Anna 
Round 8 of the men’s and women’s State League saw a series of upsets and impressive victories that have left the race for top spots wide open.
In the women’s competition, Hensman Park, the previous leaders, were defeated by Cottesloe, making the battle for first place even more intense. Dalkeith, on the other hand, secured their second consecutive win, keeping their finals hopes alive. In the men’s competition, Royal Kings Park climbed past Alexander Park to claim the fourth spot, while Cottesloe and Peppermint Grove continued their strong form.
Key Matchups This Round:
Men’s:
Peppermint Grove vs Cottesloe at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club
Friday 21 February, 6:00 pm
This matchup could be a preview of the final, with both teams showing impressive depth. Cottesloe has been consistent, often fielding the same players with the occasional addition of Scott Webster and doubles specialist Adam Kehane. Their dominance in doubles has been key to their success, with only one loss in that category this season.
Peppermint Grove, meanwhile, boasts a strong lineup with players like Jayden Court and Ethan Cook, alongside regulars Tim Gray, Sam Ashenden, Vuk Velickovic, and Sam Chapman. Tim Gray is in excellent form, currently on a three-game winning streak.
The last time these teams met, their match was interrupted by bad light, leaving the score tied at 2-2. Scott Webster and Max Weir won for Cottesloe, while Vuk Velickovic and Sam Ashenden triumphed in two tight three-set matches for Peppermint Grove. The winner of this match will likely secure the top spot and a home final against the fourth-ranked team.
Women’s:
Hensman Park vs Dalkeith at Hensman Park Tennis Club
Friday 21 February, 6:00 pm
What once seemed like a one-sided matchup now appears much more competitive. Dalkeith has been in great form, winning their last two matches and sitting just outside the top four. They will be fighting hard for the fourth spot, while Hensman Park will look to bounce back from their surprising loss to Cottesloe. Hensman Park must win their remaining matches to maintain first place.
Dalkeith’s Hayley Burton has been the standout, winning her last four singles matches. Ali Connell has also been in solid form, with only one loss since early November.
For Hensman Park, Alice Stevens continues to impress, maintaining an unbeaten record this season as the team’s number-one player. The squad also includes talented young players like Jaun Yum and Karin Hiramatsu, alongside experienced players such as Anja Dokic and Ella Nurkic. In their last encounter, Hensman Park dominated Dalkeith, winning 6-0.
Round 9 Fixtures:
Men’s:
Friday 21 February, 6:00 pm
Peppermint Grove vs Cottesloe at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club
UWA vs Royal Kings Park at UWA Tennis Club
Saturday 22 February, 1:00 pm
Alexander Park vs Mt Lawley/Sorrento at Alexander Park Tennis Club
Women’s:
Friday 21 February, 6:00 pm
Hensman Park vs Dalkeith at Hensman Park Tennis Club
Saturday 22 February, 1:00 pm
Cottesloe vs Peppermint Grove at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club
Royal Kings Park vs Alexander Park at Royal Kings Park Tennis Club
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