BLUNDELL TAKEN TO BOOK BY WINNING RIVAL

Express & Echo (Exeter) – Smart Tennis Book a Weapon – July 29, 2003 – Jamie Blundell’s hopes of success came unstuck when the 16-year-old from Woodbury went down 6-4, 6-1 to Jonathan Atkins (Newton Abbot).

“I’ve always had a bit of a mental problem, but I read ‘Smart Tennis’ by John F. Murray and I’m much more focused and able to keep my cool now,” said the 15-year-old Atkins.

Exeter’s Peter Odgers maintained his unbeaten record over Jason Collins (Torquay) on the first day of the Royal Mail Plymouth Junior Open. The 6ft 2in tall Odgers, who has been out of action for a while, posted his intentions for the 18 and under title by beating Collins 6-3, 6-2.

One of the favourites for the title, Odgers could well meet Exeter School’s Richard Driver in the semi-finals, but admitted to being “a bit rusty” yesterday.

“I played okay but much better in the second set and so did Jason. It was a nice match,” added Odgers.