Ross ladies A team took to the motorway on Sunday, May 19th for their first away match of the season at Halesowen.

A somewhat driver-fatigued Val and Jane, playing as 1st pair, had the task of facing a young and confident opposing No.1 pair, who sailed through the first set without so much as a ‘by your leave’, taking it 6-1.

On the next court, Gaynor and Ginny took the first set of their match on a tie-break, the last ball from the opponents’ 2nd pair being called politely, but firmly, “Out!” Although behind 2-4 in the second set, the Ross pair battled on and at 4-all, a spontaneous shout of “Go!” from Val (not really tennis etiquette!) watching from the side, did the trick and spurred the ladies on to a 6-4 win.

The next round of matches saw Val and Jane finding winners from deep driving shots and deft volleys, and exchanging thank you’s at the end of their respectful 6-2 6-2 victory over the Halesowen 2nd pair.

Sarah and Heather lost their first set 1-6 to the strong 1st pair, but wiped the smiles off their opponents’ faces as they went up 5-2 in the second set. Unfortunately, the visitors succumbed to a battle of psychology and massive serves, losing the next 5 games and the match.

Ross were now 3-2 up in rubbers, so the remaining match still underway was of vital importance. Gaynor and Ginny made no apologies for pushing their 3rd pair opponents all around the court, ending their match in a 6-1 6-4 victory under the quiet applause of the Halesowen onlookers and the enthusiastic hugs of the Ross players, Val on her best behaviour this time!

After exchanging pleasantries during the after-match tea, the Ross team set off back home, very pleased with this 3rd successful match of the season.See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here