N. Linwood’s Loss Was Biggest Surprise

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30938, 20 December 1965, Page 22

N. Linwood’s Loss Was Biggest Surprise

The most significant event in Christchurch tennis on Saturday was the defeat of the North Unwood senior reserve team—its first loos in many seasons. This season began with controversy about whether Nortb Linwood should be aUowed a second entry in the senior men’s grade and abont the arrangements tor an elimination match in which United was beaten and relegated to senior reserve. Obviously determined not to stay out of the senior grade for more than one season. United fielded a strong team on Saturday and gave North Unwood its surprising defeat, by « matches to I. At the Christmas parnr of the North Unwood club on Saturday evening there were some wry comments about the trophy which has had a permanent position on the wall of the dub’s pavilion tor five seasons. Making a considerable diSer-

encs to the United team was A. L. BiackweM, a former Canterbury champion and top man in the province several times. At third he won bis singles over B. Partridge with the loss of only one game. One North Linwood player asked where was B. G. Pattinson and Ms remark may not have been far short of reality. United probably would have played PatUnson if he had been available. Senior Beserve.—United beat North Linwood by 4 matches to 1; North Unwood H beat Opawa by 4 matches to 2; Fendalton beat Shirley by 5 matches to 1; Barrington beat Avonside by 4 matches to 2. Second Men.—Shirley beat North Unwood by 4 matches to 2; St. Albans beat Biccarton Domain by 4 matches to 2; Unwood Avenue beat United by 4 matches to 0. Pint Grade.—Cashmere beat Opawa by 13 matches to 3; Beckenham beat Avonside by » matches to 7; Spreydon beat New Brighton by » matches to 7; Fendalton beat Elmwood by 11 matches to 5. Second Grade.—Edgeware beat Opawa by 13 matches to 3; St. Mary’s beat Spreydon by 11 matches to 5; Avonside beat SMrley by 9 matches to 7.