Latest National League Match News 2007/2008

WESTERN v ASRC I

ASRC I were back in action after a three week break. In store for us was an away trip to Western, who the previous week had beaten our second team up in Aberdeen. Only two players from Aberdeen made the trip down, the other two made the trip up from south. Arriving at Western not only on time but EARLY, the four met up and chatted away for a bit before the match got underway. Western players and fans arrived shortly before the start as a nice atmosphere began to build around the club.

Demoted to one of the back courts was the three’s and four’s in order for the main attractions to take centre stage on the more spectator friendly court. First on was Western’s Caron Lawrie taking on ASRC’s Lisa Aitken. The match got off to a fairly slow start with both players trading a couple of winners and errors each. It was Lisa who was able to step it up though as she became the aggressor. Picking up the pace of the game and putting her booming forehand to good use, Lisa raced through the game in one swift hand-in. A similar story took place in the second game, and I guess the third for that matter. Some good rallies were exchanged but it was always Lisa who was in the driving seat and she deservedly ran out a 3-0 winner. The match was enjoyed by a decent amount of spectators…………….. Who clearly were unaware there was a former World No.3 on the other court! Oh and not to mention Logie as well!

WESTERN 0-1 ASRC I

So for the large number of fans who did realise there was a former World No.3 in attendance, they were treated to a nice spectacle of how squash should be played. Isn’t it amazing how easy some people can make the game look? Right from the start it was clear that Parkey was here to enjoy himself and have a nice light run about to ease off any niggling injuries. Similar could be said about Logie, although I guess you could say it was obviously expected to be more of a heavy run about rather than a light one! And so it proved to be. Parkey kept Logie on a piece of string for large parts of the match, using a combination of fast tempo squash coupled with a sublime touch in and around the front of the court. Several disguised shots and holds from the Yorkshire man had Logie scrambling around the court attempting to get that extra ball back, only for the chase to continue with the very next shot. Again and again this happened and credit to Logie for continuing to do so. The crowd was treated to some very entertaining squash from the two players and this was shown in the rapturous applause that greeted the players following the conclusion of the match on a monstrous rally. All over in 24 minutes…. Must have felt like 124 minutes for Logie though!

WESTERN 0-2 ASRC I

Meanwhile back on one of the back courts the third string match got underway. Western’s Jason Broadberry took to the court as underdog to his younger opponent from ASRC, Alistair Gorrie. Jason brought with him a few members from Next Generation club, who surprisingly, stuck around to watch this one instead of leaving to watch the start of the first string match through the house. After a rather hurried warm-up (the two players were obviously keen to get through and watch the first string tie) the match began with Gorrie trying to establish some sort of rhythm which would be comfortable for him. After a slight injury scare during the Nationals just a few days before, he was keen to be the one dictating the match and without having to react to sudden changes of pace. His game plan of pounding the back of the court before only going short when he was absolutely certain seemed to be just about right as at no stage in the match was he put under any severe pressure. Broadberry did give a serving master class to his team mates watching on who would have left that night not so much remembering the pace at which the number one’s played the game at, but more remembering the importance of having a good serve. A very, very good serve in actual fact. The 3-0 victory for Gorrie was notched up in 22 minutes.

