Drumchapel Glasgow II (with a maximum 16 points) carried on where they had left off, although they won’t be eligible for a place in the Premier Division play-offs and with Ormesby II (11 points) only able to compete in the Play-Offs if their Premier division side are relegated, you can expect a real battle to secure third and fourth spot. Elgre Nottingham (10 points) and Barrow Fastbats (10 points) lead the way at present.

Drumchapel Glasgow (Craig Hardie, Terry McLernon, Richie Main and Chris Main) faced a tricky test against Ormesby in round five, and although they were never behind victory wasn’t assured until the last game when Chris Main saw off Eddie Fambely 11-7, 11-6, 11-6 to make the score 5-3. Craig Hardie didn’t put a foot wrong, beating Andrew Wilson 12-10, 11-7, 11-8 as well as another Premier division hopeful Patrick Thomas by a very impressive 13-11, 11-2, 11-7 scoreline, Thomas‘s first defeat of the campaign. Elgre Nottingham also caused the Champions-elect numerous problems before succumbing 5-3, and again Craig Hardie led the way from the no. one position by winning his two singles. His 11-7, 11-7, 11-5 victory over England no. four Veteran Lee Neil being particularly clinical.

Drumchapel’s 6-2 win over Sheffield was never in doubt, although Simon Pugh and Paul Johnson both impressed here by beating Terry McLernon 3-1. Drumchapel were equally dominant against Northfield I, again coming out on top 6-2. Both Northfield wins were achieved by former Scottish international Keith Rodger who rolled back the years, as he beat Terry McLernon 5-11, 8-11, 11-9, 13-11, 11-8 and Craig Hardie 4-11, 11-6, 11-7, 11-5.

The big shock came in round seven where Elgre Nottingham overwhelmed Ormesby II 7-1, yes 7-1! On paper the two teams: Elgre – Chris Rogers, Lee Neil, David Arrowsmith and Stewart Mudie and Ormesby – Patrick Thomas, Andrew Wilson, Steve Brunskill and Karina Lefevre looked evenly matched. Not so. Elgre stormed into a 7-0 lead before Karina Lefevre saved her team from a whitewash by getting the better of Stewart Mudie 11-7, 11-8, 12-10. Chris Rogers, still a force to be reckoned with beat both Andrew Wilson (3-1) and Patrick Thomas (3-1) whilst Lee Neil was even more dominant, beating Thomas 11-8, 11-7, 11-5 and Steve Brunskill 11-8, 11-8, 11-4. With their team on a real high David Arrowsmith was determined to get in on the act as well and how well he played. He beat Karina Lefevre 13-11, 11-8, 8-11, 13-11 and in a really determined display Andrew Wilson (9-11, 6-11, 11-5, 11-9, 11-0).

With seven points out of eight Barrow Fastbats enjoyed a good weekend and their success owed a lot to the form of Bradley Evans and Jonathan Crawford, both of who won seven singles out of eight. Jonathan Crawford (still under-rated at no. 61 nationally) tasted defeat in his first singles against Keith Rodger, but, from there on he left an impressive list of scalps trailing behind him. He beat Lindsay Taylor, Simon Pugh, Paul Johnson, Dave Harvey, Eddie Roofe, Richard Lightowler and Garry Watson. Bradley Evans accounted for Keith Rodger and only tasted defeat once, when beaten 11-1, 9-11, 9-11, 8-11 by an inspired Chris Ford (Halton I). Improving Scott Crawford also impressed in the match against Halton and he scored an excellent 11-8, 1-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-9 victory over the afore-mentioned Chris Ford.

British League Division 1 North First Weekend Table

British League Division 1 North Results

British League Division 1 North Barrow Player Averages

British League Division 2 North First Weekend Table

British League Division 2 North Results

Barrow II Player Averages

Drumchapel Glasgow, favourites to retain their Premier Division crown have made a very strong start to the season and on this showing it will be a major surprise if they don‘t win this division as well. In Liu Kuan they have the best player in this division and one who would surely relish playing in the Premier Division. Kuan was only tested twice, both times in the match against Barrow Fast Bats (which they won 6-2). The hard-hitting Jonathan Crawford pushed him all the way before succumbing 7-11, 11-8, 8-11, 12-10, 5-11 and Bradley Evans also went down fighting. Brad missed out 9-11, 11-9, 11-3, 7-11, 7-11. The big surprise here was the very impressive display by Drumchapel no. two Craig Hardie and he produced a truly faultless performance as he beat England no. 37 Evans decisively 11-5, 11-8, 11-3. Hardie faced something of a reality check in his second singles, but, he again came up trumps, with an altogether different 13-15, 11-9, 12-10, 11-5 win over a battling Tristran Swan.

