This match was the first of 5 to be played over the Winter season in a League administered by Surrey LTA.

The weather for this veterans’ fixture against Ashtead Tennis club was doubtful indeed with Storm Chiron poised to attack the UK. Indeed, the first pair, Cephas Vazquez Howard and James Clarke fought a prolonged first set against the Ashtead first pair in one of the worst spells of wet weather on the day, losing very narrowly on a Championship Tie Break at one set all. They made short work of the second pair, winning 6-0, 6-3. Tenacious, persistent ground strokes from Clarke and deadly volleying interventions at the net from Vazquez Howard secured an overall victory.

2nd pair player Colin Taylor and Captain Jim Langan had an easier time of it winning their first rubber in sunny weather 6-1,6-1.

The outstanding challenge was then presented with the reverse match of the Pit Farm 2nd pair facing the Ashtead 1st pair. In a hotly contested and lengthier contest, Taylor and Langan managed to subdue the Ashtead first pair 5-7, 6-1 winning on a Championship Tie Break 10-6.

Contrasting styles played their part with the aerial attack being habitually played by Ashtead being efficiently defused at the net by Pit Farm. Some essential accurate and fast-paced serving also secured this win.

Well done to the vets’ team.