A clear message

4-2 Crosby. Lewis to the rescue? Well, the ever improving Nick stands in his way, and after a well balanced first couple of games, 5-11,11-5, it’s all to play for.

Both players were now producing the goods, especially with their consistent topspin attack, couldn’t be closer, Lewis sneaks the third 9-11.

Same intent again in the fourth, and a near replica outcome, 8-11 to Lewis, makes it 4-3.

Ted then settled his team’s nerves, making the match at least safe for the home side, although Gary did give him a few surprises on the way, taking the third 7-11, in particular cast a few doubts, nevertheless Crosby lead 5-3.

Second doubles pair Chris and Felix then secured the victory, winning in four games over Lewis and Lee, before Nick and Pat contested the encounter of the night.

Cracking performances from both sides of the net, initially Nick looked to have full control, taking the first two 11-7,11-7, back came Pat in fine style to level 6-11, 6-11.

Both found another gear from somewhere, and it was neck and neck throughout the fifth. Who would summon up that final hit, or make that fatal slip? A super shot from the home player, 12-10 Nick, leaving us with a final score of 7-3.

Crosby G, in the other match, and without their captain, Crosby H were finding it even more difficult against division leaders Argyle G.

A procession of wins kept the points coming for the visitors. Even facing loss after loss the young Crosby team never threw in the towel, in fact the determination on the faces of Jack Savage, Ewan Walsh and Joe Wilson throughout will undoubtedly be remembered, as a reminder as they will be much improved the next time paths are crossed.

Acting captain Harry Griffiths too, stepped up, leading the way with excellent performances against Krzysztof Gorny and Adrian Hyland (five games 2- 11,11- 9,12- 10,6- 11,8- 11), hard to believe it’s his first season.

For Argyle further wins by Ilona Kuznik and Jacek Dzimiera, completed the maximum win which maintained their top position on 94pts, still with that 100% record, and 21pts clear of second placed Para’s (73pts), who being under strength were held to a draw by Argyle H. Crosby G’s win, certainly keeps them in touch with a promotion place, now on 61pts with a match in hand.

Argyle F are fourth also on 61pts but with one less win.

All information can be found at www. tabletennis365.com/ southport Waddington D 9 Formby HT D 1 Formby HT C 8 Waddington E 2 Argyle D 7 North Meols 3 Division 3 Southport C 10 Crosby F 0 Para’s 5 Argyle H 5 Crosby G 7 Argyle F 3 Crosby H 0 Argyle G 10