All the news from Market Harborough Squash & Racketball Club Market Harborough Squash & Racketball Club http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk Tue, 15 May 2012 19:55:00 Tue, 15 May 2012 19:55:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/may/15/summer-league-teams-2012/ The Teams so far are - Can teams sort a captain out between them - Jon Cook has already volunteered to Captain his team! Team 1 Nick Loomes (A) Barrie Dowsett (B) Rob Pyle (B / Racketball) Lyn Cherry ( C) Team 2 John Macdonald (A) Jon Cook (B + RB) Capt Rob Pearce (B + RB) Gemma Christisson (C) Team 3 Steve Isles (A) Nigel Lawton (B + R/B) Jerry Langridge (B) Jonathan Parsons (c) Simon Dunn (R/B) Team 4 Steve Avil (A + R/B) Ruth Sleigh (B + R/B) Steve Tew (B) Katie Gibbs (c) Team 5 Jon Maynard (A) Kean Williams (B + R/B) Ian Beasant (B + R/B) Alison Avil (C + R/B) Team 6 Earl Harrison (A) Andrew Longley (B) Sean Reuthe (C + R/B) Charlie Dewey (R/B + A) Team 7 Alex Eales (A) Peter Davis (B) Alan Durn (C) Rob Smith (C + R/B) Super subs - we need a few more players so if you are still interested, or may be available as a sub some nights for teams let Alison know.  Rules: All matches PAR to 15, best of 3, at 14 all, two clear points. Handicaps within Grades - 1 point per current league difference, or mutually agreed by team in order to get a good game!. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/may/15/summer-league-teams-2012/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/may/15/summer-league-teams-2012/ Tue, 15 May 2012 19:55:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/april/29/mixed-doubles-competition/ Market Harborough Squash Club held its first Mixed Doubles Competition for 15 years, last week.  The very attractive prize was dinner at Timo's restaurant in Market Harborough, donated by the restaurant. Eight couples, partners were drawn at random, played a knockout format of best of three games. Some players had never played doubles before and had to quickly adapt to the different style of play needed from normal singles play. Interestingly, all the regular doubles players were drawn apart, which helped with the sorting out of rules and scoring for those that were less experienced!  Everyone enjoyed the challenge and there were no collisions!  The winners were Ruth Sleigh and Jon Maynard who beat Lyn Cherry and Nigel Lawton 2-1 in the final. All four finalists received vouchers for dinner at Timo's, presented by competition organiser Hilary Hearnshaw.   http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/april/29/mixed-doubles-competition/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/april/29/mixed-doubles-competition/ Sun, 29 April 2012 17:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/april/15/club-competitions/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/april/15/club-competitions/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/april/15/club-competitions/ Sun, 15 April 2012 16:00:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/24/changing-room-nearly-finished!/ A big thanks to Rob Pyle for putting the benches back in this morning - only a bit of painting left and the renovations will be done! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/24/changing-room-nearly-finished!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/24/changing-room-nearly-finished!/ Sat, 24 March 2012 18:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/22/second-place-for-2nd-team-in-northants!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/22/second-place-for-2nd-team-in-northants!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/22/second-place-for-2nd-team-in-northants!/ Thu, 22 March 2012 08:31:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/18/club-gets-more-qualified-coaches/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/18/club-gets-more-qualified-coaches/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/18/club-gets-more-qualified-coaches/ Sun, 18 March 2012 18:46:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/17/mixed-doubles-competition/ Hilary Hearnshaw is organising a Mixed Doubles Tournament on 27th April, with teams being drawn at random the week before during Club Night. Timo's Restaurant have provided a prize for the Finalists of a meal at their restaurant. Theevent is open to all members over the age of 18. Sign up one the list on the noticebaord outside Court 3 - it should be good fun! There is a small charge for this event to pay for food on the evening. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/17/mixed-doubles-competition/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/march/17/mixed-doubles-competition/ Sat, 17 March 2012 19:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/25/england-call-up-for-geear!/ Congratulations to Martin Geear on his call up to the England O45 Team for the up coming Home Countries games in Cardiff in April. This call up comes after his successful run in the National Closed where he reached the semi-finals. Well done Martin!!! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/25/england-call-up-for-geear!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/25/england-call-up-for-geear!/ Sat, 25 February 2012 17:25:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/car-park-update/ Please be careful in the car park, apart from being very icy, there are large holes from where we had work done on the electricity yesterday. We have found out the problem with the "shocks" we were getting in the showers - the external earth needed repairing. This was done yesterday - the holes should be filled on Monday. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/car-park-update/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/car-park-update/ Sat, 11 February 2012 15:02:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/junior-team-match-result/ Market Harborough Junior team went to Hinckley last Saturday and played two matches, one against Hinckley Trinity, and one against Leicester Road Hinckley. The Team was Jack Brown, Billy Oliver and George Brown. The team are pleased to report two 3-0 victories with a total of only 2 games being dropped! Well played to them all, and thanks to Jack for driving (a sign of the times when one of the juniors drives the team to the match!) http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/junior-team-match-result/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/junior-team-match-result/ Sat, 11 February 2012 14:55:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/internal-junior-graded-competition/ Instead of the usual Squash Coaching session last Saturday, Steve and Alison ran an internal graded tournament for the juniors with help from the parents. In the first session, due to a junior team match, only one person was there from the B grade - thanks to Greg Burns for joining in with the C grade and winning all his matches, despite a handicap of -5, and yet giving the others a game. This showed a maturity that is great from our juniors. The the rest of the C grade - Oscar Dean had a great morning, won all his Grade C matches, and together with all the others were very good at marking the games. In the second session, we had an ambitious 20 youngsters competing in Grades D and E. All emotions were on display from happiness and excitement, to extreme nerves and disappointments (in both kids and parents!!) - thanks to the mums for being there to encourage, support and on occasion, cajole their children into playing! Thanks to the Dads for helping organise and score the games. We had joint winners of the D grade - Harry Brown and James Aram, but they were closely followed by Miles Jacklin, who had an excellent morning winning all but one match (including beating his brother - I'm sure Will we be out for revenge next time!). In the E group we had a great time with Millie Bairstow coming out winner, ahead of Amelia and Charlie Turner. Well done to everyone and we look forward to the next event. Watch out on the junior website for the date! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/internal-junior-graded-competition/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/february/11/internal-junior-graded-competition/ Sat, 11 February 2012 14:52:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/january/05/northants-3-round-up-of-first-half-results/ Northants 3 got the season off to a roaring start, recording wins in all their first four matches.  The first match at Cripps saw losses for Earl and Kean at 1 and 2 respectively with Kean somewhat distracted by the behaviour of the youngster who was marking and had reportedly some way to go in developing his maturity of approach!  However, wins for Barrie, Ruth and Steve sealed the match.  This was followed by 3-2 wins in succession against Kettering Rugby 4, Lings 5 and Kettering Rugby 5 and we were 3 rd in the league table.  I began to wonder if going on holiday at the beginning of the season had put my careful plans to stay mid-table under threat, with the team going off piste and winning! However, things soon returned to an even keel with a thumping by top of the table Daventry - Earl at no 1 being our only winner, although Barrie put up a good fight to lose 3-2 to Suzannah with her killer drops and lobs. Earl was also our only winner in the next match against Club Diana as Ruth snatched defeat from the jaws of victory in the 5 th game.  Ruth lost the first two games before she got into her stride and came back strongly to win the 3 rd and 4 th , she looked comfortably positioned to win at 8-3 but let her opponent back in and went down 9-10.  Unbelievably Ruth repeated this feat, losing 8-10 in the 5 th , in the last match of the half against Saints when again Earl was our only winner.  So a bit of a pattern setting in here - let's hope Earl maintains his habit and Ruth gives up hers in the second half! We have though managed to position ourselves respectably in the middle of the table by the mid-point of the season, 11 people have played, including Andy Dean having his first taste of team squash, and we have by and large enjoyed both the squash and the company.  Steve and I suffered the ignominy of defeat by lads around 13 or 14 years old - though at least it was inflicted with good grace whereas Kean's brush with the arrogance of youth was less harmonious - ringside seats now available for the return match at home on 9 th January!  http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/january/05/northants-3-round-up-of-first-half-results/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2012/january/05/northants-3-round-up-of-first-half-results/ Thu, 05 January 2012 11:23:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/december/30/beginners-racketball-course/ We have got funding from the Active Together, Harborough schemeto run a beginners racketball course. The subsidised sessions are £3 a session or £10 for 4 sessions and will be running on Saturday lunchtimes from 14th January. Coaching the players will be Steve Avil and will take people from basics through to playing games with all the equipment provided. Our funding is dependent on the numbers of people coming along, so if you know of any family, friends or neighbours that fancy trying this great game get themto contact us via the website! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/december/30/beginners-racketball-course/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/december/30/beginners-racketball-course/ Fri, 30 December 2011 19:27:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/december/11/christmas-cocktail-night/ Around 50 members and family turned out for The 70's Christmas Cocktail Night, some in cocktail outfits, some in 70's fancy dress - Elvis even made an appearance!  The evening started off with some live music from the era supplied by Andy Fraser's group, Asus. This was then followed by a knock-out first to 2 points squash competition using rackets from the era. Experience of using the rackets didn't however beat youth, and the competition winner was Jack Turney. Throughout the night our very own Cocktail Shaker Boy's (Andy Seaward and Steve Loxton) served drinks from the era and more modern ones. The buffet had a 70's theme with vol-au-vents and cheese and pineapple on sticks featuring heavily. Ruth-Anne as well as running the rest of the bar ran a raffle which made over £100 to the Club funds. The evening was a great success and ideas for next years event are welcome! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/december/11/christmas-cocktail-night/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/december/11/christmas-cocktail-night/ Sun, 11 December 2011 14:04:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/26/internal-junior-competition/ There was some highly competitive squash being played this morning by the juniors in the second of their competition mornings. In the first sections, the five junior members played each other in a round robin. The importance of good serving was highlighted and the morning ended with a tie between Oscar and Daniel McGuiness. In the older group, 7 boys played in a handicapped round robin, PAR to 9. The handicaps proved to be very good with players finishing only a few points between them. Star of the morning was Bradley Crane, who won all 6 of his games, closely followed by Alistair Geear who won 5 of his, and Greg Burns with 4 wins. This showed a lot of discipline by the stronger players who had to overcome the handicapping. Player of the Week for showing all round good play, and responsibility was Curan Tahim who helped sort the games out and never shirked from marking games. In the second session, the juniors were split into two groups who played a round robin, PAR to 7. In one group, the winner was William Jacklin who won all his games, however there was only 7 points separating the top 4. In the other group, the winner was Max Ellis who again won all his games. This was closely followed though by Miles Jacklin with 4 wins and Freddie Marlow with 3. Player of the week for the second session went to James Aram for his improvement, getting two good wins in his section. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/26/internal-junior-competition/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/26/internal-junior-competition/ Sat, 26 November 2011 18:56:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/19/funding-successes!/  Market Harborough Squash & Racketball Club have recently heard they have been successful in securing two lots of funding to help them to strengthen the work the members are doing to increase opportunities for people to take up the sports. We were one of only 19 sports clubs across the country to be awarded a Cash 4 Clubs grant. They awarded us  £1000 to pay for more members to become squash and racketball coaches and to buy more equipment for the junior section. The Club currently runs coaching sessions on Saturday mornings for juniors from the age of 6, with 10 of their youngsters being selected for county squads. The second funding has come from the Active Together Harborough scheme run in conjunction with Leicestershire and Rutland Sport, Leicestershire County and Rutland NHS, and Harborough District Council. The Club are going to be running racketball sessions for people to come and try on Saturday lunchtimes in the New Year. The hour long sessions will be run over an 8 week period from January 15 th and are aimed at getting people who want to get fit but haven't tried racketball to come along and try it out. Racketball is played on a squash court but with slightly bigger rackets and balls. It's a great sport for all the family to try. Anyone interested in coming along should get in touch coach Steve Avil, on 07715021313, or by email at info@harboroughsquash.co.uk. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/19/funding-successes!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/19/funding-successes!/ Sat, 19 November 2011 17:32:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/18/leicester-1st-team-update/ This week the Leicester 1st team defeated Hinckley 1 to claim their fourth win out of six matches.  Mark Christison won comfortably at number 4 and Steve Ward beat Andy Beel 3-1 despite Beel's excellent court coverage.  Simon Turner stepping in at number five went down 3-0 to O45 county finalist Dave Wood and Martin Geear lost in straight sets to the double handed Dan O'Hara.  Jack Turney secured victory for Harborough with an excellent 3-1 win over Heath Jennings. The previous week the team travelled to play Cleaver who are currently bottom of the league.  Most of Cleaver's top players are this year playing in the Midlands league leaving their Leicester side weak as yet without a win.  Unfortunately, they broke their losing streak against Harborough following losses by Geear, Christison (his first loss of the season) & Loomes.  Christison narrowly lost 3-2 & Loomes went down to the young Jordi Coppock 3-1, 14-12 in the fourth. The team are currently mid-table with a game in hand.  The last three matches of this half are all tough and the team will need some good performances to maintain their position in the league. