Punctured Ball Probably Cost University Its Match

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30588, 3 November 1964, Page 15

Punctured Ball Probably Cost University Its Match

A punctured ball probably cost it a chance of winning its match against North Linwood, said a letter from the university club protesting against the result of a singles match between R. Goodall and J. Martin which was received at a meeting of the management committee of the Canterbury Lawn Tennis Association last evening.

Goodall was leading 5-3 in the last set and was serving, said the letter. His first three serves were returned but the ball never bounced and he was down 0-40. Then it was found the ball was punctured. Goodall and other University players claimed the third point should be replayed. This was opposed by North Linwood players and after a lengthy debate the matter was referred to the competitions chairman (Mr R. Murphy) who decided the points should stand. This seemed to upset Goodall’s concentration and he lost the set 9-11 and the game. The match between the clubs was drawn on games but North Linwood won by two sets, said the letter.

The University club claimed that it had consulted a “prominent referee” who said the point should have been replayed. Members of the committee hastily consulted the rule book but as there was no unanimity on the interpretation of the pertinent rule it was decided to refer the matter to the umpires’ association.

Date Unsuitable The Nelson Tennis Association advised that Show Day was not suitable for its Nunnelly Casket and Wilding Shield matches against Canterbury. Another date would be suggested later this week. Mr Healey said it was unfortunate the date had to be changed as a new date would affect the senior competition.

Miss Dawn Smith’s name had been added to the squad from which players to take part in the Federation Cup to be played in Melbourne on January 15, said a letter from the New Zealand council.

Referee.—The nomination of Mr A. B. McCallom as referee for the New Zealand championships was approved. Estimated Loss.—A loss of £lB3 for the present season was estimated by the treasurer (Mr S. W. Bullen). He said that last year the actual loss was £525. Mr Bullen said that if the smaller loss did eventuate it would mean that Canterbury tennis was getting closer to balancing its budget.