Lauder Dominates Galashiels Squash Club Handicap Quaich Finals

Lauder Dominates Galashiels Squash Club Handicap Quaich Finals

After multiple delays due to injuries and holidays, the much-anticipated Finals of the Galashiels Squash Club Handicap Quaich 2024 finally took place. With members hailing from all over the Borders, this year’s finalists represented Peebles, Lauder, and Melrose, adding to the competitive spirit of the tournament.

The Handicap Quaich Final saw Pat Spence of Peebles face off against Lauder’s Stevie Aitchison. Aitchison started with a 6-point advantage, with Spence beginning at -2 and Aitchison at +4. Spence, a seasoned player at the club and previous winner of the Alex Docherty Memorial Shield in 2022, was up against Aitchison, a relative newcomer who joined in November 2023 and was making his debut in a club final.

As the match commenced, Spence struggled to find his rhythm, likely affected by a recent month-long trip abroad. Aitchison capitalized on this, reaching nine points before Spence managed to even out his initial handicap. Despite Spence’s attempts to claw back the deficit with deceptive shots, Aitchison secured the first game 15-11. The second game followed a similar pattern, with Spence uncharacteristically giving away cheap points, allowing Aitchison to claim it 15-8.

After a short break, Spence returned to the court looking more like the seasoned Border Reivers player that spectators had come to expect. He quickly neutralized the handicap at 2-2, using precise boasts and drop shots to keep the ball out of Aitchison’s reach, ultimately winning the third game 15-10.

With momentum shifting, the fourth game became an instant classic. Both players demonstrated exceptional control, opting for strategic drives rather than risky shots. Aitchison served for the match at 14-12, but Spence delivered a sensational return to level the game at 14-14, triggering the need for a two-point lead. In a gripping finale, Aitchison summoned extra energy to edge out Spence 18-16, clinching a 3-1 victory and his first club title.

Handicap Plate Final: Cooke Claims Victory for Lauder

Alongside the main event, the Handicap Plate Final featured early-round Quaich losers competing for redemption. Lauder’s Jerry Cooke squared off against Ted Lynch of Melrose, both making their first appearance in a club final. Cooke entered the match with a 4-point handicap advantage.

Cooke started aggressively, unleashing accurate and powerful shots that Lynch matched point for point. However, Cooke’s precision proved decisive as he claimed the first game 16-14. In the second game, Cooke’s relentless energy and strategic lobs kept Lynch on the defensive, securing him a 15-8 win.

Determined to stage a comeback, Lynch adapted in the third game, countering Cooke’s lobs effectively and sending him scrambling across the court. Lynch’s newfound strategy paid off as he claimed the third 15-10.

With both players visibly fatigued in the fourth game, Cooke remained the hungrier competitor. As he served for the match at 14-12, a crucial error saw him serve down, momentarily giving Lynch a lifeline. However, after a brief rally, Cooke executed a brilliant cross-court drop shot beyond Lynch’s reach, sealing his first club trophy and securing a double triumph for Lauder on the night.

The 2024 Galashiels Squash Club Handicap Quaich Finals showcased intense competition, remarkable sportsmanship, and thrilling performances. With fresh talents emerging and seasoned players proving their mettle, the club looks forward to another exciting season ahead.

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