Burnham and District Table Tennis League enters cup week

The first round featuring a distinctive handicap system which altered traditional scoring.

Last year's champions, Woodham B, began their title defence by overpowering Cold Norton B with a decisive 5-1 victory.

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)

Despite being the more skilled side on paper, Cold Norton struggled to close the gap, with Eamonn Hall sealing the match with a commanding win over Tim Cramphorn, finishing at 12-21 and 13-21.

This strong performance sets Woodham B up for a clash against Blackwater D in the quarter-finals, who also triumphed 5-1 over their E team.

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)

Cold Norton A demonstrated their ambition to secure both league and cup titles this season.

They started their cup campaign in much the same fashion as they have in the league, overcoming Blackwater A with a similar 5-1 scoreline.

Despite conceding around 15 points per game due to the handicap system, Sam Lowman and his team showcased their consistency and skill, proving too strong for their opponents.

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)

They will next face Mapledene B, who also claimed a 5-1 victory over Cold Norton C, albeit with a more hard-fought battle.

Mapledene’s match featured several close sets, indicating that their meeting with Cold Norton A will be a contest of contrasting styles.

Meanwhile, Woodham C and D's encounter saw an unexpected upset, with the underdogs, Woodham D, emerging victorious, also by a score of 5-1 - meaning all opening matches concluded with the same scoreline.

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)

Simon Thomas, returning to the sport after a more than 20-year hiatus, played a pivotal role in his team's success, and his handicap could prove advantageous as the tournament progresses.

Woodham D will next take on Blackwater F, who advanced with a bye, making the outcome of that match uncertain.

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)

Lastly, Cold Norton E prepares for their upcoming match against Blackwater C, with the winner set to face Cold Norton D, who also progressed with a bye.

The quarter-finals are scheduled just before Christmas.

Until then, regular fixtures will resume next week.

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)

Woodham B vs Cold Norton B (Image: Burnham and District Table Tennis League)