Sparkling Plate Doubles under the Friday night lights

The second Bounds Green Plate Doubles Finals Evening produced some dazzling tennis. The Finals had originally been scheduled during the middle of the June heatwave and the delay was certainly welcome for the players, who enjoyed a somewhat chilly September evening. Meanwhile the spectators found themselves warmed by refreshments from the bar, some scorching tennis (and the odd blanket).

Men's Doubles Plate

Steve & Larry just edged Johnny & Ethan in two closely-fought sets

The Men's Doubles Plate Final saw Steve and first year participant Larry take on father-son due (or are they brothers?) Ethan and Johnny. This was a real clash of styles, with Ethan's big-hitting and Johnny's surprising pace around the court coming up against Steve's seemingly limitless reach at the net and Larry's wily match play.

Ultimately Steve and Larry prevailed, winning 6-4 7-6(4). The second set saw their greater consistency just win out and they survivedg their opponents serving for the set three times before playing a very solid tiebreak to clinch the win.

Women's Doubles Plate

Beth & Katie triumphed over Hilary & Cassie

The Women's Doubles Plate saw a late change in the match-up. Sadly, Lola and Lidia had to withdraw, with Lola unable to overcome a foot injury in time to play. Hilary and Cassie - who had finished second in Group A - stepped in to take their place. Katie partnered with new member Beth to take them on, having emerged triumphant from Group B.

The match saw some superb points, with Hilary making an impact at the net and Cassie's backhand winning plaudits from the crowd. However Beth and Katie's superior matchplay won the day. The pair's deep returning was superb and they made very few errors, securing a dominant victory.

The evening wrapped up in the bar and the Plate Finals Evening looks sure to become a fixture in the Bounds Green calendar.