Within tennis we have become accustomed to the sporting siblings, the William sisters, the Bryan brothers and the Murray brothers, and there now could be another edition. However there are three of them; Emily, Amy and Beth help make up ‘team Askew’ and more importantly they are young British and extremely talented.
It is not sure that they will all make it in the senior game at this stage however they are making an impression on the county scene already, helping the Lancashire Ladies Team secure the Winter County Cup for only the second time in their history. That side was nicknamed ‘Team Askew’, as they tore apart the rest of the competition last weekend, with the help of the three sisters.
The team of sisters look destined to power on through the amateur game and into professional tennis. At the ages of 16, 15 and 13 and having already made appearances for their County and even Great Britain, it promises great things.
The girls were made in Liverpool but their tennis trade was bred in Lancashire at the highly regarded South Ribble Tennis and Fitness Centre in Preston (Click for Map). They have played at many clubs across the North West but this seems to be establishing itself as their home. Head Coach at the club Brendan McGuire believes they are at the right club, saying: “it is one of the best tennis clubs in the country. It’s been consistent in its performance. Top coaches, good friendly environment, so as far as centre’s go I would put it up there with the best.”
Support has come from the LTA to fund their programs. Demonstrating the LTA’s confidence and belief in the three girls, who are coached by different coaches within the club. Emily Askew is coached by Jane O’Donoghue, who featured at Wimbledon as a player, while Amy is coached by Danielle Hock, who is an experienced member of Lancashire Ladies team. The only player directly coached by head coach Brendan McGuire is the youngest Beth Askew, and is possibly the likeliest out of the three to make a big impression within the game.
However without tremendous support from their loving parent they may not even have a future within the game. It takes thousands of pounds to develop a winning player from age 5 to age 18 and a majority of the cash comes out of the parents pockets. But both Joanne and Cliff Askew have work tirelessly to get them were they are now and don’t look to be holding back. Coach Brendan McGuire said that especially the father, Cliff, has had the magic formula from the word go, as he takes a lot of time out to help find out what is best for his girls to be the best they can be.
I spoke to Brendan McGuire to find out what his view is on each of the girls.
Through this interview it has become clear that Beth Askew looks to on her way to the very top, perhaps following the footsteps of fellow Brit Laura Robson, who has made rapid rise in the professional game. Beth is ahead of her years, “exceptional for her age. I haven’t met a 13 year old talent who can hit a ball like Beth. She reads the game particularly well, she’s a special talent”: said the proud Coach.
Even though Beth has been singled out as the great hope of Lancashire and British Tennis, it is still possible to have all three together at the top. Emily like Brendan said needs to compete more and gain confidence from winning, as she no doubt has the ability. While Amy has already had success with the Great British Junior Fed Cup team and individually, winning National Championships, so if she can stay away from the injuries that are hindering her at the moment, then it is possible that the Tennis world will be hearing a lot more about ‘team Askew’.
By Geoff Berkeley
Sunday 7 December 2008
Askew sisters inspire Lancashire Ladies to victory
Lancashire Ladies County Tennis side captured their first Winter County Cup in over 15 years. 
Nicknamed ‘Team Askew’ due to the inclusion of the three Askew sisters; Emily, Amy and Beth, all helped contribute to what was a phenomenal performance by the North West County.
The Winter County Cup is widely regarded within the amateur county game as the pinnacle. However the Lancashire Ladies swept aside all competition in the Group 1 Premier Division including Buckinghamshire, Nottinghamshire and their fiercest rivals Warwickshire, to lift their second major trophy in the last two years. This victory followed up their Summer County Cup win last year, which was their first ever summer event win in their 112 year history.
Captain Rachael Hyland was delighted with the sides display, she said: “I am ecstatic about the win. Considering until the end of 2006 we had only won one major event in 100 years, so in two years we have trebled our trophy cabinet. It’s fantastic”.
View Larger Map
The indoor courts of The University of Bath Tennis Club took stage to what was a tremendous competition set over last weekend. The first match began with a titanic battle between Lancashire and Warwickshire, who were considered the team to beat in this group, having previous won the last two Winter County Cup’s. However Lancashire stepped up to the challenge with vaguer and destroyed them. Beth Askew and Anjoli Fraser kicked off the tournament with a tight match. Beth began nervously in her first appearance, losing the first set 6-0, which is then where an experienced word of confidence from the captain helped lift her performance. Beth eventually rolled over her opponent in three sets, 0-6, 6-0, 6-4. From that moment on Lancashire took apart what was a strong side, winning all three doubles to secure a 7-2 victory. Rachael Hyland exclaimed: “This was an outstanding result against what are a tough side, especially in the doubles.”
