The Cramlington derby between the Reivers and the Stingers in the Premier Division of the Northumbria League was closely fought and honours were even in a 5 – 5 draw. Geoff Salter, playing for the Reivers in place of Ellis Cooper won two sets, beating Iain Wood and Bonne Habekost while Mark Christie beat Habekost and David Graham. Wood won his other two matches for the Stingers.

Eddie Smith made a rare appearance for NESLC Eagles and duly won his three singles in a 9 – 1 victory over Saint Chads. The Saints included young Josh Weatherby and he came close to beating Richard Wilson, only losing out 11 – 8 in the fifth.

Former Tyne Dock player Micky Grimes was in top form for Mortimer in division one being unbeaten to enable his side to come away from Seaburn Dene with a draw. Chris Dixon did best for the home side with two victories.

Division two Old England Crocks were in good form, running up victories over Newton B 6 – 4 and their FATTS team 8 – 2. Brian Bateman achieved a hat-trick in both matches and Ken Clark won five of his six singles.

Newton B also lost 6 – 4 to Ouston A for whom Mike Lyons was unbeaten.

A hat – trick by Mike Bradley helped Birtley to a 6 – 4 success over Cramlington Trojans who also went down by the same score to the Swifts, Peter Wilkinson and Joe Swinburn winning all of their sets.

Sacriston Comets helped their fight for survival in division three by edging home 6 – 4 away at NESLC Codgers, Colin Pritchard and Nikki Irwin both getting a couple of wins while new signing Jon Rippington was unbeaten for Cramlington Dragons who avoided defeat for the first time when they drew with the Corinthians.

 

Aubrey6 Drapkin