ARARAT - Ladder leader Ararat RSL maintained its dominance of the Ararat City Tennis Club's summer pennant competition with a win over Christian's Bus Co on Saturday.
Players were well rested after the five-week break, enjoying near-perfect conditions for the afternoon.
RSL defeated Christian's by 12 games, 82-70, with number one player Jackson Bohner leading strongly from the outset.
Bohner's big serve and powerful hitting style allowed him to remain undefeated all day, notching up two doubles wins and a seven-game victory over Josh Matthews in the singles' clash.
Bohner's team mate Kira Payne also impressed with her serve, hitting at least seven aces.
Payne is clearly growing in confidence, mixing light touches with great drive shots on Saturday.
Mark Helmich filled in for Christian's, winning many points with his high slams.
Helmich partnered with Jacqui Kiel, who was consistent all day, to steal victory from Ron Wilksch and Claire Ralph 9-8.
Pam White was also a stand out for the side, using clever ball placement to win points.
Stan Hamilton and Sons is hot on the heels of RSL after a 32-game triumph over KFC, 93-61.
Stan Hamilton's number one Sam Hoffmann made light work of John Hannett in the singles match, chalking up an eight game win, 9-1.
The hard-hitting Hoffmann partnered with Peter Dunn and Morgan Gason to overcome their KFC opponents.
Youngster Riley Hamilton acquitted himself well in fourth spot, his natural stroke and near-perfect timing winning him many points.
Monique Hargreaves was also a stand out for the victors, chasing to keep balls in play in a lively fashion.
Claire Harricks was a top performer for the opposition, finding good timing for her solid drive shots and and winning two of her three sets.
Team mate Nancy Bowen was again consistent for KFC, combining with Harricks to defeat Hargreaves and Maryanne Harricks.
Stan Hamilton walked away with the important four points, leaving them sitting just two behind RSL after round 10 of the pennant competition.