Lancashire Ladies then turned on the style in their next match crushing their weakest competition Nottingham 9-0. Then on the final day they secured the title with a 7-2 triumph over Buckinghamshire to cap off a brilliant weekend.
Lancashire Ladies Results
Beat Warwickshire 7-2
Beat Nottinghamshire 9-0
Beat Buckinghamshire 7-2
Final Table
Group 1 - BATH
1.Lancashire 21pts
2.Warwickshire 15pts
3.Buckinghamshire 11pts
4.Nottinghamshire 3pts
The team has caused great hope within the Lancashire Tennis, especially due to the inclusion of three exciting young sisters. The Askew sisters are made up of Emily the eldest at 16, Amy at 14 and the youngest Beth at 13. And it was Beth that in some ways was a surprised selection considering her lower rating. However the Captain dismissed that the inclusion of Beth was down to sentimental reasons, saying: “As a captain I have to look at who is potentially the better player regardless of the ratings. I didn’t pick her for sentimental reasons because she is young and a prospect. I picked her because I want to win, and she did win.”
Skipper Rachael Hyland, aged 32 of Abbley Bridge, Lancashire has been a key part of the team’s success since taking over the captaincy post at the beginning of 2007. She has brought success to a county, who had previously been known for their near misses. While she has been part of those teams, during her 20 years with the county, she has also been part of a successful one. As she happened to be part of the Lancashire County side that last won the Winter County Cup in 1992, in what was her first appearance. This experience seemed to help inspire the side to a masterful display.
The victory in this weekend’s Winter County Cup in the style and manner they did it in (only losing just four rubbers) demonstrated the fact that Lancashire are the top side in the country. “We do not have as good a record as say a Surrey or a Warwickshire, who have won these events plenty of times. But after winning the way we did, I would say we are definitely in the top three, maybe even No.1”: beckoned a very proud captain.
By Geoff Berkeley
Nicknamed ‘Team Askew’ due to the inclusion of the three Askew sisters; Emily, Amy and Beth, all helped contribute to what was a phenomenal performance by the North West County.
The Winter County Cup is widely regarded within the amateur county game as the pinnacle. However the Lancashire Ladies swept aside all competition in the Group 1 Premier Division including Buckinghamshire, Nottinghamshire and their fiercest rivals Warwickshire, to lift their second major trophy in the last two years. This victory followed up their Summer County Cup win last year, which was their first ever summer event win in their 112 year history.
Captain Rachael Hyland was delighted with the sides display, she said: “I am ecstatic about the win. Considering until the end of 2006 we had only won one major event in 100 years, so in two years we have trebled our trophy cabinet. It’s fantastic”.
View Larger Map
The indoor courts of The University of Bath Tennis Club took stage to what was a tremendous competition set over last weekend. The first match began with a titanic battle between Lancashire and Warwickshire, who were considered the team to beat in this group, having previous won the last two Winter County Cup’s. However Lancashire stepped up to the challenge with vaguer and destroyed them. Beth Askew and Anjoli Fraser kicked off the tournament with a tight match. Beth began nervously in her first appearance, losing the first set 6-0, which is then where an experienced word of confidence from the captain helped lift her performance. Beth eventually rolled over her opponent in three sets, 0-6, 6-0, 6-4. From that moment on Lancashire took apart what was a strong side, winning all three doubles to secure a 7-2 victory. Rachael Hyland exclaimed: “This was an outstanding result against what are a tough side, especially in the doubles.”
Lancashire Ladies then turned on the style in their next match crushing their weakest competition Nottingham 9-0. Then on the final day they secured the title with a 7-2 triumph over Buckinghamshire to cap off a brilliant weekend.
Lancashire Ladies Results
Beat Warwickshire 7-2
Beat Nottinghamshire 9-0
Beat Buckinghamshire 7-2
Final Table
Group 1 - BATH
1.Lancashire 21pts
2.Warwickshire 15pts
3.Buckinghamshire 11pts
4.Nottinghamshire 3pts
The team has caused great hope within the Lancashire Tennis, especially due to the inclusion of three exciting young sisters. The Askew sisters are made up of Emily the eldest at 16, Amy at 14 and the youngest Beth at 13. And it was Beth that in some ways was a surprised selection considering her lower rating. However the Captain dismissed that the inclusion of Beth was down to sentimental reasons, saying: “As a captain I have to look at who is potentially the better player regardless of the ratings. I didn’t pick her for sentimental reasons because she is young and a prospect. I picked her because I want to win, and she did win.”
