23/06/2026
Kent Men's Challenge League Team match report ๐
๐ Surrey Downs Golf Club
๐ Surrey
Kent Menโs Challenge Team opened their 2026 SEG Challenge League campaign with an away fixture against Surrey at Surrey Downs GC.
Facing a strong Surrey side on their home course, Kent knew they would need to perform well from the outset. The morning foursomes were closely contested, with several matches remaining tight throughout the round. Kentโs sole point came courtesy of Haiden Matos and Tommy Hulance, who produced an excellent performance to secure a convincing 4&3 victory.
Despite some hard-fought matches, Surrey edged the remaining encounters, winning two matches by 3&2 and another by a narrow 1up margin to take the morning session 3-1 and establish an early advantage.
Trailing by two points heading into the afternoon singles, Kent responded superbly and showed great resilience throughout the afternoon.
Joe Hooper got Kent off to the perfect start with a strong 3&1 victory, while Tommy Hulance completed an excellent day by securing a 3&1 win. Haiden Matos continued his outstanding form with a convincing 4&3 victory, earning his second point of the day.
There were also valuable half points earned by Marco Cruse and Carl Burrows, helping Kent share the afternoon singles session 4-4 against quality opposition.
The strong response in the singles demonstrated the character, determination and depth within the Kent side. However, Surreyโs advantage from the morning foursomes ultimately proved decisive as they secured a 7-5 overall victory.
Although disappointed not to come away with the win, there were many positives for Kent to take from the opening fixture of the season. The team competed extremely well against a strong Surrey side, showed excellent team spirit throughout the day and fought hard for every point until the final matches finished.
Particular credit should go to Haiden Matos and Tommy Hulance, who both remained unbeaten throughout the day and contributed significantly to Kentโs fightback in the afternoon session.
Kent would like to thank Surrey Golf and Surrey Downs Golf Club for their hospitality and for presenting the course in excellent condition.
The team will now look ahead to the next fixture against Sussex at Cooden Beach Golf Club in July, where they will aim to build on the many positives taken from Surrey Downs.
Men's Challenge League Team Sponsor:
Peter Millar โ www.petermillar.co.uk
