Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S Davis Cup non-playing captain Gwinyai Tongoona is optimistic they can pull off an upset against Romania in their Europe/Africa Group II tie after a fair start that will see them going into today’s matches tied at 1-1 with their opponents. Zimbabwe’s number two player Benjamin Lock ranked 546 had a good day on the court upsetting Romania’s Marius Copil ranked 80 in the first rubber of the tie 6-4, 7-5 as he set the tone for the day.
Although the hosts appear to be the favouriets, ranked number 42 against Zimbabwe, who are ranked 61, Benjamin proved that anything is possible as he made the day for Zimbabwe when he overpowered Copil to take Zimbabwe into the lead.
However, in the second rubber Takanyi Garanganga went down 3-6, 3-6 to Dima Dragos. Both teams have everything to play for when the tie continues today with the doubles and the reverse singles.
Tongoona said it’s anyone’s game and is hopeful they can get a favourable result today.
“Very good performance from both (players). Benjamin really played well and I think this is the first win by a Zimbabwean player over someone in the top 100 in a long time.
“Takanyi was unfortunate not to get a result but he played a very high level game. Hopefully we can pull off a couple of wins tomorrow.
“Yes they (Romania) are favourites, they have higher ranked players and more experience. But as a team we know that if we work hard and fight for each and every point we are capable of causing an upset,” said Tongoona.
Zimbabwe will be hoping to draw some inspiration from Benjamin’s win yesterday. The 26-year-old is set to partner his younger brother Courtney for the doubles which will be the first match of the day. They will clash with Horia Tecau and Florin Mergea.
Garanganga will then face Copil and Benjamin will take on Dima in the reverse singles.
Source : The Herald
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