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/18/leicester-1st-team-update/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/18/leicester-1st-team-update/ Fri, 18 November 2011 20:22:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/12/leicester-2-vs-leicester-tennis-3/ Captain Brown returned to the fold last night following his wrist problem, and it was with a convincing 3-0 win over Phil Hurst at number 5, 9/3,9/0,9/3. At 4, Melvin Crane played well against Ken White in the first game, taking it 9/2. White then came back taking the 2nd 9/7. In the third, Crane went 8-1 up before loosing concentration and loosing it 9-8. This woke him up enough to return to some great shots, taking the last two games 9-0, 9/3. Steve Avil, playing up at 3, had an off night. In a tight first game he came close, loosing a tight game 8/10, but then managed to feed the ball to the middle of the court for the older player to dispatched away, 9/2,9/2. Harborough returned to winning ways then with season debutants Charlie Dewey and Calum Frazer, winning 3-0 against Paul Hart and Andy Maynard respectively. So a good points haul for the seconds - on to Cleaver next Friday, away! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/12/leicester-2-vs-leicester-tennis-3/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/12/leicester-2-vs-leicester-tennis-3/ Sat, 12 November 2011 18:46:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/06/from-9-to-77,-we-have-a-league-for-everyone!/ Last month saw the number of members competing in their internal leagues top the 100  mark. There was a rather special encounter in one of the leagues where the youngest player in the leagues, 9 year old Bradley Crane, play the oldest member, Ken Martin (77) who was returning to the sport after having had two hip replacements. Crane has already represented the County at under 13 level and is in the Regional under 11 squad. The encounter was a close affair with Crane taking the first two games before Martin's experience and wily tactics enabled him to take the next two. So all was even and it was nip and tuck in the decider until at 6 all, the 9 year olds extra energy levels enabled him to race away to take the decider. . http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/06/from-9-to-77,-we-have-a-league-for-everyone!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/06/from-9-to-77,-we-have-a-league-for-everyone!/ Sun, 06 November 2011 19:29:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/05/leicester-2-vs-huncote/ The match started well with Tom Paton picking up a good 3-0 victory over Richard Roper. Paton blasted the Huncote player off the court winning 9-2, 9-0, 9-2. Meanwhile on the other court Pete Wheat started well winning the opening matches 9-2 and 9-6. Jones then came back winning the next two 9-7 and 9-3, however Wheats fitness came to the fore with him taking the last game 9-6. Next on court was Steve Avil at number 2. This week Avil found his form, with his newly strung racket (thanks Kev!) taking the match 9-4, 9-2, 9-0. The final games saw Melvin Crane playing Nimesh Patel at number 3, and Mike Turney playing the up and coming youngster Callum Greasley. Crane and Patel battled hard swapping the opening 4 games before Patel's slightly better fitness, (and Crane's dodgey hip!) saw him come out on top. In Turney's game, the older and more canny player dominated the game against an opponent he tells us his son has difficulties against, winning convincingly 9-1, 9-3, 9-4. So a great win with 19 points towards the cause obtained!  http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/05/leicester-2-vs-huncote/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/05/leicester-2-vs-huncote/ Sat, 05 November 2011 09:52:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/03/harborough-1-vs-leicester-squash-club/ The first team played their third match of the season in the Leicestershire against the Leicester club.  With the team's number 3 climbing the Lake District mountains for his Duke of Edinburgh Gold award, super-sub Simon Turner stepped in at number 5 for the second time.  Turner turned in a fine performance and despatched his opponent with a comfortable 3-0 win.  Nick Loomes elevated to number four notched up his second win in three outings beating Steve Smith by three games to two.  The fifth game was a bit too close for comfort but Loomes hung in well to win it 12-10.  Meanwhile Martin Geear at number 1, back from a week's injury break, lost 3-0 to the strapping 15-year-old George Parker 9-11, 7-11, 6-11. At number 2 Steve Ward claimed his second win on the season beating Ben McNulty in a comfortable 3-0.  Match of the night was between Georges older brother Luke Parker and Mark Christison.  Christison got off to a good start winning the first game 11-4 as Parker made many unforced errors.  Parker upped the pace in the second and third games and following some fine retrieving went 2 games to 1 up.  Christison fought characteristically hard in the fourth & fifth games and eventually overcame a despondent opponent - Christison maintaining his 100% record of 3-2 wins this year! A good 4-1 result for the team following a 3-2 loss against Abbey Sports & a 3-2 win against Leicester squash club leaves the team in a comfortable 6 th place in the league. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/03/harborough-1-vs-leicester-squash-club/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/03/harborough-1-vs-leicester-squash-club/ Thu, 03 November 2011 20:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/03/northants-2-vs-ows/ Market Harborough's 2nd team in the Northants league were away to the OWs in Wellingborough this week and continued their good winning form. There were wins for Steve "the Winner" Cousens, Tim Arthur, and Steve Isles, with Jon Maynard and Richard Balme both losing but picking a game up each to help with the overall points tally. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/03/northants-2-vs-ows/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/03/northants-2-vs-ows/ Thu, 03 November 2011 08:30:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/02/ladies-team-news/ Market Harborough ladies squash team were back on winning form again yesterday (Tuesday 1st November) when they played Sport in Desford's first team at home. The first three matches of the season had seen defeats to strong Hermitage 1 and Leicester squash teams, although Sandra Lane fought well to win at number one against Hermitage II. Against Sport in Desford however Ruth Sleigh, Sandra Lane, Sarah Pickering and Lizzie Turney all won their matches to get the much needed maximum points from the match.  http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/02/ladies-team-news/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/november/02/ladies-team-news/ Wed, 02 November 2011 18:33:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/30/leicester-2-vs-leicester-squash-(away)/ In a match they were hoping to win, especially when the opposition talked about suffering from unavailability and injuries, the 2nds were disappointed to go down 2-3 last Tuesday. The match kicked of with Tom Paton playing at 5 against a player of similar looking ability. Tom started off well winning thefirst match his opposition ran well in the remaining games, getting to all the short drops and Tom eventually lost 3-1. At the same time, Pete Wheat was playing at number 4. Pete's rather unorthodox style often out foxes his opposition, and his fitness usually allows him to grind out good wins, however on this occasion his opponent managed to read him well and edged Pete out in the 4th. Next on was Steve Avil, playing an awkward player at 3, and going down 3-0. The final two matches saw John MacDonald play Steve Sibley at 2, and Mike turner making his season debut at 1. John showed his youth and fitness, beating Sibley 3-0. Turney, coming back from injury, lacked match fitness but his experience paid off winning 3-1. Next week the team are looking ofrward to the first of 2 home games. Everyone is welcome to come and support on Friday evening http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/30/leicester-2-vs-leicester-squash-(away)/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/30/leicester-2-vs-leicester-squash-(away)/ Sun, 30 October 2011 16:24:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/29/quiz-night/ Thanks to everyone who turned up last night to the Quiz night - we all had a really good time. Special thanks to Lynn and Pete Cherry for coming up with a great quiz, and congratulations to Ruth, Will, Steve Tew and Steve Isle's sister - the winners! The wooden spooners were the Team called "The Christisons" who were actually The Turneys!!! We are planning to put the money raised towards getting a plumbed in water dispenser in the corridor downstairs. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/29/quiz-night/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/29/quiz-night/ Sat, 29 October 2011 09:14:00 Ian Shirley http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/26/northants-2-v-lings/ Another blinding result from the team on Tusday 25th at Lings. John Maynard at number 4 took a little time to settle and seemed to struggle at times against Simon Yates' delicate shots, but his lifting of the pace and his overall better consistency saw John through in 5 games. Tim Arthur at 3 was on the warm court at the same time against Simon Hughes and another long night loomed as Tim played his standard game in the first two by getting well ahead and then just squeeking through to win them in 10. He then came out in the third and to quote last year's captain, Andy Reuthe "bish bash bosh" 9-0, 3-0 and goodnight! Where did that come from? Wherever it came from Tim, very well done and make a note to think like that from game one next match! Richard Balme, who has been gallantly "taking it for the team" for the last two weeks at number 2 came out with an excellent hard earned win against Joe Fulford in 5 games. A classic exhibition of Wiley coyote versus the Roadrunner but this time the coyote wins! Meanwhile Ian Shirley at number 5 managed to find his form also for the first time this season to grind down Paul O'Dell in a close match to 5 games over an hour (the three Weetabix helped this week!) .... and finally Steve Isles at number one yet again played a very tight and vigorous game (despite a bit of a purple patch in the middle!) against John Redding who was certainly not giving up as he demonstrated in the 20 shot rally at match point down (and he won it!). Steve finally depatched him 2 rallies later in 4 games. Well done everyone - an excellent start which leaves us pretty near the top of the table. Please keep watching the emails for the latest news on team selection. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/26/northants-2-v-lings/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/26/northants-2-v-lings/ Wed, 26 October 2011 12:33:00 Ian Shirley http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/24/northants-2-early-season-reports/ Well done the team and the squad over the last couple of weeks and an excellent couple of initial results. Dallington 3, probably one of the weakest teams based on last season's results, were no pushover, despite the excellent result on paper and Daventry 3 came second last season and we beat them back with a 3-2 home victory which was very hard fought. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/24/northants-2-early-season-reports/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/24/northants-2-early-season-reports/ Mon, 24 October 2011 12:58:00 Alison Avil http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/22/junior-graded-results/ Well done to all the juniors who took part in the Graded events today. The first session saw only five players competing due to absences for half term so a handicapped graded event took place. First place went to Elliott Reuthe, by one point from second placed Alistair Geear. The second session had a very competitive E grade, with nine players competing in two groups. There was then a play off between the players. First place went to Max Wilson who beat Freddie Marlow 9-7 in the final. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/22/junior-graded-results/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/october/22/junior-graded-results/ Sat, 22 October 2011 18:36:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/september/08/club-social-events!/ Social Events coming up......... 16th September - Doubles night For more details see behind the bar or contact Martin Thompson 28th October - Lyn Cherry Quiz Night Devilishy difficult of course! With food. 2nd December - Winter Warmers post Late Night Shopping! Family and friends come and join us for Winter warming drinks, and hot food following late night shopping. 9th December - Christmas Cocktail Evening! Back by popular demand - The Cocktail Shaker Boys will strut their stuff in a 70's Themed night - pull out those old rackets for a best of 3 point competition. Tickets £10 peer person, including food and one drink. Tickets limited to first 60! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/september/08/club-social-events!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/september/08/club-social-events!/ Thu, 08 September 2011 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/august/13/darts-and-pool-night/ Thanks to everyone who turned up for the pool and darts night last night. We had 7 teams playing each other, with Steve Tew and Rob Smith winning the darts, and Nigel Lawton and Richard Milverton winning the pool. The instigators of the evening, - Nick Loomes and John "the face of the squash club" MacDonald didn't fair so well - but was it due to their fashion getting in the way of their cueing action!! Nigel thought he'd give it a go anyway!   http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/august/13/darts-and-pool-night/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/august/13/darts-and-pool-night/ Sat, 13 August 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/august/12/leicester-2-win-critchlow-cup!/ At the Leicester Leagues AGM this week, Club Chairman, Steve Avil was pleasantly surprised to receive the Division 3 Critchlow Cup on behalf of the 2nd Team. The Critchlow Cup is awarded to the team who gets the highest average for hospitality points. Obviously good food and banter from the 2nds (helped perhaps by home nights being Friday meaning people may stay longer, drink more........!) OK 1st Team, and Ladies - the challenge is out there - let's see if we can make it a treble this season! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/august/12/leicester-2-win-critchlow-cup!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/august/12/leicester-2-win-critchlow-cup!/ Fri, 12 August 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/june/15/northants-summer-league-team-edge-cripps-3-2/ Yet another 3-2 result saw Harborough edge Cripps 2 at Northampton General. Stepping in for the injured Andy Reuthe to play an extra rubber, Steve Avil started proceedings in the racketball against Bob Fielding. Steve played extremely steadily and won to 6,6 & 7 in taking the rubber. Next on was Earl at 3 and it's only right that he wins the Earl Harrison VFM award, although unusually for Earl, it only took 4 games against Rich Fielding - despite dropping the first game, Earl clawwed back a 7/14 deficit to win the second 16/15, which set him up for a 3-1 victory with all four games going to the tiebreak. Barrie Dowsett and Steve Tew took on Dave Featherstone and Cliff Armstrong in the doubles, with the Cripps pair taking a 2-0 lead, Barrie and Steve fought back in the next to pull one back, but Cripps closed out the rubber 3-1. Steve Avil then took to the court for his 2nd game of the evening at 2 against young Tom Shaw and indeed started well, taking the first game. However the youngster started to take control and despite some never say die court coverage and retrieval from Steve, he was unable to prevent a 1-3 defeat. It was a sweet win for Tom, given that Steve used to coach him ! With the match score level, it was down to Mike Turney to get Harborough over the line again at 1 against Martin Shaw. Mike played solid squash and closed out the match quickly, seemingly not suffering from his "Blobby Eyes" this week. Next up Saints 1 away Tuesday 21st June. