Well… what can I say? This year’s Home Internationals for the Ladies 035/40s had it all: plenty of laughs, familiar faces, grit, determination, nail-biting moments, dancing until the early hours, and, of course, plenty of alcohol!
Friday Night Showdown Against the Scots
The weekend kicked off with a showdown against the Scots, and it didn’t disappoint. Returning to the squash court after 15 years, Rachel Green made her long-awaited debut against a tough competitor in Catriona Smith. Unfortunately, despite some incredible dives and splits, it wasn’t enough on this occasion, with Rachel losing in five. However, it was great to see Sarah Creed back in a Welsh Masters top, battling hard. Another tight match ensued, but the Scots came out on top 3-2.
With Lizzie Little unable to play (she was greatly missed), Katy Temple stepped into the number one spot, facing Stacey Gooding. Katy put up a strong fight, but Stacey was determined to keep Wales in the tie, securing a 3-0 win.
Then came the nail-biting moment of the tie: Anna Adams vs Maggie Farrell. Both players gave it their all. They each had match balls, but Anna clinched a 13-11 win in the fifth, and the crowd went wild! With the match tied 2-2, it all came down to Rebecca Baker to bring it home. Anyone who knows Becs knows she’s not the easiest to keep calm, but on this occasion, she kept her cool, didn’t let the nerves get to her, and played some amazing squash. She won 3-1, securing the overall match win for Wales 3-2. The atmosphere was electric with family and friends cheering us on every step of the way — a true highlight of the weekend!
Saturday Morning Battle Against the Irish
Despite the early hour, the energy on court Saturday morning against the Irish was anything but sleepy. Rachel and Sarah secured their first wins of the weekend, while Anna, as usual, wanted to get her money’s worth with another brilliant five-setter against Michelle. Michelle even had bruises to show just how hard-fought the battle was! In the end, Wales won 5-0, which guaranteed a top-two finish and set the stage for the deciding battle against the English.
The Deciding Match Against England
The English team came into the deciding match with one goal in mind: to retain their title. Their determination was evident from the very first rally. Rachel, unfortunately, had to retire injured after the first game, and Sarah lost 3-0. But Stacey took to the court against Kirsty West, winning 3-1 and keeping Wales in the tie. However, both of the English Natalie’s proved too strong for Anna and Bec’s, and England claimed a 4-1 victory. The title was retained by England, with Wales securing second place.
Although Gemma, with a baby on the way, couldn’t join us on court, she couldn’t miss out on the weekend (classic FOMO!) making an appearance at every game. The team would like to wish Gemma and Rhi all the best with the new arrival, and we also wish Jenny a speedy recovery from her recent surgery.
As always, it was an absolute privilege to captain this incredible team, and I couldn’t have been prouder of the ladies and the way they fought every step of the way. Another silver medal for the ladies… Bring on next year!