WESTERN 0-3 ASRC I

So to the first string match. The big one. An inform Alan Clyne has clearly raised a bit of interest at Western. It is obvious when you turn up at the club now. They are proud to have Scotland’s top ranked domestic based player representing them, and so they should be. ASRC I were represented by Daryl Selby. The 25 year old, World No. 34 from Essex was making his debut for ASRC I. It is without doubt another great signing for the team from the north who add Daryl to a list including Alex Gough and Simon Parke. Anyway the match began with a succession of long and hard rallies. Both players looked to be trying to work each other and as a result very few risks were taken. This is not to say the squash was boring though as it was clear to see both players were asking a few questions of each other. After the opening fifteen minutes the score was a mere 3/0 (points that is) to Clyney. After a further ten minutes it was 4/1….. Twenty five minutes and only 5 points had been scored!!!!! If ever there was an argument for a universal scoring system then here it was. Adopting the P.A.R. to 11 scoring system for all tournaments and leagues across the world and for both sexes is, in my opinion, a MUST. Anyway enough of the ranting and back to the match. The 3 point gap that Clyney had opened up stayed with him as he moved through to take the first game 9/6. A few words from Parkey and out came Daryl with a different mind-set. Using more variety of shots and attacking more often than in the first game he raced out to an 8/2 lead. I use the word “raced” loosely here as it still took thirteen minutes! At game ball up Daryl lunged into the front of the court only to jar his ankle in doing so. Everyone in the crowd saw it. Clyney saw it. Things did not look good for the ASRC player. Was this to be a pivotal moment??? A couple of minutes pacing round the court and Daryl was ready to continue, much to everyone’s relief. It was clear though that he wasn’t all that comfortable with it. Using his skills though he managed to close out the game with back-to-back volley nicks, one on the backhand and the other the forehand. Nice! The third game was to be crucial. Not just because it is always tough to come back from 2-1 down, but also so we could get an understanding of how severe the incident was to prove. Although Daryl stayed very much in the match, it was clear to all that his movement was hampered, especially into the front left corner. Clyney got on with his game as he does and took nothing for granted. He played the game exactly the way he had played the first two and this is a great testament to the wee man. Most players would have been keen to change things up and try in an attempt to hurt their opponent further. Not Clyney though, he just kept hammering away. The game reached 7/7 but a couple of costly errors on the backhand side from Daryl handed Clyney the game. So after 74 minutes we had reached 2-1 to Clyney. A concerned captain went down to speak to Daryl during the interval asking him whether he wanted to stop or not. Daryl’s answer was not too. Aware there was good sized crowd in he wanted to keep going so they fully got their monies worth. Now I don’t know about you but I think that is brilliant. Here is a guy ranked 34 in the World with a Gold Star event just around the corner, and he is trying to please a crowd of Glaswegians during a Scottish League match… Like I said, brilliant! So into a fourth we went and surprisingly it was Daryl who opened up and began to extend a lead. The rallies became a lot shorter as Daryl looked to end the rally at any given opportunity. Obviously a couple found the tin and a few were retrieved by Clyney, but the majority found there target and boy was it great to watch. Isn’t it funny how an injury to a player can better their squash for a moment or two? So it was Daryl who took the fourth in a relatively easy manner. Again the concerned captain went down for a word or two. The reply from Daryl was somewhat similar to before, only this time adding “I’ve come this far, why not just play one more?” Fair enough. Who would I be to deprive the mad Glaswegians of just one more game! The fifth game was to be the quickest of the match. Clyney simply tightened up and didn’t allow Daryl to continue with the game plan he had inherited as a result of his unfortunate injury. With Daryl finding it harder and harder to use his creativity, Clyney closed up shop and whisked through the game 9/1. So 3-2 to Clyney it was in a thoroughly entertaining match. It was a shame Daryl had his slip in the second game but these things do happen. Full credit to Clyney for another great win, another scalp you could say. Oh and just for the record the match lasted 109 minutes.

WESTERN 1-3 ASRC I

All players retreated upstairs for a few drinks and some Chinese take-away. Well all except Broadberry that is who was unfortunate in that Caron had forgotten that fish was NOT part of a veggies diet. Prawn Crackers it was for him then!

ASRC II v WESTERN

Despite having recorded just the one victory this season, ASRC II still had a slim chance of finishing in the top 4 and thus gaining entry into the season ending Playoffs on April 12th. The team was fired up and looking forward to locking horns with the ever consistent Western.

The away team arrived at ASRC in punctual fashion and the match duly got underway on time. First to the court was Aberdeen's own Jamie Jacobsen taking on Scotland's No.1 ranked domestic player Alan Clyne. This string was a one-sided affair as Alan looked to finish off his more senior opponent in quick time so that he could get back to his stable in time to be ready for an early morning session. Credit to Jamie, he dug in as he always does, but he simply had no answer for Clyne pace and accuracy of play that has seen him taking several 'scalps' over the past few months. After 22 minutes of retrieving, Jamie finally surrendered to a 3-0 defeat.
ASRC II 0-1 WESTERN

On the adjacent court, the number three's were doing battle with Mike Black of Aberdeen taking on Kenny Boyle of Western. Contrary to theory (away player usually starts slow after enduring the long drive) it was Kenny who got off to the better start. Working Mike all over the court and for most parts completely dominating the T, he cruised into a 2-0 lead for the loss of just three points. A change of game plan in the next saw Mike come out hitting a much better length which in turn gave him far more opportunities to play short. He duly did so and with Kenny now doing most of the chasing (he's pretty good at that), it was Mike who began to claw his way back into the match. With his confidence growing, the match was levelled at 2-2 and we were faced with a decider. It was Kenny who came out stronger in the fifth as the effects of coming back from 2-0 seemed to be taking their toll on the Aberdeen Ace. Kenny took back control of the T and Mike's winners from the previous two games turned into errors, most just clipping the top of the tin. Kenny sensed the moment and put his foot on the gas, closing out the game and match with a 9-3 final game. Good effort from both players. The crowd although disappointed with the end score, thoroughly enjoyed this entertaining tie lasting just over the hour mark, 61 minutes to be exact.
ASRC II 0-2 WESTERN