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/june/15/northants-summer-league-team-edge-cripps-3-2/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/june/15/northants-summer-league-team-edge-cripps-3-2/ Wed, 15 June 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/june/10/first-win-for-northants-summer-league-team/ The Northants Summer League team enjoyed their first win of the summer over Lings 2 at Weston Favell on 31st May. John Maynard started at 3 against Lings captain Richard Griffiths. The game proved an interesting game for the marker with both players requesting a large number of lets and strokes - some justified, some not. John narrowly lost the first 13/15, however then found his stride to take the next 2 games with some excellent squash, moving his opponent all over the court. However Richard fought back to win the tie break 17/16 and so the stage was set for a close finale, but the effort seemed to have drained the Lings man and John ran out a 15/3 winner to take the rubber. Meanwhile Chairman Avil and Barrie Dowsett teamed up in the doubles against Martin Sawyer and Martin Rojac. The Lings players took a bit of time to get into their stride and Steve/Barrie deservedly closed out the first game 15/10 - however this was to be the high point as the 2 Martins reeled off the next 3 games to level the tie. Andy Reuthe next took to the court against Lings' Stuart Milward - the last time MH met Stuart, saw fireworks on court, however the more relaxed "Sagaball" (copyright M Turney) saw both players have a very friendly game which the Lings man won 3-0 despite the games being close. Martin Thompson then took on Simon Hughes at 2 - despite his natural flirtation with the tin, Martin won easily 15/6, 15/8, 15/8. This left Old Man Turney to bring it home for Harborough against Joe Fulford. After destroying his opponent in the first two games to 4 and 6, Mike's "blobby eyes" returned and conspired to inspire Joe to win the third 15/10 - this however only delayed the inevitable and Mike closed out the rubber and the match 15/10 in the 4th. Next up Kettering Rugby 2 at home on June 7th http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/june/10/first-win-for-northants-summer-league-team/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/june/10/first-win-for-northants-summer-league-team/ Fri, 10 June 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/26/northants-summer-league-team-go-down-at-club-diana/ Northants Summer League team went down 1-4 against Club Diana 2 on tuesday evening. Richard Milverton opened at No 3 in his team debut for Harborough against Lloyd Riseley - although Richard started strongly, his opponent came more into the game and took the game comfortably 3-0, although Richard rued missing a number of volleys. Meanwhile Andy Reuthe was racketballing (not sure this is a correct verb - but as this isn't GCSE English I will continue) - Diana's John Loasby is a regular racketballer as well as a decent squash player and despite a number of close rallies, the Club Diana player ran out a 3-0 winner. Next up was Steve Avil at No 1 up against Cliff Stromdale - unfortunately Steve never really got his timing and consistency going and also went down 3-0. Meanwhile the doubles featured Mike Turney and Steve Tew up against Carol Fosbrook and Paul Norris. Turney's strength and shotmaking allied with Tew's unconventional style, made for an ideal partnership once they'd worked out who was playing where on the court (maybe it would help to remember the pre-match discussion during game 1 !!!). The Harborough pairing made light work of the first 2 games (both 15/10) and narrowly lost the tiebreak in the third - however the momentum was regained in the fourth game and a 3-1 win was chalked up. Finally on court was Pete Rhodes at 2 against Diana's captain Nigel Taylor. Pete started strongly and took the first game 15/7 - however Nigel fought back to level at 1-1. Nigel, who normally plays 4 for the 1st team, two divisions above where Pete played last year, then took a close 3rd game 16/14 in the tie break - the sheer effort Pete had put in chasing Nigel's shots down, meant that he was gone at this point and faded during the last game, going down 1-3 - top marks for effort though Pete. Next up is Lings 2 away on Tuesday 31st May - hopefully we can break our duck. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/26/northants-summer-league-team-go-down-at-club-diana/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/26/northants-summer-league-team-go-down-at-club-diana/ Thu, 26 May 2011 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/21/2011-club-finals-night/ Last night saw a long evening of some excellent squash and racketball matches. First on court was the Junior Final, with the first of Jack Turney's 3 finals. Jack was facing Martin Thompson, who also had another final to follow. Although not up to the standard of some of their most competitive Finals of the past there was some good squash from both players with Jack coming out on top, winnig 3-0. Meanwhile Ruth Sleigh (on her wedding anniversary - thanks for letting her come out to play, Will!) faced Sandy Lane. Both ladies played well and didn't give marker Charlie Dewey too many problems. Sandy, coming back from recent illness, fought hard but Ruth proved too strong for her, winning 3-0. Next on court saw the first appearence in the evening of Mr Steve "The Winner" Cousens. His first final was for the Judy Moys Over 55 Trophy, playing against Steve Tew. Tewy came out fast with his unorthodox style, taking the first game. Cousens then regained composure, pulled up his knee braces to take the next two games, winning 2-1. The first part of his evening master plan secured! Next came the first ever Racketball Finals. The main final was between Charlie Dewey and Jack Turney. In the longest match of the evening, some thought Martin Geear had paid Charlie to wear out Jack, the lead went back and forth between the two, but ended in Charlie taking the deciding game 16-14. Comment should be made on the excellent marking by Mark " tell me the rules and I'll do it" Christisson! The aim of the racketball competition was to try and get more members having a go at it - we're not sure everyone understood the chess like tactics that Charlie used, but the challenge game between him and Mr Turney Snr should be worth a viewing! On the other court Martin Thompson took on the Spanish racketballer, Carlos Bilbao from Bilbao, in as a substitute for the unavailable Simon Dunn, in the Racketball Plate Competition. Despite having just played his Junior Final, Martin's youthful fitness took it's toll on a tired looking Carlos, coming out 2-0 winner. Then we had the return of the Cousens! Competing in the Ken Martin O40s Handicap, Steve was aiming to replicate Richard Balmes double of last year. Playing against hime was Pete Wheat. In one of the best Finals of the night, Steve took the first game and double looked to be on. However, Pete had other ideas and came back strongly taking the 2nd, and most on the balcony felt Steve's legs had gone and we were in for an upset. At 9-6 up in the 3rd, Pete still looked like he'd take it, but then either his nerves kicked in, or Cousen's woke up (or is it medication.....) and he picked up a run of points to take the decider and the Trophy. The Finale of the evening was the Tobin Trophy, with Martin Geear defending his title against Jack Turney, in his first Club Final, but the third final of this evening! A tired looking Turney was made to defend all areas of the court by a fresher looking Geear. It ended up being a 3-0 match to Geear. Next year Turney is looking not to play so many finals - Geear beware!!! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/21/2011-club-finals-night/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/21/2011-club-finals-night/ Sat, 21 May 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/18/northants-summer-league-team-start-with-a-loss/ The Northants Summer League team started with a narrow loss to Saints 1. Kean Williams started at 3rd string and endured a frustrating rubber, coming from behind twice to level - unfortunately the inconsistency continued and he couldn't push on in the 5th, going down 10/15. Meanwhile Carlos Bilbao was making his team debut in the racketball slot. After winning the first game against Saints Captain Peter Taylor, Peter started to get into his stride and levelled. The next two games were shared to set up another decider, however the Saints' man just had a bit more in the tank and closed out the rubber. Next on was Steve Avil at 2 - his opponent started strongly and a series of mis-timed shots combined with a touch which was just off, saw the Saints' man take the first two games - however the man with the headband decided he would like to win the "Earl Harrison VFM game of the Week" award and started to time the ball and move his opponent around the court, winning the next two to level - Steve was now in the driving seat and comfortable won the final game 15/5 and the rubber. Next on was the doubles pairing of Barrie Dowsett and Steve Tew - after 3 close games full of "lets" and the occcasional point, the fourth game went to 14/14. The game continued to 16/16 before the intervention of Saint's Man of the Match - Martin Thompson - Obviously scarred from being asked earlier if he was Steve's son (!), Martin endured a torrid time marking the doubles (looks like you need the practice next time eh ? :-P ) However despite the whole gallery seeing the ball bounce twice before a Saints player retrieved, Martin judged that it hadn't - this wouldn't have been so bad, but that was at match point both in the rubber and the fixture. Martin recovered to play at 1 and despite his usual early affection for the tin, played a strong game, despite strong resistance from the Saints number 1, to win 3-0. So a narrow defeat that could have gone either way - next up Club Diana 2 away next tuesday. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/18/northants-summer-league-team-start-with-a-loss/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/may/18/northants-summer-league-team-start-with-a-loss/ Wed, 18 May 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/19/northants-2nd-team-finish-with-double-top/ Northants 2nd Team topped off the season in style by beating nearest league rivals Kettering Rugby 4 in the Knockout Final. Tim Arthur was first on at 4, and despite Darren Laughton taking the first two games to the tiebreak, Tim's greater consistency and durability saw him close out the rubber 3-0. Meanwhile Ian Shirley was making a strong start at 5 against the youthful Ryan Feakin, taking the first two games. Pete Wheat followed Tim on court at 3 and took no time in dispatching Wayne Kilbourne 3-0. Pete's early shotmaking had him in total control of the 'T' and the Kettering man was left valiantly chasing the ball in vain on many occasions. Ryan was starting a comeback against Ian - taking the next two games 15/11. Unfortunately he then also took the final game 17/16 - despite Ian bravely coming back from a large deficit in the last game - it went to the final point. Disappointment for Ian, but he does therefore win the final "Earl Harrison Value for Money Award" of the season for his efforts !! The tie was finely balanced at 2-1 when Martin Thompson took to the court at 2 against Richard Smith. Starting slowly, Martin won the first game 17/16 on the tiebreak and then never looked back - closing out the rubber and the match. This left Steve Iles to take the court at 1 against George Willis. The straight games defeat doesn't bear credit to Steve's effort - turning out after Charlie pulled a hamstring gardening !! - Steve wheezed his way to the tiebreak in each game, just falling short despite some great shot making and retrieving by both players. Steve however entertained royally, engaging in banter with spectators, the marker and his opponent on several occasions (and I mean banter - not abuse) - we did put a call in to the Wellingborough ambulance station to ensure they were on standby but happily not required. A great season for the Northants 2nds - it's been a pleasure to Captain. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/19/northants-2nd-team-finish-with-double-top/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/19/northants-2nd-team-finish-with-double-top/ Tue, 19 April 2011 10:37:00 Martin Thompson http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/17/junior-team-v-hermitage-hinckley-match-report/ Last Saturday morning, at the ridiculously early time of 9:00am, the Market Harborough junior team trudged out of bed to make the long journey to Coalville. Our first match was against Hinckley. Sean Reuthe, playing at 2, started off the proceedings. Losing the first game he came back to take the second with a powerful display- dominating the 'T' and forcing his opponent, Ben Wykes, to run from corner to corner as he won the game 11/5. Each player then took a game apiece to set up a deciding, fifth, game. Again it was closely fought with both players fighting for control. Unfortunately, Sean was unable to regain his dominance and lost the game 9/11. On next was George Brown playing Luke Brink at 3. Against a talented player George failed to find his touch in the first game, but fought back over the next two. Despite losing the second he claimed the third, chasing down every ball to ensure an 11/9 victory. In the fourth game his opponent raised his game and, deprived of the chance to occupy the 'T', George lost the match 1/3. In the final game Martin Thompson played George Orton. Both players looked evenly matched in the warm up, but Martin quickly raced to a 2/0 lead, winning both games 11/2. In the third George had regained some composure and fought back hard, picking up Martins drops and boasts and forcing him off the 'T'. It was not enough as Martin closed out the game and match 11/6. The second team we played was the home side, Hermitage Leisure. First on was George Brown at 3 against Natalie Coley. Having lost narrowly to the same opponent the previous weekend George was keen to improve his performance. He started off strongly; his retrieving put Natalie on the back foot. However some loose balls allowed her to claim a very close first game. In the second George began to tighten up his game and had game ball at 10/9, but unfortunately lost the rally and went on to lose the game 12/10. The final game was equally close fought, but again Natalie was just victorious winning the match 3/0. Martin Thompson went on court next against the talented James Payne. Again Martin's unorthodox boasts proved tricky for his opponent as he claimed the first game 11/3. Throughout the match James never quite got into the rally and several unforced errors gave Martin the next two games 11/4 and 11/3. With the score level at 2/2 it was all down to Sean Reuthe in the final match of the morning. Playing George Morgan, Sean began strongly; striking a good length. Unfortunately some loose balls enabled George to snatch the lead and the game 7/11. Sean came back on court with renewed confidence and matched his opponent point for point up until the end of the game where an unfortunate few points lost him the game 9/11. Going into the third against a now confident opponent Sean rallied well, but was unable to convert some opportunities into points and so lost the game 8/11. In the end we lost both matches 1/2. Despite this all of the games were closely fought and an enjoyable morning was had by all. Well played to all and thanks to Martin Geear for organising and my Dad for driving. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/17/junior-team-v-hermitage-hinckley-match-report/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/17/junior-team-v-hermitage-hinckley-match-report/ Sun, 17 April 2011 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/13/northants-3rd-team-win-the-cup!/ Northants 3 travelled to Dallington this week to play Club Diana 5 in the final of the Division 4 cup.  First on was Barrie at no 5 playing a lad who we decided was approximately a quarter of his age!  Would guile and experience win out over youthful enthusiasm and legs?   It looked that way to start with Barrie taking the first game 15-7.  He lost the second game and the 3rd could have gone either way, ending 15-17 with Barrie unfortunately just on the losing end. In the fourth Barrie upset the rhythm of his young opponent and his head went down as Barrie took that game but encouraging words from dad urged him on to win the last game and take the match 3-2.  On the other court Kean was having a marathon against the wily Barry Wakley.  Kean lost the first, looking not to have settled into his stride and rushing some of his shots.  The games went back and forth from there with Barry amazingly proving a match for Kean in terms of ability to get from the furthest corners of the court to reach seemingly winning balls.  But ultimately Kean's legendary perseverance paid off and his opponent did begin to tire a little and make mistakes, enabling Kean to come out a 3-2 winner.  So with two very tight matches at the 4th and 5th strings we knew the final was going to be close fought.  Andy Seaward at no 3 faced an opponent with a slightly awkward style of play who made it difficult for Andy to find his rhythm.  Andy went down the first two games but then seemed to find his length and get the measure of his opponent, winning the 3rd game in convincing style. Unfortunately this didn't continue and Andy lost 3-1.  Meanwhile Kev Loomes was playing with impressive style and control at no 2 gaining the most straightforward win of the evening and leaving Tim Arthur at no 1 with the deciding match to play.  Having been threatened with walking home from Northampton, Tim took his responsibilities seriously and played with unaccustomed focus to win the first two games against Phil Drage, who was gradually losing the will to live as Tim returned all his best shots.  