Tough Last Day

Watching matches can almost be as tiring and exhausting as playing them. I got up early to get a quick hit in with Susan and Fran before the final matches played today. Phil and his team had to work out a strategy to play Australia today since Larry couldn't play due to a back injury. They decided to put Tom at number two singles and hope for a win, then put Lenny at number one to play Andrew Rae, a very good player. Tom struggled in the first set and lost 6-3, but quickly rebounded to take the next two sets one and one. They hoped that Lenny would keep Andrew out on the court with long points to take a little of his punch away for doubles. Len played great...he did exactly what the guys needed him to do. Although he lost two and two, he played very well and kept his opponent moving. The final match for the Cup was down to doubles with Tom and Phil playing Andrew Rae and Max Bates....a team they had beaten last year in the World Individual semis. We knew it'd be tough, but we knew they could make it a great match. Tom and Phil had a chance at a break early but couldn't convert. The Aussies were sharp and precise with their shots and it seemed like our guys were just not quite on the ball like they normally are. We could all feel their frustration as we helplessly watched the Australians win easily 6-3, 6-2. A tough loss to take, as this is the second year that they have lost in the final match. It is still a great accomplishment to get as far as we all did. The level of international competition is just unbelievable and to be a part of this great event is very humbling. We'll say goodbye to those who are not staying for the next week of play, and look forward to seeing some new faces who weren't here for the team play. Tomorrow will be a day of rest, a light hit, a little shopping and getting ready to play again on Monday.