Meanwhile on court 7, the fourth string match was underway. Fresh from her recent Junior National success, a confident Robyn Hodgson took to the court against Scotland's current no.4 Caron Lawrie. True to theory (same one as before), Caron made a slow start and was unable to get into Robyns game. A serious of fine winners from the youngster saw her take the first game 9-3 in comfortable fashion. At 5-2 up in the second game, all was looking rosy for Robyn as she looked to get Aberdeen right back into the overall match. Caron however began to find her range and was soon exerting considerable pressure on her opponent. This coupled with a few errors from Robyn and Caron fought her way back in and took the second 9-5. This trend continued in the third as Caron began to take command of the tie. Robyn was still throwing in some outrageous winners but Caron herself was coming up with some neat drops and boasts to stave off her opponent. 9-5 to Caron and she was now 2-1 up and beginning to look good to seal the overall match for Westen. And at 7-3 up in the fourth, the opportunity looked to have passed for Robyn. Perhaps Caron thought so anyway as she momentarily seemed to doze off. Some wild scrambling with immense court coverage saw Robyn cling onto some hope of sending the game into a decider. Caron began to feel the heat and some errors came from her racket at crucial times. Robyn lapped this up and stole the game 9-7. The fifth was a seesaw battle with both players trying not give their opponent an inch. It was Robyn who seemed to be the more willing to play her shots though and it was this that took her through to 9-8 match ball... A long rallied was finished by Caron as unfortunately for her, the boast she hit just clipped the tin. Match to Robyn 3-2 after an excellent 53 minute tussle between the two. Robyn should be very proud of her efforts on the night. She should grit throughout the match and it was that and her confidence to keep shooting that tipped the tie in her favour.
ASRC II 1-2 WESTERN

The final match of the night was in a way now the decider. Aberdeen's Gavin Sutherland took on Western's Iain Logan. A victory for Gavin would level the match on ties, with the countback then going on points. Aware of this, a pumped up Gavin got off to a flyer as he effortlessly cruised through the first game 9-3. Just what the doctor ordered. Was Gavin to be the better player on the night? Or could this first game simply be put down to that theory? In the next game it certainly looked like the latter case was right as Iain upped his game completely reversing the play and score from the first game. Into the third game and as the longer it went on, the more it turned into one of those 'who ever takes this one will take the match'. Clearly a big game then. The score remained tight throughout as neither player was able to open up a gap of more than one point. At 7-7 both players traded serves several times before Iain found the nick with an exquisite backhand drop. On his first attempt, Iain took the game as Gavin desperately lunged at a ball in the back right corner only for his attempted backwall boast retrieval, to fall just short. And so it was. Confidence was with Iain and Gavin couldn't shake off the disappoinment of losing a tight third game. A comfortable 9-1 final game ended the tie and overall match. Another good performance from both players which kept the crowd gripped for 43 minutes.
ASRC II 1-3 WESTERN

So it was Western who took the spoils on the night. Both teams fought hard but the winning team deserved the victory and headed home to Glasgow with smiles on their faces. The defeat for ASRC II means they are no longer able to make the Playoffs. A disappointment there but it was always going to be a tough task. Still, the team will play their last three fixtures in the same spirit as they have all season... With fight!

NEWLANDS v ASRC 1

The bar has been raised!

On arrival at Newlands last night, an on-time ASRC 1 were greeted in the foyer by Newlands' ATM, Alan Pearson. Stood behind him was two of his players, Hadrian Stiff (not too surprised to see him) and Kasey Brown (very surprised to see her). After ASRC 1 stating their intentions early on in the season by including Alex Gough and Simon Parke, there was some uncertainty as to how Newlands would react. Knowing Alan Pearson, we should have expected what was coming. With a squad now including Hadrian and Kasey (and with more to be added we're lead to believe), things have just got a little bit interesting...!

The result of this fixture was fairly set in stone long before the match actually got underway. ASRC 1 were unable to field Goughy or Parkey, and with the late call-off of McArthur (illness), things were going from bad to worse. Oh and wait, I forgot to mention that Lisa has two cracked ribs and only played as she was forced to by yours truly! Doesn't say a whole lot about me does it?! Anyway, ASRC 1 went ahead and put forward a very strong team for a usual National League match. Playing Newlands however is not a usual National League match and so expectations for the night were low.

