Our village croquet team have won their national trophy play-off!
Mid-October, on a still autumnal Wednesday morning, and there were fresh white lines and six white hoops plus a centre peg carefully measured into position on each of the two lovingly manicured courts. Coloured flags adorned each corner of both courts and a heavy dew enhanced what was already a beautiful setting for a hugely prestigious play-off final.
Eynsham won through to this final by finishing as champions of the northern section of their doubles league, fending off serious competition. Their opponents, Test Valley, had travelled from some way south of us for the big match.
The Eynsham team on the day comprised four members, although a total of eight players had represented the club in the previous league matches. By lunchtime pairs Neil and David, and Tony and Chris had scored an unassailable 4-0 lead, which was increased to 8-0 in the afternoon matches. Eynsham Croquet Club was crowned Champion of Champions!
Tony Newport and the Team