harry Chivers and Saul Chivers taking the next three games. Danbury gave themselves hope when Gordon Gatheral got the better of Saul Chivers but Chelmsford bounced back taking the next two games and becoming the first team to make the semi-finals.
The remaining quarterfinals are scheduled for the week commencing 7 March.
In the Open Cup a preliminary round match between Chelmsford D and Highwood A was played in January. The Chelmsford team of Sudheep Kamma, Vinny Kamma and Keith Martin powered to a 5-1 win, with only Highwood’s Melanie Bonnett win over Vinny Kamma preventing a whitewash for the Chelmsford team. Their reward, a quarterfinal against their B team.
Two quarterfinal matches have been played, with first Danbury A beating Chelmsford F 5-0 (the winners of the Chelmsford B v D match will meet them in the semi-final). Danbury’s Babul McLeod, Eric Green and Dave Richardson were far too strong for Chelmsford’s Alex and Nikita Tkachuk and Luke Richardson, and didn’t drop a set in any of the five games.
Danbury B have also played their quarterfinal match against OC’s B and in another one-sided affair ran out 7-0 winners. The Danbury team of Sam Lowman, Dan Anderson and Dan Piggott, over-powered the division two side of Trevor Carter, Charles Yeung and Connor Payne. Danbury’s semi-final opponents will be either Chelmsford or Writtle A.
One of the two Division 3 Down quarterfinals has been played with Danbury J getting the better of Chelmsford E, 7-2. The Danbury side of Peter Hance, John Robinson and Sam Phillips, eased to victory against Chelmsford’s Rev Matthews, Adi Kamma and Vasile Barbulet. Rev Matthews scored a good four sets win over John Robinson and the doubles pairing of Rev and Adi had a last gasp 14-12 fifth set win over Peter and John. Danbury will face Chelmsford H in the semi-finals.
All other quarterfinal matches in the Open Cup and the Divisions 2, 3 and 4 Down Knockout Cups are due to be played in the week commencing 7 March.
Steve Kerns Press & Publicity Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
Daniel Young, 17, was crowned the 2022 Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Mens Singles Champion at Old Chelmsfordians Association on Tuesday evening in front of a large and appreciative crowd which included 10 players from the League’s Bat & Chat Session. In what was definitely a great evening for the younger players Harry Buckle, also aged 17, was Mens Singles runner-up.
The opening game featured top seed Duncan Taylor and Daniel Young. Taylor’s cast iron defensive game is often one that Juniors struggle against. This isn’t the case with Daniel Young. Despite falling 0-5 down in the first game he won the next seven points and the first game 11-8. Duncan hit back winning the second game 11-7. Duncan looked to attack more but it was the patient Daniel who eventually ran out the winner 11-8, 7-11, 11-9, 11-7.
The second game gave the Finals Night audience their first view of Harry Buckle who played Lee McHugh. Harry started nervously but soon settled down. Despite serving into the net at 9-9 he won the first game 12-10. In the second game it was all Harry and he powered home 11-2. The third game was much better for Lee and he won comfortably 11-5. Harry started the fourth end really well and surged into a 5-0 lead, and although Lee fought back to 7-3 and 9-9 Harry sealed victory 12-10. Game, set and match to Harry 12-10, 11-2, 5-11, 12-10.
The Mens Doubles Final featured two new pairings and it was the Danbury pairing of Trevor Lloyd and Bruce Kettle who emerged as winners 9-11, 11-7, 11-4, 11-9 . After a hesitant first end they dominated and with Trevor Lloyd’s renowned forehand and Bruce Kettle’s pacy backhand calling the shots they looked to be the more likely winners, which they were.
The three down Singles Final was held over from the weekend and it featured Galleywood team-mates John Holland and Mark Glenister. Mark started the more brightly and he edged the first two games 11-8, 12-10. Was an upset on the cards ?. No, John hit back and forcing his opponent to have to scramble against his superbly executed drop shots he pulled through to win 8-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-8, 11-6. The last point perhaps captured the nature of this victory. John’s perfectly executed “drop-shot” left Mark floundering.
The Under 19 Singles Final featured the same two players who would later contest the Mens Singles Final. It was attack, attack, attack and more third ball attack as Harry Buckle turned in a superb display to beat Daniel Young 11-9, 11-6, 11-4.
The Veterans Singles Final featured the 2020 Champion – Gary Young and Keith Adams, surely one of the most improved players in the County in the last five years. Keith’s topspin forehand is devastating on it’s day and he looks to get in at every opportunity. Gary was never far behind and came very close to winning the third end but it was Keith who prevailed 11-9, 11-7, 16-14 to add the Veterans Singles Crown to the Over 50 Singles title he won at the Tournament weekend.
And so to the main event, the Mens SIngles Final. This time Daniel Young came out all guns blazing and won the first end 11-3. Harry Buckle fought back and won the second end 11-7. Game on. However, it was Daniel who prevailed and after winning the third game 11-7 he surged clear to win the fourth game 11-4. Not the youngest ever Mens Singles winner but it’s still a magnificent achievement for a Junior to become Mens Singles Champion.