For a while at the beginning of the 3rd game it looked as if Tim would return to his more usual approach of casually keeping the rallies going and waiting for his opponent to make an error or die of exhaustion, but Phil was beginning to lose his touch as tiredness set in and Tim put him out of his misery and chalked up a 3-0 win to make Market Harborough winners of the cup for the second year running.  This time we hope we will be able to keep it !- I'm absolutely sure I haven't contravened any of the rules!!  Thanks to all who have played for the 3rds this season and made it a great season and a lot of fun. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/13/northants-3rd-team-win-the-cup!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/13/northants-3rd-team-win-the-cup!/ Wed, 13 April 2011 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/03/mhsc-weight-loser-competition/ Some members have said they want to try and lose a few pounds over the summer and that a weight loss competition would give an added incentive! Anyone who wants to join in we'll put a set of scales and a weight loss chart behind the bar!!! I'll be first to sign up! Let's get fit for next season! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/03/mhsc-weight-loser-competition/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/03/mhsc-weight-loser-competition/ Sun, 03 April 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/02/internal-summer-teams/ We are looking to start Summer Leagues in June. Each match will have 3 squash games and one racketball game, PAR scoring to 15, best of 3. All players this year will be handicapped so it won't matter if all the Turney's are in the same side as they will be suitably handicapped ( & not just by Mike's visual problems!)  If you are interesting in joining in put your name down on the list near the leagues on the noticeboard outside ct 3. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/02/internal-summer-teams/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/april/02/internal-summer-teams/ Sat, 02 April 2011 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/31/northants-2nd-team-division-3-winners!/ Sounds good doesn't it ! We started the evening needing 16 points to ensure 1st place and make the Kettering result irrelevant. Ian Shirley opened up at 5 and started strongly, winning the first game 9/3 against Saints' Karl White. Improving his length and width, it got better in the second game, with Ian winning to love. However tiredness set in during the third game and the incessant retrieving of the Saints player led to him winning the next three games and gain an improbable 3-2 victory. However two valuable points were in the bag. Tim Arthur was on at 4 against Dave Perrin and raced into a 2-0 lead, only losing three points in the process. Dave fought back in the third, however Tim solidly took the tie break 10/9 and the match to register the first win of the night. Martin Thompson took on Allan Stacey at 2. Can't really report much, I was marking the other court and Martin comfortably took the match 3-0 - still unbeaten then Martin ?!! The Viking took to the court at 3 and imposed his game immediately on Saints' Captain Peter Taylor, taking the first game to love. Althought Peter but up more of a battle in the remaining games, Pete's (Rhodes) greater consistency and fine shotmaking saw him only lose seven points in a 3-0 victory. Another fine performance from Pete, who's had a great season. This left debutant Charlie Dewey to bring it home against Nick Andell at 1. Charlie was in full control of the game at all points and despite a valiant effort from the Saint's player, Charlie played well within himself to claim a 3-0 victory, only losing 6 points in the process. So the league is won - as it happens Kettering lost, so the final margin is 11 points - well done to all. To those who are off on holiday, thanks for supporting me as Captain all season and very well done - to those that aren't, one more effort please against Kettering in the Knockout final at Club Diana on April 13th. The picture below only shows those available on the night - however big thanks to regulars Andy (Fraser) and Earl, along with those who only played the odd game - ALL points were vital. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/31/northants-2nd-team-division-3-winners!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/31/northants-2nd-team-division-3-winners!/ Thu, 31 March 2011 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/24/northants-2nd-team-return-to-winning-ways/ After last week's disappointing loss at home to Daventry 4, Northants 2nd team travelled to Lings 3 for the last away game of the season. Starting 5 points ahead of the second placed team, a good points total was needed to keep ahead of the pack. Making his debut at 2, Pete Wheat played Lings captain Simon Hughes and was quickly into his stride, taking the first game 9-4. Pete's consistency and early shot-making had the Lings player running to all parts of the court and proceeded to take the rubber, losing only 4 more points in the process. As the team was with without Earl, Pete Rhodes at 3, decided to take up the "Earl Harrison Value for Money Award" with an exhausting game against Joe Fulford. Coming in to the game, not long after suffering a bout of sickness, Pete lost the first on the tie break. Slowing down his game, he then comfortably took the second to level. Unfortunately the calm Pete was then replaced by "Pete the Power" and got drawn into a style of game to suit his opponent, going down 5-9. Showing his "Viking" prowess, Pete dug in to level again. However despite having a comfortable lead in the last game, the tank was empty and the Ling's player just had a few more fumes left to get over the line, winning the rubber and levelling the match - a nerve-wracking game to watch, Pete was out on his feet at the end having given all for the cause - those 2 points gained may be all important by 10:00 pm next week. Andy Fraser was next on at 5 against Richie Forde - in a game where the frame took a lot of credit for some of the points, Andy took the first game after Richie called set 1 on the tie-break. In a very good-humoured game, where "Sorry" seemed to be used a number of times, Andy managed to take the rubber 3-1 - all of his winning games reaching the tie break. Meanwhile on the other court, Ian Shirley was locked in a "fractious" battle at 4 against Stuart Millward. Unfortunately with both players debating some of the marker calls, too much needle came to the fore and at 0-2 down (both close games at 7-9), the game threatened to boil over. The Captains then got involved, much to the annoyance of the Lings player, in reminding both players that the decisions of the marker should be respected. Unfortunately Ian was unable to mount a comeback and went down 0-3. This left the match in the balance and up to Martin Thompson at 1 to overcome Mark Liniers. Much to the frustration of the rest of the team, Martin lost the first game, by developing a loving relationship with the "tin". After a good talking to by Andy Fraser, Martin clicked into gear in the seond game, taking it 9-1. The third game was the pivotal game, with Martin starting to find the tin again, however he dug in and ground out the game 9-7. This seemed to deflate the Lings player and Martin closed out the rubber and match. With Kettering Rugby  gaining 2 more points, the maths is simple - a 4-1 win at home next week will guarantee the league win - 15 points - otherwise we are relying on other results. Your Support next wednesday against Saints would be gratefully appreciated. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/24/northants-2nd-team-return-to-winning-ways/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/24/northants-2nd-team-return-to-winning-ways/ Thu, 24 March 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/21/northants-2nd-team-downed-by-daventry-4/ The Northant's 2nd team's title ambitions were dealt a blow with defeat to Daventry 4 at home last wednesday. Andy Fraser opened up at 5 against Austen Humphrey and despite losing his accuracy for a short time in game 3, won the rubber 3-1 giving his opponent little chance with his usual consistent length and width interspersed with winning drops. Pete Rhodes at 3 started on the other court against a friendly face in John Maynard - Pete was as clinical as his playing record this season in dispatching the Daventry/Harborough man, losing just 7 points in the process. All looked good at this stage and unfortunately it was all downhill from here. Tim Arthur, after complaining that he was only playing at number 4, then proceeded to display old bad habits. Despite winning the first game 9/7, he then failed to show a killer instinct, preferring to wear his opponent down - unfortunately for Tim, the opposing captain Ben Smallwood, whilst not being quite as young, is certainly as fit and turned in a great performance to win the next three games. Earl Harrison at 2 was strangely out of sorts - we are used to him losing the first two games, only to storm back and win the next three, however mainly due to a mad dash from Manchester, Earl couldn't get his game head on and lost to Joe Bodenstein in straight games, despite the Daventry man pulling a calf muscle in game 2. This left Steve Iles to salvage the victory at 1 against Keith Morgan. Again Harborough took the lead in the rubber, only for Steve to be outfought in the next three - to be fair to Steve, his chest infection was just as much a factor as his opponent in restricting his ability to chase Keith's shots around the court - I'm sure given a fit Ilesy, not only would he have won, but more Bitburger would have been sold ! Many Thanks to Ruth-Ann for stepping in to Sandy's shoes for the evening - the Cottage Pie was well received and don't take it the wrong way when I say "Get Well Sandy" !! So after Cripps slipped up against Dallington, the good news is the league is still in our hands - currently 5 points clear with 2 games left. Next Up - Lings 3 away on Wednesday 23rd. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/21/northants-2nd-team-downed-by-daventry-4/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/21/northants-2nd-team-downed-by-daventry-4/ Mon, 21 March 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/12/ladies-vs-sid-ii/ The Ladies had their last trip to SID for the season last Monday, and had another convincing win 3-1. First on were Alison Avil and Katie Gibbs at 3 & 4 respectively. Alison, playing up at 3 started off Ok but lost the first game. She came out with more resilience on the second game and took that one. Unfortunately she couldn't sustain that and eventually lost 1-3. On the other court, Katie was playing in a really tight match. Loosing the first two matches (including one 10-8), she dug in and took the remaining 3 games to get her first team win. Next on was Sarah Pickering and Ruth Sleigh at 2 & 1. Ruth won comfortably at number one, whilst Sarah had a really competitive match on the other course. She started off well racing to a 8-2 lead in the first, only to loose that one 10-8. This set the scene for the rest of the match, but Sarah, typically for her this season when playing up, came back to take the game 3-2. So another win for the ladies to consolidate their position at the top of the table with 2 games (but 3 scores!!! - Rutland is a double header as we had to cancel before Christmas due to the weather!) to go. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/12/ladies-vs-sid-ii/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/12/ladies-vs-sid-ii/ Sat, 12 March 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/12/northants-2nd-team-into-knockout-final/ Following the league defeat against the 2nd team, Northants 2nd team returned to the warm courts of Cripps to face the 3rd team in the Knockout Semi-Final. Andy Fraser opened up the tie against Angus Molyneux at 5. In a challenging game for the marker, Andy took the first, only for Angus to level in game 2. The most contentious point was at game point in game three with Molyneux asking for a let for contact, however Andy had already found the nick and the request was refused with the Cripps player having no chance of retrieving. Andy seized the initiative to close out a 3-1 win. Ian Shirley contested a physical game with Dave Featherstone at 4. Ian's consistency and better shotmaking made for a straight games victory 15/13  15/11  17/15. Tim Arthur went on court at 3 to clinch the game, however looking lethargic, he was soon down, losing the first game to Cliff Armstrong. A close second game saw the Cripps player level at 14 all. Tim decided to call set 1 with American scoring in the cup. Cliff found a nick from the back of the court, however Tim managed to get the ball up to level at one game all. Meanwhile Pete "The Viking" Rhodes went on at 2 to consolidate the result against Cripps captain Paul Grayson - he also went down in the first game, not seeming to find his usual length and width, but rallied strongly to win the next three and clinch the win for Harborough at set 3 in the fourth. Back on the other court, an offer to cover Tim's match fee by one of the Harborough comittee if he won 3-1, seemed to spark him into life ! The younger and fitter Harborough man closed out the rubber despite valiant retrieval from Cliff. With the match won, Nick Crossley went on court in a dead rubber to play Sean Doyle at 1 - in a game that provided good entertainment for the spectators, Doyle took the first 17/16. The Cripps player was playing a fine range of shots with high quality volley boasts proving difficult to return for Nick, however Nick fought back to take the third 17/15. But Nick couldn't step up to make an "Earl Harrison" stylee comeback and went down 10/15 in the fourth. A good solid perfomance by the team to take a 4-1 win and sees us into the final against Kettering Rugby on April 13th. Back to the league next week with maximum points the target against Daventry 4 at Fairfield Road to consolidate our 11 points lead at the top of division 3. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/12/northants-2nd-team-into-knockout-final/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/12/northants-2nd-team-into-knockout-final/ Sat, 12 March 2011 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/06/junior-match/ This Saturday the Harborough junior team played matches against David Lloyd & Wellingborough at the David Lloyd centre in Narborough.  Tim Arthur was playing at number 1 and won both his matches convincingly.  Against David Lloyd he beat George Newitt 11/2, 11/4, 11/4 and against Wellingborough he beat Haydn Tetley 12/10, 11/5, 11/6. At number 2 Billy Oliver lost to Jake Tetley in straight games and against Barney Thomas from David Lloyd he battled well in a closely fought game losing 15/13, 11/9, 11/9. George Brown at number 3 got off to a bad start against Joe Margetts losing the first two games.  Once he had more success returning his opponent's tight serve he was able to control the rallies better and won the next three games without too much difficulty.  Against Wellingborough he battled hard but Ryan Swaddling was too strong and he lost in straight games. So overall the Harborough team beat David Lloyd but lost to Wellingborough.  A good effort from this young team who enjoyed the day. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/06/junior-match/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/06/junior-match/ Sun, 06 March 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/04/northants-2nd-team-v-club-diana-2-march-2011/ Top of the league but needing a good result, the 2nd team travelled to Wellingborough. Martin Thompson went on court at Number 1 with youngster Luc Elsby. Martin's speed of shot selection and Luc's over-anticipation caught Luc repeatedly on the wrong foot as Martin's boasts trickled around the front of the court. Martin won easily in straight sets. Meanwhile, Andy Frazer went on at number 5 against John Loasby. Although John was a tall man and Andy managed to move him well around the court, the first game went to John and then games fell alternately, but despite a close 3rd game that John just managed to hold 10-8, Andy lost in the fifth 9-4. Paul Norris went on at 4 against Ian Shirley, Paul won the first and Ian, working out the weekness in Paul's backhand but unable to capitalise fully, also lost  the second. Paul's remarkable retrievals from many excellent lengths that looked completely dead in the both back corners put the pressure back and although well ahead in the 3rd game Ian lost it 10-8.  Paul then kept catching Ian wrong footed at the front of the court and it was all over in the fourth. Angus Elsby, Luc's older brother (but still a youngster by Martin's standard!) then played Peter Rhodes at number 2. Peter soon worked out the tight lengths frustrated Angus and after a hard battle for the first game, Angus seemed to fade and give up, losing in straight games. It was then up to Tim Arthur to save the day for Market Harborough at rank 3 against Karl McAndrew. Tim won the first game easily 1-9 then Karl came back to just sneak the second 9-7. Tim then reasserted himself to take the third game 3-9 but did not seem to be able to finish the fourth. After Tim was easily 1-7 up, hand changed repeatedly as Karl gradually clawed his way back to 5-7. The rest of the away team, sensing a fifth game with no beer, inspired Tim to put enough pressure to get to 5-8 but then hand changed repeatedly again until Tim managed to take the game 6-9 , the rubber and the match. By this time the whole balcony were physically and mentally drained! Well done Tim, but even the home captain felt motivated enough to give him a bit of advice afterwards about asking for lets. So a few more points in the bag against the 4th ranked team in the league. 