Skipper Rachael Hyland, aged 32 of Abbley Bridge, Lancashire has been a key part of the team’s success since taking over the captaincy post at the beginning of 2007. She has brought success to a county, who had previously been known for their near misses. While she has been part of those teams, during her 20 years with the county, she has also been part of a successful one. As she happened to be part of the Lancashire County side that last won the Winter County Cup in 1992, in what was her first appearance. This experience seemed to help inspire the side to a masterful display.
The victory in this weekend’s Winter County Cup in the style and manner they did it in (only losing just four rubbers) demonstrated the fact that Lancashire are the top side in the country. “We do not have as good a record as say a Surrey or a Warwickshire, who have won these events plenty of times. But after winning the way we did, I would say we are definitely in the top three, maybe even No.1”: beckoned a very proud captain.
By Geoff Berkeley
Wednesday 12 November 2008
Tuesday 11 November 2008
Is Andy Murray a good role model for children to aspire to?
In Andy Murray's Autobiography 'Hitting Back', Murray states of his disappointment in the British game and the mentality of the British players.
"There is something wrong with the mentality and work ethic of most of the British players," Murray writes. "There doesn’t seem to be anyone who's brutally honest about it either. I think the best way is to confront it, especially when it has been so bad for so long. Someone in authority at British tennis should come out and say: 'Look we're doing really badly. We're not good enough. We must make some changes'."
However could it be Murray that is not representing himself as a good enough role model for young tennis players to aspire to.
I spoke to players young and old at a local Tennis club in Preston to find out what they thought of Murray.
Friday 31 October 2008
Nalbandian defeats Murray in Paris
Andy Murray’s 14 match winning streak came to an end by defending champion David Nalbandian. The Argentine played some sublime Tennis to knock out the world no.4 in straight sets 7-6, 6-3.
Murray went into the match in incredible form and was arguably the most feared man on the circuit winning Cincinnati, Madrid and St Petersburg in succession.
This match though demonstrated that perhaps the amount of Tennis and travelling he has had to endure was all getting a bit too much for the Scot, who looked jaded at times. His first serve let him down throughout and he struggled to dominate at the back against a man who he had not played since losing to him at Wimbledon in 2005.
The rejuvenated Nalbandian always plays his best on the indoor courts and he defiantly was the aggressor in this quarter final dual. The first set was tightly contested with both players breaking serve, but the World No.11 battled through in the tie break taking it 7-3. After losing the first set Murray could not keep his game together as he became increasingly frustrated. Nalbandian then broke early in the second set as he began to play some exquisite Tennis, the type of Tennis that saw him reach world No.3 in 2006. Murray also showed glimpses of the player that won the previous two master series title, with an incredible sliced forehand cross court shot to break back immediately at 2-2. However Murray could not maintain his A game for long periods and the Argentine exploited this going on to win the match 6-3 in the second set.
Pulled Out
David Nalbandian will now take on Russian Nikolay Davydenko after he knocked out Rafael Nadal who retired hurt. The world No.1 received extensive treatment on court with a knee injury and after battling through the first set losing 6-1, he felt it best to retire and rest for the upcoming Masters Cup in a fortnight.
Another surprise came in the other half of the draw as Roger Federer pulled out of his match against James Blake, with a back injury. This will please the American who is a step closer to clinch a place in Shanghai. James Blake will play Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, knowing that a win will secure him a place in the Masters Cup. Tsonga also has the chance of qualify after defeating Andy Roddick from a set down in an enthralling match, winning 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7-5)'
Quarter Final Results:
[6] N Davydenko (RUS) d [1] R Nadal (ESP) 6-1 ret. (knee)[11] J Blake (USA) d [2] R Federer (SUI) W/O (back)[8] D Nalbandian (ARG) d [4] A Murray (GBR) 7-6(3), 6-3[13] J Tsonga (FRA) d [7] A Roddick (USA) 5-7, 6-4, 7-6(5)
Semi Final Draw
(6) Nikolay Davydenko v (8) David Nalbandian
(13) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga v (11) James Blake
THE RACE FOR SHANGHAI
1. *Nadal (1335pts)
2. *Federer (1041pts)
3. *Djokovic (929pts)
4. *Murray (684pts)
5. *Daveydenko (463pts)
6. *Roddick (394pts)
