For the most part it was nice weather for the official opening of the tournament and it is not often that a No1 seed and defending champ gets to open up proceedings on Court 4 in the second round so early on but Shane fresh from his double Dundalk success served up another double tonight. This time in the scoreline sense. A tired Brian after his efforts the night before came to the net more often than he usually does to thwart the McAteer power but unfortunately it did not work. We shall all have to think of another tactic against our multiple champ! Maybe Brian should go back to the copious amounts of topspin! It was a night of one sided scorelines or as James O'Hare called it the "New York breakfast" as there were bagels all round. Malachy Senior seeded for the first time in a singles tournament showed no mercy to debutant Matthew Power. No7 seed Marty Keenan used his strong serve and deadly slice to great effect. He has the ability to make the ball slide away from the court when the slice skims through and he won 62 63 against the Club Secretary. Top Ulster Junior Ben Laverty had all the shots at his disposal to beat the canny Garreth Keenan. Gary Smith beat John Woods for the second year in a row and James "Yankee" O'Hare after the bagel remark had too much court nous for another welcome newbie Michael Reynolds.

 

 

We started the day with a Mixed Doubles with coach Tim & pupil Peggy versus regular Monday night social duo Dorothy & Alex. Peggy was on her way to a Wicklow retreat but this match was far from quiet as the first game alone lasted 10 minutes. The first set continued in that way with Peggy & Tim holding three set points at 5-4 but Dorothy saved one famously with a down the line shot. It would end up in a tiebreak with Alex dominating the net on the crucial points. In the second set it was still mighty close when Peggy felt her calf muscle at 4-3 up and had to pull out. Lets hope the calf is soothed by plenty of wine in Wicklow!

 

It was a welcome return after 4 years to 2015 Newry Open Plate winner Marek Charubin who faced Newry newcomer Chris Zak. It was a case of North v South Polska in an exciting tussle. Marek has a tremendous kick serve which wins him many free points whilst Chris produced a backspin slice that bounced once then went back onto the other side of the court! Marek showed his tournament experience 62 64. Welcome to the club Chris!

 

The next 2 matches were a case of seeded experience against youthful exuberance as both Tim Smith and Gerry Sweetman made serene progress against teenage juniors Harry McMahon and Daniel Boyle respectively. Harry had 2 female friends spectating and Pat asked if one was named Sally but the film reference from 1989 was not understood.

 

The day ended with 2 wily veterans showing their court craft as Kieran Campbell returned to the Mens Singles in this Open for the first time since 2013! It was a perfect comeback for him as he was too steady for the net rushing friend Nigel Bingham.

 

Eleven hours of play on a super Sunday which started with a heavy rain shower but we were soon under way with an anticipated Mixed Doubles. Husband and wife combo Kieran and Derval never play tournaments together and it has been that long that they could not tell me the last time but we were probably using our landlines phones it was that long ago. Anyway it was good to see them working in tandem against a scratch partnership Dolores and Nigel. As Newry has very few females I sent an email to Warrenpoint seeking ladies that could be paired up with Newry men for this tournament. Dolores just back from shoulder surgery was a welcome addition. So given the dilemma of pairing her up with an affable Newry player, who better than the topspin dependability of Nigel. The Campbells proved too strong at the net and progressed but we all hope to see Dolores back.

 

Old adversaries Gary and Alex who recently won the Rostrevor Plate together and faced each other in the Plate final last year were on the same court again. Alex had won that singles match last year and it was indeed he who played the more consistent tennis in set one serving out as Gary made a few errors 64. But the match soon turned around and Gary won a disputed second set 64. In the third Alex played a new style for him going for every shot hitting winners or losers. Gary goes forward to play Mal Senior. Not much of a reward.

 

The best match of the tournament so far was the Mixed Doubles with dynamic Dundalk duo Sile and Leo playing the new partnership of Mal Senior and Anne. It was a fast paced and exciting first set edged by our visitors 64. It was a similar story in reverse in the second set as Mal commanded the net and it was even again. In the final set Mal and Anne seemed to have the momentum and the upper hand playing smart tennis with lobs and solid net winners to coast out to a 4-1 lead. But Leo and Sile were far from done and came back to level it at 4 all and then led 6-5 before great play from Mal and Anne brought a tiebreak. By now Leo was roaring like a lion with his forecourt play and Sile producing some of the best lobs seen in the Mourne Mountains and took a significant early tiebreak lead and then holding two match points. But it was not over yet and it was 6-6 with the tension mounting. It was Leo and Sile who held their nerve in the next 2 points in closely fought net won points to win 8-6. A huge thumbs up to all four players. We want to see Anne play more in Newry whilst Leo and Sile were a joy to behold and have lit up this tournament with both their silky skills and engaging personality.