3 more to play, but a cup match next week. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/04/northants-2nd-team-v-club-diana-2-march-2011/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/04/northants-2nd-team-v-club-diana-2-march-2011/ Fri, 04 March 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/04/leicester-1-vs-london-rd/ The Leicester first team played host to Leicester squash club this week. Despite winning 4 games out of the last 5 this half the team was still trailing in last place in the league and with a slim chance of avoiding relegation were keen to pick up a good number of points in the last two matches. Mike Turney played fellow county O45 team-mate Dave Preston at number 5. After a slight lapse in concentration Turney dropped the second game but ran out a comfortable 3-1 win in the end.  Nitesh Mystry was no competition for Harborough's Mark Christison at number 4 who won his match in straight games.  At 3 Jack Turney played Rob Britton who had defeated Turney by three games to one in the first half.  Turney has been playing his best squash in recent weeks and won the first two games with a confident performance.  Britton fought hard in the third game and Turney lost a little of his poise but scrapped it out well to win the match 3-0.  Steve Ward faced county under 19 number 1, Josh Taylor.  Ward won the first convincingly to 5 points but was buried at the back of the court thereafter and lost 3-1.  Martin Geear was up against a tough opponent in the form of James Wright the current county champion.  Wright's court coverage is superb and very annoyingly he has a dinky drop that clings to the side wall and is next to impossible to play.  Geear fought hard but lost 11-3, 11-8, 11-6.  Next week is the last match of the season and the team face Loughborough students at home. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/04/leicester-1-vs-london-rd/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/march/04/leicester-1-vs-london-rd/ Fri, 04 March 2011 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/27/leicester-2-v-hinckley-3-25th-feb/ Leicester 2 managed ato grasp a hard fought win over the higher placed team on friday thanks to the captains last ditch efforts. Before this Steve Avil had won 3-1 at 4th string in a match he always looked to be in control of.A pleasing result against  a player he had lost to at Hinkley who has an awkward style of play to contend with. Jon Maynard was also on court, in these first matches, but unfortunately  lost 3-0 at 5th string in a match that was closer than the score suggests.  The next 2 matches went on with an out of sorts John MacDonald losing 3-0 in quick time. The 3rd string match took considerably longer. Nick Crossley lost the 1st game won the next 2 but seeming in control lost the fourth to force a 5th and final game. After 55 mins Nick appeared to have tired out his opponent Gary Goddard and won3-2 to set  up the decider for  captain Martin Thompson. After takng the 1st game his opponent took the next 2 looking in control and Martin was already giving himself advice as to where he needed to improve. The advice must have been good as he took the 4th and in the final game came back from 4-1 down to steal a memorable win and a win for the team. A good night was rounded off with a good curry! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/27/leicester-2-v-hinckley-3-25th-feb/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/27/leicester-2-v-hinckley-3-25th-feb/ Sun, 27 February 2011 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/26/leicester-1-defeat-david-lloyd/ This week the Leicester first team played at David Lloyd looking to repeat their victory in the first half.  First on, Martin Geear, took on fellow O35 county player & the third of the "infamous" Bagley brothers, Graham Bagley. Despite the getting off to a shaky start in the first game on the noisy, paneled courts Geear dug in and won convincingly by three games to nil. Meanwhile on the adjacent court Mark Christison was struggling against Bagley number 2, Gary, losing the first two games to just 5 points. Displaying his characteristic grit & determination Christison saved several match points in third eventually winning it 14-12.  The fourth went comfortably to Christison while Bagley regained his breath.  The fifth was keenly fought over as Bagley fired shots from all corners of the court and Christison doggedly retrieved and whilst trying to force the unfit Bagley to move as much as possible.  Christison once again managed to scramble back some near-winners to save a number of match points and finally win the game 15-13 and the match 3-2.  It was a fine performance by Christison heartily cheered by his fellow Harborians. Jack Turney, playing at number 3, was pitted against a tough opponent, Carl Elsby, who had been recruited into the struggling David Lloyd team from Club Diana in the second half.  Jack Turney's retrieving is second to none at the moment and his ability to keep the ball in play and be quickly onto loose balls puts his opponents under a great deal of pressure.  Turney took the first game 15-13 and the fourth to level at 2-2 but could not sustain the pace and finally lost by three games to two. At number 5 Mike Turney played O35 county champion and recent National O35 semifinalist, Rachel Calvert.  Turney never looked comfortable on the court and despite going two games to one up was out-classed by Calvert in the fourth & fifth as she dominated the T and picked off loose shots at will. The deciding rubber was between Steve Ward and the current (mens) county O35 champion, Mark Thomas.  Ward did not disappoint.  He clinically dispatched Thomas in the first two games and after a slight wobble in the third won that too and the match. In the end it was only a 3-2 win for the team but a near-maximum 18 points well-earned. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/26/leicester-1-defeat-david-lloyd/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/26/leicester-1-defeat-david-lloyd/ Sat, 26 February 2011 10:43:00 Ian Shirley http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/26/northants-2-vs-cripps-2-away/ Has the digit that seemed to beckon to the 2 nd division last week turned into the fickle finger of fate? The 2 nd team travelled on the 23 rd Feb to the warm (and worn!) courts at Cripps in Northampton. First up was Kean Williams at number 5 who managed to just lose the first game 8-10 to a very tricky, but slow, Ros Williams. Then, despite an exhibition in retrieving, Kean succumbed in the next 2 games. Kean was followed on court by Earl Harrison against youngster Tom Shaw at number 2. On the other court Andy Frazer struggled to make an impression on the 5 th string John Anderson. Andy just could not time the ball consistently as it pinged off the side wall and ended up setting John up in the middle of the court time and time again. Then Ian Shirley, seeing which way the wind was blowing went straight on with his 1990's "sack-o-spuds" Browning racket especially retained in the bag for the purpose of taking the pace off a hideously warm ball, but despite accurate line and length was still not good enough to take a game off Godfrey Kara, although had him worried in the first. ….meanwhile back on the first court Earl was engaged in yet another marathon and had just gone 2 games to 1 up on Tom 8-10 in the third. Martin Thompson then went on court at 1 against, the other Martin, Shaw. Thompson then proceeded to demolish Shaw with a precision and speed that the older man struggled to cope with. Taking a little of the pressure off in the third allowed Shaw to come back to take the game 9-6, although with added resolve Thompson went back on to complete the job decisively in the fourth. …and Earl was still going against Tom. Very tight lengths and accurate drop shots on the warm court were just not good enough to stop the persistent retrieving but at the end of the fifth game, Tom just sneaked it 6-9. So weakened in the middle order, with both Peter Rhodes and Tim Arthur out this week, the Second team went down 1-4. Cripps 2 were sitting in third place in the league before the match and won 16 points. With Market Harborough seconds taking only 5. The only consolation Market Harborough took away was that being 18 points in front of Kettering 4 before the match meant that it was mathematically impossible to be overtaken, however the margin is bound to have been reduced. Pressure's back on for next week, hopefully with a full side, and four more matches to play. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/26/northants-2-vs-cripps-2-away/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/26/northants-2-vs-cripps-2-away/ Sat, 26 February 2011 10:43:00 Steve Cousens http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/25/northants-1-vs-daventry-1/ Hello all We won 3-2 beating the leagues top team !! Due to injury we were short of the stalwart Mr Balme, however Mark Christison was drafted in last minute for Charlie D & he made all the difference by  playing No 1 & pushing all other down a place Mark started the night well by beating Nick in the first rubber & setting a positive tone Mr Turney senior lost after a valiant effort & looked the fittest we've seen him in years! But the crowning glory went to the 2 youngsters (NO not  yours truly) but Jack T & Martin T , both winning well ,martin demolished his man 3-zip!!! &  with Jacks exhausting game securing the match overall 3-2 & leaving John Groome limping off court , that silenced the gallery of overly vocal '' Daventrites '' , who clearly won't be top of the league for long !!! Many thanks to all P.S. Whilst I lost 3-0 it had nothing to do with my saints attire, a classic Saints shirt !!! Thanks again Steve http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/25/northants-1-vs-daventry-1/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/25/northants-1-vs-daventry-1/ Fri, 25 February 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/24/northants-3-vs-lings-4/ Northants 3 came up against another of the top teams in the league this week and came off worst, but managed to get valuable points thanks to wins from Tim Arthur and Kean Williams and a valiant performance from Ruth Sleigh, still recovering from illness.  Lin Leach playing at no 5 knew she had a tough challenge against a strong opponent with an unpredictable style of play.  She started well and went into the lead in the first game but after losing that 6-9 went into a now familiar decline and didn't trouble her opponent much longer. Ruth at no 4 faced match point in the 4th game but staged a brilliant come back to even it out at 2 games all.  But she had given it her all and not fully back to fitness could not maintain the fight back in the 5th.  Barrie Dowsett at no 3 had two very close games in which he was unlucky to lose key points on nicks and went down 3-0.  Kean had an easy first game but then his opponent raised his game and started to chase down the short shots and play some super lengths dying in the back corners, and took the 2nd game.  But Kean held his nerve and kept control of the next two games to win 3-1.  Going on at no 1 Tim looked cool (doesn't he always!) and well in control in the first game but his opponent dug in and come back to level it at one game all.  Tim was still strolling around the place and looking like making a long night of it as he let the 3rd game go to 9-7 but must have suddenly decided he was hungry as he became markedly more aggressive in the 4th which he took 9-2, so we did get dinner before midnight after all! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/24/northants-3-vs-lings-4/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/24/northants-3-vs-lings-4/ Thu, 24 February 2011 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/24/ladies-vs-hermitage-3/ Tuesday saw the ladies playing against Hermitage 3 at home. First on Court at number 4 was Alison Avil. In an exciting match Avil came back from 2-0 down against an opponent she lost 3-0 to a few weeks ago away from home, to level at 2-2, taking the fourth game 9-1 with some accurate serving. However, she ran out of steam in the 5 and lost 2-3. On the adjoining court, Lizzie Turney was putting in a gutsy performance at number 3, but eventually lost that game, 1-3. That left Captain Sarah Pickering and Sandy Lane at number 1 to restore Harborough's pride. Sandy won comfortably, and Sarah dug in for a win at number 2. So a winning draw for the team. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/24/ladies-vs-hermitage-3/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/24/ladies-vs-hermitage-3/ Thu, 24 February 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/22/leicester-2nds-vs-hermitage-3-last-friday/ On Friday 18 th February, the Leicester 2 nd team played Hermitage 4 at home. Having narrowly won 3:2 in the first half the team were looking to improve on this and further push themselves up the table. First on was Steve Avil, at 4, playing against Adrian Wright. Steve started strongly against his wily opponent, moving him around the court superbly, to take the first game 9:7. Adrian was not to be outdone and used his many years of experience to counter Steve's game and take the second game 4:9. Steve then upped his game, playing deceptive drop shots and placing the ball just outside his opponents, reach to win the next two games and so the match. Meanwhile on the other court Nick Crossley was playing M. Wright, at 3. Striking the ball hard and chasing down every ball Nick claimed the first 9:5 before a momentary lapse in concentration enabled his opponent to capitalise and take the second game. In the third Nick came back to the fore to take both this and the next game, 9:6. On next was captain, Martin Thompson, playing at 1, who after a rather lacklustre performance the previous week he was keen to play well. Unfortunately, this aspiration did not manifest itself through his play during the first game; his weak front court play enabled his opponent, Mick Birch, to send him scurrying to the back and so out of position. He lost the game 4:9. In the second, having appraised his performance, Martin produced some excellent squash: dominating the 'T'; forcing his opponent out of position and swooping down on any loose balls to win 9:1. He continued this form in the next two games to claim them 9:5 and 9:1. Playing at 5 was Jon Maynard. In his debut match for the second he performed admirably. Strong drives down the backhand and lethal volleys gave him the first two games 9:4 and 9:5. However, after this his opponent, R. Fratton began to intercept some of his shots and clawed his way back into the match. Jon lost the next three games 4:9, 7:9 and 6:9. Harborough were leading 3:1 at this point, with only Melvin crane, at 2, still to play. Unfortunately, due to a rather inconvenient flight delay and the general tardiness of transport these days, Melvin was slightly late. Upon his arrival, to a muted scene, he dashed on court against Neil Curran. Moving superbly he took the first game 9:2. However, Neil's determination came to the fore in the next three games as he refused to give up on any balls. Melvin lost the match 1:3. Overall, an excellent win for the team- the gain of 17 points will help push the team up the middle of the table. Although promotion now seems unlikely another win this week will see the team snapping at the heels of the league leaders. Written by Martin Thompson http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/22/leicester-2nds-vs-hermitage-3-last-friday/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/22/leicester-2nds-vs-hermitage-3-last-friday/ Tue, 22 February 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/20/leicester-1-scrape-another-win/ The Leicester 1 st team scraped another win last Tuesday against Leicester Tennis club.  Mike Turney went two games up before Jez Dilks, who usually plays better as the match progresses, levelled the match at 2-2.  Turney won the fifth game comfortably dropping just 4 points.  Mark Christison, in similar fashion, won the first two games against Darren Mould only for Mould to draw level and take the match to a fifth game.  Christison trailing in the fifth fought back well to win it 11-9. Jack Turney won the first game against Ben McNulty but failed to find his length and width and went down 3 games to 1.  At number 2 Steve Ward faced he rapidly improving George Parker who is ranked number 1 in the country at under 15.  The match was of the highest quality with great shots and court coverage by both players.  Parker won by three games to love despite each game being very close. Martin Geear at number 1 played Dan Busby - who arguably should be playing behind in the in-form Parker.  Busby, not the tightest of players, had his shots picked off by Geear who went 2-0 up before losing the third and going 10-7 down in the fourth.  