EPSCA U11 Team Championships4 Counties Invitational Tournament (10 Feb 02)Sussex under 11’s managed a surprise win at the 4 Counties Invitational tournament organised by Nigel Dennis of Berkshire at Prospect College, Reading on 10th February. Competing against Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Hampshire the Sussex team was devoid of several top players who were deliberately left out of the team to ensure that all those under consideration for the forthcoming EPSCA zonal competition had a chance to play and show the selectors what they were capable of. With everyone playing on higher boards than would normally be the case there were creditable performances right down the order. Board 1 Elliot Kafetz took two very good draws against much higher graded opponents, whilst maximum scores were achieved by David Grant, Mark Carter, Abeed Mohamed, Simon Lynwood and Elizabeth Tehrani. The team started with a steady 11½ against Buckinghamshire, then excelled against Hampshire with 14½. The latter being the match we thought we would definitely lose. At the same time Bucks and Berks drew 10 a piece, meaning a draw against Berks was enough to win. As it was another solid performance by the lower boards was enough to win against Berkshire, scoring 12½. The Sussex team spirit was very good all afternoon, and our thanks go to all the parents and to the Berkshire organisers for an enjoyable event.
|