U18 County Cup 2018
Division 2
Team
Josh Tayor
Adebola Obasto
Ben Davies
Tom Dillon
David Quayle
George Hutchings
Josh Banks
Robert Cowley
Coaches
Andy Davies
Jonny Shacklady
County Cup was based at Edgbaston in Birmingham this year and we took a very strong team in the hope of getting some positive results.
Leading up to the event we had some great practice sessions and the lads were looking forward to the event.
Day 1
We faced Middlesex, which on paper was the toughest match of all. All the Singles matches were close and we had some standout performances from David and George. In the Doubles we looked very strong and overpowered and out thought a very strong side. The gritty Lancashire of old definitely stood out here. We took the win 6-3.
Day 2
We faced Dorset, who had lost on the previous day, but this was by no means an easy match. It’s very important to reinforce the team about professionalism and not to underestimate anyone. The team took the info on board and we raced off to a great start winning all 6 singles matches. The guys who played were faultless. In the Doubles we played as if we had won the fixture and relaxed slightly and subsequently lost 2 rubbers. We won the tie 7-2 overall.
Day 3
We faced Warwickshire and we had to win 5-4 or better to guarantee promotion. As expected the guys were nervous but fought very hard, after the singles there was nothing in it. 3-3. The Doubles now was key and we had to win 2 out of 3. We again made great start on 2 courts and the other was close. In the end we did the job and some outstanding Doubles was played by Josh T & George and Josh B and Abebola.
Summary
The guys played a fantastic County Cup and Jonny and I really felt a good vibe in the team, which I am hoping will continue for many years.
From a very proud captain,
Andy.