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
The battle for second place in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League couldn’t be closer. A mere nine points separates second placed Danbury C and seventh placed Danbury B who have two games in hand on some of their rivals. The big shock this week was the 10-0 roasting that Danbury A dished out to Chelmsford C. Eric Green, Dave Richardson and Babul McLeod were all on top form and Chelmsford C just couldn’t find a foothold however hard they tried. Eric Green gave Danbury A the perfect start by beating the hard-hitting Simon Jarvis 12-10, 8-11, 11-8, 11-13, 11-3. Danbury C fared no better against the all-conquering Chelmsford A. Daniel Young, Gary Young and Kim Shead powered home 10-0 and with 87 points they lead the way by a huge 31 points. Kim Shead impressed this time. He beat Wiktor Delimat (7-11, 11-9, 11-9, 3-11, 11-7), Simon Jarvis (12-10, 7-11, 11-7, 12-10, 11-4) and new signing Adam Cuthbert (10-12, 11-5, 9-11, 11-3, 11-7). Three excellent wins. Danbury C also dented Writtle A’s hopes of finishing second by beating them 8-2. Trevor Lloyd and Sanjay Saptashi were both undefeated. Ryan Pitt was on target for the losers and he defeated David Gatheral 7-11, 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-9. OCA A with the “brothers Mulley” in tandem are a force to be reckoned with. Mathew and Mark captured all six singles plus the doubles as they beat Chelmsford B 7-3. The doubles went to “the wire” with Matthew and Mark sneaking home 7-11, 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9 against Josh Bickles and Harry Buckle.
OCA C impressed in division two and the upturn in form of League Chairman Dave Porter has been particularly impressive. OCA C’s 6-4 win over second placed Writtle C owed a lot to Porter’s excellent hat-trick of wins. He beat John Parodi (11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 7-11, 11-9), John Webber (11-9, 11-9, 11-6) and John Gagg (11-9, 11-2, 11-6). Leaders Danbury G won again, 7-3 against Danbury E. Their top player – Sanjay Saptarshi (88 %) again led by example and he powered home to three wins. He beat Tim Cramphorn (11-6, 11-6, 11-7), Neil Want (11-2, 11-2, 11-6) and Dick Wyman (11-3, 11-3, 11-4). “First division” written all over that performance. Team-work saw Hatfield Peverel A beat Danbury F 7-3. Gareth Davies, Neil Freeman and Martin Archie all won twice in a match where the last six games were all decided in the fifth end. Sam Phillips won twice for the losers and this included a fine 4-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8, 11-8 win over Martin Archie. The match between Danbury E and Writtle B finished tied at 5-5. Paul Sturton was unbeaten for Writtle A. Dick Wyman did well to beat Trevor Collin 9-11, 11-1, 11-8, 6-11, 11-5.
Danbury K had the misfortune to have to play against the two outstanding sides in division three in successive weeks. They lost 9-1 to second placed Maldon A and 8-2 to the leaders Galleywood B. Peter Hance was on target against Maldon A with a fine 11-6, 3-11, 6-11, 11-4, 11-8 win over Lloyd Bennett-Smith but Hamish Innes and Dawn Baldry were both undefeated. Mark Glenister and John Holland were both undefeated for Galleywood with Peter Hance beating Bryn Thomas narrowly 9-11, 11-8, 12-10, 12-10 for their sole singles success. Maldon A also beat Danbury J 7-3. Hamish Innes, Dawn Baldry and Brian Riedling all bagged two wins whilst Dave Marsh won twice for Danbury J. Dave Meah showed up well with a fine 13-11, 11-5, 11-7 win over Hamish Innes. In another match where no single player stayed undefeated Writtle D beat OCA D 6-4. Dave Carter secured the Writtle victory with a superb 12-10, 11-6, 7-11, 5-11, 11-6 win over Richard Baxter. Baxter had also been involved a in hard fought five-setter with Bob Garson. This time he won 11-8, 13-15, 11-7, 2-11, 12-10. The match between Chelmsford E and Chelmsford F also finished 6-4, with the Chelmsford E team edging it. Rev Matthews won his three singles and he sealed the victory for his side by beating Andy Swales 13-11, 7-11, 11-7, 11-8 in the last game of the night. The match went to form when Danbury H played Hatfield Peverel B. Dave Hancox won his three singles as Danbury H won 7-3. Richard Allen gave Danbury H a winning start by beating Paul Mulley – the best of the Hatfield Peverel players 11-6, 7-11, 11-7, 8-11, 12-10.