Geear pulled back to 10-all and, helped by a generous let from marker Turney (who was having a battle with his contact lenses), won the game 12-10 & the match 3-1. Next week we're playing away to David Lloyd. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/20/leicester-1-scrape-another-win/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/20/leicester-1-scrape-another-win/ Sun, 20 February 2011 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/19/ladies-vs-loughborough-students/ The Ladies team suffered another defeat this week against Loughborough Students. Weakened by injury and unavailability the team lost 1-3, with the only win being from Ruth Sleigh, herself coming back from illness. Katie Gibbs battled well at number 4 taking a game off her opponent but Alison Avil, subbed in to play late on in the afternoon, managed to loose 3-0 at number 3 despite being 8-2 up in the third! Rose Williams, playing up at number 2 also struggled going down 3-0. Hopefully the Ladies will cope better next week at home. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/19/ladies-vs-loughborough-students/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/19/ladies-vs-loughborough-students/ Sat, 19 February 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/17/northants-3-vs-daventry/ Northants 3 came up against another of the top teams this week and were only able to salvage 5 points.  Rob Pearce at 4 and Andy Seaward at 2 both faced strong opponents and lost 3-0.  Rob was unable to find sufficient length to beat an opponent with very accurate front of court play and Andy played well with some excellent rallies but his opponent was on excellent form and just too quick for him to match.  Lin Leach at 5 similarly lost 3-0 with a dismal display best forgotten!  Mark Williams, playing his first team match, took the a 2-0 lead but he began to tire (being on his second match of the night!) and his accuracy suffered so despite giving it his all he went down 3-2.  That left Earl Harrison recently returned after a very rapid recovery from surgery on his elbow and in fine form but still not keen to unnecesarily cut short any match when there is court time to play!  Earl lost the first game narrowly at 8-10 then took command and won the next game 9-5 looking clearly the stronger player.  Earl eased up in the 3rd to let his opponent back in to win that game so that he could make sure to get his money's worth and he then duly took the last two games quite easily. We all enjoyed Sandy's excellent food all the more for Earl giving us the opportunity to work up an appetite while he played out play the full 5 games, but I guess we can't complain as he was our only winner! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/17/northants-3-vs-daventry/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/17/northants-3-vs-daventry/ Thu, 17 February 2011 10:43:00 Ian Shirley http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/17/northants-2-vs-kettering-rugby-4/ We are now about ¾ of the way through the season and the scene was set for the two top teams to play their return tie battle for the top slot. Market Harborough 2nd team were playing at home and were 2 points ahead of their opponents at the top of the league. So nothing in it, and all to play for.   Consistent as usual, Andy Frazer playing at number 5 beat Steve Chester in straight games although the second game was tight and went to 10-9.   Meanwhile Ian Shirley at 4 found the first game against Darren Laughton easy as they drove each other around the warm court. Ian then found himself at one game all after Darren took a bit of advise between games and Ian had tried to play the same in  the second. He then twigged that variation in pace and playing some squash instead forced his opponents errors and he went on to  win 3 games to 1.   Nick Crossley  filled the number 2 slot for the club and played Richard Smith. Nick initially dominated the, first game getting to 6-0 but Richard fought back doggedly to take it 8-10. Nick then gradually increased the pressure forcing, not only his opponents mistakes, but also Richards gradually increasing team fine for colourful language! The pressure gradually converted into points as Nick won the last 3 games without dropping many more points.   Next up was Peter Rhodes who also had a very tight first game with Kettering number 3 Wayne Kilborn which Peter just managed to win 10-8. This belied the promise of the next 2 games as Peter dominated both by playing excellent length down the walls  followed by some lovely drop shots and boasts and losing only 4 more points.   Meanwhile in the changing room Steve Isles was nursing his chest infection and prepositioning his teammates with his other excuses (not played enough, not match fit, too tired, too old, etc, etc) for his clash at number one with 14 year old Kettering prodigy and captain George Willis. After the warm up there was a brief interlude while Steve went out to die quietly with a coughing fit but he came back on court clearly intending to ensure this was not going to go on very long if he had anything to do with it. Steve then proceeded to clinically despatch George in the first game. The next two games were closer as Steve's pressure volley drives and tight boasts twisted and turned George whose youth and fitness kept him in the game with points but could not put enough pressure back on Steve.  Steve won 3-0.   So congratulation to the team on a magnificent effort this week with only 2 games dropped in the 5 rubbers and now a further 16 pints in the lead at the top of the table in front of Kettering Rugby 4.   Does the Second Division beckon?   Ian http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/17/northants-2-vs-kettering-rugby-4/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/17/northants-2-vs-kettering-rugby-4/ Thu, 17 February 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/16/leicester-2-vs-cleaver-3/ After a promising start, Melvin went from looking like he should win to loosing 3-2, whilst Steve Avil on the other court managed to beat his opponent, a younger, fitter lad, 3-0. Next up was Richard Balme, who won comfortably, confusing his opposition with his usual game! Meanwhile the youth policy (Nick Crossley) was  confident he knew what he was doing, as he went 3-0 down to a teenage girl! That left skipper, Martin Thompson to play the decider against a man who held the racket more strangley than himself! Obviously it was an effective grip as Martin went down 3-0. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/16/leicester-2-vs-cleaver-3/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/16/leicester-2-vs-cleaver-3/ Wed, 16 February 2011 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/10/yorkshire-youngsters-show-the-way!/ Harborough Squash Club hosted an England Squash Bronze Sanctioned Open Event for U17 Boys and Girls. They had a strong entry with 24 boys entries and 9 girls, coming from a far a field as Southampton and Doncaster. Up for grabs were National ranking points. In the girls event, local girl Mari Taylor reached the semi finals, but she was up against the event 2 nd seed, Emily Peach from Doncaster. Peach, ranked 22 places above Taylor in the National rankings, proved to be too strong on the day. The other semi final was an all Warwickshire event with top seed Alicia Mead playing 3rd seed Ellie Atkinson. Mead went through, winning 3-1. So the final was between Mead (ranked 8 th nationally) and Peach. Mead took a convincing first game, 11-3 before Peach found some form just loosing out 9-11 in the second. This gave the Yorkshire girl some confidence and she fought back winning the next game 11-8. However, Mead made less mistakes than her opponent to take the fourth game and the match 11-9. The Peach family's hopes therefore rested on Emily's brother, James who is ranked at 4 Nationally at U15 level, and 32 nd at U17, and was top seed in the boy's event. He got through the rounds beating local youngster Jack Turney in a tight quarter final match.  Peach was up against fellow Yorkshire man Oliver Turner in the Final. Turner took out the number 2 and 4 seeds to reach the final. In a highly competitive final, Peach went a game up but had to fight for it, winning it 12-10. Turner then came back to take the next two games, 11-7, 11-9. Peach then came back with a maturity above his age to take the final two games, 11-5, 11-2. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/10/yorkshire-youngsters-show-the-way!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/10/yorkshire-youngsters-show-the-way!/ Thu, 10 February 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/08/leicester-firsts-win-again!/ It was bound to happen eventually. You can't run as far or as long as Jack Turney without eventually winning a game of squash in Leicester division 1. The moment came on Tuesday 8th at 20:48 and 31 seconds as his opponent, from Hermitage Squash Club near Coalville, put the last shot into the tin to a roar of delight from the crowd. It was a tough 5 set game in which Turney had to display more patience than his opponent, a considerable achievement considering he was playing King Patient of the Patient people from the Planet Patience, otherwise known as Ian Duffy. Ian's fellow team mates complained Ian screwed up but the home crowd knew it was the quality a Jack's determination that pulled him through. Before Turney minor's heroics, Martin Geear was first on court playing county player John Freeman. Giving away almost 20 years for the umpteenth time Geear found the pace of his opponent quite annoying. Geear was always chasing the game (invariably in the back corners of the court) but his opponent, who clearly had no respect for age, kept smashing away mercilessly and bludgeoned Martin into submission. Christison played infamous Bagley brother number three (Graham). Not wishing to destroy his reputation of taking every game to five, Christison took the game to five. Infamous Bagley number three, not known for his fitness, failed to understand how his shot playing ability failed to get the ball past his elasto arm man opponent and Christison ground him into a standstill by the end of the fifth. Late replacement Martin Thompson probably did well to get a game off his opponent. On the other hand Ed has no idea as he failed to see anything of his game. A valuable point won nevertherless and, who knows, it could be the vital point come the end of the season. That made it 2-2 in rubbers and it was all down the Steve Ward, who very kindly has been turning up this half of the season. Steve got off to a storming start against young Dane going two love up in a matter of mintues. His opponent was not to be outdone and produced some daring cross court nick shots to draw the game level. Worryingly for the home crowd Ward, playing an opponent 20 years his junior ( a common theme in the Harborough first team) started to look tired in the fourth. But cometh the hour cometh the man. His resolve was stiff and fully displayed on court as he moved ahead early in the fifth and applied the pressure to his opponent, eventually taking the game 11-5 and, with it, the match. The win gave Leicester One 15 much needed points in their struggle for survival in the top flight. Strange things will have to happen for survival to become a reality.  http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/08/leicester-firsts-win-again!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/february/08/leicester-firsts-win-again!/ Tue, 08 February 2011 10:43:00 Sarah Pickering http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/29/ladies-resume-winning-ways/ Market Harborough Ladies were on winning form again at Sport in Desford this week (25th jan),  this time playing SID's first team and coming away with maximum points. Sarah Pickering at four had a hard game going to 5 to beat Jan Everit 3-2,  whilst Lyn Cherry at three only lost one game winning 3-1 against Jane Young. Lin Leach at two against Kat Brown and Ruth Sleigh at one against Vicky Kemp didn't drop a game between them both winning 3-0. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/29/ladies-resume-winning-ways/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/29/ladies-resume-winning-ways/ Sat, 29 January 2011 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/29/northants-2nd-team-dominate-daventry/ Despite only having 3 players on tuesday morning (thank you Mr Thompson for making it 4 by tuesday evening !) and still only 4 by wednesday morning, Northants 2nd Team continued their fine run by beating Daventry 5 by 4 rubbers to 1 at home on wednesday evening. After sending out the team email (including a Special Guest at number 5 - I really had no idea !!) in the wee hours of wednesday morning, step forward Mr Earl Harrison - counted out by recovery from an Operation since before Christmas, by 08:30 we had a team - but more of Earl later !! Tim Arthur at 3 went on first and gave his usual display, making Neil Aldersley run around retrieving balls from all parts of the court and Neil looked shattered by the end of the second game, with Tim barely breaking sweat - however the third game saw Neil's dogged resistance pay dividends and the lack of a ruthless streak in the Harborough player's armoury led to Neil winning a deserved point for Daventry - Tim then pressed home his advantage and younger legs to win the fourth and the rubber. Ian Shirley at 4, put in a very impressive performance in beating the younger Steve McQuillan 3-0 - Ian's consistent serve enabled him to dominate the T with regularity, not allowing his opponent a foothold in the match. Steve Loxton on debut at number 5 gave a very strong performance in beating the opposition captain, Austen Humphrey 9/1, 10/8, 9/1 - Steve was another to dominate the T and rarely looked like losing despite Austen making him fight all the way in game 2. What can I say about Pete Rhodes's game at 2 with Ben Humpage ? - Not a lot, didn't see it, was over too quick, winning to 0,2 & 4 - Pete is still unbeaten and one of the reasons the team is at the right end of the league. Back to Earl - it was a typical Harrison performance in getting value for money from his match fee - Ian Shirley drew the short straw in marking and nearly ran out of scorepads !! Having lost the first two games, with Dave McQuillan making the most of Earl's rustiness, Pete decided dinner was still a long way off and went for a shower - the fact he was back before the end of the fourth game tells the tale of the fightback from Earl - the games were tight with no player giving an inch. Dave had however saved something for the last game and ran out the 9/4 winner to take a rubber for Daventry. Luckily enough the earlier games were concluded quite quickly otherwise it could have been a later dinner !  - new team resolution is to stick Earl on first and play the remaining 4 matches on the other court ! - but seriously Earl, great to have you back. So an excellent 17 points to consolidate our position. Next up Dallington away on wednesday. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/29/northants-2nd-team-dominate-daventry/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/29/northants-2nd-team-dominate-daventry/ Sat, 29 January 2011 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/27/northants-3rd-team-continue-their-winning-form/ Northants 3rd team were at home to Kettering Rugby Club 6 this week and made it three out of three wins for 2011.  The ladies - Lin Leach (5) and Sandy Lane (4)  - were on first and Lin had a straightforward 3-0 win with her opponent failing to find the wall with his serves and making too many errors. Sandy lost the first game and went well down in the second before getting into her stride and intimidating Andy Bowen by a cunning mix of accurate lobs and nearly knocking him off his feet (all 6 foot and more of him!).  Sandy looked well in command in the 4th and Andy was tiring but he rallied in the 5th and took the match 3-2.  Barrie Dowsett (3) had a similarly tough match taking it to the wire to win 10-8 in the 5th.  Kean was too fit and quick for his opponent and romped home to a 3-0 win so the match was in the bag for Harborough when Kev Loomes went on at no 1against Martin Hill.  Kev started strongly and we were treated to some entertaining squash and even more entertaining banter from the marker (Sandy) but a close final game went to Martin for a 3-2 win. Still a good result with Harborough winning 16-8 - can we keep up this winning streak?  Well, this week's opponents were bottom of the league and next week we meet Club Diana 6 who are top but we're ready for them! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/27/northants-3rd-team-continue-their-winning-form/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/27/northants-3rd-team-continue-their-winning-form/ Thu, 27 January 2011 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/20/county-championship-results-congratulations-to-martin-geear/ This week the Leicestershire senior county closed squash competition was held at the Leicester squash club.  The O45 competition was won by Martin Geear. He comfortably defeated Dave Wood in the final.  