Promoted Buxton suffer narrow play-off defeat

The side completed the North West Counties 2013/14 season by winning Division 5 South, ensuring their promotion to the next tier.

They also won a place in the play-offs and in the semi-finals they came up against Winsford’s seconds.

Ian Steeples and Rick Walters both won their respective matches to give Buxton a 2-0 lead.

Ian’s opponent was very closely matched, with each game going to 8-8.

At game point Ian proved to have the greater mental resilience as he prospered.

Rick played a different style of opponent and after two games he was dominating the match, giving his opponent few scraps to feed off.

Those two wins meant Buxton required only one more win on the evening to qualify for the final.

Next up was Gary Bramwell, who had not lost all season. Despite a terrific record, Gary fell to a maiden defeat of the season in a tight affair.

Steve Hollick did better in his clash, although he went down 3-2.

Having squandered a 2-0 lead, Buxton’s last chance to get to the final showdown was when No. 1 Howard Pearson took to the court.

Howard started well with his unconventional game at first confusing his opponent.

Despite a good start, the Winsford player adapted to Howard’s style well, before eventually sealing the 3-2 win for Winsford.

The club would like to thank the Kings Head and Rick Walters Bodywork for sponsoring them throughout the year.

Buxton will be playing in the Summer League in preparation for the 2014/15 season.

• Those interested in joining the team should leave their contact details with the desk at Fairfield Centre.