Danbury L scored their ninth win of the season to move 19 points clear in division four. Denis Balic and Denis Crapnell were both undefeated in their 8-2 win over Maldon B. Denis Crapnell (21 wins out of 21) retained his 100 % singles record. Writtle E are third and they beat Chelmsford H 9-1. Malcolm Storey and Dave Moles both won their three singles whilst Harrison Hill was on target for Chelmsford H. He beat Neil Thompson 11-9, 13-11, 8-11, 13-11. Highwood A did well to beat Galleywood C 6-4; their second win of the season. Keith Fitz-John excelled. He beat Will Goodchild (11-9, 11-4, 8-11, 13-11), Nathan Blore (8-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-8, 15-13) and Ron Salton (5-11, 11-9, 11-9, 9-11, 11-5). An excellent evening’s work. OCA E led by the reliable Farooq Ahmed beat Chelmsford G 7-3. David Newman provided the support with two wins. Chelmsford G in turn beat Chelmsford H 8-2. Dusan Doszkoty led the way with a hat-trick and he sealed this by beating Cleon Fernandes 12-10, 12-10, 5-11, 5-11, 12-10 in nail-biting last game of the evening. Galleywood C scored their third win of the campaign by beating Highwood B 6-4. Will Godchild led the way with three wins.
OCA F top the table in division five with 64 points, just one point ahead of Hatfield Peverel E. OCA F beat Chelmsford J 7-3; Stuart Wintle’s hat-trick giving them the edge. Chelmsford’s John Wickins beat Bob Francis 11-8, 11-9, 4-11, 7-11, 11-9 in the closest game of the night. Hatfield Peverel E also won 7-3, beating Hatfield Peverel D. Gary Simmons won his three singles whilst Deb Ginn and Bob Hillis both won twice. Simmons was also undefeated as Hatfield Peverel E beat Maldon C 8-2. Five games were decided in the fifth end and Hatfield Peverel E won four of them. Bob Hillis also won his three singles on this occasion beating Kym Eames (11-5, 11-3, 11-3), Ross Wheeler (11-5, 12-10, 7-11, 8-11, 11-7) and Brian Dixon (11-9, 11-3, 11-6). Danbury M came out on top 6-4 against Maldon C. Ron Tam led the way with three wins. His third win could have gone either way before he got the better of Ella Sach 11-7, 7-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-9.
Steve Kerns Press Officer / Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
In one of the more “open” Championships in recent years seedings didn’t count for much in the mens singles at the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Closed Championships which were played at St John Payne School over the weekend. Three seeded players failed to win their groups. Trevor Lloyd missed out against Josh Bickles, whilst Eric Green lost against Harry Buckle and James Liddiard lost to Dan Pigott. The shocks continued into the knock out stages.
Top seed Duncan Taylor, who not only played on Friday night in the Veterans events but travelled to St. Neots in Cambridegshire to play for Essex Veterans first team on the Saturday would have had a justifiable excuse if he had lost. It didn’t effect his performance and he beat Babul McLeod (11-9, 11-9, 11-5), and Matthew Mulley (1-11, 12-10, 13-11, 11-5) to make it to Finals Night. Matthew Mulley had previously beaten Gary Young (6-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-1).
Duncan Taylor will play Daniel Young in the semi-final. Daniel Young beat Martin Archie (11-2, 11-3, 11-7), Bruce Kettle (11-5, 11-6, 11-4) and Mark Mulley (11-9, 12-10, 9-11, 11-9). Mark Mulley had made his mark (no pun intended) by beating Charlie Craig (11-8, 11-6, 6-11, 11-5). Charlie had earlier scored one of the wins of the day (make that the weekend) by ousting James Liddiard (8-11, 10-12, 16-14, 11-9, 11-9).
In the bottom half of the draw the up-and-coming attacking players ran riot. Harry Buckle stole the show. Josh Bickles beat Rob Shrimtpon (8-11, 11-7, 11-13, 11-2, 11-4) before losing very narrowly to Harry Buckle (11-7, 13-15, 9-11, 10-12). Harry Buckle had previously defeated Ken Sheard (11-8, 11-8, 14-12) and Daniel Piggott (11-6, 11-5, 11-6) and with everything to play for Harry Buckle beat Josh Bickles to make it through to Finals Night on Tuesday 15 February 2022 at Old Chelmsfordians Association.
Harry will play Lee McHugh who had already won the Under 40s Singles on the Saturday. Lee defeated Neil Freeman (11-4, 11-8, 11-4), Steve Martin (11-4, 11-4, 11-3) and Sam Lowman (9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-9) who he had previously beaten in the Under 40s singles final. Sam Lowman had excelled and he scored a gem of a win by beating the second seed – Keith Adams 11-5, 14-12, 11-7.
The ladies singles has been played to a conclusion and the favourite Dawn Baldry has won the title. She beat Nyree Marsh 11-9, 11-8, 11-8 in the final. Nyree beat the second seed Frances Hutt in the penultimate round 11-7, 12-10, 12-10 whilst Dawn fought her way past Jacqueline Smith 11-7, 11-5, 11-6.