The match got underway with the number 4's taking to the court. Newlands were represented by the Aussie, Kasey Brown, World No.15, and ASRC 1 by Lisa Aitken, World No.177. A miss match on paper you would say, and with Lisa currently recovering from injury, this was always going to be a tough one for the youngster. It was however Lisa who made the better start. Some free flowing winners coupled with some lovely holds and disguises, and Lisa found herself 4/1 up. A few tight rallies were exchanged before Kasey started to stamp her authority. Beginning to dominate the rallies, Lisa was forced to scramble around the court just to stay in rallies. Some great retrieving by the youngster was impressive, but it's not enough to win you games against someone of Kasey's quality. Although having lost the first game Lisa came off encouraged and excited, albeit a little sore. Her breathing was causing her some discomfort but despite being advised to maybe retire injured, Lisa was not going to pass up this opportunity of playing one of the top players in the women's game. A very gutsy display saw Lisa collecting several more points on her way to a 3-0 defeat. Both teams and healthy number of spectators watched this match closely and both commented how much they enjoyed it. Kasey was a very pleasant opponent for Lisa and hopefully we will get to see her back up here for more league matches, and maybe even the playoffs.
NEWLANDS 1-0 ASRC 1

On the court opposite the number 2's were battling it out. Peter O'Hara (Newlands) taking on Lyall Paterson (ASRC 1/HWU/Napier/Stonehaven/Shell). LP was called up to the ASRC 1 team late that afternoon after a mad scramble from the captain had resulted in not one Aberdeen based player wanting to make the trip down to Glasgow at such short notice. I know, I was just as surprised as you are now!!! Both players had the ball up to approximately 2,648,364,839° after the knock-up. A fast paced and well contested first game saw both players shooting from all angles and sliding and diving across the court. From 8-5 down LP clawed his way back to 8-8 only to lose the game 10-8 after finding the tin twice in a row. O'Hara seemed to be spurred on by this and raced through the second game for the loss of just one point. A third game similar to the first again saw both players opening up and treating the crowd to some very watchable squash. O'Hara always had the edge here though and closed out the game and match. A thoroughly entertaining one for the crowd. Both showed off most of their artillery and also shared the occasional joke. A good debut from LP and I'm sure ASRC 1 will be fielding him again in matches to come.
NEWLANDS 2-0 ASRC 1

With things beginning to look a little bleak for the travelling side, could 'Super Sub Spalding' salvage anything from the match for ASRC 1? His opponent Mark Ford (congratulations on becoming a dad 4 weeks ago), wasn't going to let this happen without a fight. The first game remained a tight one until Ford managed to pull clear from 6-6, aided by a disguised boast, a delicate backhand drop, and a tin from his opponent, to take the game 9-6. The second game saw Spalding come out shooting. Racing into a 7-1 lead, Ford did not know what was happening to him. Spalding was hitting a better length, a softer drop, and a quicker boast. At this point maybe Spalding took his foot off the gas a little as a few errors came from his racket. Ford sensing a chance to close in, dug in and began to eat into the deficit. The game reached 8-8 and set two was chosen. Ford managed to hold his nerve just that bit better here and took the game 10-8. Maybe a little annoyed with himself for not having taking the previous game, Spalding made a slow start to the third. A quick four point gap opened up and was never reduced as Ford went on to take the game 9-4 and close out the match. Both players played some quality squash at times and again, the crowd were happy with what they had just watched. It was a pleasant match for both players who gave the referee very little to do. The way it should be.
NEWLANDS 3-0 ASRC 1

The final match of the night brought together Hadrian Stiff of Newlands and Alistair Gorrie of ASRC 1. The first time these two played Gorrie somehow managed to sneak one game. Just five weeks later Stiff demolished Gorrie who this time, managed to sneak one POINT. So what was the third meeting going to bring? Well it did finish 3-0 to Stiff although this time he did yield more than one point... Twelve in fact, not that we were counting?! The match was an entertaining one, again the crowd being treated to some fun yet high quality squash. Hadrian used a great variety of shots to always hold the upper hand, although Gorrie at times more than held his own. At 7-7 in the second there was a chance of the match levelling. However an over-excited Gorrie dumped two shots in a row into the tin and passed up the game. The highlight of the match was undoubtedly the backhand, top-spin, crosscourt, drop/drive Stiffy played in the second game which left Gorrie and the whole crowd stunned. All in all a good, honest, and fair match.
NEWLANDS 4-0 ASRC 1

Both teams retreated to the bar to sample a variety of pizzas ordered in from nearby. Super Sub Spalding delayed eating though, instead opting to support his beloved Celtic 'stroll' through to the knockout stages of the Champions League. Thanks to Newlands for their hospitality again. ASRC 1 left with their tails somewhat between their legs. The bandwagon has stalled a little. Be assured though... It WILL get going again in the second half of the season, and especially when Newlands pitch up at the fortress for the return fixture.