Wood had unexpectedly beaten the number 2 seed Dave Shaw in the semifinal. The ladies final was contested by Rachael Calvert and Jo Burnett.  The first game two games went comfortably to Calvert.  However, she made a string of unforced errors early in the third and despite recovering to 10 all eventually lost the game 11-13.  Calvert was back to full concentration in the fourth and won it comfortably 11-5 and the match by three games to one. In the men's competition Harborough's Martin Geear had a good run making it to the semifinal with 3-1 wins over both Kev Simpson and another Harborough player, Steve Ward. Geear then faced the former world ranked player and top seed Darren Lewis in the semifinal.  In the first game Lewis generously conceded half a dozen points whilst letting his opponent practice a few of his shots.  No mercy was shown in the second game as Lewis turned on the power & dominated winning it 11-1.  Wondering if his opponent was still alive, Lewis eased off in the third and Geear was once again able to bring his shots into play and managed to snatch the game 11-5.  Lewis stepped up a gear once more & completely dominated the fourth and final game winning it without dropping a point. In the final the hotly favoured Lewis met the number two seed James Wright who had beaten James Hodson 3-1 in the other semi.  From start to finish the match was of the highest quality.  Surprisingly Wright raced into a strong lead with outstanding shot play winning the first game and holding game ball in the second before Lewis sneaked it 13-11.  Wright once again dominated the early stages of the third game by mercilessly moving Lewis from corner to corner.  Lewis worked hard making some unbelievable pickups and testing Wright's fitness.  Wright hung on & won the third. However, when a few points down in the fourth did not contest it any further - saving his energy for the final game.  The fifth was fiercely fought over: Wright repeatedly played shots that would have been outright winners in normal circumstances; Lewis retrieved the impossible time after time.  Wright held match balls at 10-9 and again at 11-10 before finally winning the game 13-11. It was a spectacular match and a treat for all who came to watch. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/20/county-championship-results-congratulations-to-martin-geear/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/20/county-championship-results-congratulations-to-martin-geear/ Thu, 20 January 2011 10:38:00 Ian Shirley http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/14/northants-2nd-team-v-daventry-4-knockout-quarterfinal/ Daventry let us know in advance that they were unable to field a full team so we started one game up. Ian Shirley went on first at number 4 with Anthony Nesbitt. Ian took the first game but as Anthony got used to the speed of the court, youth and enthusiasm eventually prevailed and he took the next 3 sets. There was then a pause while the remainder of the Daventry team diligently drove around Market Harborough in search of the club. Next up was Nick Crossley at number 1 who took the first game but Keith Morgan's superior accuracy and fitness showed to take the next 3 sets. Tim Arthur and Ben Smallwood then went on at number 3 to show how fast and accurately these two youngsters can play the game. There was some superb length shots and retrieving and although Tim took appropriate advantage as Ben had new shoe problems in the first game and then Tim also narrowly won the second, Ben came back to take the third. Ben led by a point in the fourth almost all they way through the game as the hand constantly changed, but a couple of poor shots left him trailing by a point and Tim took the game to win 3-1. Had it not been for American scoring I suspected we would have been there all night. So after thoughts of an early finish had been completely banished, Peter Rhodes went on court at number 2 with John Maynard (…..yes the same John Maynard who also plays for Daventry!). Pete swept through to win the first two games easily, but then lost the third when he decided that the tin was the most appropriate place for a sequence of shots. To the entertainment of the crowd, the fourth game was neck and neck to 16-16 then in response to a very tight backhand length from John, Pete managed to find a superbly mistimed shot off the wood to drop the ball just above the tin to win 3-1. Eventually, another superb victory for the 2 nd team - intermingled with periods of elation and cold sweat! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/14/northants-2nd-team-v-daventry-4-knockout-quarterfinal/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2011/january/14/northants-2nd-team-v-daventry-4-knockout-quarterfinal/ Fri, 14 January 2011 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/23/goodbye-to-rob/ Monday night was Rob the barman's last evening with us after over 7 years. It was good to see so many people turn out to wish him all the luck for the future, and hopefully people will visit him at MDH. Rob was touched by the turn out and has sent this email to us: Hi Alison and Steve, I just wanted to send a quick message to say a BIG thank you for last night! I was a bit unprepared and speechless at the time with all the well wishes and of course the cards and presents from the club members, it was all very unexpected and I am hopeless in those situations! I was genuinely moved by it all and I really appreciated everyone taking the time to say goodbye. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club and I wish all the members and of course the club itself the very best of luck for the future. Keep up the good work! Best wishes and Merry Christmas Rob P.S - The fluffy dice is sitting proudly in my car already! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/23/goodbye-to-rob/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/23/goodbye-to-rob/ Thu, 23 December 2010 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/23/leicestershire-men's-closed,-over-45's-and-ladies-closed-competitions/ The Leicestershire Closed, Over 45's and Ladies competitons are being played at London Road the week of January 10th onwards. See below for link to entry form. Entry Form 10-11 http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/23/leicestershire-men's-closed,-over-45's-and-ladies-closed-competitions/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/23/leicestershire-men's-closed,-over-45's-and-ladies-closed-competitions/ Thu, 23 December 2010 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/19/christmas-cocktail-night/ Friday Night was The Club Christmas Cocktail Night and a good evening was had by all - thanks go to The Cocktail Shaker Boys aka Andy Seaward and Steve Loxton for providing their services for free. The lethal St Louis was a big hit! It was good to see some of the former members - perhaps we can persuade some of them back into to the fold! The one rally competiton show the benfit of not serving out! Congratulations to Tim Arthur for winning the Tournament but the prize for most inappropriate squash playing outfit went to Katie Gibbs for showing how you can just about play in a full length dress - as long as you don't have to serve! Thanks also to Ruth-Anne for manning the bar - I think she enjoyed tasting the cocktails as well! Check the photos on the photo's page http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/19/christmas-cocktail-night/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/19/christmas-cocktail-night/ Sun, 19 December 2010 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/16/northants-2nd-team-in-saints-shocker/ The Northants 2nd Team went down 2-3 to Saints 2s on wednesday evening - however the shocker has nothing to with the result, but seeing Martin Thompson had actually sorted out a haircut !! Playing out of order, Martin beat Nick Andell in straight games at 1. Meanwhile Andy Fraser at 4 was involved in a close 1-3 defeat to Dave Perrin. Andy looked in full control, winning the first game 9-6 with exquisite touch, however shooting pains in his foot at the end of the first game meant that he was unable to play as he would have liked in the following games, valiantly managing to take the next two games to SET 2 points. The Captain, playing his first game since the end of October then lost in straight games at 5 to Lee Morris, being short of match practice. Ian Shirley at 3 struggled to find his usual consistency and after raising hopes of a comeback by converting game 3, lost the rubber by 1-3 to Saint's captain Peter Taylor. Tim Arthur, having been moved up the rankings, played at two. Tim showed plenty of respect for this opponent in giving Alan Stacey plenty of practice at retrieving his drives - however Tim also wins the "Earl Harrison - Getting his value from the Match Fee" award for declining to kill off the game as quickly as he might - despite this, he achieved a fine straight games win. So that's it for the first half of the season - we lie 2nd, 2 points behind Kettering Rugby 4, so all in all a good base for the second half to push on from. Thanks to all the players who've turned out for the 2nds in the first half and thanks to my vice captain Ian Shirley for taking up the reigns when required. Also a massive thanks to Sandy for the fabulous food. Happy Christmas to all - next game is home v Daventry 4 on January 12th in the Knockout. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/16/northants-2nd-team-in-saints-shocker/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/16/northants-2nd-team-in-saints-shocker/ Thu, 16 December 2010 10:38:00 Ian Shirley http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/09/northants-2nd-team's-form-continues/ Another fine win for Northants 2nd Team at home on wednesday evening - match report posted on behalf of Ian Shirley. Andy Fraser went on first at no 4 against Peter Crouch (Ed - bet he was difficult to lob !). Ian Shirley at no 2 then went on the other court to break his run of poor form with a 3-0 win against Mark Linieres followed by Peter Rhodes at no 3 easily overcoming Simon Hughes also 3-0. Meanwhile Andy and Peter's game was turning into an epic. Andy won the first but lost the second after a frustrating double hit call controversy at 8-9 and then proceeded to go 1-2 down. Not to be outdone, Andy fought back doggedly to 2-2 and then final overcame his opponent in 5 games. Ruth was disappointed by her performance at no 5, losing easily to Stewart Millwood whose excellent court coverage, volleys and touch drop shots did much to suggest he may have been ranked harshly. Nick Crossley finished the evening with another easy 3-0 win against Martin Sawyer.. An excellent 4-1 win for the 2nd team! Final game of the first half next wedneday 7:30 start at Saints. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/09/northants-2nd-team's-form-continues/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/09/northants-2nd-team's-form-continues/ Thu, 09 December 2010 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/07/northants-3rd-team-fail-to-find-form/ With a strong team out this week MH 3rds were optimistic to gain a win over Club Diana when they visited on Monday. The 1st and 5th strings went on first and  both had close matches, running in parallel and finishing at the same time with a 3-2 loss for each Harborough player.  However, there the similarity ended!  Tim Arthur at 1st string was up against another youngster, Luc Elsby, and the boys played some fantastic squash to entertain spectators with their superb effort and quality shots. The match was very even and at the end Tim was just pipped to it losing 10-8 in the 5th.  Lin Leach and her opponent tried just as hard but couldn't claim to match the quality!  Lin lost the first two before a word of advice from coach Avil (thanks Steve) set her up for a fight back and the match was finely balanced to the last game when she lost focus and let a good lead slip away to lose 9-7.  Sandy Lane at no 4 found her usually successful lobs reached by a tall opponent who was very effective in the air and she lost 3-0 without really getting into the match.  Our hopes were then pinned on Kean Williams and Kev Loomes, both playing one down from their usual positions courtesy of Tim turning out for us at no 1.  Kean played Phil Drage, an experienced and wily player, and didn't seem quite as quick as usual to the front of court where Phil's shots were very accurate.  Losing the first two games Kean then dominated the 3rd and seemed set to take control but sadly Phil had other thoughts and ran out the winner 3-1.  Kev started well against Lloyd Riseley, the Club Diana captain, with a convincing first game but then he too couldn't find his usual form, making some uncharacteristic errors and losing 3-1.  So ended the first match when all 5 Harborough players have lost!  Still, an enjoyable evening's squash played in good spirit, excellent winter warming food from Sandy and one more match before Christmas to salvage our reputation (what reputation?) and a win. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/07/northants-3rd-team-fail-to-find-form/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/december/07/northants-3rd-team-fail-to-find-form/ Tue, 07 December 2010 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/29/charity-doubles-event-at-leicester-squash-club/ HARLEY STAPLES CHARITY DOUBLES TOURNAMENT Venue  -  Leicester squash club, 189 London Rd , Leicester LE2 1ZE www.harleystaples.co.uk Saturday 8th January 2011 Grades A and B 1pm start ( 6pm approx finish ) Entry fee  £20 per pair (includes lunch) cheques made payable to Harley Staples CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES - Friday 24th December 2010 Entry forms on www.squashstuff.com  or email joe@squashstuff.com for entry form. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/29/charity-doubles-event-at-leicester-squash-club/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/29/charity-doubles-event-at-leicester-squash-club/ Mon, 29 November 2010 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/25/northants-2nd-team-down-daventry-4/ Following last week's 18-0 walkover due to the late withdrawl of Club Diana 4, Northants 2nd team impressively beat the league leaders Daventry 4, by 4 rubbers to 1. Northants 3rds will be pleased to note that the heating seems to have been fixed, however with the outside temperature at +1, the courts were certainly cold to start with. Ruth Sleigh opened at 5, and despite giving her opponent Nigel Berriman a 5-0 start in the first game, managed to gain the upper hand, having game point, however Ruth could not hang on and lost the first 10-8 - unfortunately after that, Ruth never really got into the next two games and lost in straight games - all this despite having received a motivational talk on the way over from Mr Rhodes - nice one Pete ! Tim Arthur - sorry, the "I look cool" (his quote not mine) number 4, then gave Steve Wightman a run around - despite chasing everything down, Steve was unable to prevent Tim from winning in straight games - note to Tim - it's not cool managing to forget the name of your team mate !! Pete Rhodes continued his unbeaten team form, winning in straight games 9-5, 9-6, 9-5 against Steve Loydall. Earl Harrison in at 2, tried his usual effort in gaining value for money out of his match fee - despite quickly winning the first 9-3, it took some sledging from his own team mate to pull back a deficit to win the second 10-8 (Pete was getting hungry) - just to keep Pete waiting longer, Earl decided to give his opponent Antony Nesbitt an 1-8 headstart in the third game - again eventually triumphing 10-8 to wrap up a straight games victory. This left the floor clear for Martin Thompson at 1 to push home the points advantage over Keith Morgan. In what was a noisy game (good natured) for the scorer, Martin lost the first 7-9. However after levelling, the pivotal game was the third, with both players having chances to close out the game - Martin eventually won 10-8. The momentum had swung and the following 9-0 scoreline closed out a good win. It was suggested that maybe Martin's matchfee would be better used on a haircut !! - otherwise he will soon be consulting Mr Iles on choice of headband ! So a 15-4 points win, sees us move up to 1 point behind tonight's opponents and handily placed approaching mid-season. No game next week - next up are Lings 3 at home on 8th December. