Narrow Defeat in Longman Cup

In the first competitive match of the season, Bath were narrowly defeated by their visitors East Dorset, 4 games to 3, in the Longman Cup.

Bath gave a debut to Martin Alabaster and, his selection was justified when he and his partner (Paul Francis) in the morning doubles game recorded a 26-12 victory. An impressive debut from a player new to the game in March. However, Philip de Glanville was defeated 5 -26 leaving the match tied at one each. Margaret Murray appeared to be on course for victory until her opponent completed 7 hoops with his last turn to win 14 -11.

Fortunes were reversed in the afternoon with Margaret and Philip securing comfortable wins.

Unfortunately, despite two close fought games, both Martin and Paul slipped to defeats which ensured East Dorset’s progress to the next round of this national tournament.

But the encouraging news for the future is the potential shown by Martin and the ability of Philip and Margaret to ‘bounce back’ after disappointing games.