The mens doubles will be played on finals night. It didn’t go to plan. Daniel Young/ James Liddiard fought their way past Charlie Craig / Harry Buckle 11-7, 11-8, 11-8 and then in a really nail-biting encounter top seeds Gary Young / Keith Adams 5-11, 11-9, 11-8, 3-11, 12-10. They booked their place in the final by beating brothers -Mark and Matthew Mulley 11-9, 11-7, 7-11, 6-11, 11-4. They will play the third seeds – Trevor Lloyd and Bruce Kettle. Lloyd and Kettle needed five ends to get the better of Dan Anderson / Sam Lowman (5-11, 5-11,11-3, 11-3, 11-5) in their quarter-final and if that wasn’t hard enough they prevailed 6-11, 11-5, 11-8, 11-13, 11-9 after a thrilling semi-final battle against Duncan Taylor / Lee McHugh.
The ladies doubles saw Frances Hutt / Ella Sach capture the title at their first attempt. They came out on top 11-6, 8-11, 11-8, 5-11, 12-10 against Shirley Carroll / Dawn Baldry after a really hard-fought encounter. Trailing 10-6 in the decider they must have thought their chance had slipped away but they didn’t give up and they eventually went on to win a thrilling decider12-10.
The mixed doubles competition has also been completed. Top seeds Harry Buckle / Dawn Baldry are the champions and they beat Lee McHugh / Nyree Marsh 11-8, 11-9, 12-10 in the final. Lee and Nyree had upset the seedings by getting the better of second seeds Paul Sturton / Frances Hutt 11-5, 12-14, 11-9, 9-11, 11-6 a round earlier. Dawn / Harry had been extended to four ends in their semi-final by Adhuna Das / Gary Young (6-11, 11-2, 11-5, 11-6).
The veterans (O40s) singles final will be played on Finals Night. Holder and top seed Gary Young booked his place in the final by beating Eric Green (11-3, 11-9, 11-4) and Trevor Lloyd (11-8, 10-12, 11-8, 11-3) and he will face Keith Adams in the final. Keith saw off Kim Shead (11-9, 11-6, 11-9) and in his semi-final he fought back strongly from 2-0 down to get the better of second seed – Duncan Taylor – in one of the best matches of the weekend (4-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-9, 11-8). After a slow start this match became positively gripping and the last few rallies were for the connoisseur !.
Duncan Taylor took immediate revenge for his Veterans Singles defeat by bouncing back to win the veterans doubles. Paired with Babul McLeod they secured a fine 11-7, 11-9, 11-7 win over the veterans singles finalists – Gary Young / Keith Adams. The fourth seeds Mark Allaway / Kim Shead were beaten by Rod Maclennan / Neil Freeman 7-11, 12-10, 7-11, 5-11.
Keith Adams, the favourite made no mistake in the over 50s singles. He powered his way past Sanjay Saptarshi (11-8, 10-12, 11-7, 11-8), Babul McLeod (11-9, 11-8, 10-12, 11-3) and in the final he made no mistake against Bruce Kettle (11-8, 11-0, 11-4). Bruce Kettle excelled on this occasion by getting the better of Trevor Lloyd (11-7, 10-12, 13-11, 16-14).
Trevor Lloyd came through a strong field to capture the over 60s singles. He disposed of Graham Naggs (3-0), Ian Whiteside (3-0), Trevor Collin (3-0) and he beat Bruce Kettle 11-8, 5-11, 11-5, 7-11,11-7 in a fluctuating final. Trevor Collin had excelled, taking out Babul McLeod 3-0 whilst Babul had ended the hopes of John Holland 3-2.
The over 70s singles is another new event and John Holland completed the full set of titles, having previously won the over 40s singles, over 50s singles and over 60s singles. He beat Ian Whiteside 3-0 after three closely contested games in the final.
The Handicap Singles is very difficult to predict. A player can seemingly be going well for a few rounds but can perish very quickly if a handicap is just too far out of reach. Arguably the top -rated player in the event – Daniel Young (playing off a handicap of 89) looked good as he powered his way past Phil West (20), Ella Sach (29), Davina Brazier (23) and most impressively Andrea Alleyne (47). He met his match against Roger Slade (40) in the semi-final who won 18-21, 21-12, 21-17. Slade had also seen off Rev Matthews (60), Sudheep Kamma (63), Mervyn Perriman (67) and Denis Crapnell (58). Nyree Marsh (30) dominated the bottom half of the draw beating Vineeth Kamma (60), Josh Bickles (88), Saul Chivers (73) and in the semi-final Dan Anderson (76) 21-15, 19-21, 21-18. Dan Anderson had also impressed with wins over Harry Buckle (87), Robert Shrimpton (77), Lee McHugh (90) (a close one this: 21-14, 16-21, 22-20) and Deb Ginn (23) before he lost to Nyree. In the final Nyree made no mistake by beating Roger 21-5, 21-17.
If the Handicap Singles is difficult to predict it is nigh on impossible to select a winner in the Handicap Doubles. Not only do the handicaps come into play but certain styles are more compatible than others. Dawn Baldry and Cleon Fernandes (with a combined handicap of 44) eventually emerged as winners beating Roger Slade / Lee McHugh (combined handicap of 65) quite convincingly 21-9, 21-9 in the final.
