Last Tuesday, Warrington comfortably overcame Bowdon to reach the final of the Division One Cup.

 

The evening began with me stepping on court for the first time since my hip replacement at Christmas (Below). I was playing the potentially tricky and 'flicky' Nick Murrills. After a horrendous 3 rallies where I smashed 2 shots in the tin and then fell over as I embarrassingly tried to change direction - I quickly remembered how to play squash and move my feet in an averagely coordinated manner! I managed to control the middle of the court, volleying a lot, with the aim of prevent me from having to move into the four corners of court - as I can't. I was able to dictate the play enough to win 3-0. This was a satisfying first venture back on to the squash court, even if it was only at No.5 - I could get used to playing down there!

 

 

On the show court, Lewis was battling it out with the ever-improving Charlie Keeble (Below). As often with Lewis, the rallies were crying out for him to play a quality, arrow-like drop shot. When he did, he would win the point, but there were too many periods of the match where his confidence would dip, and his drop shots would be too soft and loopy, and Charles would pounce onto them. But, Lewis dug deep and won 3-2. He has been a superb player for us, and his effort levels and attitude are second-to-none.

 

 

 

Charlie Cowie was up against Matt Lowrey, who always feels the World is conspiring against him, whoever he is playing and whoever may be reffing. This was always going to be a "fun" match! Luckily, an actual fist-fight didn't break-out, although they came close a few times. Charlie hasn't played for a month, but after the first game, he found his quality and was too good for Matt. It's impressive to play as well as he did after not playing for a month. 3-1 win to Charlie Cowie (Below)

 

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The match of the night was always going to be James Earles vs Pete Billson - probably the two most skillful players in our league (Below). James won the first two games with his trademark backhand lobs and his deft volley drops, but a lacklustre third game from our bald superstar, gave Pete the impetus he needed. James lost his discipline to rally to the back, and the match became a bit of a 'shootout', with 75% of the shots going into the front two corners. Pete showed some incredibly deft touches to complete his comeback to win 3-2, to get a point on the board for Bowdon.

 

 

 

Last up, Rui jumped onto court and entertained us all in a relaxed, exhibition style 3-0 win over Matt Gregory, who ran for everything (Below). Rui's style is so relaxed, he's great to watch, and he certainly wowed us all during his win.

 

 

 

On to the final we march... In 4 weeks, we play against Grove Park on 26th May at Sportcity. Grove have an incredibly strong team as they have their eyes set on the trophy. The expected line-ups are:

 

Jonah Bryant vs Emyr Evans

Ben Smith vs Dewald van Niekerk

Lewis Doughty vs Will Salter

Ollie Hudson vs Luke McFarland

Andy Whipp vs Ky Hibberd

 

This looks like we could just about sneak it, but it won't be easy!! Watch this space for more updates in a few weeks....

 

 

Andy Whipp

Photos: Richard Bradbury