It was fitting that in its 40th year the Prep Schools Competition attracted a record number of pairs from a record number of schools. We warmly welcomed pairs from Kingsland Grange, Oakham and Aldenham, all new to the competition. 40 pairs in all took part, from 11 different schools. Many thanks are due to those in charge of fives at their several schools for their enthusiasm and commitment to the game.

Highgate proved to be as strong as ever with their four pairs all cruising into the knock out stages of the competition. They were joined by two pairs from Berkhamsted and one each from Ludgrove and Summer Fields. In the semi finals Highgate I comfortably dispatched Highgate 3, while Highgate 2 summarily put Ludgrove I to the sword. The final was of a high standard with some long rallies being fought out in a positive and attacking manner. Excellent volleying from mid court and accurate play from the back, ensured that the Highgate 1st pair prevailed. Many congratulations are due to Max Abbott and Aroop Bhattacharya, the worthy winners.

In the Jeremy Marston Plate many closely fought games were witnessed. Enthusiasm was high with a wide spread of schools reaching the quarter finals. Ultimately the competition was won by Summer Fields I, an Under 12 pair, who defeated Ludgrove 2 in the final.

2008 sees the competition back at Harrow. We look forward to another vibrant fives day next March.

Results

Semi-Finals:
Highgate I beat Highgate III
12-9, 12-5
Highgate II beat Ludgrove I
12-1, 12-0

Final:
Highate I beat Highgate II
12-9, 12-3
Winners M Abbott & A Bhattacharya

Jeremy Marston Plate Competition
Final:
Summer Fields I beat Ludgrove II
12-7, 12-0
Winners F J B Fairhead & M J B Koe

Quarter-Finals Competition
Final:
Highgate IV beat Summer Fields II
12-9, 12-5
Winners T Johnson & F Mills

G.W.P.B.

Preparatory Schools Tournament Report by Gerald Barber
Finalised 17th June 2007 by Mike Fenn
efa@etonfives.co.uk

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