The powers that sit far ahead in the competition’s pennant went on their merry way in Saturday’s round 14 action, though Shepparton North (9-1-3) endured a bizarre twist of fate in the process.
Karramomus (3-10) took an early lead in welcoming North to Karramomus Tennis Club, claiming two of the first three ties.
Shepparton North would eventually exert its might down the stretch, taking the following five rubbers to put the result well beyond doubt before Karramomus took a consolation prize to round out the day.
So what was the bizarre twist in Shepparton North’s 6-46 to 3-32 win, then?
On a remarkable off day, regular top performer Dean Pritchett was on the losing end of all three of Karramomus’ victories, though the side thankfully rallied without his usual output.
Proceedings were more straightforward in the other pennant clash, where Central Park (3-10) fell to McEwen Reserve (10-1-2).
Tanner Hunter and Tim Comer continued their usual dominance for McEwen, taking each set available between them.
Though Jess Pottenger also went perfect through her three outings on the day, McEwen secured its 10th win with a set to spare.
The two leading contenders will meet at Shepparton North Tennis Club on Saturday as North welcomes McEwen Reserve for a high-powered affair.
It was an excellent week to be a McEwen Reserve player in any capacity, as both of its A1/A2 outfits tasted success on Friday evening.
McEwen Green (12-1-1) maintained its huge advantage atop the division with a sweeping win over St Brendan’s (3-2-8), with first place now mathematically locked in ahead of finals.
Meanwhile, McEwen Red (7-1-6) snatched fourth spot off Kialla Park Old Students (7-1-6) in a 6-43 to 3-31 triumph that could have major finals implications.
In A3 action Saturday, Central Park (7-6) broke the tie for second place with a pivotal 5-42 to 4-29 win over Karramomus (6-7).
St Andrew’s (10-3) is one result away from securing the top seed after blowing past Shepparton North (1-24).