29 November 2024 | Tennis West

Just the one round to go before the State League season breaks off for the Christmas break.

Women’s match of the round: Peppermint Grove v Dalkeith 

Saturday 30th November, 1 pm at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club 

It’s a rematch of the round one clash between the two sides which saw Peppermint Grove edge out with a commanding 5-1 win at Dalkeith Tennis Club. Round one’s matches were tighter than the final scoreline suggested with many matches seeing tie-breaks and three set encounters.

Peppermint Grove sit in 4th place and one win above Dalkeith. A win to Peppermint Grove will put them right in the race to stay within reach of the top two while a win for Dalkeith will keep them in the race for the finals.

The key battle to watch will be the singles matchup between Amy Findlay and Lauren Nikoloski. Both players possess the ability to dominate from the baseline, and it will be interesting to see how they adapt to each other’s strengths. In round one, it was Lauren Nikoloski that edged past Amy Findlay, coming from a set down to win in three sets. Both these players have also found it tough, playing in the number one spot with both recording one win each so far this season. The winner of this duel could very well tilt the match in favor of their respective team.

Other players to watch are Tara Aleksic (Dalkeith) who is fresh off a ITF J30 Perth Junior Championship singles title as well as Ali Connell who has been the most successful Dalkeith player so far this season.

For Peppermint Grove, a number of players currently have two singles wins this season in Nisha Whittome, Isabelle Criddle and Mary-Jane Quinn.

 

Men’s match of the round: Peppermint Grove v Royal Kings Park 

Friday 29th November, 6 pm at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club 

This weekend, the stage is set for an exciting showdown at the Peppermint Grove Tennis Club as the home team, Peppermint Grove, faces off against Royal Kings Park in a crucial Men’s State League encounter. With both teams boasting formidable lineups and big names, this match will be important in setting up each side for the rest of the season.

Peppermint Grove currently sit in 3rd spot and are only a few points behind the ladder leaders Cottesloe which makes this match important for climbing up or even grabbing top spot. For Royal Kings Park, they will be looking to jump Peppermint Grove on the ladder, with the away team a spot below in 4th spot. In round one, Royal Kings Park prevailed, winning 4-1.

For Peppermint Grove, Vuk Velickovic has been a key figure in their charge this season, and he’ll be central to their hopes of securing victory. Velickovic, a versatile and dynamic player, is known for his solid baseline game and his aggressive approach when he has an opening. His powerful serve and excellent footwork allow him to dominate rallies. Velickovic is the only player yet to lose a singles match, with a 4-0 win-loss record this season.

On the opposite side, Hans Bustiman will be looking to lead Royal Kings Park to victory with his all-around game. Bustiman is known for his explosive power and relentless drive on the court, combining speed with a fierce competitive spirit. Bustiman also excels in handling high-pressure situations, regularly showing resilience when faced with adversity, which makes him a player to watch in tight moments.

For Peppermint Grove, Sam Ashenden has been impressive as ever this season, going at a 4-1 win-loss record – his only loss coming from Hans Bustiman in round one. Royal Kings Park has strong depth with players like Zach Itzstein, Luka Vujacic, Darren Slater, Maico Egbers and Jake Robinson all having an impact on the season so far.

 

Other State League matches:   

*Home team listed first  

 

Men’s:  

Friday 29th November, 6 pm  

Mt Lawley/Sorrento v UWA

 

Saturday 30th November, 1 pm  

Alexander Park v Cottesloe

 

Women’s:  

Saturday 30th November, 1 pm  

Royal Kings Park v Hensman Park

Cottesloe v Alexander Park

 

Catch all the action on www.streamer.com.au