Top seed Lee McHugh (who had an excellent weekend) won the first of the new events – the Under 40s Singles. He beat Aaron Chandler (11-9, 9-11, 11-7, 11-8) and Sam Phillips (14-12, 11-4, 11-5) to book his final appearance and he defeated Sam Lowman – the second seed, in a free-flowing final (11-9, 12-10, 9-11, 11-3). Lowman had to work hard to get the better of Rob Shrimpton (7-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-8) and Dan Anderson (11-9, 11-6, 14-12).
The under 19 singles will be played on finals night and it replaces the defunct under 21 singles. Dan Young and Harry Buckle who both played so well in the mens singles will contest the final. Dan Young beat Saul Chivers 11-5, 11-5, 9-11, 11-7 in his semi-final whilst Harry Buckle turned it on to defeat Charlie Craig 11-5, 11-7, 11-8 at the same stage. Saul Chivers ended the aspirations of Josh Bickles 2-11, 11-9,11-4, 11-7.
The under 19 doubles was played on a round robin basis and Harry Buckle and Charlie Craig came out on top.
Ben Chivers is the 2002 Under 15 singles champion. He claimed the title by beating Alesha Ellis-Austin 11-7, 8-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-4 in the final. Felix Reeve and Oliver Martin were the losing semi-finalists.
The division two singles is traditionally one of the more open events. The top seed has often failed to live up to expectations. Not this year. The favourite – Chris Buer came out on top. He beat Ken Sheard, Richard Baxter and Sanjay Saptarshi 13-11, 17-19, 11-7, 12-10 in a very well contested final. Richard Baxter made his mark in no uncertain terms beating Hamish Innes and Saul Chivers. Sanjay Saptarshi’s run to the final saw him see off Eamon Hall, John Holland and Daniel Piggott.
The division three singles final will be between John Holland and Mark Glenister and it will be played on Finals Night. John Holland used all of his experience to beat Nikita Tkachuk 11-7, 12-10, 11-9 and he will play Mark Glenister who scored a superb 11-9, 12-14, 9-11, 12-10, 11-7 semi-final win over Hamish Innes, a game which lasted close to 45 minutes. Glenister had earlier done well to end the hopes of Sam Phillips (11-3, 11-7, 11-13, 11-9) and Dusan Doszkoty (11-2, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9).
Denis Crapnell was crowned the division four singles champion. He beat Mervyn Perriman (who had lost to Adi Kamma in his group) 11-9, 11-6, 11-8 and Harry Chivers (12-10, 4-11, 11-5, 11-7) and in the final he powered home 11-4, 11-4, 11-1 against Dusan Doszkoty. Dusan had booked his final place by beating Adi Kamma (11-4, 11-6, 11-8) and Farooq Ahmed (11-7, 11-8, 9-11, 11-8).
Bob Hillis is the division five singles champion. He came through closely fought games against Davina Brazier (12-10, 6-11, 11-9, 11-8), Deb Ginn (6-11, 11-9, 11-9, 8-11, 11-7) and in the final he beat Jacqueline Smith (11-9, 11-7, 8-11, 11-9). Jacqueline had beaten Jamie Elliott (8-11, 11-9, 13-11, 12-10) at the semi-final stage. A pleasing feature of this year’s event was just how many of the successful players in the divisional tournaments take part in the League’s Bat&Chat sessions. John Holland, Denis Crapnell, Bob Hillis and Jacqueline Smith all fall into this category.
There appears to be “no stopping” Chelmsford A in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League. With James Liddiard (18 wins out of 18) and Gary Young both staying undefeated they beat Chelmsford B 8-2. With a massive 77 points out of a possible 100 they lead second placed Writtle A by a huge 26 points. Writtle A also won 8-2, defeating bottom placed side Galleywood A 8-2. Lee McHugh and Duncan Taylor carried all before them. Ryan Pitt came up trumps against Gary Brignall, winning 5-11, 11-7, 5-11, 11-8, 11-9. Danbury C, have moved into fourth place. Trevor Lloyd led the way as they beat Chelmsford B 6-4. With 86 % Lloyd has been an excellent signing. There were some very close games with Shirish Basant Rai getting the better of Ian Whiteside 11-6, 7-11, 11-8, 18-20, 17-15 after the longest encounter of the week. OCA A scored their third win on the trot and it isn’t totally inconceivable that they could challenge for the runners-up spot. They beat Danbury C 6-4 after Trevor Lloyd had again won his three singles. Lloyd defeated Mark Mulley 11-3, 8-11, 11-8, 3-11, 12-10 after a widely fluctuating opening encounter.
