With just five matches to go until the SBL Premier Division splits into two mini leagues, Ormeau are set to face North Ayrshire (NATTC) hoping to keep themselves in contention for a top four finish.

Currently fourth on 11 points, they sit only a single point above Fusion and TableTennisDaily in fifth and sixth respectively. Having secured three wins from their five games they are in prime position to secure the final place in the top mini league, but a loss this weekend would allow others to challenge.

Home-side coach and founder Gervis Knox named his side set to play, with a couple of promising youngster making their trio.

“We are looking forward to a closely matched contest this weekend with North Ayrshire and have added Jonathan Mooney & James Skelton to join the in-form Damien Provost” he said ahead of the tie.

“Damien played great in the last match against Brighton and showed he is one of the best players in the league and we always enjoy having him lead our team. 

“Jonathan Mooney comes in fresh from a good weekend at the Premier Junior British league and we expect him to relish the opportunity in the Premier Division. Our goal now is to make the top four and keep ourselves in the title race”

Colin Dalgleish, Martin Johnson and Chris Main will represent NATTC in Belfast. They will be hoping to move off the bottom of the table, having struggled to convert good performances into victories.

Main said: “We know Ormeau are a strong side and we hope to put up a good challenge as our players are training hard for our National Championships the following weekend. 

“We have been competing and playing well this season but just falling short of getting the win so hopefully our luck will change before and after the split.”

All other six round ties took place two weeks ago as Drumchapel Glasgow stunned Brighton to pick up their first win of the season. BATTS and Ormesby dropped just two sets between them as they continued their fine form at the top of the table.

You can watch every match from the SBL Premier Division live on TTE.TV.

Photo credit: Michael Loveder

Fixtures

Sunday 25th February – 12:30

Ormeau v North Ayrshire