 

Club treasurer Kieran Campbell was playing his third match in 24 hours and before you have sympathy it was his own fault for being away on Friday lol. Kieran can talk an opponent into submission and even used Rocky jokes but nothing was going to move Stephen who was back in this tournament after a 3 year absence. He reached the semis in 2016 and so it was a long time to return to these relatively slow courts but he was soon into his classic style and moved Kieran around far too much for his liking, Stephen will be hard to beat. Thanks to him for bringing his supporters to the tournament today.

 

My own plate match was a cat and mouse affair as myself and Michael were trying not to make errors in the wind and sun, Michael was running down everything which made it difficult to hit through him. He has joined the club this year and has already made himself an integral part of the group so much so we cannot remember the club before he arrived! A first ever tournament and I hope Michael enjoyed it.

 

Andrew Byrne has been improving year by year and is now a regular semi finalist and contender for latter stages. Last seen in the Newry Closed on his way to a trip down under, Andrew was back to play the flashy Karate champ Neil McMahon. Neil has already won a doubles title and has been playing a short time. He was unfortunate to be playing on an extremely bruised and swollen ankle but did not let that bother him at all in a very tough first round. Andrew is one of the most consistent players and has added more and more to his game which proved too much for a scrambling Neil. Watch this space as both these guys will continue to improve but are already fantastic to watch.

 

This longest of tournament days ended with another sumptuous spectacle as two Newry tournament newbies played it has to be said a match of phenomenal rallies. Roy is often seen on the courts with his talented son Kaden but here he was playing a great new guy on the block. Valdas runs his own eating place but he certainly doesn't eat many chips as he is  as fit as a fiddle with his imposing serve. The first set was a mini classic and they were both evenly matched with Valdas squeaking it 86 in the tiebreak. A short rain delay enlivened Roy who came out swinging and started to dominate winning the second 62. In the final set Valdas who tells me he gave up gym time to play this match was hitting through the ball with deep intent and cut through Roy 62. It was the best Mens singles match so far so I hope both guys are here to stay.

 

James had nicknamed this Manic Monday, maybe more like Maniacal Monday or Mammoth Monday or Marvellous Monday but I might settle on Mega Monday.

 

The Smith Brothers started off the evening with a more defensive oriented Tim proving he knows these courts so well and did not go for as much as usual prompting errors from Marek who is more used to the low bouncing astro turf. It was a repeat match as Andrew Byrne put paid to Gary at this stage for the second year in a row.

 

Marty was in some of the best form of the tournament as he went for winners here, there and everywhere and utilising an array of shots. He coped with James first serve delivery which is strong. Marty is arguably the best player to watch at the club when on form. We are looking forward to an excellent QF with Tim. 

 

Many club members were anticipating an intriguing contrast in styles between Mal Senior seeded for the first time and Gary Hanratty. In the end it did not materialise as Mal was far too secure on the ground and the net. 

 

Rory hasn't played much on the courts of Newry recently but he was in sparkling form tonight and his shots were all going in off the ground. Definitely playing tremendous stuff he did everything just a little bit better than Valdas who is still learning his trade on these courts. 

 

There were two great wins for the teenagers as Daniel was steady off the ground against Garreth in a match where the rallys were long and enduring. He was followed by Harry who impressed no end with his stylish all court game, moving around the court and finishing off at the net. Harry is one to watch as poor Chris found out.

 

Please note that the McConville Cup has now been drawn with one entry to be added depending on the Ben & Gerry result.

 

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The first match of the day was played this morning when the glaring eyes of the members were elsewhere. This suited Nigel who free from attention produced his best tennis in the tournament so far. He didn't agree with my acknowledgment of his reliable topspin but it was this every fact and that it was so deep that helped him win today against the tricky Daniel. Nigel bring that form to the centre court crowd next time!

 

The Mixed Doubles took centre stage at the 7pm slot and I must admit I did not see either match due to my own tribulations on Court 4. Top seeds and defending champs Shane and Deirdre finally made their first appearance together in the event this year against Dorothy and Alex and started like they ended building a 3-0 lead. Shane tells me that Dorothys forehand was firing on all cylinders and they came back into the match. But ShaDe as I am going to call them are fresh from recent Rostrevor success and must know each others game so well by now and upped their level once more to ease away in the second set. Well done to Alex and Dot, a great performance. Derek teamed up with Ciara and gelled to beat off the Campbells who had a good tournament and might play together more often (!!!???)

 

Now when us tennis fans looked at the draw and the fact that Ben would meet Gerry we knew it would be a purist tennis delight but also because of the headline it so obviously brings. It was an incredible match which had the spectators on the bus on the edge of their seats as the groundstrokes flew back and forward. Ben has a weapon of a forehand whilst Gerry has the most trusty backhand in the club. Ben was always ahead in both sets and although there were a number of breaks he never allowed Gerry to get the upper hand.  As it was the Ben and Gerry match, I have been trying to think what flavour of ice cream it would be, maybe strawberry due to Gerry's pink top or banana due to the yellow Nike trainers of Ben. Anyway I shall leave that up to you lot, they used to say years ago answers on a postcard and we shall have a prize for the best one!