Writtle C have climbed into second place in division two. Gary Ward can’t put a foot (and in his case a powerful back hand topspin) wrong this Season and he again won his three singles as Writtle C beat Chelmsford D 7-3. Harry Chivers won twice for Chelmsford and this included a 9-11, 11-8, 9-11, 11-4, 12-10 victory over John Webber. Chelmsford D were also on the wrong end of a 6-4 defeat against Danbury F. Colin Napper stole the show with three hard fought wins. He beat Vineeth Kamma (11-5, 8-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8), Sudheep Kamma (13-11, 11-7, 5-11, 7-11, 11-3) and Harry Chivers (11-2, 11-13, 11-7, 6-11, 11-7). Danbury G edged home 6-4 against Hatfield Peverel A. Sanjay Saptarshi sealed the win for his side after an epic 11-7, 5-11, 6-11, 12-10, 12-10 win over Martin Archie in the last game of the night. OCA B won three five enders to beat Danbury F 7-3. Gareth Joice and Trevor Carter were both undefeated. Trevor Carter had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Ken Sheard 11-13, 3-11, 11-4, 11-5, 11-9 whilst Gareth Joice was equally stretched as he saw off Colin Napper 11-5, 5-11, 4-11, 11-9, 12-10.
Leaders Galleywood B showed their strength in division three. They left John Holland out yet they still beat Hatfield Peverel B 9-1. Mark Glenister and Bryn Thomas both bagged three wins. Phil Shippen was on target for the losers with a 11-6, 11-9, 6-11, 11-9 win over Gary Copsey. OCA D did well to beat Danbury J 6-4. Richard Baxter was the architect of this win with three successes. John Robinson pipped Ian Butler 11-6, 9-11, 8-11, 11-1, 17-15. A very hard fought fifth end. Danbury J were in turn on the right side of a 6-4 result against Writtle D. Dave Marsh won his three singles and this included a last gasp 11-4, 9-11, 11-6, 7-11, 12-10 victory against Bob Garson. Writtle D put this result firmly behind them and ran out comprehensive 9-1 winners against Chelmsford F. Malcolm Henstock and Peter Layzell both scored hat-tricks. Henstock was tied at 2-2 against Luke Richardson but he surged home in the fifth end to win 5-11, 11-7, 12-10, 10-12, 11-4. OCA D beat Danbury K 7-3 courtesy of a good team performance. Richard Baxter, Richard Upson and Connor Payne all won twice. Peter Hance impressed for the losers with a 11-8, 11-8, 6-11, 14-12 victory against Richard Baxter. Chelmsford E also won 7-3. The improving Rev Mathews led the way with a hat-trick and he secured his third win by getting the better of Richard Allen 11-4, 7-11, 11-4, 15-13. Dave Powell fought back strongly from 2-0 down to get the better of Joachim Mapes 7-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-1
Danbury L lead the way in division four. Denis Balic and Denis Crapnell were both undefeated in their 7-3 win over OCA E. Denis Balic saw off Farooq Ahmed 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 9-11, 11-9. Quite a battle. Maldon B (fielding an all-lady line up) emerged as 6-4 winners against Highwood A. Fittingly it was another lady who dominated the action. Melanie Bonnett won her three singles and this included a fine 9-11, 9-11, 11-4, 11-9, 11-8 win over Andrea Alleyne. Maldon B added another eight points to their total by beating Highwood B. Bryan Speller and Andrea Alleyne were both undefeated this time.
Division five leaders Hatfield Peverel C ran out 9-1 winners against Danbury N. Mick Carter and Andy Simmonds were both undefeated. Hatfield Peverel C won the two five setters. Mick Carter beat Graham Naggs 11-5, 11-5, 9-11, 6-11, 11-8 and Andy Whiley beat Steve Martin 11-9, 7-11, 8-11, 11-2, 11-8. OCA F emerged as narrow 6-4 winners against Danbury M. Stuart Wintle was their match-winner and he beat Paul Thirkettle – the best of the Danbury players – 11-6, 9-11, 11-6, 5-11, 11-5. Another all-lady team, this time – Hatfield Peverel D beat Buttsbury 7-3. Davina Brazier took centre stage with three singles wins. She beat Frances Hutt (11-7, 13-11, 3-11, 11-9), Ray Horton (9-11, 11-3, 12-10, 4-11, 11-8) and Oscar Hutt (11-5, 11-7, 11-7).
Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
A new venue, two new events to contend with; and the same number of entries as last time (105). The Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Annual Championships are back after a year’s absence, at St. John Payne Catholic School, Chelmsford, CM1 4BS (Patching Hall Lane entrance) over the weekend of Friday 28 January 2022 to Sunday 30 January 2022. Action is scheduled to finish at 18.00 hours on the Sunday evening. A big change this year is that the blue riband event – the Mens Singles will take place on the Sunday. Finals Night will take place on Tuesday 15 February 2022 at the Old Chelmsfordians Association, Lawford Lane. Refreshments – bacon rolls and sausage rolls will be available on the Saturday and Sunday mornings. Players will receive E-Mails relating to their starting times. Admission is free and it is hoped that former players pop in to watch.