7. Del Potro (369pts) – Will qualify if Davedenko or Nalbandian becomes champion.
8. Simon (356pts) – Cannot qualify as either Blake or Tsonga will reach the final.
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9. Blake (355pts) – Will qualify if he defeats Tsonga
10. Ferrer (339pts) – Cannot Qualify
11. Tsonga (335pts) – Will qualify if he defeats Blake
12. Nalbandian (320pts) – Will only qualify if he becomes champion
*= Qualified for Shanghai
Bold = Still competing in the Paris Masters Series event.
Thursday 30 October 2008
Murray’s streak keeps on rolling in Paris
The seemingly unstoppable Scot secured a place in the quarter finals of the Paris Masters today after a straight sets victory over Spaniard Fernando Vedasco. The Britain’s streak has now increased to 14 wins after championing in Madrid and last week in St Petersburg.The world No.4 will now face a difficult test tomorrow against defending champion David Nalbandain. The Argentine is desperate to make up one of the now two remaining places for the year ending Masters Cup. His victory over current world No.7 Juan Del Potro, will now put Nalbandian in a good position to sneak into the top eight, as his fellow countryman's place looks increasingly vulnerable.
Other News
Andy Roddick defeated Giles Simon 6-3, 7-5 to become the sixth player to guarantee a place in Shanghai. The Frenchman could not maintain his good form which took him to the final of Madrid and will now has to rely on results going his way to be able to still book a trip to China, as he currently lies in an uncomfortable eighth in the 2008 ATP Race for Shanghai. With Simon falling, it has left an opportunity for world No.10 James Blake to capture one of the two remaining positions. The American’s victory over Phillip Kohlshreiber has though set up a tricky tie against Roger Federer.
The shock of the day came when Jo Wilfred Tsonga defeated the world No.3 Novak Djokovic in a thrilling three set match, winning 6-4, 1-6, 6-3. Tsonga demonstrated the type of aggressive Tennis which saw him reach the Australian Open final. The other top seeds though came through unscaved, including Davydenko who crushed Berdych 6-1,6-1, also Federer dispatched the young and upcoming Croat Marian Cilic 6-3, 6-4, while the world No.1 Rafael Nadal booked his place in the last eight with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Gail Monfils.
THIRD ROUND RESULTS
[1] R Nadal (ESP) d [16] G Monfils (FRA) 6-3, 6-2; [2] R Federer (SUI) d M Cilic (CRO) 6-3, 6-4; [13] J Tsonga (FRA) d [3] N Djokovic (SRB) 6-4, 1-6, 6-3; [4] A Murray (GBR) d [15] F Verdasco (ESP) 6-3, 7-6(6); [6] N Davydenko (RUS) d T Berdych (CZE) 6-1, 6-1; [7] A Roddick (USA) d [10] G Simon (FRA) 6-3, 7-5; [8] D Nalbandian (ARG) d [9] J del Potro (ARG) 6-4, 6-0;[11] J Blake (USA) d P Kohlschreiber (GER) 6-4, 6-4
TOMORROWS QUARTER FINAL DRAW
(4)Andy Murray vs. (8) David Nalbandian
(1)Rafeal Nadal vs. (6)Nikolay Davydenko
(11)James Blake vs. (2) Roger Federer
(7)Andy Roddick vs. (13)Jo-Wilfried Tsonga
Wednesday 22 October 2008
Murray is a potential World No.1 after Madrid Master's Series Win
I agree with Harry Cicma’s comment on his blog Tennis Talk about Murray becoming a potential world number One. This statement comes after Murray managed to follow up his win in Cincinnati with another Master's Series in Madrid this week, demonstrating his ability to remain consistent at the top of his game.
image by tallgareth
Final: Andy Murray defeating Gilles Simon 6-4 7-6(8-6) Watch Final Highlights
Murray’s route to the final
Semi Final: bt Roger Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5
Quarter Final: bt Gael Monfils 6-2, 6-2
3rd Round: bt Marin Cilic 7-5, 7-6 (7-2)
2nd Round: bt Simone Bolelli 6-0, 2-1 retired
1st Round: Bye
View Completed Draw
After watching Andy Murray’s brilliant performances in recent week’s I have also been considering the possibility of Murray being a future world No.1. He undoubtedly has the talent to be at the top whilst having the versatility to play on all surfaces.
