THE WIDNES RUFC junior squash season got underway with a highly successful pre-season handicap tournament, followed by a social evening to present awards and prizes for the players achievements over the past 12 months.

The main handicap competition winner was Tom Whitfield and the Plate winner Andrew Cook.

Both players raised their game on the day to battle through some very close and competitive matches.

The league campaign also started this week with a home match against New Brighton 3.

An impressive victory was gained with all six players winning to secure an excellent 18 points.

Although probably not one of the stronger teams in the league a thorough pre-season preparation including, County squash days at Bowdon, Manchester made sure no upsets were likely.

Greg Whitfield made an impressive debut into team squash with a steady win over a more experienced opponent.

Gareth Stevens who is probably the most improved player in the past 12 months struggled slightly in a close-fought-out victory.

With the first points of the season secured, the next fixture at New Brighton 2 is probably going to be critical as to who of the early season favourites for the league title gains the upper-hand.

Any budding junior squash players aged eight-18 are most welcome to attend the club training on Friday evenings from 6pm until 8pm at Widnes Health and Leisure, Heath Road, (Rugby Club) Widnes.

Results: Widnes v New Brighton.

Robert Begg won 3-0; Gemma Phillips Won 3-0; Gareth Stevens Won 3-2; Richard Hart Won 3-0; Nina McGloughlin Won 3-0; Greg Whitfield won 3-1.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.