Ace defender Duncan Taylor – the 2018 Champion, is the man to beat in the Mens Singles. He will face stiff opposition from second seed Keith Adams (in his first venture into the Chelmsford tournament), Trevor Lloyd, Mark Mulley, Gary Young, James Liddiard, Lee McHugh and Daniel Young. The other seeded players are Matthew Mulley, Bruce Kettle, Babul McLeod, Sam Lowman, Eric Green and Ian Whiteside. Expect a strong challenge from the up-and-coming Chelmsford Table Tennis Club Junior contingent – Harry Buckle, Charlie Craig, Josh Bickles and Saul Chivers. Group two stands out. Second seed Keith Adams takes on Wiktor Delimat and Charlie Craig. Group seven is equally competitive. Lee McHugh comes face to face with Dan Anderson and Saul Chivers.
It is difficult to see beyond Dawn Baldry in the Ladies Singles. Frances Hutt is seeded second, but Dawn will be very difficult to beat. Nyree Marsh, runner up in 2019 will also be out to make her mark.
Gary Young / Keith Adams are the top seeds in the Mens Doubles and they are due to meet Duncan Taylor / Lee McHugh in the Final. Other pairs who you can’t discount are brothers Mark Mulley /Matthew Mulley , Bruce Kettle / Trevor Lloyd, Daniel Young / James Liddiard, Dan Anderson / Sam Lowman and Babul McLeod / Eric Green.
Gary Young – the holder, is favourite for the Veterans Singles and he is scheduled to face Duncan Taylor in the Final on Finals Night. Keith Adams and Trevor Lloyd are seeded third and fourth. Young and Adams have paired together and they are expected to annexe the Veterans Doubles where they are scheduled to play Duncan Taylor and Babul McLeod in the Final.
The Over 70s Singles is a new event this year. The evergreen Ian Whiteside is the top seed and John Holland is seeded second. John will be bidding to become the first player in the League’s history to win the Over 70s Singles as well as the events he has won in the past – Over 60s, Over 50s and Veterans Singles.
As befits the demographics of the League, the Over 50s Singles is very strong this year. Keith Adams is seeded no. one with Trevor Lloyd seeded no. two. Bruce Kettle, Babul McLeod, Eric Green, Ian Whiteside and Martin Archie make up the seeded berths.
Trevor Lloyd will be looking to retain his Over 60s title and he is seeded to play Bruce Kettle in the Final. If all goes to plan Lloyd will play Babul McLeod in the penultimate round and Kettle will play Eric Green.
New pairing Harry Buckle and Dawn Baldry are top seeds in the Mixed Doubles and their Finals night opponents are projected to be Frances Hutt and Paul Sturton. Frances and Paul are expected to face Lee McHugh / Nyree Marsh in their Semi-Final whilst Harry and Dawn are scheduled to meet Jacqueline Smith and Robert Shrimpton.
Shirley Carroll / Dawn Baldry are strong favourites to capture the Ladies Doubles and they are seeded to play Ella Sach / Frances Hutt in the Final.
The Divisional events have been moved to the Saturday and the division two event looks particularly strong. Chris Buer is the top seed and in a very evenly matched field John Holland is seeded second. The quality of the other seeds speaks for itself – David Gatheral, Saul Chivers, Hamish Innes, Daniel Piggott, Sanjay Saptarshi and Neil Freeman. Neil Freeman’s group really is a tough one. He will face Richard Baxter and Sam Phillips.
John Holland goes again in the division three singles and he is seeded to play Hamish Innes in the Final. Again, the other seeded players are all equally capable – Sam Phillips, Dawn Baldry, Richard Baxter, Mervyn Perriman and Gary Copsey.
Mervyn Perriman is the top seed in the division four singles. The hugely promising Harry Chivers is seeded second with Denis Crapnell and David Moles making up the seeds.
David Smith is the man to beat in the division five singles with Jamie Elliot due to face him in the Final. The other seeds are Jacqueline Smith and Robert Hillis.
The Under 40s Singles is another new event this year and Junior players are not eligible. Lee McHugh is the top seed with Sam Lowman seeded second. Daniel Anderson and Robert Shrimpton are seeded third and fourth. Lowman has drawn a short straw. He faces Wiktor Delimat and Sam Phillips in his group. Lee McHugh’s group is another strong one. He goes head-to-head with Shirish Basant Rai and Richard Storey.
The Junior Singles has become the Under 19 Singles this year following a Table Tennis England directive to take into account the fact that very little play took place last year. Daniel Young, the holder will be very hard to beat but the likes of Harry Buckle, Charlie Craig, Josh Bickles and Saul Chivers will all be out to make their mark. The Final will take place on Finals Night and it replaces the Final of the now defunct Under 21 Singles.
Another player who has made great progress -Sudheep Kamma is the favourite to win the Under 15s Singles and the other seeds are Alesha Ellis-Austin and Lotte Mills.
The Junior Doubles is being played as a “Round Robbin” event. Harry Buckle / Charlie Craig are top seeds but all of the four other pairings are worthy of mention : Nyree Marsh / Daniel Young, Vineeth Kamma / Sudheep Kamma, Saul Chivers / Harry Chivers and Nikita Tkachuk / Josh Bickles.
