THE Malvern Table Tennis League's secondary handicap semi- final between Ledbury Merlins and Ledbury Lions was always going to be difficult to call, and so it proved.

The match swayed to and fro throughout the evening. Nigel Foreshew got the Merlins off to a good start with a 11-2, 15-17, 11-5, 11-9 win over Richard Smith but this advantage was soon wiped out when Gordon Stables beat Mike Morgan 11-9. 11-6, 11-8, 11-8. Neither side was able to gain a clear lead at any point but crucial in Merlin's victory was Harry Jutle's contribution. He took points off all three of his opponents and together with Nigel, just edged out Ann Barnes and Richard in the doubles.

Merlin's winning margin was just one point (and their five point handicap advantage). In the final they are waiting for the winners of the tie between Manor Park Pumas and Manor Park Crackpots.

In the main handicap semi-final, the in-form Broadheath Belters gained a comfortable victory over Abbeydowne.

Both Brett Brining and John Stalker are on top of their game at the moment and they proved too much for their opponents. Roy Holland did well to take a game off Brett whilst Bill Lucas took the first off David Elliott.

In the final, Belters will be playing against the winners of division two rivals Crackpots E and Poolbrook Juniors.

The finals will be played at Civil Service Sports and Social Club on Tuesday, April 19.

Scores: Ledbury Merlins (5) 393 - Ledbury Lions 387. Broadheath Belters 433 - Abbeydowne (145) 359.