I had prepared the team that Tilehurst Methodists having previously been in Division 2 would be a tough match and so it proved.

Sukhi was making his debut for Sonning and in the Reading League alongside Grant and Harry. For Tilehurst Phil, Mausaud and Jacek appeared. First up was Grant who marched to a two set lead only for Jacek to fight back to win in 5 sets. A disappointing result after a good start! Second up was Sukhi facing Mausaud. The sets were tight, Mausaud taking the first 11-13, Sukhi taking the next two 12-10 and 11-9 before taking the match 11-7 in the fourth set. A great result. Step up Harry, facing Phil Jones produced a great performance to win in three straight sets. This was an absolute bonus to Sonning!

The second set of singles had Sukhi facing Jacek. Again Sukhi won and one could see the confidence grow as he won in three comfortable sets. Well done Sukhi! So Sonning lead 3-1.  Grant then faced Phil. Unfortunately Phil played a lot better in his second match and comfortably won in three sets. Grant was not his normal self. Harry then came to play the last of the second round of singles and playing as a different player from last week to beat
Masoud in three sets. A masterful performance!

The doubles came and went as Brett partnered Grant against Jacek and Phil. 3 quick sets. So after the doubles the match stood at 4-3.

Sukhi then faced Phil and although Phil won in three sets, Sukhi acquitted himself well.

All to play for in the last two singles matches.

Harry completed his third win of the night beating Jacek in four sets to ensure at least a draw for Sonning. However, Grant did not manage to get us over the line as Masoud found his best form of the evening to level the match.

So in summary a really good performance by the team. A man of the match performance by Harry and a double on his debut for Sukhi.

By Cris Reynolds