In the League first division – leaders Chelmsford A produced yet another impressive performance to beat Danbury A 8-2. Gary Young won his three singles to ensure Danbury remained in charge in a match where the last three singles encounters produced some stirring battles. Babul McLeod defeated Daniel Young 11-7, 11-9, 8-11, 9-11, 14-12 and Dave Richardson got the better of Kim Shead 9-11, 12-10, 8-11, 11-9, 11-9. There was no let-up in the last game and Gary Young was hard pressed to get the better of Bruce Kettle 8-11, 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-8. Danbury B are third and Sam Lowman won his three singles in his side’s 6-4 win over Chelmsford C. Lowman beat Simon Jarvis, the best of the Chelmsford players 16-18, 11-4, 8-11, 11-7, 11-8. Galleywood A made a great start against OCA A. Gary Brignall defeated Terry Dowsett 8-11, 11-9, 7-11, 11-7, 11-9 and James Hicks beat Peter Hayden 15-13, 5-11, 13-11, 4-11, 11-8. Get in there. However, OCA A reasserted themselves and with Matt Mulley (six wins out of six) winning his three singles OCA A won 8-2. If OCA A field the likes of Mark Mulley, Matt Mulley, Peter Hayden and Terry Dowsett regularly expect them to surge up the table.
Danbury G lead the way in division two after drawing 5-5 with OCA B. Gareth Joice was the star of the show here and he produced a superb performance to beat all three Danbury players. He beat Eamon Hall in his opening game (13-11, 3-11, 11-7, 11-5) and then most impressively Sanjay Saptarshi (15-13, 6-11, 11-8, 11-9) and finally David Gatheral (4-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-8) for an excellent hat-trick of wins. Writtle C did well to beat Danbury D 7-3. Gary Ward (23 wins out of 24) is flying this Season and he produced yet another top draw performance. Wins over Gus Heath (11-5, 11-9, 11-8), Chris Buer (11-6, 11-7, 11-9) and Steve Buer (11-9, 11-4, 11-6) tell their own story. Writtle B also did well to beat the higher placed OCA B 7-3. Trevor Collin took centre stage this time. He downed the challenges of Trevor Carter (11-9, 11-8, 5-11, 8-11, 11-6), Richard Baxter (13-11, 10-12, 11-6, 11-8) and Kevin Worthington (11-8, 11-7, 11-8). Well played again. Writtle B were also involved in a 5-5 draw with Hatfield Peverel A. No one player stayed undefeated and Writtle’s Trevor Collin and Rod Maclennan and Hatfield Peverel’s Martin Archie and Gareth Davies all won twice. Rod Maclennan’s fine win over Martin Archie (11-9, 11-7, 11-5) stood out on this occasion. In another match where no single player stayed undefeated Danbury E beat OCA C 6-4. OCA’s Mick Richardson and David Porter and Danbury’s Dick Wyman and Tony Forster all bagged two wins. Tony Forster had given Danbury a winning start by getting the better of Mick Richardson 10-12, 11-9, 11-7, 4-11, 11-8.
Galleywood B are back on track to win division three. They powered their way past Chelmsford E 9-1. Gary Copsey and John Holland were both undefeated. Maldon A are second, and they beat Hatfield Peverel B 7-3. Hamish Innes won his three singles at a canter. Danbury H did well to beat the higher placed Chelmsford F 6-4 . Dave Powell led the way with three wins whilst Dave Hancox beat Luke Richardson 12-14, 3-11, 11-6, 12-10, 11-9 in the closest game of the night.
Danbury L have moved into pole position in division four but they won’t gain too much satisfaction from their 9-1 win over Chelmsford G who only had one player. Vasile Barbulet certainly made his mark with his fine 11-9, 11-1, 11-6 win over Mervyn Perriman. Teamwork won the day as OCA E beat Highwood A 6-4. Farooq Ahmed, David Newman and Russ Hall came out on top although Melanie Bonnett remained undefeated. She beat David Newman 3-11, 16-14, 8-11, 11-6, 12-10 and in an even closer finish she saw off Farooq Ahmed 5-11, 13-11, 11-8, 5-11, 18-16. That’s getting your money’s worth. Neil Thompson was undefeated as Writtle E beat Galleywood C 7-3. Thompson completed his trio of wins with a 12-10, 11-7, 9-11, 5-11, 11-7 victory over Colin Blore.
OCA F climbed into second place in division five with their superb 9-1 win over Hatfield Peverel E. David Bishop, Bob Francis and Stuart Wintle won all nine singles. Curiously the doubles went astray and Gary Simmonds and Deb Ginn came out on top 10-12, 11-8, 8-11, 11-9, 11-6 against David Bishop and Bob Francis. Danbury M also won 9-1. Paul Thirkettle, Ken Wilding and David Smith beat Chelmsford J. Paul Thirkettle fought back strongly from 2-1 down to get the better of Paul Bullock 6-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-3, 11-2. Danbury N complete this week’s results with their 7-3 win over Hatfield Peverel A. Graham Naggs led the way with three wins whilst Steve Martin came out on top in the night’s closest game with a 11-7, 8-11, 11-6, 6-11, 14-12 win against Kath Little.
Steve Kerns / Press Officer / Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League