At the moment I would rank Murray as the top hard court player in the world, considering his performances in Cincinnati, the US Open and now in Madrid. While Andy Murray’s grass court game is getting better year by year, as his serve is becoming an ever increasing weapon. Clay though has been the Brit’s weaker surface. However a straight sets victory over clay court specialist Jose Acasuso in this year’s Roland Garros, demonstrated that he has the game to challenge for titles on clay. Murray has also now brought in coach Alex Corretja into his ever expanding team. Corretja was once a French Open finalists and is a very experienced clay court player, so with his help we should start seeing an upward curve in Andy’s performances on the red clay.
To be one number one though you have to be winning slam titles and I am sure sooner rather than later Murray will claim he first slam. That slam may even come as soon as next year’s Australian Open in January if he carries on his good form.
‘Musical Chairs’
Harry Cicma also stated that he believed in the next few years we will see ‘musical chairs’ with Federer, Murray, Nadal and Djokovic, trading the No.1 spot. The musical chair effect he suggests is particularly plausible taking into account the year we’ve had: Beginning with the Austrialian Open, which saw the emergence of Novak Djokovic to the elite, as he claimed his first slam title. Then Rafael Nadal dominated by winning the French open title once again and then Wimbledon, defeating Roger Federer in what was arguably the greatest match of all time. Nadal then went on to replace Roger as world number one. However after losing the No.1 spot Roger Federer bounced back, defying all who doubted the great man by winning his fifth US Open title and 13th slam. While in recent months we have seen Andy Murray come of age and become the most feared man on the ATP tour at the moment. This accolade comes after winning back to back ATP Master’s series events and also reaching his first slam final in this year’s US Open.
In conclusion, this year has demonstrated the closeness of these top four players and I am pretty certain there will be a few chopping and changing in 2009. It is going to be an exciting few years ahead for men’s tennis that’s for sure.
By Geoff Berkeley
image by tallgarethMadrid Master Series Result
Final: Andy Murray defeating Gilles Simon 6-4 7-6(8-6) Watch Final Highlights
Murray’s route to the final
Semi Final: bt Roger Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5
Quarter Final: bt Gael Monfils 6-2, 6-2
3rd Round: bt Marin Cilic 7-5, 7-6 (7-2)
2nd Round: bt Simone Bolelli 6-0, 2-1 retired
1st Round: Bye
View Completed Draw
After watching Andy Murray’s brilliant performances in recent week’s I have also been considering the possibility of Murray being a future world No.1. He undoubtedly has the talent to be at the top whilst having the versatility to play on all surfaces.
At the moment I would rank Murray as the top hard court player in the world, considering his performances in Cincinnati, the US Open and now in Madrid. While Andy Murray’s grass court game is getting better year by year, as his serve is becoming an ever increasing weapon. Clay though has been the Brit’s weaker surface. However a straight sets victory over clay court specialist Jose Acasuso in this year’s Roland Garros, demonstrated that he has the game to challenge for titles on clay. Murray has also now brought in coach Alex Corretja into his ever expanding team. Corretja was once a French Open finalists and is a very experienced clay court player, so with his help we should start seeing an upward curve in Andy’s performances on the red clay.
To be one number one though you have to be winning slam titles and I am sure sooner rather than later Murray will claim he first slam. That slam may even come as soon as next year’s Australian Open in January if he carries on his good form.
‘Musical Chairs’
Harry Cicma also stated that he believed in the next few years we will see ‘musical chairs’ with Federer, Murray, Nadal and Djokovic, trading the No.1 spot. The musical chair effect he suggests is particularly plausible taking into account the year we’ve had: Beginning with the Austrialian Open, which saw the emergence of Novak Djokovic to the elite, as he claimed his first slam title. Then Rafael Nadal dominated by winning the French open title once again and then Wimbledon, defeating Roger Federer in what was arguably the greatest match of all time. Nadal then went on to replace Roger as world number one. However after losing the No.1 spot Roger Federer bounced back, defying all who doubted the great man by winning his fifth US Open title and 13th slam. While in recent months we have seen Andy Murray come of age and become the most feared man on the ATP tour at the moment. This accolade comes after winning back to back ATP Master’s series events and also reaching his first slam final in this year’s US Open.
