Bath win the inaugural SWF Short Croquet League

As winners of the Southern Block, Bath played the final of the Short Croquet League on Saturday 25th September against Bristol A, who had won the Northern Block. Both teams had lost only one match throughout the summer, so were well matched, and the resulting battle was thrilling.

Bristol A took an early two-game lead and managed to hold onto this for the next two rounds. Consequently, Bath needed a clean sweep of four wins in the final round, which was no mean feat considering the struggle we were having against a very experienced and able opposition. However, thanks to some inspired, and inspiring, play by all four members of the team, they did it, carrying off the trophy 9:7 against all expectations.

Top honours must go to Alex Hudson, who kept his third clean sheet with yet another series of four wins throughout the day – a magnificent performance. His handicap continues to fall steadily.

The photo, taken by Roger Hayes, who kindly refereed the match (and was kept surprisingly busy!) shows Paul Francis, who led the Bath team on this occasion as well as representing SWF, presenting the new trophy to non-playing team captain Philip de Glanville. Also pictured are, L to R, team members Martin Alabaster, Ninette Flowerdew and Alex Hudson.