IN spite of earlier concerns about a shortage of players at the top of the team, Bowdon Squash Club bit the bullet' and made the most of a tough fixture against Prestbury.

Adam Murrills, as usual undaunted by playing an opponent who has played a very high standard for many years, showed a few initial nerves in the first game, but composed himself well to take the first two close games then an easy third against Mike Lomas.

A good result that indicates how far Murrills has progressed recently.

Mike Knight appeared determined to have a good match after a couple of disappointing performances and demonstrated sharp shots and good concentration, sadly losing in four but picking up a valuable team point against the very accomplished Danny Massaro.

A little more fitness and consistent concentration will enable Knight to play to his highest standard before long.

Steve Siveter proved too steady, accurate and agile for Nick Murrills at two, with Murrills never managing to find an opening against his old friend and sparring partner.

Simon Taylor had the opportunity to level the match and forged ahead to a good lead in the first before opponent Glen Ragou appeared to concentrate more on his playing performance than on his entertaining and pulled back the first.

Always in touch, Taylor dropped the second, but managed to take the exceptionally tight third game before losing the match 1-3.

Chris Ryder at one played exceptional, agile squash against a tired, but not obviously under-performing Daryl Selby, fresh off the plane from the States.

Although slightly tougher in the first, Ryder cruised the last two, producing an excellent 3-0 result.

The final points score of 8-14 to Prestbury was not altogether disappointing, as Bowdon managed an impressive damage limitation exercise against one of the top teams in the league.

Lying in eighth position, Bowdon can look forward to playing a number of lower-placed teams and a good run in to Christmas.