 

Which brings me to my match and 14 year old Harry would never have heard of competitions decided by post card. I must admit the prospect of playing and losing to someone so young is not the nicest scenario but Harry is a terrific guy who is engaging and interested in everything about tennis. I survived his forehand onslaught with a variety of drop shots, lobs and side to side groundies. Harry now goes into the Junior event and I wish him all the best.

 

And so to the match of the besties, Gary Hanratty and Gary Smith. Undeniably two people who make this club what it is. They are often seen sitting with their chocolate bars, jelly sweets and family pack crisps. Gary H wears a Russell t shirt and I have promised to get a 2 Garys one back in return! The two have played together for many years and won the Rostrevor Plate back in 2012. Gary Hanratty relentlessly rallied with Gary Smith and glad to see them so happy at the end. Gary is our first ever McConville Cup match winner. And we were spared his Estonian jargon and witchy laugh tonight!

 

A huge thanks to Pauline Meehan for the delicious sandwiches on Sunday.

 

The weather forecast is not great tomorrow night so it is a watching brief.

The Junior Boys event started this morning with Christopher beating Matthew in a three set tussle. Thanks to Daniel for keeping an eye on that match. It was a miserable rainy day and the prospects for play did not look too bright but the skys cleared and we got through some vital matches.

 

The common factor tonight was fitness as it was noticeable how each person warms up differently. Kieran runs around the court from side to side whilst Andrew seemed to be in the full lotus yoga position before his match. Brian and Valdis could start up their own health and well being business as Brian is definitely one of the happiest players on court with his body language always the same languid and relaxed. The rest of us want to know the secret whilst Valdis could work on the gym training and body moves. I think I am on to something here. As for the match, it was extremely good to watch and Valdis saved 2 set points with a down the line winner and a net cord before capitulating on the third. The second set was equally close but on these courts it comes down to consistency and Brian was a tinch more secure on the ground. So he progresses but Valdis thanks for being part of our tournament and make sure you arrange to play other Newry members. 

 

Whilst Brian was winning on court 2, brother James was engaged in a battle with the force of nature that is Kieran Campbell. Kieran was net rushing and dominating from the centre whilst James was lobbing and trying to move him around. In both sets Kiera took 5-2 leads before James pegged him back. The crucial game was probably at 5-4 in the first when James also had 30-0 but Kieran won the important points. An interesting tactical match to watch and good to see Kieran back in singles whilst James has provided so much variety in this tournament. And a word for Derval watching her hubby whilst drinking Cava and eating olives on the bus!

 

In our first Mens Quarter final, unfortunately it was father versus son as Malachy Senior in his first last 8 in Newry played his talented son Shane. It is always difficult to play family although Shane kept his record intact of not losing a game yet. This is a magnificent record and has yet to make it past Court 4 yet! 

I had to leave before the end of the Rory v Andrew match but Andrew's run after the change of ends to the baseline is reminiscent of Nadal. The quality in this match was superb with everything you would want, angles, drops, flashy groundstrokes zipping over the net and 2 pleasant people on court.  But it was into an exciting third set so watch this space!

 

Shane & Deirdre continue their superb run, the current Newry and Rostrevor Open winners started well with slick net play. But credit to Sile and Leo who fought hard from a 4-1 deficit in the second set and made a tight match of it. They gave it their all and you could see the effort but ShaDe are hard to shift on these courts. Sile and Leo you are welcome back any time and a pity we wont see you on Sunday.

 

In the other semi Derek and his young partner Ciara were too efficient at the net and have lost just 3 games in 2 matches so are confident going into what should be a blockbuster final. Even more so by the fact Shane and Derek will be on either side of the net having won Rostrevor recently together!

 

One of the longest ever singles matches in Newry Open history as it took over 3 hours for Kieran to better Brian. I am not sure how a three set match with only one tiebreak can last that long but somehow it did. In the first set Brian used his topspin and finished off the points but it turned around as he was within 2 points of victory in the second set before Kieran used his wily all court play and traps you into his style of play which can be deceptive with his extremely steady double handed backhand. Like beating both Williams sisters in the same tournament, is this the first time someone has beaten both O'Hare brothers back to back! Not sure which is the more impressive feat!

 

Matthew Power won his first ever singles match in his first ever tournament so well done to him as it is always a special moment especially as he beat defending Plate champ Alex. 

 

Tim proved too good for Marty but both players went for their shots and at times the standard was first class. However Tim produces his power with less errors and often it comes down to small margins. 

