Dick Jeeps. There, I've said it. DJ was the fella who opened tonight's venue way, way back in the 1980s, when it was acceptable to do that kind of thing. Ex-rugger player, I believe, who moved up in the world to become chairman of the Sports Council. Now we've all learned something.

In theory, one of Defiants' last tough games tonight against a serious competitor for that (our?) third promotion place. Up to DJ's hockey club on Tuddenham Road, Yang and Andy arriving a good half-hour before misplaced-bat Ed, to face Ipswich Sports Club. Nabbed a good 7-3 in the first half. Slight change of personnel for them with father Terry son Rob and ex-Pickwicks George making up the numbers. In brief:

• disappointing 1/3 for Andy, not in the races against Terry, much better against Rob and finally beating George in straight ends
• good 2/3 for Yang, losing a really tight five-ender to Rob but winning another five-ender over Terry
• excellent 3/3 for Ed, yay!, somehow winning all games in straight ends, perhaps thanks to the power of that dental anaesthetic from this afternoon

No Kev so highest scorers (Yang and Ed) proceed to the doubles on the bright blue Cornilleau. Another game going to the wire, sadly the wrong way, Defiants losing 11-9 in the 5th to finish 6-4 winners. That'll do. Plus a very happy birthday to dad Terry, and cheers to Rob for supplying the (Waitrose) half-time cream cakes. Nice.