Drumchapel had it all their own way as they beat a more than reasonable Grantham side 8-0 with Liu Kuan, Craig Hardie, Terry McLernon and Richard Main all playing well. Richard Main made his presence felt, getting the better of Andrew Leighton 11-6, 11-9, 11-8 and most impressively Eddie Roofe 11-7, 11-6, 11-6. Terry McLernon Junior came up trumps in the closest game of the match, seeing off former Premier Division player Andy Wignall 10-12, 11-5, 13-11, 3-11, 12-10.

Drumchapel’s win over Halton I, saw the Scots tested for the only time of the weekend. England no. eight Veteran Richard Lightowler scored an excellent 13-11, 11-13, 11-7, 11-13, 13-11 win over Craig Hardie but he was made to pay for it in his second singles. Liu Kuan took no prisoners as he blasted his way past Lightowler 11-6, 11-3, 11-4. Chris Ford did well to beat Terry McLernon Junior 11-9, 5-11, 2-11, 11-6, 16-14 and Michael Moir did even better as he made the scoreline 3-4 by getting the better of Craig Hardie 11-9, 6-11, 11-9, 11-6. However, it didn’t lead to them picking up a point. Richard Main won his second singles by getting the better of Mark Ramsbottom over four ends.

Ormesby II impressed, taking seven points out of eight. They beat Northfield 6-2 in a well contested local Derby in which five games were decided in a fifth end, and they won four of them. It was a case of three of the four Ormesby players excelling in the same match. Patrick Thomas beat both Danny Welsh (3-2) and Bryn Drinkhall (3-0), whilst Andrew Wilson scored superb wins over Drinkhall (3-2) and Mark Simon (3-2) and Karen Shepherd excelled by getting the better of Mark Simon (3-1) and Tony Wilson (3-2). Ormesby’s dropped point came against Grantham in round four, further proof if any is needed of just how strong Drumchapel Glasgow II are. Patrick Thomas (eight wins out of eight for the weekend) was blameless and he powered his way past Andy Wignall (11-7, 11-8, 11-4) as well as Dave Harvey (11-3, 11-2, 7-11, 11-6) but, Grantham hit back well elsewhere. Andrew Leighton and Eddie Roofe were both 3-0 winners against Karen Shepherd and Dave Harvey secured a vital 11-9, 2-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-9 opening game victory over Andy Wilson. Wignall played his part with an all guns-blazing 11-3, 11-3, 11-8 victory against Steven Brunskill.

Patrick Thomas produced another top-draw performance in Ormesby II’s 5-3 victory over Barrow I. He beat both Jonathan Crawford (11-8, 11-8, 11-9) and Bradley Evans (11-8, 11-8, 11-7). England no. 74 Andy Wilson who looks to have added a new level to his game over the summer months also excelled. He showed tenacity to stop Bradley Evans 12-10, 11-4, 16-14 as well as grit and determination as he just saw off Tristran Swan 6-11, 11-6, 6-11, 11-6, 12-10.

Chesterfield and Burton Uxbridge lead the way with seven points, although Burton may have a slight advantage as they have already beaten third-placed Halton II who have five points. It is fair to say that this Division is yet to sort itself out. Chesterfield’s blip came in round three against Derwent II (four points from the weekend) who won all four games from the numbers one and two positions. Richard Moss scored two superb wins over Andy Henry (11-8, 11-8, 2-11, 15-13) and Andrew Horsfield (7-11, 8-11, 11-2, 11-7, 11-4) and Chris Loxston excelled as well. Loxston beat both Andrew Horsfield (11-7, 11-9, 7-11, 11-7) and James Brown (15-13, 11-13, 10-12, 11-9, 11-8). Derwent were in the driving seat. Could they take the match ?. The answer turned out to be “no”. Chesterfield no. four Shaun Bibby won both of his singles defeating Mick Wilcockson 8-11, 11-8, 12-10, 9-11, 11-7 and Richard Crowther 11-6, 12-14, 11-4, 11-5 to keep his team in the hunt.

Chesterfield returned to winning ways in round four whitewashing Barrow Fastbats II 8-0 with Andrew Horsfield, Andy Henry, James Brown and Shaun Bibby carrying all before them. Barrow (and particular Steve Temple) will justifiably feel a little hard done by losing both games narrowly that went to the fifth end. They say that fortunes favours the brave, or, in Table Tennis the winning team and that was the case here. Andy Henry prevailed 12-10, 11-7, 6-11, 6-11, 12-10 against Temple and Andrew Horsfield also beat the gallant Temple, this time by an agonising 10-12, 13-11, 11-9, 7-11, 12-10.

