Match report from our Winter League Fixtures Supremo, Jonathan Foulkes:

What an exciting Sunday that was and I’m delighted to provide the match report. On a beautiful sunny day with a record crowd all enjoying the moment, it was a shock when Spurs went ahead in the 10th minute with a headed goal from a corner. But 2 mins later Diaz equalised, then Mac scored a wonder-goal, Gakpo made it safe before 2 second half goals made it party time. Liverpool winning the league for the 20th time and spark jubilant scenes in the Old Vicarage/Moss Close area. Sorry what was that? wrong match report????

Nearly as exciting was the tennis match played on court 1 on Sunday morning. With Peter out of action with an injured knee, Simon (partnered by Barry) just needed to avoid defeat against Will (partnered by me) to win the Winter League for the first time.  A fight for second place between Will, Barry, Mark and even Simon if he lost his match. 

It was a fabulous first set with so many exhausting rallies, Simon/Barry going 3-1 up and looking strong. But team Will struck back with 3 games in a row to make it 3-4 and suddenly Simon was a frustrated figure. The games and rallies were relentless with some unbelievable shots played by all players. At 5-5, the nerves were there for all to see, could Will take the league to the final set of the season?  Alas no, as Simon/Barry saw out the set brilliantly and took it 7-5. Simon was champion at that point but second place was now up for grabs between Barry and Will.  The current champion Peter hobbled down at this point and settled in to enjoy an equally incredible second set.

Simon/Barry went 3-1 up again but Team Will fought back brilliantly to lead 6-5.  Simon/Barry held their nerve to take it to a tie-break.  However, Will and I upped our game to dazzle the crowd of 5 plus a pigeon with a stunning 7-2 tie break win. It was a fitting and emotional end to a thrilling match and season with a draw!   It was undoubtedly the best match of the season for me, all played in a brilliant spirit and although there was a lot at stake, it was really enjoyable to be involved in - brilliant!!

Congratulations to Simon who wins the winter league for the first time. 

Congratulations to Will who pips Peter to second place, winning his first winter league silverware. 

Congratulations to Graham who retains the fixtures secretary’s special award of "most draws in a season” with a stunning 9 draws.. 

And so endeth another enjoyable winter league season.  It was lovely to have Meg, Jess, Charlotte and Rhian with us this year, I hope you all enjoyed it.  The very best of luck in your exams.

Thanks to everyone for turning up to play, rain or shine  - the first season I can remember without any “no shows” which I hope shows how much everyone enjoys playing in the league.