Woodland Tennis Club hosted its annual Elizabeth Yeo Calvados Cup at its headquarters.

WOODLAND Tennis Club held its annual mixed doubles veterans tournament.

It is now known as the Elizabeth Yeo Calvados Cup, in memory of the club’s former treasurer and secretary, Liz Yeo, who died last September.

Being such a special event ensured a good entry and 12 partnerships from all over the south west competed in the initial round robin stages.

In the end, the semi-finals saw Liz Heggarty and Rob Hazell taking on Tony Pearman and Clare Vickery, while Brenda Plummer and Mike Maden competed against Tony Wilford and Mary Walkerdine.

The first of the semis was characterised by the tactical play of Tony Pearman, whose shots kept finding the lines. Liz and Rob tried to counter this by using attacking net play, but the steadiness of Clare and Tony forced them to take chances which led to errors.

Eventually, Tony and Clare won the set 6-4 and their place in the final. The other semi was often a battle of cross court shots, with many long rallies. Mary’s effectiveness at the net gave them the edge earned her and partner, Tony, the other place in the final.

The final was an intense affair and every inch of the court was brought into play. Wilford made Pearman cover a lot of the court and played strongly throughout, but Pearman was equal to the challenge and came up with some inspirational drops shots and lobs at the crucial moments.

Mary’s strength lay in her net play, making it even more difficult for the opposition yet Clare managed to produce some attacking ground strokes and at four games all, there was little to choose between the two pairs.

The ninth game saw the momentum turn in favour of Wilford and Mary. Again, Wilford had Pearman scampering across the court and a lucky net cord from Mary brought them the first break in serve.

The final service game was tense. Wilford and Mary were 40-0 up with three match points, but Pearman and Clare fought back to 40-30. Their comeback wasn’t to last though and Wilford and Clare won the title, six games to four.

The cups were awarded by Erica Archer, Liz’s sister and club chairman, Les Treen, acknowledged the contribution to Woodland that Liz made over many years. He also was delighted with the standard of match play. “I’ve seen some great tennis here today, matched only by the spirit in which each game has been played.

“I’m sure Liz would be pleased to know that the tournament continues so successfully in her name.”

For more information on the club and its activities, contact membership secretary Judy Cannon on 01934 629819 or visit the website at www.woodlandtennisclub.co.uk