Burton Uxbridge impressed greatly, beating Halton II 7-1. The scoreline flattered them, as they won all three five-enders (another case of fortune favouring the winning team), but, it was still a strong performance from the Burton side. Alastair McTavish scored two hard-fought wins, beating Keith Bird

(12-14, 13-11, 11-8, 8-11, 11-6) and Jake Shaw (11-7, 10-12, 11-9, 11-9) whilst Russell Boome also played his part. He beat newcomer Paul Orzechowski (10-12, 11-7, 11-4, 11-9) as well as Keith Bird (11-6, 5-11, 11-5, 9-11, 11-7).

Burton’s dropped point came (like Chesterfield) against Derwent II, in the first round. Richard Moss took the Player of the Match Award, and deservedly so. He beat both Alastair McTavish (11-6, 8-11, 11-7, 11-8) and Russell Boome (11-8, 13-11, 8-11, 11-9) as his side moved into a 3-2 lead. McTavish levelled the scores by getting the better of Mick Wilcockson 11-8, 11-9, 11-9 but Chris Loxston restored Derwent’s advantage as he saw off David Savage 11-8, 11-9, 11-13, 11-7. Burton were relieved to get a draw although Paznarcyk Bednarczak always looked like beating Nathan Horsley and duly ran out a 11-5, 11-6, 11-8 winner.

Having drawn with the two leading sides you would expect to see Derwent listed amongst the challengers, but, they tasted defeat in round four when beaten 5-3 by Drumchapel Glasgow II. It wasn’t such a happy game for Richard Moss, beaten by both Andrew McFadden (3-2) and Chris Main (3-1)

as Drumchapel raced into a 3-0 and 4-1 lead. Rebecca Russell secured victory for her side by getting the better of Richard Crowther 11-9, 4-11, 11-6, 11-8.

Halton II’s fine 5-3 victory over Drumchapel Glasgow II leaves the Scottish team on four points. Halton excelled in this match. They won all four five setters. Andrew McFadyen set the tone in the first match, fighting back from 2-0 down to get the better of Keith Bird 8-11, 9-11, 11-3, 11-6, 11-6 whilst Rebecca Russell also showed real determination. She fought back from 2-0 down to beat Caroline Hallows 8-11, 5-11, 11-8, 11-7, 11-7. There was no joy for Caroline Hallows against Andrew McFadyen either, she led 2-0 before Andrew hauled his way back into contention to triumph 5-11, 8-11, 11-3, 13-11, 11-4.

Barrow Borough Sports Council is holding their first ever Women’s and Girl’s Sports Day and it’s FREE!!

The event takes place at Parkview School Playing Fields on Sunday 14th June, 1pm – 5pm.

This free event is an excellent way for women of all ages to try something different, make friends, learn new skills and improve their health.

The day will include a series of free 45 minute taster sessions every hour on the hour between 1pm and 5pm, allowing you to try out four different sports. No equipment is needed, just come along appropriately dressed.

Everyone who takes part on the day will receive a FREE goody bag!

Activities on offer on the day include Athletics, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Cheerleading, Football, Canoeing, Orienteering, Karate, Power Kites, Tennis, Netball, Walking, Table Tennis (Barrow Table Tennis Centre), Cricket, Dance Mats, Rounders and Aqua Natal Class.

The Dance Mats and Aqua Natal Class (12-1pm) will take place across the road at the Park Leisure Centre.

The canoeing is taking place at Cavendish Docks and the Orienteering starts from the Pavilion in Barrow Park.

There will also be a Bouncy Castle to keep youngsters happy!

Barrow vs. Sycamore

Barrow, who were without their top player – Scottish international Gavin Rumgay did well to hold runaway Division One South & Midlands Champions Sycamore to a draw. Sycamore’s Sam Perry played his part by beating Jonathan Crawford (11-5, 11-9, 11-6) as well as Bradley Evans (11-5, 11-7, 13-11) whilst the old Warrior himself – Denis Neale showed all the experience you would expect from a former England number one. He beat both Sean Cullen (13-11, 7-11, 8- 11, 11-9, 11-9) and Adam Frost (3-11, 11-5, 11-7,13-11).

Barrow vs. Derwent I

Derwent, having previously beaten Brighton decisively 7-1, continued on their winning ways by getting the better of Barrow 5-3. Barrow led 3-2 after Bradley Evans had recorded his second win, a hard-fought 11-9,11-6, 4-11, 5-11, 11-9 success against Mark Simpson but Derwent weren’t finished. Simon Noutch came through in five ends against Denis Neale whilst a battling Stephen Horsfield came up trumps in the fifth game against Jonathan Crawford. Richard Smith eventually sealed his side’s victory after a marathon match 11-7, 6-11, 5-11, 11-9, 11-9 against Scott Crawford.