27th November 2007
ASRC 1 V HOTEL DU VIN WESTERN

The unfortunate late call-off of Simon Parke (calf strain) threw the outcome of this match right up into the air. The script would have had it down for four 3-0 wins, two for each team. With that in mind, both teams were aware that losing the least amount of points in each of their respective 3-0 wins would be crucial to winning the match on count back. ASRC were hopeful of sneaking a game at either the first or fourth string matches to prevent this, but given the standard of their opponents this was a tall order. Anyway, to the match.....

The girls at fourth string got the match underway. Hannah Anthony of ASRC 1 taking on Caron Lawrie of Western. Both girls started off in a blow for blow manner, a game that definitely suits Hannah more than Caron. This lead to Hannah moving into an 8-5 lead. The crowd, sensing the importance of 'stealing' a game here, shifted from viewing the third string match to this one and made their presence known. This seemed to unsettle Hannah a little though as she tinned on each of her 4 game balls. Caron used her experience, threw in some delightful short stuff, and walked off with the first game 10-8. The crowd realising this tie wasn't going to be as one sided as maybe they first though, hung around to watch the remainder of the match. The second game remained tight - 1-1, 2-2, 3-3, 4-4. A few long rallies and a few hand-outs followed before Caron stepped up a gear to take the game 9-4. The third and what was to be final game of the match followed an identical pattern to the previous. Tight until mid-way through the game, and then Caron accelerated through to take it and the match. An entertaining match which in patches produced some great quality squash. Caron would have been pleased to walk off a 3-0 winner. Hannah disappointed not to have taken a game, but happy having collected what could have been a crucial amount of points.
ASRC 1 0-1 WESTERN

Meanwhile, the adjacent court had the third string match being contested. Kevin Milne of ASRC 1 taking on Kenny Boyle of Western. Right from the off it was clear Kevin was here to do a job. Looking as pumped and yet relaxed as we've seen him for some time now, Kevin was simply unstoppable. Perhaps it's the introduction to his life of his first born?! Kenny had his work cut out, despite using his trademark speed around the court to get keep himself in rallies. It was however, just delaying the inevitable. Whenever he wanted to it seemed, Kevin would slam the ball into the nick. Quite reminiscent actually of a certain John White we have all come to love watching. Kevin chalked up an impressive 3-0 victory for the home side with the loss of just 3 points. Kenny came off court wondering what on earth had happened. So in actual fact did Kevin though! The crowd thoroughly enjoyed the performance from the new dad.
ASRC 1 1-1 WESTERN

Following on from this was the second string match, with Ali Gorrie of ASRC 1 taking on Ian Logan of Western. This match was in many ways similar to that of the third string. A pumped up Ali stepped on court knowing if he repeated the scores of Kevin, ASRC 1 would win the match. Conversely, Ian stepped on knowing he had to rack up some serious points to keep the match alive. Ali got off to a flyer and within 6 minutes walked off with the first game 9-0. Just what the doctor ordered. With the crowd beginning to leak away to watch the first string match, only a dozen or so people were left watching this one. It didn't however take to long though as Ali took the next two games in similar fashion to the first. To sum the match up, Ali hit just one error in the whole match... Something completely unheard of for him! Match wrapped up for ASRC 1.
ASRC 1 2-1 WESTERN

Unaware of what was happening on the next court, the top string match got underway with Greg McArthur of ASRC 1 taking on Alan Clyne of Western. A large and enthusiastic crowd of around 70 people gathered for this one, all keen to see how their club coach would fair against the current Scottish no.2..... Pretty well it would seem, especially after racing to an 8-1 lead in the first game, before losing a few hand-ins, but then going on to close out the game 9-1. This was met with a huge roar from the Aberdeen faithful. The squash Greg played in the first game was some of the most mature squash we have ever seen him play. He controlled most of the rallies, worked Alan deep into all four corners, and in particular, used his hold and disguise to great effect. Greg had found that script I was talking about earlier..... He had a quick skim, put it down, thought, 'wait, I'm not sure about this...', went back for it, picked it up, proceeded to tear the first few pages out, and then throw them in the bucket! Anyway back to the match. Alan came out in game two to try and steady the ship. Although going 2-0 down in points, Alan picked up the pace, hurt Greg a little, and romped through the game taking it 9-2. A similar story unfolded in game three as Alan began to impose himself on and around the 'T' more and more. Greg stayed in the rallies for the large part, the only difference from game one was that he wasn't winning many of them. 9-3 to Alan. Moving away to an 8-4 lead in the fourth, all looked to be over for Greg. He had battled hard, played some extremely high quality squash, and most importantly, taken that all important game meaning ASRC 1 won not only on points count back but games too. Oh but wait a second... Greg wasn't finished yet. Gradually clawing his way back into the game, Greg found himself at 8-8. Set 2 called by Alan. A few blows were traded. Greg saved two match balls, and then went on to take the game on his first game ball. The crowd went wild! Such was the roar that one of the neighbouring houses put in a complaint shortly after, noise pollution was the crime! Into game five and Greg was beginning to look remarkably fresh, and it was Alan that looked to be hurting. What on earth was going on?! Some punishing rallies saw Greg in total control and as a result left Alan looking not just tired, but now despondent as well. At 8-2 and match ball up, a rush of blood saw Greg tin a backhand drop. On his second match ball, he went deep into the back right corner holding the racket in his right hand, only for him to reappear at the 'T' holding it in his left... What a time to get cramp in your right hand! Two mistake followed from Greg before his right hand began to behave again. On his third match ball, Greg played a delightful disguised crosscourt flick which had Alan scrambling to the floor, only to fail to get the ball back. Shortly after, a second complaint was made, and again for noise pollution. So, a memorable victory for Greg, taking the scalp of someone many had said would go undefeated against all Scottish players this season. Alan will be disappointed with the defeat, but being the great sport that he is, will pay credit to someone who simply played some top quality squash on the night.
ASRC 1 3-1 WESTERN

