In a close result the Stars won the Baw Baw Squash Club’s autumn grand final over the Royals 3/9/187 to 1/5/125.

Pat Sullivan got the Stars off to a flying start, winning the first game against Chris Denny 15-4. Chris changed his game in the second with firmer shots and greater mobility, but it was still not enough as Pat dominated with better placement, 15-8. The third game was a repeat of the second with Pat’s boasts and lobs wrong-footing his opponent to win 15-6.

This gave the Stars a handy 27-point lead going into the second match.

In a close-fought first game, Charlie Hamilton of the Royals proved more consistent than Bruce Bowering by controlling the front court. He took out the game 15-11. The second game was a complete rout with Bruce having no counter to Charlie’s aggressive position play. After the 15-5 drubbing, Bruce regrouped to take a 12-8 lead with precision shots, but was unable to sustain the momentum.  With some great serving, Charlie was able to win the game 15-13 to take out the match.

With the rubber tied, the third match was crucial. Alex Milsome, for the Royals, encountered Paul Hammond in a repeat of their match in the preliminary finals. Unfortunately for Alex, he was off his game, making many unforced errors, and Paul was in brilliant form. Outstanding racquet control was a highlight of Paul’s game. This resulted in crisp, tight drives interspersed with deft drop shots, well-placed lobs and the occasional boast just above the tin. Final scores: 15-7, 15-5, 15-4.

As in the preliminary final, Steve Mooney only had to gain a few points for the Stars to win, which he managed in the first game against Jim Wilkinson. Jim was a man on a mission, determined to end the night on a high. He turned back time by displaying all his manifold talents. Excellent lob serves, exquisite pace-off drop shots from all parts of the court, variations in pace and direction, and good court coverage gave him a 15-10, 15-11 lead.

On the other hand, Steve was playing great squash as well with powerful short winners and boasts in addition to good anticipation and court coverage. The third game was close, but sadly Jim was the third player to suffer an injury in the finals. He had match point but couldn’t convert, lost the game 16-17 and conceded the final two games 0-15, 0-15.

Player of the finals went to Pat Sullivan who won all his matches convincingly. Most improved was veteran Bjorn Hestdal who lost only one match for the season and finished six places higher in grading. Most consistent was Paul Hammond who won all his matches in dominating form and will likely progress to a number one level player. Paul also won the Tuesday night handicap tournament.

Grading for that event will be on Thursday, June 10, restrictions permitting.  Contact Dave on 0408 577 398.