PHL netters appeal for fans' support

CEBU, Philippines - Team captain Cecil Mamiit yesterday egged on the full support of Cebuano fans and other tennis buffs when the Philippines takes on a crucial match against Chinese-Taipei in the Davis Cup relegation playoff of the Asia/Oceania Group I from September 16 to 18 at the Plantation Bay Resort and Spa.

Although they were afforded with tremendous support from different quarters during their battle against Japan last March, Mamiit hopes they will gain similar attention when they go up against the visiting Taiwanese.

In a press conference at Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino in Lapu-Lapu City, Mamiit admitted the extreme heat last March got the better of him, something that was supposed to be an advantage on the Pinoy players.

With a fully-packed venue, it would give them more space to play as the spectators give shade to the court.

More to it, Mamiit said a huge crowd will surely keep their spirits up when the going gets tough.

“It’s a different story when you play away.They are host’s advantages. But it was a close match, we lost on crucial points in the doubles. We should have won, we we’re surprised. Going to that experience, things can go on our way,” Mamiit said in recalling their previous match against Chinese-Taipei that was played on a hard court.

Now, the Pinoy netters are going to play in a clay court, something that they are already used to.

The lineup of last year’s battle for both the Cebuana Lhuillier-sponsored PHL and Chinese-Taipei are most likely the same if it will be based on team nominations.

All except Jeson Patrombon were the ones who played last year, while Chinese-Taipei’s nomination include Ti Chen, Jimmy Wang, Hsin-Han Lee and Chu-Huan Yi.

The Chinese-Taipei contingent is set to arrive tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the PHL Davis Cuppers will hold a “meet-and-greet" session for their fans at the Lapu-Lapu City tennis courts at 4 today. On Monday, they will have a photo opportunity with Governor Gwen Garcia and Mayor Paz Radaza at the Marcelo Fernan bridge, something that have not yet done before.

The first 50 fans who will be at the bridge during the photo session will get a free ticket for the Davis Cup.