Durham University Badminton News

Durham defy the odds with Badminton brilliance

(22 October 2009)

Durham Badminton 1s notched up their second victory in as many BUCS Northern Conference Division 2 fixtures, triumphing 5-3 over Northumbria University in a dogged and dynamic showing at Maiden Castle.

The afternoon began with a powerful and uncompromising victory from James Pauw, who won his singles match against the visitors’ Chris Harrison 21-15, 21-10. Following Andrew Ward’s 21-5, 21-6 defeat to Northumbria’s Rich Eaton, the first Palatinate doubles partnership of the afternoon on court – Kieran Massey and Phil Barley – overcame Andrew Fowler and Mark Dobinson to win 21-16, 21-15.

The hosts’ Michael Piggford and David Macmillan also recorded a doubles victory, winning 21-17, 21-9 against Sam Moore and Josh Kidd. Piggford and Macmillan later defeated Fowler and Dobinson 21-13, 21-10.

On his first outing for the Men’s 1s, Andrew Ward recorded his first victory at this level, beating Chris Harrison in a singles match 21-12 21-19.

Mike Piggford, Durham Men’s Badminton Firsts captain, said: “We always knew this season was going to be tough given that we lost nine men from a sixteen-man squad at the end of last season. We always knew that we would have to fight to stay up this term.

“That’s why we’re delighted to have had such a good start, winning 5-3 here and maintaining our excellent form.

“Our new squad members are fitting in really well. Andrew Ward, a new player of ours, got his first victory under his belt at this level today. Things are looking really positive going into our next match.”