Men’s Over 55’s Inter-County Squash
Group Stage 1
6/7th November 2010
Hertfordshire in Relegation Trouble
After two glorious years of reaching the finals of the Men’s Over 55’s Inter-County finals culminating in finishing runners-up to Surrey the previous season, the Hertfordshire team has to face the reality of battling to stay in the Premier Division when it enters the Group II stage in March next year.
Playing in the wonderful surrounds of Wimbledon Squash Club adjacent to the famous tennis arena, Hertfordshire couldn’t repeat the heroics of the previous two years. Saturday morning the team faced its old adversary, Middlesex, lead by the current World Champion Mark Cowley along with two other England Internationals. To be fair Hertfordshire also boasted three International players but on the day Middlesex came out winners by 4 -1 with Phil Collins recording the only vctory.
Saturday afternoon was always going to be tough against a strong Surrey side and so it proved. Mike Lancey did get the team off to a flying start but regrettably none of his team mates could add to the winning tally although mention must be made of David Cooper who put up a sterling fight at the number one berth before succumbing 3-1.
And so to the Saturday night review. Having initially thought all chances of a third final’s appearance in a row was beyond the team, the mathematicians worked out that a 5-0 thrashing of Hampshire on the Sunday morning combined with a comprehensive Surrey win over Middlesex could see us through. If only it was that simple. With Surrey noticeable weaker, Middlesex took full advantage and won their rubber making the result between Hants and Herts just academic. Indeed it turned out to be a disappointing affair with another close defeat by three ties to two with Peter Leary and Martin Herd clocking up wins for Hertfordshire.
So it’s a pressure weekend next March with the team captain on the look out for some fresh faces to bolster the side to ensure another season in the premiership.
Phil Collins
Men’s Over 55’s Team Captain
