On Saturday 23rd May the VA U12s played their National League match against Edgbaston Priory Club, who made the long journey down in hectic bank holiday traffic.
The boys knew it was going to be a competitive fixture (as well as a very hot day), and it certainly delivered.
Tylor and Harry had met before, with their previous match lasting over two and a half hours. Thankfully, this one did not go quite that long, although it still came close at around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
The standard of play was fantastic, with both boys battling hard throughout. It all came down to a tense match tie-break, where Tylor held his nerve brilliantly to take the win 7-5, 2-6, 10-7.
Jake and Martin started strongly in doubles and fought really hard, especially in the second set where they battled back well. Unfortunately, they just missed out, losing 2-6, 4-6.
Kuba played his first National League match since injury and gave his very best against Kingsley. It was a tough match, but great to see Kuba back competing at this level. Final score 0-6, 2-6.
Martin also took to the court for his singles match and gave a determined performance, fighting hard for every point. Final score: 1-6, 2-6.
Unfortunately, Jake had to retire during his first singles game after his knee popped while chasing down a drop shot. After ice treatment and a determined effort to carry on so he didn’t let the team down, he sadly had to retire whilst trailing 0-6.
Tylor and Kuba then teamed up for their doubles match, showing great teamwork and plenty of fight throughout. They pushed hard in the second set but lost out 0-6, 1-6. There were some incredible rallies and brilliant net play throughout.
While the matches were competitive, the day had a really friendly feel off court too. The lads all got on brilliantly, with Jake and Kingsley already knowing each other from Darren Toop, and Tylor and Harry also knowing each other from previous matches.
Our reputation for pizza as the post-match feast had clearly reached Edgbaston too, so we had to deliver! Donuts, pizza and ice lollies were once again the real highlight of the day.
