When playing Winter tennis you are extremely lucky to get the ideal conditions, therefore sometimes you have to just roll with what you have as long as it’s dry.

This was the decision faced by Goodrich ‘E’liminators and Hereford Whitecross ‘B’ on Sunday, February 2. It was dry but windy.

With the hope that the winds would die down the decision was made to play. As the first rubbers started it was clear the winds were here to stay and both teams had to change their play accordingly.

It was hard to say whether either end of the courts had an advantage. Court 2 definitely seemed more exposed to the winds. The two teams were well matched as the first two rubbers both went to a third set.

Many great shots were played and in better conditions would have been clear winners, however the wind would pick up just as players tossed the ball for a serve. At least both teams were able to laugh it off.

The first rubbers ended at the same time despite each going to three sets, with a win to both teams.

The second round of rubbers proved equally challenging with Debbie Trigg and Shani Courtney again going to a third set, a hard battle that unfortunately did not result in a win for them. Whilst on the other court Shelley Gwilliam and Lisa Bolster secured a clear win in two sets, 6-0/6-1.

With each team winning two rubbers each, when the games were counted up it was Goodrich ‘E’liminators who were the overall winners having won more games, 53 to 46. A vital six points secured and second place in Division 6 West of the H & W Winter League, with three matches to go, the next being on Saturday, February 8, away to Leominster ‘B’.

For more information about Goodrich Tennis Club, please contact: [email protected] or visit the website: www.goodrichtennis.co.uk