Theron's men survive cold in Poole

GUERNSEY has recorded its first win in Division One of the Kia National Club League. Captain Pieter Theron had forecast that victory over East Dorset would be vital for the island side's chances of survival at this level.

The opposition looked to be one of the weaker sides they would face and so it proved, as Guernsey won 5-1, despite having to play outdoors on artificial grass.

'We played in cold and blustery conditions and the surface did not make it conducive to attractive tennis,' said Theron.

'It was hard work to get the blood flowing and the nerves were tingling just a little extra because this was a must-win match for us.'

The only defeat of the six rubbers came in the doubles. Rob West and Theron won their singles matches in straight sets and Dom McLuskey and Pat Ogier came through in three sets.

Both McLuskey and Ogier lost their first set but battled back. Ogier's first tie at this level was an iron-willed, two-and-a-half-hour epic against an unorthodox and experienced opponent.

'Pat used his mental strength, pure guts and fitness to change the match around,' said Theron.

The captain added that his own match was a yardstick for this level of competition, with some gamesmanship and interesting tactics from his opponent.

'We all played to our potential, hence the win,' said Theron. 'Compared to our previous match, where we lost two tough three-set matches, this time we won all the three-setters.

'This shows us that we can compete at this level, but it also reflects how close the competition is in this league.'