Mamiit, Huey lead Cuppers bid vs HK

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines begins its drive for a return trip to the Asia-Oceania Zone Group I today as it clashes with Hong Kong in the opener of the Group II competitions at the Victoria Park in Hong Kong.

Fil-American Treat Conrad Huey hopes to come out strong in his Davis Cup debut, taking on Hong Kong top player Martin Sayer in the first singles match of the tie.

Back-to-back Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Cecil Mamiit goes all out to end three straight Davis Cup losses as he collides with Hiu Tung Yu in the second singles duel.

The two Fil-Ams were also nominated to play Saturday’s doubles against Hiu and Lai although the nominees could be changed until one hour before the match.

The reverse singles pitting Mamiit against Lai and Huey versus Hie will be played on Sunday.

“We were hoping that Cecil will play the first match but the draw did not give us this,” RP non-playing captain Chris Cuarto said after yesterday’s draw.

“That was our luck today but we are ready to play tomorrow,” Cuarto said.

Completing the RP team are Patrick John Tierro and junior standout and Australian Open juniors doubles champion Francis Casey Alcantara.