So the ASRC bandwagon rolls on! The buzz around the club right now is quite something. The whole club has pulled together and are 100% behind both their teams. This is reflected on Tuesday nights when matches take place. We just feel a little sorry for the teams arriving at the fortress that is ASRC!

13th NOVEMBER 2007
ASRC 2 v ASRC 1

Was the surprise of the "away" team managing to arrive on time 2 weeks in a row to be the start of things to come that night? Could ASRC 2 spring an upset or two and steal what could be a rather embarrassing result for the captain of both teams? We were to find out...

First on court was the fourth string match with Robyn Hodgson (2) taking on Lisa Aitken (1). The two youngsters altough in the same age group and playing out of the same club, have only met each other on a couple of occasions. The last was a rather cagey 3-1 victory for Aitken in the final of the Grampian Invitational. This time however was a rather more one-sided affair. Despite Hodgson's speed around the court, and her incredible much saught after talent of being able to find the nick from almost anywhere, she unable to cope with Aitken's power and precision, particularly with her new found volley drop. The 9-4, 9-0, 9-1 result was a fair scoreline.
ASRC 2 0 - 1 ASRC 1

The adjecent court saw Mike Black (2) test himself against the in-form Masters man, Mike Spalding (1). Spalding had been called up to the first team after the birth of Kevin Milne's baby on the Monday night... PRIORITIES please Kev, sort it out! Anyway, a highly motivated Black took the first game 9-0 with total ease. Spalding looked nervous making his debut for the title contenders. Maybe it was that, or maybe it was down to the large crowd which again turned out at ASRC? After a the first game wake-up call, Spalding got into his rhythm and began to dominate proceedings. Helped by a flurry of winners towards the end and he was now tied at 1-1. Black did not lie down though, he came back in game 3 with a flurry of winners himself, each exquisite in their own right. A rather flat looking Spalding was now in trouble, finding himself 2-1 down. The fourth was crucial. Both players seemed to be hurting from the efforts so far but it was Spalding who was able to dig just that bit deeper. This is a testiment to a guy who has been training extremely hard of late and getting the deserved results in recent Masters tournaments. With Spalding levelling at 2-2 there looked to be only one winner now, and that was the case. A tired looking Black had given his all but had just come up short. A successful ASRC 1 debut for Spalding was well earned.
ASRC 2 0 - 2 ASRC 1

Next, Gavin Sutherland (2) and Ali Gorrie (1, and captain of both) took to the court. With the first team now looking assured of overall victory, Captain Gorrie was able to breath a sigh of relief and go into this match not only up-for-it, but now also relaxed. In a fairly one-sided start to the match, Gorrie planted himself on the T and refused to move until late on in the second game. It took Sutherland until then to find his length but once he did it was a completely different game. He began to relax and impose himself around the court, and the result was him rattling of a series of unanswered points. Gorrie however reasserted himself and squeezed the game out. The third game picked off where the second finished. With Sutherland's confidence ever increasing he pushed Gorrie all the way to 6-6. A mistake by Sutherland and two quick winners from Gorrie put an end to any comeback.
ASRC 2 0 - 3 ASRC 1