In conclusion, this year has demonstrated the closeness of these top four players and I am pretty certain there will be a few chopping and changing in 2009. It is going to be an exciting few years ahead for men’s tennis that’s for sure.
By Geoff Berkeley
Tuesday 14 October 2008
Preview to the Madrid ATP Masters Series
View The Madrid ATP Master Series Draw
The season is fast approaching its end and there are plenty of positions still to be decided.
The Mutua Madrilena Madrid Masters is the penultimate ATP Masters series event with Paris following later this month. All these events are leading up to who will be participating in the final tournament in China with only the world’s top eight eligible to play.
By Geoff Berkeley
The season is fast approaching its end and there are plenty of positions still to be decided.
The Mutua Madrilena Madrid Masters is the penultimate ATP Masters series event with Paris following later this month. All these events are leading up to who will be participating in the final tournament in China with only the world’s top eight eligible to play.
STANDINGS FROM THE WEEK COMMENCING 13/10/08:
1.Rafael Nadal (1265pts)
2.Roger Federer (921pts)
3.Novak Djokavic (899pts)
4.Andy Murray (520pts)
5.Nikolay Davydenko (417pts)
6.Andy Roddick (354pts)
7.David Ferrer (337pts)
8.Juan Martin Del Potro (312pts)
THE RACING PACK:
9. James Blake (309pts)
10.Stanislas Wawrinka (286pts)
11.Fernando Gonzalez (283pts
12.Gilles Simon (261pts)
Rafael Nadal goes into his first ATP Masters Series as world number one in his homeland, however it is still undecided whether he will finish the year at the top with Federer chasing him down, desperate to retain the crown once again. However while Roger is still tussling with Rafa, Novak Djokovic is only just behind in third and if results go Novak's way he could then claim a career high second place when overtaking Federer. While the Cincinnati Masters winner Andy Murray is in good form and another win here would put pressure on the Serb, who he is looking to catch.
The draw is unkind for Rafa who has talented Latvian Ernest Gulbis and Stan Wawrinka who is very much in the race for a top eight place and also he could meet rival Djokovic in the semi finals, which has always been a difficult match for him. While Roger seems to have the easier draw with only defending champion Nalbandian or in form Del Potro as potential quarter final opponents. Andy Murray has probably the best path to the semi finals out of the top four seeds, as the Briton will be hoping for back to back series win.
The racing pack will be hoping for good performances this week, such as Gonzalez, who possibly faces a difficult test again world number six Andy Roddick in the second round. While James Blake and Gilles Simon will be likely opponents in the second round, which will be an interesting match-up, with both players desperate to gain those vital points to play in the desirable Shanghai Masters Cup event in November.
By Geoff Berkeley
Monday 6 October 2008
Will Jankovic now make the No.1 spot her own?
With Jelena’s win in Stuttgart backing up her win in China a week earlier, she will now take on the role as women’s world number one. This form has now begged the question: Is Jankovic the long term answer as the No.1 women’s player?
The women’s game is in desperate disorder at the moment in its search for a figure head, after Justine Henin's shock departure from the game last May. Many players have touched the summit, including; Maria Sharapova, Ana Ivanovic and recently Serena Williams, however none have been able to grasp it. Jelena Jankovic will now regain the responsibility of the women’s game once again after a brief spell at the top before the US Open.
There have been many twists in this year’s race for No.1 after Justine Henin’s dominance came to an abrupt end as she retired with immediate effect in the spring, much to the shock of the sporting world. Then suddenly the limelight was on Maria Sharapova who stepped into the role. At the beginning of the year she looked to be back to her sublime best winning in the Melbourne sunshine to claim her third slam of her career. However a niggling shoulder injury hindered her game for the rest of the season and now lies sixth in the race. Next it was Ana Ivanovic’s turn to capture the world and not just in a tennis sense. She has the looks, the personality, the game and the winning mentality to become the WTA’s saviour. And after winning the French in style all was looking rosy for the Serb as number one, although perhaps the pressure and the attention began getting to Ana, as she suddenly started hitting bad form, being dumped out of the early stages of both Wimbledon and the US Open. The next half of the year saw the resurgent’s of the Williams sisters who got back to their powerful best, sweeping aside any challengers at Wimbledon to face each other in the final. But even though Venus got on top that time it was Serena who began to look as if she could begin dominating again winning the US Open and looking in good shape. However in the midst of all this chopping and changing, it may be the consistent Jelena Jankovic who will finish top of the class at the end of 2008. She has somewhat been the dark horse in this race, as she has quietly gone about her business, with solid performances in all the slams, whilst picking up many tour titles along the way, demonstrating that she is very much a strong contender for No.1.
