Section 5 runners-up L to R: Marcus Frajman (capt), Saul Muscatel, Geoff Rosenberger, Ryan Behr, Ryan Sharp and Damon Flicker.

Maccabi's Section 5 men's team narrowly lost their Grand Final on Saturday, going down by a set.  The team will be slightly disappointed by the result but enjoyed a successful season together.

Section 5 Grand Final Beaumaris 3-5-52 def Maccabi 3-4-45

Geoff Rosenberger 1-8

Saul Muscatel 8-4

Marcus Frajman 7-8

Ryan Sharp 8-2

Damon Flicker/Ryan Sharp 2-6 7-6 7-6

Geoff Rosenberger/Ryan Behr 3-6 2-6

It was a case of what could have been in the decider.  Geoff and Ryan S went on first (surprisingly there were only two courts).  Geoff played a brilliant first game against a player undefeated this season and who will play Grade 3 in Winter.  From then on, it was one way traffic and Geoff fought valiantly but was simply outplayed by a player with all the shots.  Ryan S recovered from a slow start, showing his quality and winning the last eight games of the match.

Saul was very steady and controlled, winning 8-4 against an experienced player with a strong serve.  A great result for Saul as this guy beat Saul last time they played.  Marcus played a little too defensively when leading 6-3 and lost in a tiebreak.

So it was 2-2 after the singles.  Both Maccabi pairs lost the opening sets and we were in trouble.  Geoff and Ryan B could not quite control the rallies and were beaten by a better pair.  Damon and Ryan S came back from a set down and won the next two sets even though the overall result was decided, stopping after 6pm.  They are a great doubles pair but unfortunately this was not enough as we went down by a set.

It is disappointing to come so close and not win the flag but we need to remember that we all played well throughout the season and want to keep improving for next season.  We had a lot of support on the day from family, friends and MTC members, which was noticed and appreciated.

- Marcus Frajman