PH Cuppers to NZ: We’re ready

THE PHILIPPINE Davis Cup team is unfazed by the threat posed by New Zealand in its bid to return to Group 1 of the Asia-Oceania Zone.

In fact, the Filipino Cuppers believe they’re at their peak after a 4-1 drubbing of Thailand in their semifinal tie at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City over the weekend.

“Everybody’s pushing themselves,” said team captain Roland Kraut at yesterday’s PSA Forum in Shakey’s Malate. “We have solid teamwork which is the most important, because we’re already very competitive.”

The Filipinos face the Kiwis on Sept. 13 to 15 and Kraut is confident they can get the job done with Ruben Gonzales, Johnny Arcilla, Francis Casey Alcantara and Treat Huey in the squad.

The 27-year-old Gonzales clinched the 4-1 Filipinos’ victory over the Thais, after downing top player Danai Udomchoke, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2, in the reverse singles Sunday.

“The ultimate goal for us is to make the World Group someday and we’re taking steps towards that. If we win (over New Zealand) we’ll make it back to Group 1, and that’s our [first] goal,” said Gonzales.

Enrile lauds Nationals

The Filipinos’ performance was lauded by senatorial bet Jack Enrile, who also expressed hopes of an upset.

Enrile said the victory was proof that tennis is an event where Filipinos can be very competitive.

“I have high hopes that our team would buck the odds and prevail,” said Enrile.