We’re off! Radcliffe & Bingham return to the centre stage of Division 1. They last appeared in 2002-3 when RAB 1 played 16, lost 15 and drew 1. 2001 saw their last win in D1. Grantham 1 greet them on their return and score a convincing win boosted by the return of former captain, Nigel Birtwistle. It could be tough going for the 3 promoted teams in the expanded D1 this season. Barring future changes to the League structure, at least one of these should stay up!.
In D2 Grantham 2 defeat RAB 2 in a tight game of 3 draws, decided by Richard Chilcott’s win on Board 2. Nomads 1 defeat West Nottingham, aided by the visitors’ top board default.
In D3 the Gambit Club’s strength in depth is evident as Gambit 5 thump Gambit 4.
In D4 Nomads 3 win a close match against Grantham 3. The natural order is asserted as RAB 3 outmuscle RAB 4.
In D5 Gambit 7 lose to West Nottingham 3.
Looking forward to another competitive and interesting season’s play.
Phil Morgan