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/25/northants-2nd-team-down-daventry-4/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/25/northants-2nd-team-down-daventry-4/ Thu, 25 November 2010 11:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/23/u15-sanctioned-event-november-2010/ Harborough Squash Club hosted an England Squash Bronze Sanctioned Open Event for Under boys over the weekend. Players from all over the Midlands region competed for National ranking points. Top seed for the Event was Market Harborough's own Patrick Sadd, who won the event last time round. Sadd and the second seed, Tom Baines from Nottinghamshire, had byes in the first round which was dominated by Northants players, with only James Payne winnig from Leicestershire. The highlight of the quarter finals was a game between brothers, Angus and Luc Elsby. Neither of the brothers enjoy playing each other competitively but both played in good spirit with elder brother Angus coming out winner. The semi-finals saw Elsby lose against Tom Baines, who showed his experience, winning 3-0. Sadd won by the same margin against Kettering's George Willis in a closer game than the scoreline suggested. So the top two seeds competed on the Sunday morning in the Final. Baines was a taller and stronger player than Sadd, and the Harborough youngster struggled to break through the Nottingham players' reach eventually loosing 1-3. In the Plate competition, Leicestershire players George Newitt and Joe Sibley resumed their local rivalry. The players have played each other at U11 and U13 County Final level with each winning one title. In a highly entertaining Final there was little between the two players. Sibley took the first 11-5, before losing the second 9-11. There were then two tight games of 12 -10, one to each of them before Sibley came out on top 11-8 in the final game. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/23/u15-sanctioned-event-november-2010/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/november/23/u15-sanctioned-event-november-2010/ Tue, 23 November 2010 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/28/northants-2nd-team-downed-by-kettering-rugby/ Despite Northants 2nd team TRYing hard, they couldn't CONVERT this into a win at Kettering Rugby 4s on wednesday evening. Andy Reuthe at 5 struggled to get going following his achilles problem and went down to Steve Chester. Andy Fraser levelled the match score, beating Steve Laughton in straight games, with his usual control and variety. Game of the night was at 3 between the two youngsters, Tim Arthur and George Willis - most of the rallies belonged at a higher level and it looked as if it would be a long match - however Tim was unable to kill off the dogged determination of the much improved Kettering player and went down to his first defeat of the season also in straight games. Ian Shirley, playing at 2, found himself 0-2 down to Richard Smith - Ian then fought back to 1-2, but was unable to find his usual width/length in the 4th game, losing 1-3. Earl Harrison started strongly at 1 against Ashley Nunn, stylishly winning the first game 9-6 - however Ashley retired hurt in the second game, giving Earl a 3-0 victory. Next week is a cup week, however we have a bye, so next game is home to Cripps2 on November 10th. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/28/northants-2nd-team-downed-by-kettering-rugby/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/28/northants-2nd-team-downed-by-kettering-rugby/ Thu, 28 October 2010 10:44:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/21/northants-3-defeated-by-club-diana/ Club Diana 6 proved too strong for our 3rd team with Andy Seaward at no 2 our only winner, maintaining his winning form with an elegant 3-0 victory over Gary Pritchard who battled hard but Andy didn't look likely to break into a sweat.  Lin Leach had an entertaining and very close match at no 5, repeating an annoying habit of going from 2-1 up to lose 3-2 to Emma Proctor.  Sandy Lane was out-powered by a hard hitting Nick Darlow at no 4 and Ruth Sleigh similarly struggled to make an impact on Pete Bretherton at no 3.  Last on was Kev Loomes who, afer winning the first game, could only scratch his head and wonder at how his opponent, with a very unorthodox style, managed to sneak the next 3 past him!  Even his team mates were perplexed at where the shots were coming from!  Next up Daventry, a reputedly strong team but we are fielding a team to match them (i.e dropping the captain!).  Good luck guys. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/21/northants-3-defeated-by-club-diana/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/21/northants-3-defeated-by-club-diana/ Thu, 21 October 2010 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/21/comfortable-4-1-win-for-northants-2nd-team/ Northants 2nd Team beat Dallington 4s by 4 rubbers to one at MHSRC on wednesday evening. Kean Williams at 5, got the tie off to the best possible start with a straight games win over Sarah Wilkinson, losing just 7 points in the process. Meanwhile Tim Arthur at 4 also won in straight games against Nick Young, who was making his debut for Dallington - Tim was always in control, however Nick's never say die attitude mean that the third was won by Tim 10/8. Peter Rhodes at 3, continued the team's form with a win over Vicky Clarke, dropping just 3 points to ensure the extra 3 points for the win. Ian Shirley got his first win of the season with a straight games victory over David Graham at 2. This left the game of the night between Earl Harrison and Tim Dunkley at 1. Tim was always ahead 1-0, 2-1, but Earl dug in to set up a fifth game. Earl started well and gained a commanding lead - however with Earl needing just one point for victory, Tim dug in and point by point, managed to fight back to 8-8. Calling set 2, the game and match went to Tim with Earl exhausted. Once again, thanks to Sandy - our 6th player - the food going down a storm with all. Dallington were a very social team and we look forward to the return after Christmas. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/21/comfortable-4-1-win-for-northants-2nd-team/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/21/comfortable-4-1-win-for-northants-2nd-team/ Thu, 21 October 2010 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/15/northants-3-gain-their-first-win-of-the-season/ Having lost the first match 3-2 against Lings 5 despite strong 3-0 wins from Kevin Loomes and Andy Seaward at 1 and 2 respectively, Northants 3 turned the tables with a 3-2 win away at Kettering Rugby 6 this week.  Jon Cook playing his first team match had a good game but went down 3-0 to a stronger player at no 5 and LIn Leach (4) snatched defeat from the jaws of victory having been 2-1 and 7-3 up in the fourth game but lost concentration and the match 3-2.  Barrie Dowsett was in good form and had a convincing 3-0 win then Kean Williams, also playing his first team match, went on at no 2.  A fast and furious battle had spectators exhausted simply watching both players hurling themselves around the court, but Kean began to pull off a few unexpected drop shots and soon had the upper hand winning 3-1.  Last on was Earl Harrison who looked the stronger player winning the first game 9-1 but Earl likes to keep us guessing so the next two games were close before he took command again to win 3-1.  Those looking forward to the selection of real ales at the local hostelry where the team have previously gone to eat after matches were disappointed to find the catering now at the club but at least we came away with our first win of the season. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/15/northants-3-gain-their-first-win-of-the-season/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/15/northants-3-gain-their-first-win-of-the-season/ Fri, 15 October 2010 10:43:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/14/northants-2nd-team-go-down-to-daventry-5-(2-3)/ What on paper seems to have been a close game for Northants 2nd team, really came down to the number 3s - either side of this were straight forward victories/defeats. The two captains at 5 started procedures, with Austen Humphreys beating Andy Reuthe in straight games (at least the points total improved from last week !!) - Ruth Sleigh at 4, despite winning the third game with a typical never say die attitude, simultaneously lost 1-3 to Steve McQuillan. Tim Arthur, playing 2, then went on to continue his 100% record winning easily 3-0 against Ben Humpage. Andy Fraser had the game of the night at 3. Playing Neil Aldersley, Andy struggled to build a rhythm early on, with Neil hitting many winners straight from serve with a classy controlled backhand, just above the tin. Finding himself  0-2 down and close to losing the game, Andy dug deep and produced a great fightback, defending match points to win the third game 10-9. Neil broke a string, which seemed to affect his concentration and Andy easily won the fourth 9/1 to level. However Neil regained his composure to seal victory at 9-5 in the fifth. Peter Rhodes then continued his fine form with a classy victory over Dave McQuillan at 1. Despite losing the first game 7-9, Peter was always in control and through subtle variation of length/drops and at times some just plain hard scrambling, he rattled off the next three games for the loss of only 7 points. So that's a Won 1 Lost 1 start - 22 points - a good base to build on - next up Dallington 4 at home next wednesday. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/14/northants-2nd-team-go-down-to-daventry-5-(2-3)/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/14/northants-2nd-team-go-down-to-daventry-5-(2-3)/ Thu, 14 October 2010 10:39:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/07/northants-2nd-team-win-but-only-just-!!/ Northants 2nd team got off to a strong start in division 3 - winning 3-2 against Cripps 3. Both team captains didn't trouble the scorer too much ! - Peter Rhodes easily overcame Paul Grayson at 2 - Andy Reuthe lost 3-0 to Angus Molyneaux at 5 -leaving the match delicately balanced at 1-1. Andy Fraser (4) put MH ahead 2-1 - beating Dave Featherstone, coming through 9-2 in the 5th game of a tight match which swung both ways. MH number 1 Ian Shirley then went down to Sean Doyle 1-3, meaning the deciding rubber came down to the number 2s. Tim Arthur and Cliff Armstrong were locked 2-2 at this point and the final game didn't disappoint - from 4-6 down, Tim then managed to pull ahead 8-6 - the serve then changed 9 times before Cliff made it 8-8 - Calling Set-2, Tim then had 3 further match points before Cliff levelled at 9-9. A further 7 hand-outs then followed with Tim eventually coming out the winner 10-9. However the best performance of the night came from Sandy, with the Sausage Casserole going down very well with both sides (many thanks !) Next week - away to Daventry 5s http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/07/northants-2nd-team-win-but-only-just-!!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/07/northants-2nd-team-win-but-only-just-!!/ Thu, 07 October 2010 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/04/ladies-team-1st-game-1st-win!/ The Ladies Team won 4-0 at Hermitage last night. Well done to all - especially to Rose Williams in her first Team game. (And evidently Lynn Cherry was lobbing well!) http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/04/ladies-team-1st-game-1st-win!/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/04/ladies-team-1st-game-1st-win!/ Mon, 04 October 2010 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/01/success-for-club-junior/ Jack Turney from Harborough Squash Club won the under 17 boys County Closed Squash championship without dropping a single game. After an easy first round tie Turney played Hallam Robson in the semi final. Each game was closely fought but Jack showed great mental fortitude to win three games to love. This set up a showdown final with long term rival Luke Parker.  It soon became apparent Turney was too strong for his opponent dropping no more than 7 points in any game. Congratulations to Jack from the Club! http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/01/success-for-club-junior/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/october/01/success-for-club-junior/ Fri, 01 October 2010 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/august/12/england-squash-bronze-sanctioned-events/ Market Harborough Squash and Racketball Club are running two Bronze Sanctioned Events this winter. On November 20th / 21st there is an U15 Boys and Girls event, closing date 5th November.  Market Harborough JO U15 Entry Form The second event is on 5th / 6th February 2011 and is for U17 Boys and Girls, with closing date 21st January 2011. Market Harborough JO U17 Entry Form http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/august/12/england-squash-bronze-sanctioned-events/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/august/12/england-squash-bronze-sanctioned-events/ Thu, 12 August 2010 10:38:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/may/22/a-“balmey”-night-for-local-squash-club/ Friday night saw a double triumph for Richard Balme at the Market Harborough Squash Club Championships. The first final saw the resurrection of the Judy Moys Over 55 Handicap Cup, in which Balme played Steve Cousens. Both had had good winter seasons and the members were expecting an entertaining match. Balme, seeded number 1, overcame a five point handicap to beat Cousens 2-0 (15-11, 15-11). Next up was the final of the inaugral Junior Handicap Tournament. Top seeds Jack Turney and Martin Thompson had overcome some good opposition to get to the final but Turney came out on top winning 2-0 (15-10, 15-11). The pair hope reach the Junior Closed Final next month for a re-match.  See photos on the Juniors page . The Ladies then took centre court, with Ruth Sleigh out to defend her Trophy against Lin Leach. Leach took the first game10-9, but couldn't maintain the momentum with top seed Sleigh winning the next three games 9-4, 9-3, 9-3. Having rested from his first final, Richard Balme then came back to play the Men's Over 40s Handicap Final against Mark Brown. Both men had had 4 tough rounds to reach the final and again a good match was expected with only 1 point between them in the handicapping. Balme took the lead, winning the first game 15-12. Brown then fought back winning the second 15-12. However, Balme overcame the younger man and the heat to clinch the final game 15-10 and take the Ken Martin Trophy. The evening ended with the Men's Closed with top seed Martin Geear defending his title against Mark Christison. With Christison taking the first game 9-5, the crowd sensed an upset, but Geear dug in and took the next 2 games (9-2, 9-2). Christison found some energy reserves and was 8-5 up in the fourth before Geear came back to take the game (10-9) and the match 3-1. The Club always welcomes new members of any age. Club night is on Friday evenings from 6pm and Junior coaching takes place on Saturday mornings. For further information contact Squash Club Chairman, Steve Avil 07715021313. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/may/22/a-“balmey”-night-for-local-squash-club/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2010/may/22/a-“balmey”-night-for-local-squash-club/ Sat, 22 May 2010 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2009/october/25/squash-club-challenge-at-national-squash-centre/ Saturday saw 6 adults and 11 junior members from Market Harborough Squash Club take on a selection of players from a squash club based at the National Squash Centre and juniors from the Academy based there. The challenge was arranged by Harborough's Steve Avil and Vicky Botwright (recently retired World number 5 and Head Coach at the Centre). All players were given the opportunity to play one match on the all glass show court recently used in the British and World Open Tournaments. Players also played further games some of the other glass backed courts at the centre. There were mixed results but notable victories were had by County Over 35 Champion. Martin Geear, and up and coming youngster, Jack Turney who won both his games against Academy juniors. Overall Manchester came out on top but Harborough hope to make a return visit and perform better having now sampled playing on this very different court. Also some lucky members were able to play against Australian Stewart Boswell, currently World number 16. All the players enjoyed the day and their experience of playing on a glass show court and the hospitality of Manchester City Council who provided refreshments for the day. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2009/october/25/squash-club-challenge-at-national-squash-centre/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2009/october/25/squash-club-challenge-at-national-squash-centre/ Sun, 25 October 2009 10:37:00 MHSC http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2009/june/17/minisquash-carnival/ Last Saturday, Market Harborough Squash & Racketball Club members decided to take squash to the public, rather than wait for them to find them. They took a Minisquash wall to Market Harborough Carnival, setting up in the Carnival Show Ground in Market Harborough. In 5 hours they had around 70 youngsters (about 63 boys, 5 girls) and a few of their parents having ago at squash. The youngest was a 3 year old, who didn't want to miss out on something his sister was trying! The average age of the children was 9 - 12. All but about 3 of the youngsters were playing for the first time. The Club is following it up with an Open day and BBQ on Sunday 28 th June. They also offered two months free membership to one of the lucky people who left their details. Many of the children and parents were keen to see the wall taken out to their schools, having sampled minitennis in schools before. http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2009/june/17/minisquash-carnival/ http://www.harboroughsquash.co.uk/club-news/posts/2009/june/17/minisquash-carnival/ Wed, 17 June 2009 10:37:00