Swindon Croquet Club's Handicap Golf Croquet team played a home game against Camerton and Peasedown A this weekend.
Man of the Match Dave Booth (right) with doubles partner Colin Bailey
Swindon Croquet Club’s Handicap Golf Croquet team narrowly missed out on winning the South West Croquet Federation Central League, finishing second.
The team were said to have recovered from a sluggish start to the season, from an away defeat against Bath in their first match, to steadily climbing the league table as the season progressed.
Team member Beverly Briggs said the Swindon Croquet Club's impressive victories over Nailsea CC at home and away over Camerton and Peasedown B, were particularly noteworthy, and that these wins restored the team’s confidence.
With rival teams faltering towards the end of the season, Swindon emerged as contenders for the top spot.
The final match of the season was played at home on Saturday, against Camerton and Peasedown A.
Swindon raced ahead during the morning rounds of games, to lead 8.5/4.5 at lunchtime.
However, Camerton and Peasedown A were said to have staged a strong comeback during the afternoon. They won four out of five singles games in one round to leave the match resting on the nail-biting last doubles game.
The Swindon team said their pairing of Dave Booth and Colin Bailey, did not allow the pressure of the situation to affect them. Their teammates said they both played magnificently to record a superb 7-2 victory to secure match victory overall by 10.5/9.5.
Dave Booth was crowned Man of the Match, remaining unbeaten throughout the day. He not only won the vital last game with Colin but also won his two singles games and, in partnership with Clive Smith, recovered from a losing position to secure a draw in an early and closely fought doubles game. This recovery to score half a point was said to have been crucial to the outcome of the match.
This victory meant a three-way tie at the top of the league table, with Swindon, Camerton and Peasedown A, and Weston-super-Mare B having the same points tally. Unfortunately for Swindon, the Weston team clinched the title as they had beaten SCC earlier in the season.
Captain of the Swindon team, Clive Smith, said: “It’s been another good season for the Swindon team and to miss out on the title this way is disappointing. However, we are already looking forward to next season and hopes of securing the top spot”.
Those who would like to try the sport can attend free taster sessions (with friendly tuition and equipment provided) at SCC’s Moredon lawns.
Individuals can email [email protected] for more information.
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