The under 12 Lothian team travelled to Inverclyde to defend the annual Anglo-Scottish Event shield, with 8 teams taking part in the 2 day event. The opening fixture resulted in a close win over a very impressive Highland team 6-4, with a great game clinching win in the mixed by new pairing Poppy Shell and Blair Tait. A slight change in formation, resulted in further good wins on Saturday over Borders 10-0, Cumbria 8-2 and Northumberland 8-2.
Sunday saw some great all round and positive play, with morning victories over West 9-1 and Clyde 7-3, leaving the familiar “winner takes all” shoot out against an always competitive Yorkshire team. First Boy singles saw an incredible match with James Miller just losing out in the tie breaker shoot out 3rdend 7-6. Nothing was left out on the court by either player. Callum Jack delivered his singles and doubles with Blair, and Ishbel McCallister won a tight 2ndsingles, but despite our best efforts, Lothian could not quite nick any further games-resulting in a deserved 7-3 win for a strong Yorkshire team, who had the no 1 English ranked girls player Grace Sachdeva at this age group in their ranks.
A very well deserved second place for Lothian and runner- up trophies, including one for Cameron Lee who had to go home with illness on Saturday, which was a great touch! Encouragingly some of the team are still eligible for next year’s competition. The coaches, Mahlen and Arlene again were very proud of the team, with another great trip for the squad, with excellent behaviour and skills on show.
Many thanks to Mr and Mrs Robert Gow and Sandra Downie for organising the event, Inverclyde for hosting, and to the parents who assisted in the travel arrangement and supported the team.
ARLENE BRYEN
Lothian :
L-R ; Ellie Bent, Poppy Shell, Niamh Taylor, Vibha Raman, Ishbel McCallister
Callum Jack, James Miller, Mitchell Speirs, Blair Tait