Humanity Hallows Issue 4 Out Now!
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By Benjamin Francis Cassidy
Eager crowds gathered at the Sugden Sports Centre this week for the highly anticipated North West Derby between Manchester Met Men’s Table Tennis team vs University of Liverpool Men’s Table Tennis Team.
With both team holding an unbeaten record, and consequently the top two spots in the British University and College Sports League (BUCS), a win was vital for both, not only for points but to retain that all important achievement. Of course, the glory of defeating your fiercest rivals and the best competition around also played an important part.
As the action got under way, with three matches being played simultaneously, it was clear how much this game meant to each side, as well the individual players, whose speed and determination were testament to their dedication. The games in this sport happen at break-neck speed, and if spectators aren’t careful they could miss the action merely by blinking.
Manchester Met’s Jamie Bradbury has been playing table tennis since he was 10 years old, his experience clear. He played with a calmness and skill that allowed him to get his afternoon off to winning start, which, as with any sport, is crucial to get into that all important winning mentality. Jamie certainly did that, and went on to win his next games.
Liverpool weren’t without their own experienced players, and they didn’t waste any time in showing off their skills and grit. This set up what would go on to be a very tense affair, with both teams evenly matched at times, and half an hour in, the score being tied at 2-2. At this point, it could have gone either way with grunts and groans of frustration being vocalised, as well as shouts of celebration, following vital game victories. The physical exertion showed too, as the atmosphere rose. The heat was on, and it would require something special to establish one side as worthy winners, as they sweated out a very tense afternoon.
The team Captain for Manchester Met David Adesanya had a phenomenal afternoon, and did indeed provide that special something, managing to go unbeaten in his games (along with Jamie), which inspired his team to a memorable win, the event ending at 10-7 to Manchester Met. The victory was well-earned, and could have very easily been lost, were it not for the control which Manchester Met’s finest displayed.
Thanks to David, Jamie and their team, Manchester Met remain top of the league, though it must be said that Liverpool Men’s gave them a great deal to do, doing themselves and their university proud. All in all, this game showed the level of dedication and determination it takes to compete in sport at this level, and the Manchester Met win was thoroughly deserved.
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