 

Stephen Broadhurst has had a tremendous return to Newry and he used all his experience and guile to always be a step ahead of the younger Ben Laverty. Watched by his personal fitness girlfriend Monica who was trying her Bulgarian squats on the chair at the side while having her latte she was an avid spectator. Stephen reads the game really well and has set up a clash with top seed Shane who he hasn't faced in 4 years. By the way a massive shout out to sister Amy who is representing Ireland at boxing in Madrid this week and she was on the Newry club bus last Sunday. We are all supporting you in your medal quest. Bad luck Ben but great tournament.

 

Finally the night ended with the King of the Underarm serve Roy versus The Karate Kid Neil! This started in darkness with Neil having 2 set points at 5-4 but being pegged back by a canny Roy. However that would prove the last game won for Roy as Neil poured on the pressure when they moved to Centre Court with driving forehands and devilish slice. Well done Neil, eat your heart out Ralph Macchio, I wonder which one of us is Mr Miyagi!! For younger readers look up seminal 1980s movies!

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I had mentioned Karate Kid Neil and Mister Miyagi. Well I turned out to be Mr Miyagi but more the old and slow part rather than the wise mentor bits! Neil served like a bullet and followed up with blistering forehand winners and is a force to be reckoned with in this club. So congrats to him. 

 

Also great news for Sean Pearce who gets rid of his singles hoodoo as he remained calm and in control to beat Matthew Power. Sean had the right balance of forehand topspin and finishing off points at the net. He will face Nigel in the Plate semi today in what should be an intriguing match. Nigel was in action in the Mixed as he and Dolores lost to Pat and Tish in another late night battle. 

 

The highlight of the evening was the first ever meeting between our No2 and No3 seeds Rory and Tim. Hard to believe considering they play these local area tournaments that they had never met and for those watching it was a treat. The rallys were unbelievably good at times with a very tight first set decided by the smallest of margins and really could have been anybodys. The crucial point at 5-5 in the tiebreak was for either man to win in what was a long ground stoke rat a tat. But Tim won it and held on to win I think the vital point of the match. It was still close in the second but Tim was always ahead and although we had some marvellous singles handed backhands from Rory, some of the best he has hit on these courts it was a meaner fitter Tim who crunched massive groundies to triumph.

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The penultimate day started out very sunny but incredibly windy for the first two matches of the day. 

 

Gerry produced his best tennis of the tournament to move Gary around the court from side to side and opened up a sizable set and a half lead. He was 4-1 up in the second before Gary started hitting some fab winners and an amazing lob after a fiercely fought rally to peg back to 4-3. It turned out to be a false dawn as Gerry dominated the next two games to make his first singles final in Newry.

 

Nigel was always ahead against Sean and his groundstrokes proved too deep and powerful at times in what was a good natured encounter between 2 men who had never played before. This has been one of the great successes of this tournament that has brought people together and should foster future matches between them. Both players thought the wind made it difficult to control the ball but Nigel was more secure and will try to regain the Plate he won a couple of years ago.

 

After a break we were back for the two Junior semis. Both of them would last for nearly 3 hours as all 4 boys showed remarkable consistency and sporting acumen. Daniel who played the main draw faced his good friend Christopher and these two know how to keep the ball in play as point after point was constructed with each trying to find an opening. I think having had considerable experience in tournaments helped Daniel outlast Chris but well done to both for a great standard.

 

In the other semi, it was quite similar. Harry started better and was punching winners with his forehand in the first set clinching it 6-4. A very long second set which lasted well over an hour was finally claimed by Kaden who was now bringing Harry to the net then lobbing him. A tense start to the third set seen a more confident Kaden begin to pull away.

 

The day ended with the highlight as our No1 seed and twice champ Shane had his toughest match for some time against Stephen Broadhurst. Both these guys are extremely fit and run round the court getting to balls like it is nothing. The first set started with Shane going 2-0 up which in previous matches on these courts would have been ominous but Stephen changed his tactics and got back into the match as there were numerous breaks of serves and it was 3-3. Shane rallied and did not go for as many winners and opened up a 5-3 lead. Then the crucial part of the match as Stephen played some awesome shots moving Shane about and it was back to 5-4 and he had 40-0 to equalise the set at 5 all. But Newry members know in crunch points to bet on Shane and he did not panic and played his comfortable game to win the next five points. With a set under his belt Shane relaxed and although the next three games were hard fought and tight Shane remained dominant. As the second set progressed the consistency of Shane on these courts proved vital and he pulled away for victory. Shane reached at least the final in all 12 events he played last year including singles, doubles and Mixed. This year he has won Newry Closed singles & mixed, Rostrevor Men's Doubles and two events in Dundalk. Tomorrow he will attempt to win a third Newry Open singles at the age of just 20. He is also in the Mixed final so a busy day ahead.