After an absence of 54 years, there was every expectation that the return of Premier League Pennant tennis to Geelong Lawn Tennis Club would make an impact, and Sunday October 10th certainly delivered in every way. The weather was perfect, the level of play scintillating, and the atmosphere was enjoyed by all. From the moment the first ball was struck, and the umpire called "Game, Geelong Lawn", until Matthew Holschier fired down the final ace to seal victory over Kooyong Lawn TC in his singles match, the hundreds of spectators were treated to a festival of tennis.
The day started well with two out of three Mens doubles matches going our way in the super tie-breaker. Brendan Moore and Chris Letcher played outstanding tennis, to put the home team up 4-1, but Kooyong fought back well to level at 4 rubbers all, with Matthew Hicks losing a hard fought three set singles to Rob McKenzie. Matthew Holschier showed great nerve when he served out the final game to love, giving the home team a 5-4 victory over the reigning premiers. The Womens team fought hard against an experienced Royal South Yarra Lawn TC team, and after six rubbers, play was tied at three apiece. Captain Brianna Bateup lost a tough three setter, and 14 year old Abbie Walker was two points from winning the first set against former tour professional Louise Field. In the end though, the visitors prevailed in rubbers 6-3.
Attention now turns to this weekends matches, with the Men at home against top of the ladder Liston TC, whose team features several top fifty Australian ranked players as well as NZ Davis Cup representatives Rubin & Oliver Statham. Play commences at 12pm, with doubles matches followed by singles. The Womens team will have a strengthened line-up with the expected return of Olivia Rich and Alenka Hubacek from interstate tournament committments. Anneliese Tepper showed last week that her time overseas playing in Europe has paid off, with a solid singles performance. The Women will belloking for their first win, and there is every expectation that this might be the break through week when they play Dendy Park away.