Last on court was Jamie Jacobsen (2) and Greg McArthur (1). With both players in relatively good form this promised to be a high quality encounter. The only one producing quality though in the first game was Jacobsen. Volleying pretty much everything that was hit at and around him, Jacobsen looked like a man possessed. Any further up the court and his nose would have been scraping along the front wall. McArthur on the other hand was sitting deep, looked flat, and was making a lot of uncharacteristic errors. 9-6 to Jacobsen almost flattered McArthur. Into game two and we saw the McArthur we're used to seeing. Mixing fast-paced squash with a deft touch around the front of the court and it was he who well and truely on top. 9-0 to McArthur. Game three saw Jacobsen try to wrestle back what he thought was his position, the T. Cutting off ball after ball but surely he couldn't keep it going. Jacobsen was showing a tenacity we have come to expect from him in recent times. It was however probably this tenacity that contributed to his un-doing. McArthur began to utilise his hold and deception to unfoil the brave Jacobsen. Two games of 9-3 and 9-6 were enought to hand McArthur the victory.
ASRC 2 0 - 4 ASRC 1

So to answer the questions from earlier, a simple "NO" will suffice. ASRC 1 had that bit extra in all areas and ran out deserved 4-0 winners. Next week brings a rest for ASRC 1, while ASRC 2 head to Glasgow to take on Western.

6th November 2007
ESC vs ASRC 1

It's amazing what a phone call can do... within minutes of Goughy confirming his availability for this fixture, I was on the to Simon informing him... within a few more minutes, Simon had posters up around his club informing his members of the fixture, and in particular his opponent for the night... Ooh and how his members responded... People standing 2 rows deep for the lower string matches was good to see... A packed gallery on court 5 for the top string much was GREAT to see!

Anyway, first up on court was Chris Gray (ESC) taking on Greg McArthur (ASRC 1). With the aforementioned 2 deep crowd watching on, both players put on a good display of squash. For the greater part of the match, McArthur was in control. Mixing it up between a high tempo, fast-paced game and a, shall we say more controlled and aesthetically pleasing game, McArthur was simply too good for his opponent. Chris should signs that he had the ability to compete a little more than he did although in his own words, "just didn't have the stamina".
ESC 0 - 1 ASRC 1

On the adjacent court, Helen Macfie (ESC) and Hannah Anthony (ASRC 1) were doing battle. Again with a decent sized crowd in place both girls looked to perform to their best ability, as well as notch up a victory for their team. Game 1 was quite a nervy one. Lots of hand-outs and lots of short rallies (both ladies hitting either winners [usually a boast] or mistakes [also usually a boast]). At 6-6 Helen used her experience and began to rally, forcing Hannah into a couple or errors and as a result, game 9-6 to Helen. Game 2 saw Hannah build an early 5-2 lead with some booming forehands contributing. Helen, realising the match wasn't far away from levelling at 1-1, turned to her game plan from the end of game 1 and rather emphatically took the next 8 rallies to go 2-0 up. A push at the start of the third game was impressive from the youngster but simply wasn't enough. Helen came through it 9-4 to seal the match 3-0. A solid performance from the more experienced of the two, and a good learning experience for the youngster.
ESC 1 - 1 ASRC 1

The third string match saw Colin Stirrat (ESC) take on Alistair Gorrie (ASRC 1). With Stirrat having celebrated a birthday on the Saturday, a very large amount of alcohol had no doubt passed between his lips over the weekend. Having been made aware of this before starting the match, Gorrie decided to adopt a fast paced game with the aim of giving his opponent as little time to settle as possible. Hardly rocket science, but hey it was effective. Stirrat was simply unable to get into the game and the former ASRC Coach took the match 3-0 without too much hassle.
ESC 1 - 2 ASRC 1

The final match of the night featured Simon Boughton (ESC Pro) and Alex Gough (ASRC 1, World No. 23). The match was moved to court 5 to accomodate the masses that had piled through the doors. With both players looking relaxed and ready to put on a show for the crowd, the match got under way. Right from the off it was evident that Goughy wasn't here to mess about. A serious of lung bursting rallies had Simon bent double, "waiting" to return serve, on several occasions. Still, some lovely flicks and great disguises meant Simon avoided the 9-0 first game score so many of us expected. Both players went into game 2 with a slightly more "exhibition" style mind. Using great height, top spin drops, holds, flicks, trick shots, etc, the crowd were treated to some fantastic squash. Simon is great in matches like this. He has all the attributes (although maybe a little short on fitness) to compete with top players and in some cases teach them a trick or too. Goughy was certainly impressed with one or two Simon was executing. However hard Simon tried though and however many tricks he pulled out, Goughy simply had more. 9-3 and 2-0 in games. The third game was similar in every way to the one before it. Lots of trickery, retrieving, laughter, etc. I guess the only difference was the 9-5 scoreline. Still, it was 3-0 to Goughy after a thoroughly entertaining and highy quality match.
ESC 1 - 3 ASRC 1

Both teams then retreated to the bar for a few drinks and some food. Another great night was had by all, largely thanks to the efforts of Simon who got a lot of people through the door which created a great atmosphere. Next week see's ESC travel to Bridge of Allan whilst ASRC 1 are "away" to ASRC 2.