Barrow vs. Brighton I

Round three produced some of the best play of the weekend and Brighton started well against Barrow, taking a 2-0 lead. Jack Boult scored an outstanding 13-11, 9-11, 13-11, 4-11, 11-9 win over Bradley Evans and Dov Katz did well to get the better of Jonathan Crawford 8-11, 11-6, 4-11, 11-5, 11-8.
However, the fast-improving Scott Crawford (certainly one of the most improved players over the course of the season) won twice to lead the Barrow fight-back. He showed real determination to beat Reece Tan 7-11, 12-10, 4-11, 11-7, 11-9 and he sealed his side’s victory by getting the better of Jon Clarke 11-8, 12- 14, 11-7, 11-8.

Barrow vs. Urban Progress I

Urban Progress I overcome Barrow 6-2 in a match which was marred by one controversial incident. Denis Neale and Zoltan Hosszu were locked in a spell-binding encounter at one game all and at 10-10 in the second game Denis was faulted for a foul service. He was understandably very annoyed at the decision (you have to question if it had to be made at such an important stage of the game – and there was a lot of sympathy for Denis with this). The all-action William Maybanks gave another demonstration that he was the outstanding player of the weekend beating Bradley Evans 11-6, 11-5, 13-11.

Barrow vs. Elgre Nottingham I

The match between Barrow and Elgre Nottingham ended in a draw. Bradley Evans won twice for Barrow whilst Scott Crawford beat Emma Vickers over five ends and Jonathan Crawford got the better of Stewart Mudie 11-5, 12-10, 11-9.

Barrow vs Sycamore

Barrow vs Derwent I

Brighton I vs Barrow

Barrow vs Urban Progress I

Elgre Nottingham I vs Barrow

Click here to see the British League Play-Off tables and averages.

Six teams will battle it out at the Draycott & Long Eaton Table Tennis Centre in Derbyshire over the weekend of Saturday/Sunday 23rd and 24th May, for two places in next year’s British League Premier Division.

If the competition is as fiercely fought as it was last year, then the matches should be very exciting indeed. The three teams who were crowned Champions in their respective Divisions were: Derwent in Division One North, Urban Progress in Division One South and Sycamore in Division One South and Midlands. These will undoubtedly be amongst the teams to watch out for, but don’t write off the three other sides either.

Division One South runners-up Brighton cannot be discounted. They have real depth in their team with the fast-improving Cadets Zak Zilesnick and Reece Tan in the numbers three and four positions. Similarly, you can’t discount Elgre Nottingham either. They may have finished a massive ten points behind an outstanding Sycamore side of Kevin Dolder, Sam Perry, Adam Frost, Jason Ramage, Sean Cullen and Danny Lowe but their team has a nice blend of experience and youthful promise. The Elgre squad of Chris Rogers, Lee Neil, Stewart Mudie, Mark Green, David Arrowsmith and Emma Vickers will relish the prospect of going into this weekend as under-dogs.

Barrow’s fortunes will depend to a great extent whether Scottish number one Gavin Rumgay is available. However, this looks extremely doubtful because of the clash with the Commonwealth Championships in Glasgow. However, the hard-hitting and improving brothers Jonathan and Scott Crawford will still be a force to be reckoned with and with former English number one Denis Neale in their squad, as well as England no. 36 Bradley Evans no one will take them too lightly.

Likely squads are as follows:
Derwent: Simon Noutch, Mark Simpson, Stephen Horsfield, Richard Smith, Trevor Williams, Richard Moss.
Barrow: Gavin Rumgay, Bradley Evans, Jonathan Crawford, Scott Crawford, Denis Neale, Tristran Swan, Steve Dixon.
Urban Progress: Tibor Kadar, William Maybanks, Costas Papantoniou, Laszlo Varga, Zoltan Hosszu.
Brighton: Alexander Ioannou, Dov Katz, Jack Boult, Zak Zilesnick, Reece Tan.
Sycamore: Kevin Dolder, Sam Perry, Adam Frost, Jason Ramage, Sean Cullen, Danny Lowe.
Elgre Nottingham: Chris Rogers, Lee Neil, Stewart Mudie, Mark Green, David Arrowsmith, Emma Vickers.

Click here to see the British League Play-Off results.

It has been a busy time for big hitting Emily Bolton as she continues to show why she is one of the biggest sporting prospects in Cumbria.

Following on from her recent England representation, Emily has gone on to win the invitational Under 11 girls National Trials at Grantham Meres Leisure centre. After winning a tough 4 set semi-final against Jayden Budworth, Emily beat Kristelle Brook in the final.

This wasn’t Emily’s only success last month as she was also in action at the 36th National Individual Championships held at the Doncaster Dome. On the day Emily impressively reached the semi-finals finishing an overall joint third behind Tin Tin Ho (Middlesex Met) and Nicole Bird (Northamptonshire).

Congratulations Emily and keep up the hard work!