Congresbury produced a dogged performance to narrowly overcome a very strong if youthful Weston-super-Mare side in the National Club League tennis competition.

It didn't start as planned for Congresbury, as Chris Bell, Marc Azevado and Dean Cope all lost tight singles matches to go 3-0 down in the tie.

However, JL Hagger was as steady as ever to break down his opponent in a thrilling affair, losing the first set and going 4-1 down in the second, before coming back to win a second set tie-break, then win 10-7 in the deciding championship tiebreak.

Being 3-1 down, it was imperative to win the two doubles rubbers to take it into a shootout, and that's exactly what Congresbury were able to do as Bell and Azevado, Cope and Hagger both won convincing ties.

The shootout consists of two singles and a doubles if required, but Azevado overpowered his opponent with some big forehands and closed the net down well to win 10-6 and Bell won 13-11 after saving a match point at 10-11 with a big backhand down the line winner.

All games were played in good spirits, with a great atmosphere due to local support and a BBQ on site, and the win marked the end of a successful first NCL season for Congresbury, winning two and losing one.

They look forward to a promotion push next season and have appointed a new head coach in Dan Fella, launching new coaching sessions on a Saturday for junior players complementing their sessions running during the week. For more information visit their website www.congresbury ltc.net.

Fella is a level five performance tennis coach who has joined Congresbury from the LTA where he previously covered the South West Region. He has many years’ experience of coaching at all levels and is keen to get people of all abilities playing.

No matter your age or ability, you can meet Dan and the team and give tennis a go during their Open Morning on July 4 to see the club for yourself.

There will be two sessions from 11am-1pm for adults and juniors. To sign up and find out more information visit the club website.