Ormesby, Brighton and BATTS notched up wins, Fusion fought admirably and both Scottish sides are still hunting for a victory. As the SBCL Premier Division heads towards the end of the year, here are three key points to note after some fine matches.
Brighton and Ormesby lead the way as title contenders
It is becoming apparent that Brighton and Ormesby have a laser focus on taking the title this year. The manner of their victories so far have shown they are not taking anything for granted. Ormesby swept aside North Ayrshire with ease on Saturday and Brighton dropped sets for the first time this season.
The south coast side showed the drive needed if they are to go on and become back-to-back champions as they were pushed all the way by Fusion in a tense and enthralling battle.
All eyes will now be on Saturday 30th November when the defending champions are due to come face-to-face with last year’s runners up in what could prove a pivotal moment of the season. The mouth-watering fixture will see giants of the league including David McBeath, David Andersson and Shoma Nishihara battle for the top spot. It promises to be a fascinating fixture, and as with all matches this season will be broadcast live on the home side’s YouTube channel.
Fusion will look north of the border for first win
They pushed BATTS right to the brink, and gave Brighton a fantastic game, yet Fusion remain winless from their opening two fixtures.
They will be looking to put that right as they gear up for a double-header against the Scottish sides on 30th November and 1st December. Playing across two days they will first face Drumchapel Glasgow at home, before making the journey to North Ayrshire the following day.
Although all three teams are yet to notch a win the lack of positive returns shouldn’t overshadow the talent seen across each squad. A victory for any could kick-start their campaign and send them on a winning run.
BATTS lead chasing pack
The Premier Division season is a long one and there are too many top tier players for it to be sewn up after just three rounds. So whilst Brighton and Ormesby have laid down an early marker, BATTS are waiting in the wings for someone to slip up.
They fought admirably in their season opener against Fusion, and there was no shame in going down to Ormesby at the hands of David McBeath. Saturday’s win at Drumchapel Glasgow showed them at their best as Alexis Douin, who missed the early ties, announced his arrival with a player of the match performance.
The title fight is a long one, and their squad has real depth with the likes of Chris Doran, Ralph Pattison, Shayan Siraj and Josh Bennett all capable of stepping up to win fixtures at crucial moments.
You can catch up on all the action from the third round of the season on each club’s YouTube channels. Watch Drumchapel host BATTS, Ormesby face North Ayrshire and Brighton visit Fusion.
Photo credit: Michael Loveder
Results
Saturday 9th November
Ormesby 7-0 North Ayrshire
Fusion 2-5 Brighton TTC
Drumchapel Glasgow 1-6 BATTS