Warwickshire men had a great AEGON Summer County Cup in 2009 and were looking to push on from that at this years AEGON Summer County Cup which took place in July down at Eastbourne. Please read on for a report from WLTA Men’s County Cup Captain Gary Naughton:
Day 1- v Kent (3-6)
Team- Rooney & Southwood, Fitzpatrick & Lee, Bains & Evans
It was very closely contested day v Kent. Kent had a strong team consisting of full-time players, very good juniors, and experienced older players. The day was very close up to 3 all but Kent ran away with it at the final hurdle. Excellent display from Fitzpatrick and Lee.
Day 2 v Surrey (3-6)
Team- Rooney& Goldsby, Fitzpatrick & Lee, Bains & Evans
Surrey as always are a strong county with great depth. The day was very much like day 1 with the matches tied at 3 all but once again after two very close matches we lost 6-3. Again, excellent performances from Fitzpatrick & Lee.
Day 3 v North of Scotland
Team- Fitzpatrick & Lee, Evans & Rooney, Goldsby & Bains
Last year with almost exactly the same teams (minus a certain Jamie Murray) we beat Scotland and we very nearly repeated it- we were 3-2 up on rubbers and Lee & Fitzpatrick were a set up, 5-4 up and match point- Lee over the net high forehand volley…….and missed it (I’m sure Lee is still receiving therapy for that miss!). We had another match point in the tie-break but alas lost in 3 sets…..by the way that was vitally important rubber gains Jamie Murray. We eventually went on lose …..6-3.
Day 4 v Lancashire (2-7)
Team- Eccleston & Lee, Rooney & Evans, Fitzpatrick & Goldsby
We needed to beat Lancs and wait for the results of other matches- however at this point it was likely that we would be relegated. We did start with a couple of disappointing matches which affected the teams morale. Lancs had good doubles players that on paper as players weren’t necessarily better than ourselves but as doubles players they were excellent.
Conclusion:
It was by all accounts a disappointing week, we needed a little luck and didn’t get it. Our team gave 110% but we were weak in depth. Hopefully next year with some additional younger players we will find ourselves back in Division 1.