Taylor Handicap Trophy - Season 2004-2005 - 04&05/12/04

Two new masters of the squash handicap system, James Mackay and Brian Farmer, had to battle it out in the final of the Taylor Trophy. Both of these competitors had produced the goods in the previous tournament (UKAEA Handicap) but with tough ties in each side of the draw, something special was needed to lift their games and reach the final.

James drew Colin Paterson in the semi, husband of Carol (nee Taylor - sponsor) and as he was eager to win this trophy for the first time, it was an extra barrier for James to battle against. But, Mackay, armed with a new racket, found an extra spring in is step and managed to use his pace and agility round the court to reach anything that Colin threw at him. Although, Colin pulled back a good portion of the large handicap difference, it was always going to be tough and James secured his place in the final with a couple of points to spare.

Brian, overcame the challenge of Linda Sinclair, who is a difficult opponent in these types of tournament - by using his experience and playing a power game, driving shots into the corners of the court, which Linda is not accustomed to.

The final, at one stage, was difficult to predict who was going to be the winner of the trophy. Both players were beginning to fade in the final set after a long and hard weekends squash but it was James who played a couple of unreachable drives, leaving Brian with no chance of recovering. The final point left Brian at the front of the court, maybe, unsure with what shot to play next and unfortunately for him the ball struck the tin, much to James's relief and giving him his first title at the club.

In the plate final, Guy Owen and Donald Pollard went head-to-head in what was always going to be a tight finish. Donald had a 22 point difference to claw back but Guy was pounding the nicks, constantly - which left Donald little room for making mistakes. With this in his mind Donald made a few 'schoolboy errors', allowing Guy to lift the Plate trophy.

Previously, in the semi's, Guy beat a weary Davie Swanson and Donald had a tougher task against Andy Smith but his grit and determination got him the important points to reach the final.

Thanks to the Taylor family for their hospitality over the weekend, which was much appreciated.

Photos

ALL Prize Winners

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