Club C'ship

The break in the games gave Craven time to ponder the previous game, Dewis stayed on court hitting balls again; the ball was like a hot potato!
The 3rd game from the word go was a much tighter affair, with both players trading points. The tempo was raised and both players played some of the best squash of the match which resulted in some gargantuan rallies!!! Until just after the half way point in the game it was nip-tuck, then Craven gained the advantage with a string of very tight cross-courts. Eventually going on to take what was a very tight game.
The 4th game was a very similar affair with players trading points. Both were now starting to feel the pain and errors were creeping into their respective games. However, again, just after the half way point the advantage was gained. This time it was Dewis who capitalised on some opportunities with some good volleying, eventually taking the game and forcing the match into what it deserved, a fifth and final game. All season Craven was known for his thrilling 3-2 victories which stood him in good stead for this one, the one he wanted to win the most. But the fitness of Dewis may be the deciding factor.
Both players traded points at the start of the final game, neither wanted to give anything away, with more stylish shot making from Craven equally matched by the fitness of Dewis. In the end fitness told with Dewis able to stretch his advantage to a sizeable lead, eventually taking the fifth game 9-4 and the match 3-2 in a 90 minute marathon; which made him the St Ivo club Champion 2009!!!!!

Craven was gracious in defeat and afterwards admitted that Dewis had the legs over him. Three nights before the final it was not a certainty to happen as the team night out took place in St Ives with Mr Dewis shockingly having one (or 5) too many beers!! However he recovered in time to put on a show of sheer determination to come out on top.

I would like this opportunity to thank everyone for participating in the tournament itself. Some quality squash was played by all and next years championships should be a tight affair with Craven out for revenge!! Also thanks to everyone for turning up on the final night and showing their support, it was a privilege to play in such outstanding company and you helped it make the historical sporting spectacle it turned out to be.

Last of all a big congratulations to John Dewis, St Ivo club champion 2009!!!

Match report written by Richard Craven (runner up 2009).