Jankovic has undoubtedly got the ability to hold the top spot; the problem is that unlike Maria, Ana and Serena she has not yet got her name on a slam title. This has been her downfall in her young career, but having reached the semi finals in three out of the fours slams and recently got to her first final in this year’s US Open, the Serbian nation and the tennis world are sure that it will not be long until she captures that allusive slam.
Her performances in recent weeks have not just given her a flash red Porsche after winning the Stuttgart Porsche Grand Prix but also given her an edge in the WTA rankings with over a 600 points advantage over nearest rival Serena Williams. And now with Serena pulling out of next week’s Kremlin Cup in Moscow with an ankle injury there is a serious opportunity for Jelena to drive on even further and make the number one spot her own.
By Geoff Berkeley
The women’s game is in desperate disorder at the moment in its search for a figure head, after Justine Henin's shock departure from the game last May. Many players have touched the summit, including; Maria Sharapova, Ana Ivanovic and recently Serena Williams, however none have been able to grasp it. Jelena Jankovic will now regain the responsibility of the women’s game once again after a brief spell at the top before the US Open.
There have been many twists in this year’s race for No.1 after Justine Henin’s dominance came to an abrupt end as she retired with immediate effect in the spring, much to the shock of the sporting world. Then suddenly the limelight was on Maria Sharapova who stepped into the role. At the beginning of the year she looked to be back to her sublime best winning in the Melbourne sunshine to claim her third slam of her career. However a niggling shoulder injury hindered her game for the rest of the season and now lies sixth in the race. Next it was Ana Ivanovic’s turn to capture the world and not just in a tennis sense. She has the looks, the personality, the game and the winning mentality to become the WTA’s saviour. And after winning the French in style all was looking rosy for the Serb as number one, although perhaps the pressure and the attention began getting to Ana, as she suddenly started hitting bad form, being dumped out of the early stages of both Wimbledon and the US Open. The next half of the year saw the resurgent’s of the Williams sisters who got back to their powerful best, sweeping aside any challengers at Wimbledon to face each other in the final. But even though Venus got on top that time it was Serena who began to look as if she could begin dominating again winning the US Open and looking in good shape. However in the midst of all this chopping and changing, it may be the consistent Jelena Jankovic who will finish top of the class at the end of 2008. She has somewhat been the dark horse in this race, as she has quietly gone about her business, with solid performances in all the slams, whilst picking up many tour titles along the way, demonstrating that she is very much a strong contender for No.1.
Jankovic has undoubtedly got the ability to hold the top spot; the problem is that unlike Maria, Ana and Serena she has not yet got her name on a slam title. This has been her downfall in her young career, but having reached the semi finals in three out of the fours slams and recently got to her first final in this year’s US Open, the Serbian nation and the tennis world are sure that it will not be long until she captures that allusive slam.
Her performances in recent weeks have not just given her a flash red Porsche after winning the Stuttgart Porsche Grand Prix but also given her an edge in the WTA rankings with over a 600 points advantage over nearest rival Serena Williams. And now with Serena pulling out of next week’s Kremlin Cup in Moscow with an ankle injury there is a serious opportunity for Jelena to drive on even further and make the number one spot her own.
By Geoff Berkeley
Monday 29 September 2008
Sedgley Tigers RUFC v Coventry RUFC
A late Tom Slater try saved the blue and white’s blushes with a 30-27 win over Sedgley Tigers on Saturday.
This win will give the team a vital boost going into a tough few weeks ahead, playing three of the top sides in the division in succession.
"It was a win gained in very dramatic style and it builds confidence which we have to take forward to the next game," said Head Coach Phil Maynard speaking to the Coventry Telegraph.
Coventry had to fight back after Sedgley Park took the initiative in the first half leading 14-9 at the break. A Tigers try was the difference in an even first 40 minutes, coming from a well worked move that was finished off by scrum half Chris Leck. Coventry’s Ronnie McLean kept them in the match with his boot however hitting the upright with an attempt that would have narrowed the deficit.
