21 November 2024 | Tennis West

After the one week break, State League returns for two more weekends before the extended Christmas break.

Women’s match of the round: Alexander Park v Dalkeith 

Saturday 23rd November, 1 pm at Alexander Park Tennis Club 

This weekend’s Tennis West State League Women’s competition is set for an exciting showdown between Dalkeith and Alexander Park, two teams locked in a battle for position in the league standings. With Dalkeith currently in 5th place and Alexander Park sitting just behind in 6th, this match holds significant importance as both teams aim to secure vital points for their push up the ladder. 

The match will take place at the Alexander Park Tennis Club, where the home side will be looking to use their familiar grass court surroundings to gain the upper hand. Both teams have shown resilience throughout the season, but with it already being Round 5, the pressure is on for these two sides to prove their credentials. 

Dalkeith has had a mixed season so far, with flashes of brilliance but also moments of inconsistency that have hindered their ability to climb higher in the rankings. Despite their 5th place standing, Dalkeith has shown that they have the talent to compete at the highest level with regulars Tara Aleksic and captain Lauren Nikoloski both out to prove a point. Their top players will need to step up, particularly in singles, where individual brilliance could swing the match in their favour. 

On the other hand, Alexander Park enters the match eager to move up the rankings. Sitting just one position behind Dalkeith, they will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in their opponents’ game and secure a much-needed victory to keep their season alive. Kendal Macdonald has fought hard for Alexander Park, grabbing a win in Round 2 against Amile Worring from Peppermint Grove and has regularly played in the top two positions. 

Both teams will rely heavily on their doubles pairings, which will be key to tipping the scales in a match that could be decided by the smallest of margins. Alexander Park’s players will be hoping to turn the tide in their favour with strong communication and chemistry, while Dalkeith will need to maintain their focus and consistency to counter the home team’s energy. 

 

Men’s match of the round: Mt Lawley/Sorrento v Royal Kings Park 

Friday 22nd November, 6 pm at Mt Lawley Tennis Centre 

This weekend’s Tennis West State League Men’s competition is set to deliver a thrilling encounter as the ladder leaders Mt Lawley/Sorrento host 4th place Royal Kings Park at the Mt Lawley Tennis Centre.  

Mt Lawley/Sorrento, sitting at the summit of the State League standings, have been dominant throughout the season, showing remarkable depth and consistency across all areas of their game and creating some big upsets along the way. Their singles players have been particularly impressive, in particular Luca Katsamakis who moved over from UWA during the off season. Luca is currently undefeated from four matches this season and goes into the rubber as the form player. Luca has wins over quality players such as Ashwin Sharma, Tim Gray and Max Weir. 

Royal Kings Park, on the other hand, will be hungry to close the gap on the leaders. While in 4th place, they are only a few points behind Mt Lawley/Sorrento, and a win over the league leaders would send a strong message to the rest of the competition. With an exciting blend of youth and experience, Royal Kings Park has the firepower to challenge Mt Lawley/Sorrento’s dominance. They will look to capitalise on any weaknesses and create pressure on the home side. 

Jake Robinson and Zach Itzstein bring the experience, having played State League for many years while the youth of Hans Bustiman and Luka Vujacic will also be key. The team have found their most success in the doubles, recording a 3-1 win-loss record so far this season. 

The match is likely to be decided by the high-level intensity of the singles battles, where both teams feature top-class players who can turn the tide of a match with a single shot. Doubles will also be crucial, as strong pairings have the ability to dictate momentum and create opportunities to swing the overall match in their favour. 

 

Other State League matches:  

*Home team listed first 

 

Men’s: 

Friday 22nd November, 6 pm 

Peppermint Grove v Alexander Park 

 

Saturday 23rd November, 1 pm 

Cottesloe v UWA 

 

Women’s: 

Friday 22nd November, 6 pm 

Hensman Park v Peppermint Grove 

 

Saturday 23rd November, 1 pm 

Royal Kings Park v Cottesloe