Oxfordshire 16&U boys and girls were in action at the 12 Counties tournament at Corby Indoor centre. This is the first time Oxfordshire has competed in this event, also useful as Counties do not normally compete in the 16&U age group.
Standard of the opposition was very high, with Oxfordshire players usually competing against much higher rated players. The girls started well with a 3-1 win against Northamptonshire, our girls were rated to win but it too two third set tie-breaks and keeping of composure to deliver the result. The boys lost 4-0 to a Northants team a total of 9 ratings higher than Oxfordshire team. Every match was close and two narrow tie-break losses could have achieved a remarkable draw.
Next up was Cheshire with the girls losing 3-1 and the boys 4-0. Finally against Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire had their best chance but the girls lost a disappointing 3-1. The boys made great efforts but lost two match tie-breaks to go 3-0 down but player of the day John Balshaw won the boys only rubber with a 4-2, 4-2 win over his higher rated opponent, making the score 3-1.
Overall Oxfordshire were awarded 3rd out of 4th for the girls (2 points in the 12 counties table) and 4th place (1 point) for the boys.
After the 10&U, 12&U and 16&U events, Cheshire lead with 20 points, Northampton have 15 ½ points, Bedfordshire 15 points and Oxfordshire are on 9 points. The 18&U and 14&U events follow in on 1st February and 1st March respectively.
It was a great experience for the team who cheered each other on well and played with great pride for the County. Oxfordshire will need to prepare better and send its strongest available teams in future events to compete more strongly.