On the eve of Storm Ciara, Saturday, 8th February, Goodrich 'E'liminators travelled to Leominster to play their 'B' team for what they knew would be a very challenging match as the L.T.A. statistics showed Leominster had been very successful in their matches to date.

On arrival it became apparent that one end of the court would be a disadvantage with the sun in your eyes, however as play started it was clear the fluctuating temperatures also played its part as both teams continuously removed and replaced their jumpers.  The first rubbers were evenly matched for Debbie Trigg and Shani Courtney, although it was a close call for the second set which secured them a win as it went to a championship tie-break, 6-2 / 7-6.  On the other court, second pair, Lisa Bolster and Shelley Gwilliam, fought a hard match against the strong Leominster second pair, conceding the first set 3-6, and although the second set went to a championship tie-break, this also went the way of the opposition, 6-7.

After a quick break both teams were back on court and also the wind had arrived, which meant the ladies had to adapt to the change in conditions.  There were a few comical moments when the ball came over the net it was blown back to the opponents without even bouncing on the 'E'liminators side of the court.  Debbie and Shani had a great second rubber with some very long rallies, and despite coming back from 4-1, they could not sustain the level of play in difficult conditions and eventually conceded the rubber 4-6 /4-6.  Lisa and Shelley, now playing the Leominster first pair had a hard battle on their hands, losing the first set 4-6, but managed to draw level in the second 6-6, but again the tie-break favoured the opposition.  One thing was very apparent this weekend, this team are not only a tennis team with respect for each other, but a great group of friends who support each other no matter what.  The 'E'liminators picked up 2 points and keeps them in second place of Division 6 West of the H & W Winter League.