The Spike or Victoria College Review, June 1908

Tennis

Tennis.

"Our ranks are broke, and ruin follows us : what counsel give you ?"

—Henry VI.

Both the Otago and Canterbury teams were considerably stronger this year was case in Auck!and. Victoria College supporters, as they settled themselves comfortably in the sun to watch the opening matches, were prepared to admit as much; in fact they were rather pleased that the improved form of the Southerners might provide some exciting contests. Finishes would be close, but as far as the ultimate return of the Cup to Wellington was concerned, their minds were calm and untroubled. This pleasant illusion was soon shattered by Jennings (C. C.) who put out Prouse in very short order—two sets straight. Meanwhile Beers won a single, and it was hoped that Prouse would find his form before the doubles came on. He didn't Bundle and Gower (O. U.) were the opposition and played a fine combined game, waiting patiently for the winning chance, and making no mistake when it came. Bundle was especially clean overhead and at the net. Beere and Prouse were excellent occasionally, but it was very occasionally. Their work was not up to their usual form in any respect, and our chances in the men's doubles were extinguished 6—3, 3—6, 6—1. Wellington's hopes now centered in the Ladies, and Miss Scott's third win for the day was made the occasion of an encouraging hake. The same lady with Miss McIntosh was also still in the running for the Ladies' Doubles, and it seemed that all might yet be well.

One of the first matches on Tuesday was Beere v. Bundle on the semi-final of the Men's Singles. Beere's game was much improved, but he was unable to hold Bundle, ultimately lost the final to Jennings. In the final of the Ladies' Singles Miss Scott met Miss Morrison (C. C.) who went right away at the start, and led 6—2 amid great Canterbury enthusiasm. This had just the necessary effect, for of the next eight games Miss Scott took seven, and remains lady champion of the University colleges for 1908. More enthusiasm—from Wellington.

In the Ladies' Doubles final Misses Taylor and Utting (A. U. C) succumbed to Miss McIntosh and Miss Scott. Later in the day Prouse and Miss Scott were beaten by Jennings and Miss Grace (C. C.) who played a fine game and ultimately won the combined events.

Canterbury also annexed the Men's Doubles with Jennings and Bain, and won the cup with three championships out of five.

On this return to their old form Victoria College extends its heartiest congratulations.

The following table shows the result :—
Tennis Championships.
Ladies' Singles Miss J. Scott, V.C.
Ladies' Doubles Misses J. Scott and K. McIntosh V. C.
Men's Singles L. S. Jennings C. C.
Men's Doubles L. S. Jennings and N. R. Bain C. C.
Combined Doubles L. S. Jennings and Miss Grace C. C.

"The beat laid schemes o' mice and men
Gang aft a gley."

—Burns.