30th October 2007
ASRC 1 v BRIDGE OF ALLAN

Week 1 of the new Scottish National Squash League saw ASRC 1 host Bridge of Allan. A large and enthusiastic crowd gathered for this one, along with our sponsor (Kronenbourg of Scottish & Newcaslte), four referees and press from the local papers. All were eager to watch one of ASRC's new recruits - Alex Gough, World No.23 (more on him later).

First on court were the third and fourth strings. For the home team, Hannah Anthony (filling in for the ill Lisa Aitken) took on Robin Bairner. With a large crowd in place, nerves seemed to get the better of Hannah. A few too many errors, and not enough of her usual winners, resulted in a comprehensive victory for the Bridge of Allan youngster. Credit has to be given to Robin who showed no mercy and chalked up a 3-0 victory for the away team.
ASRC 1 0-1 BRIDGE OF ALLAN.

Meanwhile on the adjacent court, ASRC's former Coach Ali Gorrie was taking on a rejuvenated (yet slightly ill) Frania Gillen-Buchert. Frania has recently started playing WISPA events again and has enjoyed some early success along the way. Moving up 67 places in the latest World Rankings, she is well on her way back to reaching, and hopefully surpassing, a previous high of world No.53. The match got under way and saw Ali take an early lead winning a comfortable first game. The second however was a different story. With Frania's notorious lob serve beginning to work, the game stayed tight - 3-3, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6. Ali took the next two points to open up a small but significant gap. Frania fought back to 7-8. A long rallied was fought out with Ali stealing the rally and then going on to close out the game. The effect of this game saw Ali close the match out in three and level the overall match at 1-1.
ASRC 1 1-1 BRIDGE OF ALLAN.

Next on court was the aforementioned Alex Gough... The Welsh Wizard! To say ASRC are happy to have him playing for the club is a MASSIVE understatement. Alex is a true squash legend and he plays the game with such accuracy and flair, making the game look painfully easy. Off-court he is a great guy, always giving time to anyone wanting a piece off him and generally just being very sociable. We (ASRC and Scottish Squash) are very fortunate to have him playing National League this season and for this we have to thank our sponsor: Kronenbourg (of Scottish & Newcastle). Alex’s opponent for the night was Graham Melvin (The Welder). Having spoken to The Welder at the recent Selection Event and informing him of his opponent, he was understandably very excited. Unsurprisingly, the crowd turned to this one on ASRC's show court. Goughy, as we now know him, was an absolute joy to watch. The Welder tried and tried and tried some more. He was covering the court well (kind of had to really), experimenting with the few balls he was given to hit, and also playing some pretty tight squash. Goughy however was simply making the game look so so easy. Dying lengths, delighful lobs, cute angles, it was all there. Games one and two lasted 21 minutes in total, however a single point had not made its way to The Welder. Was the dreaded triple bagel on the cards? At 8-0 in third (26-0 overall), many thought so... however, a brave/silly (whichever way you look at it) backhand, cross-court volley, return of serve nick by The Welder, and a backhand volley drop dumped into the tin by Goughy, finally allowed The Welder to notch up a point. A couple more followed before Goughy finished off the match. A thoroughly entertaining match. Well done to Graham for fighting right to the end.
ASRC 1 2-1 BRIDGE OF ALLAN.

The final match of the night saw ASRC's new coach Greg McArthur take on the Orkney born, Edinburgh University student, Adam Bews. These two played at the recent Selection Event with McArthur coming out on top, 3-0. Was the score to be repeated? Not according to Bewsy it wasn't, taking the first game 9-4, and at 8-7 up in the second, Bewsy was on course for a shock victory. A few long rallies were then played out and fortunately for ASRC's sake, went the way of McArthur. This seemed to kick start McArthur, and adversely grind Bewsy's free-flowing game to a hault. Two reasonably quick games followed, 9-1 and 9-4, and saw McArthur close out the match 3-1. Comments in the bar afterwards had Bewsy down for an excellent overall performance, and McArthur for a good performance after a sluggish start. Well done to both.

With the match wrapped up, 3-1 in ASRC 1's favour, both teams, sponsors, fans, referees, press, etc retreated to the bar to sample Craig Thomsons catering (thumbs up), and Kronenbourgs Cold Premiere beer (also thumbs up). Thanks to Bridge of Allan for making the journey up who, despite coming second, surely enjoyed the night just as much as we did.