By Isle of Wight Observer
by Debbie Yates
Division One
Ryde A 4 v Ryde C 6, Ryde Revellers 1 v Ryde Goshawks 9, Ryde Rankers 6 v Ryde B 4.
Leaders, Ryde C, extended their advantage with a 6‑4 win over second‑placed Ryde A. Despite missing a key player, Ryde A fought hard, with Rob Smith edging Joe Chapman in a five‑set thriller, and Scott Lawton taking two wins, only losing narrowly to Ryan Cates. Smith and Lawton also combined to win the doubles, but Ryde C’s consistency proved decisive. Pat Thorley returned after more than a year out, giving a spirited performance. The victory moves Ryde C five points clear at the top.
Ryde Goshawks celebrated their first win of the season, sweeping aside Ryde Revellers 9‑1. Charlie Stapeley was unbeaten and named player-of-the-match. Ryde Rankers also claimed a 6‑4 victory over Ryde B.
Division Two
Newport Vics B 7 v Ryde Rovers 3, Ryde Rising Stars 6 v Ryde Retailers 4.
Ryde Rising Stars edged Ryde Retailers 6‑4 in a close contest. Retailers’ Steve Laing and Paul Cates impressed against cadets, Thane Taylor and Theo Lewis, but Tom Waddell was unbeaten for the Stars to secure the win. Newport Vics B remain close behind in third after a 7‑3 triumph over Ryde Rovers, with Paul Freeborn unbeaten and player-of-the-match.
Division Three
Cowes Baptists 5 v Shorwell Saints 5, Wroxall Warriors A 10 v Wroxall Warriors C 0, Ryde Raiders 4 v Wroxall Warriors B 6, Ryde Odd Balls 5 v Shorwell Saviours 5.
Division Three produced tight encounters, with Cowes Baptists drawing 5‑5 against Shorwell Saints, and Ryde Odd Balls sharing the spoils with Shorwell Saviours. Wroxall Warriors A underlined their dominance with a 10‑0 win over Warriors C, while Warriors B edged Ryde Raiders 6‑4.
Warriors A now hold a 23‑point lead, though Newport Vics C have matches in hand.