The north Manchester side then increased their lead to an eight point gap with a penalty by Matt Riley soon after the break. Coventry then began forcing the issue with ball in hand and they were rewarded a try after good work by McLean offloading to George Dixon who bustled his way to the line, McLean converting.
Sam Herrington then drove himself over to get his maiden try in a blue and white strip. The converted try put Coventry ahead 23-20, cancelling out the Tigers earlier penalty.
Then in the last ten minutes Sedgley looked to have taken the match with a converted try, as Pete Swatkins dived over in the corner.
However the Blue and White’s never gave in all game, and in overtime No. 8 Laurie McGlone burst through to set up Slater who sprinted under the post to snatch a vital win, much to the joy of the travelling supporters.
Maynard added: "It was poor, but you can only be as good as you're allowed to play and to be fair, Park stood up to be counted.
"At the end of the day, just to win here has to be a positive. We scrapped to the last play, and when you have got irrepressible players like young Tom and people like Laurie who will play to the end, you have always got a chance.”
Sedgley Park: tries Leck (26), Swatkins (71); conversion Riley (71); penalties Riley 5 (4, 13, 33, 42, 62).
Coventry: tries Dixon (49), Herrington (66), Slater (80); conversions McLean 3; penalties McLean 3 (12, 16, 19).
Sedgley Park: Riley; Swatkins, Hall, Tafa, Wilcock; Wilkinson, Leck; Gazzola (Evans 76), Roddam (Roberts 21), Du Plessis (Livesey 76), Fourie (Woods 64), Townson, Jones (Largan 80), Newton (Crous 59), Cook.
Coventry: Russell; McLean, Dixon, Winter (Montague 43), Parry; Dorrian, Slater; Whitehall, Whitehead (Pearl 51), Dugard, Herrington, Burgess, Venter, Clayton (Thomas 73), McGlone.
Referee: G Garner (RFU).
By Geoff Berkeley
This win will give the team a vital boost going into a tough few weeks ahead, playing three of the top sides in the division in succession.
"It was a win gained in very dramatic style and it builds confidence which we have to take forward to the next game," said Head Coach Phil Maynard speaking to the Coventry Telegraph.
Coventry had to fight back after Sedgley Park took the initiative in the first half leading 14-9 at the break. A Tigers try was the difference in an even first 40 minutes, coming from a well worked move that was finished off by scrum half Chris Leck. Coventry’s Ronnie McLean kept them in the match with his boot however hitting the upright with an attempt that would have narrowed the deficit.
The north Manchester side then increased their lead to an eight point gap with a penalty by Matt Riley soon after the break. Coventry then began forcing the issue with ball in hand and they were rewarded a try after good work by McLean offloading to George Dixon who bustled his way to the line, McLean converting.
Sam Herrington then drove himself over to get his maiden try in a blue and white strip. The converted try put Coventry ahead 23-20, cancelling out the Tigers earlier penalty.
Then in the last ten minutes Sedgley looked to have taken the match with a converted try, as Pete Swatkins dived over in the corner.
However the Blue and White’s never gave in all game, and in overtime No. 8 Laurie McGlone burst through to set up Slater who sprinted under the post to snatch a vital win, much to the joy of the travelling supporters.
Maynard added: "It was poor, but you can only be as good as you're allowed to play and to be fair, Park stood up to be counted.
"At the end of the day, just to win here has to be a positive. We scrapped to the last play, and when you have got irrepressible players like young Tom and people like Laurie who will play to the end, you have always got a chance.”
Sedgley Park: tries Leck (26), Swatkins (71); conversion Riley (71); penalties Riley 5 (4, 13, 33, 42, 62).
Coventry: tries Dixon (49), Herrington (66), Slater (80); conversions McLean 3; penalties McLean 3 (12, 16, 19).
Sedgley Park: Riley; Swatkins, Hall, Tafa, Wilcock; Wilkinson, Leck; Gazzola (Evans 76), Roddam (Roberts 21), Du Plessis (Livesey 76), Fourie (Woods 64), Townson, Jones (Largan 80), Newton (Crous 59), Cook.
Coventry: Russell; McLean, Dixon, Winter (Montague 43), Parry; Dorrian, Slater; Whitehall, Whitehead (Pearl 51), Dugard, Herrington, Burgess, Venter, Clayton (Thomas 73), McGlone.
Referee: G Garner (RFU).
By Geoff Berkeley
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